Love Your Home More!

With Love: A Celebration of Mothers and “Others”

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 01:30:43 GMT

Mother’s Day can bring both love and loss. This post honors not only our mothers, but the many “others” who have nurtured, supported, and cheered us on.

Mother’s Day can hold a lot of emotion. This Mother’s Day, I’m reflecting on the women who have shaped my life with love, wisdom, and encouragement. Not just mothers, but the many special “others” who have been there along the way. This post is about honoring them with simple connection, tea, music, and crafts.

For some, it is a joyful day filled with family, flowers, brunch, and cards. For others, it carries a quiet ache. A missing mother. A complicated relationship. A longing for what once was. I understand that feeling. My mom is gone, and yes, Mother’s Day can make me sad.

But over the years, I have also come to realize something beautiful. Our lives are often shaped not only by mothers, but by many “others” too.

The women who stepped in.
The women who listened.
The women who nurtured us, encouraged us, prayed for us, checked on us, taught us, and cheered us on.

A grandmother.
An aunt.
A neighbor.
A teacher.
A dear friend.
A church mentor.
A mother-in-law.
A sister.
A daughter.
A woman who simply showed up at the right time with kindness and wisdom.

These women matter deeply.

This Mother’s Day, I want to celebrate mothers and others. The amazing women who have supported us in big ways and small ones. The ones who helped make us who we are.

One of the loveliest ways to honor them does not need to be elaborate. It can be simple, meaningful, and personal.

Invite someone in for tea.

There is something special about tea. It invites us to slow down. To sit a little longer. To talk more deeply. To remember. To laugh. To share stories. Tea creates space for connection, and that feels especially fitting on a day meant to honor the women who have poured so much into others.

You do not need a perfect table or a fancy menu. Use what you have. Pull out a favorite tablecloth, a few pretty cups, a teapot, or even mismatched mugs. Add a plate of cookies, little sandwiches, or a slice of cake. Light a candle. Put on soft music in the background. Keep it easy and welcoming.

And if you want to make the gathering even more memorable, add a little creativity. Take the event outside, or have a picnic.

You can also include a simple craft or hands-on activity. Nothing complicated. Think handmade bookmarks, tiny flower arrangements, decorated journals, handmade cards, or a small gratitude project where each person writes down a memory or a note of appreciation for a woman who has influenced her life. These little creative touches often become the most meaningful part of the day.

The beauty is not in perfection.
It is in the honoring.

It is in saying:
I see you.
You mattered to me.
Thank you for the love you gave.
Thank you for the way you showed up.

For those missing their mothers this year, this kind of gathering can also be healing. It gives us a way to hold both grief and gratitude at the same time. We can miss someone dearly and still celebrate the love she gave us. We can be sad and thankful. We can remember and still make new memories.

Mother’s Day does not have to look only one way.

It can be a quiet cup of tea with a friend.
It can be a table full of generations.
It can be music playing softly in the kitchen.
It can be a craft project with granddaughters.
It can be laughter, tears, storytelling, and a little beauty created right in the middle of an ordinary day.

This year, I encourage you to think beyond the traditional holiday and consider the women who have mothered you in all the ways that count.

Who encouraged you?
Who believed in you?
Who made you feel safe?
Who taught you something important?
Who loved you well?

Invite her in for tea.

Celebrate mothers and others with love, gratitude, music, and a small touch of creativity. Sometimes the simplest gatherings are the ones that stay with us the longest. Collaborate on a tea with each guest bringing something. It can be simple or extravagant. Just an opportunity to connect with someone who means a lot to you.

And perhaps that is the true heart of Mother’s Day after all.

With love, Jonelle, until next time!

The #1 Thing That Dates a Home (the Free Fix)

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 15:49:44 GMT

No shopping required: Easy rules that make any space feel updated

After hundreds of consults, there’s one pattern I see in nearly every home—regardless of style, budget, or square footage. It’s also the easiest thing to fix, and it instantly makes a space feel fresher and more updated. Want to know the most common thing I see that makes a space feel instantly more “dated” (and smaller) ?Hint: it isn’t the sofa or the paint color…

It’s too much visual clutter on surfaces.
Counters, coffee tables, nightstands, bathroom vanities—when they’re crowded, your home loses that fresh, calm, updated feeling.

The best part? The fix is free. And it helps for real life moments like:

last-minute guests dropping by
your college kid coming home for the weekend
hosting book club / small group / the in-laws

It’s too much visual clutter on surfaces.
Counters, coffee tables, nightstands, bathroom vanities—when they’re crowded, your home loses that fresh, calm, updated feeling.

The best part? The fix is free. And it helps for real life moments like:

last-minute guests dropping by
your college kid coming home for the weekend
hosting book club / small group / the in-laws

And NO, you don't have to be a minimalist! Just keep things looking fresh and organized.

5 Main Rooms: Quick Wins That Make a Home Feel Instantly Updated

1) Entry / Drop Zone

Remove extra shoes, bags, and mail piles
Keep only:
one tray/bowl for keys
one hook or basket for daily grab-and-go items
one welcoming touch (plant, lamp, or simple art)

2) Living Room

Coffee table: keep 1–3 items (a tray + candle + book is plenty)
Fold throws and limit pillows to your favorites
Hide remotes/chargers in a basket or lidded box
Edit shelves: leaving open space is what makes it feel current

3) Kitchen

Clear countertops as much as possible
Leave out only what you use every day (example: coffee station or fruit bowl)
Corral sink items on a tray (soap + sponge looks intentional)
Keep papers off counters—create one “paper home” (basket or drawer)

4) Primary Bedroom

Nightstands: lamp + book + one small item (done!)
Make the bed simple and smooth—less fuss reads more modern
Clear the dresser top and style one small grouped moment
Use a closed hamper to keep laundry from becoming “visual noise”

5) Main Bathroom

Clear the vanity—daily essentials only
Store products in a drawer or one basket under the sink
Fresh hand towel + clean soap instantly elevates the space
Minimize shower bottles if you can (even temporarily)

Why this matters

When surfaces are edited and intentional, a home feels:

brighter
cleaner
more spacious
more updated
and honestly… easier to enjoy

A home doesn’t have to be perfect to feel beautiful—but it does need breathing room. Clearing surfaces is the simplest way to create that calm, “ahhh” feeling when you walk in the door. I recommend it constantly as a designer because it makes your space feel more intentional for real life: family dropping in, friends gathering, or a weekend reset. If you’d like more easy, encouraging ideas, subscribe to my monthly newsletter for tips you can use right away.

Until next time!— Jonelle Tannahill
Impressions ReDesign | Love Your Home More

How to Get the Most Out of Working With A Designer💛

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 19:23:45 GMT

Never worked with a designer on your home? Here are some tips!

If you’ve ever wished your home felt more pulled together—but you don’t want to start from scratch—a Redesign Consultation + Design Plan is made for you.

Here’s how it works (and how you can prepare so you get the biggest transformation):

What a Redesign Consultation Is

This is an in-person walk-through where we refresh your home starting with what you already own. We’ll talk through the changes that will make the biggest impact—then we’ll actually start doing them together.

During our time together, we typically cover things like:

Room layout + furniture placement (flow, function, focal points)
Lighting (lamps, bulbs, placement, warmth)
Soft goods (pillows, rugs, curtains, bedding—what to keep, tweak, or replace)
Paint + finishes (quick wins, color direction, coordination)
Flooring + surfaces (what works, what doesn’t, what’s worth updating)

And yes—this is the fun part: we can often rearrange furniture, rehang art, style shelves, accessorize, and create simple vignettes right then and there so you can see the difference immediately.

Small trays are my forever favorite styling “secret.” They instantly make a space feel intentional — not fussy — because they gather everyday items into one clean, polished moment. I use them on coffee tables (candle + matches + a tiny vase), on kitchen counters (soap + hand cream), and on nightstands (a book + reading glasses). The magic is that a tray creates a boundary, so even simple things look curated instead of cluttered.

My next favorite bargain? Beautiful coffee table books — and I love hunting for them at the Friends of the Sacramento Public Library’s used bookstore, The Book Den . It’s a gem for styling books (and actually reading them), with proceeds supporting library programs. The Book Den is located at 8250 Belvedere Ave., Suite E, Sacramento, CA 95826 and is typically open Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, 9:00 AM–3:00 PM . (Quick note: hours can shift around special warehouse sales, so it’s worth a fast check before you go.)

The Dining Room

The dining room is one of my favorite spaces to refresh because it sets the tone for gathering. During a redesign consultation, we look at how the room functions (can chairs pull out easily? does the layout feel balanced?) and how it feels (is the lighting warm, is the art hung at the right height, does the space feel welcoming or a little unfinished?). Often, a dining room comes together with just a few tweaks: shifting the table placement, grounding the space with a rug, adjusting the chandelier height or bulb warmth, and creating a simple centerpiece moment that feels intentional—not fussy. Even small changes can make the room feel “ready” for company again.

The Bathroom

Bathrooms are small, but they’re used constantly—so a few design updates can make a big difference fast. In a redesign consult, we usually start with the countertop: what truly needs to be out, and what can be stored so the space feels calm instead of cluttered. Then we look at lighting (warm bulbs matter!), finishes (matching metals and accessories instantly makes it feel pulled together), and textiles (fresh towels, a bath mat, a shower curtain that feels elevated). A simple tray is perfect here too—soap, lotion, and a small candle on a tray makes the bathroom feel like a mini “home moment” instead of a utility space.

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The Family Room

The family room is where real life happens—so the goal isn’t “perfect,” it’s comfortable, functional, and pulled together. In a redesign consult, we look at the basics first: furniture placement (better conversation flow, clearer walkways), where the TV sits in relation to seating, and how to create a strong focal point so the room feels grounded. Then we layer in the easy wins—lighting (lamps and warm bulbs are everything), pillows/throws for softness, and styling that makes the room feel finished without feeling fussy. Often, it’s as simple as moving pieces you already own to the right spot and creating one or two intentional vignettes that calm the visual clutter.

And here’s something I’m proud of: you don’t have to buy all new things to get a big transformation. A lot of designers shy away from a “use what you have” approach because it takes more creativity and problem-solving—plus you can’t just shop your way to the answer. But at Impressions ReDesign, that’s literally the point. I love the challenge of making your home feel fresh and beautiful by working with what you already own first—then we only add what truly makes sense.

If you’ve never worked with a designer before, here’s the truth: you don’t need a full renovation to love your home more. You just need a clear plan and a trusted eye to help you see what’s possible with what you already have — and what’s worth changing next.

At Impressions ReDesign , my Redesign Consultation + Design Plan is built to give you momentum. We make improvements right away (so you can feel the difference), and you walk away with a personalized plan you can follow step-by-step — no overwhelm, no random purchases, no second-guessing.

If you’re ready for your home to feel more pulled together, more functional, and more like you, I’d love to help. Reply, message me on Instagram/Facebook, or reach out through my website to book your consult. Let’s create a home that supports real life… and still feels beautiful.

Entertaining Reset - Be Prepared

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 23:42:36 GMT

Cabinet Reset Day: My Simple Trick for Cleaner Shelves + Easier Entertaining

The Annual Dish Reset (and why it works)

Once a year, I do something that sounds a little extra—but honestly, it’s one of the easiest ways I know to reset my kitchen.

I take all the dishes that live up on shelves or tucked in the back of cabinets—the “pretty” pieces, the seasonal serving bowls, the teacups I love but don’t always reach for—and I run them through the dishwasher.

Not because they’re dirty… but because this one simple reset helps me declutter without overwhelm.

Step 1: Pull everything out (yes, everything)

I start by clearing one cabinet or one section at a time. I stack things carefully on a towel on the counter or kitchen table. Seeing everything out in the open is the key—when it’s hidden, it’s easy to keep too much.

Step 2: Wash + wipe

I load the dishwasher with as much as makes sense. When the cycle is done, I do a quick rinse if needed and wipe pieces dry before putting them away. It’s fast, it feels satisfying, and it gives everything a “fresh start.”

Step 3: Decide what stays (with a simple system)

While things are out, I sort into four easy categories:

Everyday Use: things I truly reach for
Entertaining / Seasonal: pieces I love for gatherings or holidays
Sentimental / Display Only: meaningful items that deserve a small, protected spot
Release: items I don’t use, don’t love, or don’t want to store anymore

Here’s the honest question that helps me decide quickly:
If I saw this at a store today… would I buy it again?
If the answer is no, it’s usually a sign it’s ready to go.

Step 4: Put the “good stuff” where you can actually use it

This is a big one: once everything is clean, I put my favorites at eye level . If your prettiest pieces are buried, you won’t use them—then they become clutter instead of joy.

I also group items by purpose: platters with platters, tea cups with tea cups, dessert plates together, etc. That way when a social moment pops up, I can grab what I need without digging.

Why I love this reset (especially during declutter month)

This little tradition does three things at once:

It cleans what’s been sitting (dust is real!)
It helps me see what I actually use
It makes entertaining easier because everything is ready to go

And the best part? You don’t need to buy anything. You’re just curating what you already own.

Try it this week (quick version)

If you want to try it without making a whole day of it:

Pick one cabinet
Pull it all out
Wash what fits
Donate just 3 things you don’t love anymore

Progress Counts! Do you save your “good dishes” for special occasions—or would you love to start using them more often? Think about hosting some smaller easy events and now you are ready to set the table.

That's it for today, until next time! Jonelle'

A New Year Refresh: How to Remove Those Stubborn Silverware Marks from Your Dishes

Sat, 03 Jan 2026 20:17:18 GMT

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As we roll into January and swap out our holiday dishes for our everyday favorites, it’s the perfect time for a little kitchen refresh. And if you've ever noticed those pesky gray cut marks on your plates from silverware, you know they can be a bit of an eyesore. The good news is, I’ve got a simple solution!

It can happen to any of the colored plates. It happens when people use a knife and cut food on the plate. in this post, I'm sharing exactly how I tackled those marks using a cleaning paste called "The Pink Stuff" (which you can find on Amazon) or even Bar Keepers Friend.

I did a little demonstration where I treated half of the plate first, took some photos to show the difference, and then did the entire plate.

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A few quick tips: you can cut your sponge in half for easier handling, and make sure the sponge is just damp, not soaking wet, for a better buffing action. We even tried the popular Scrub Daddy and found that a simple Scotch-Brite worked just as well. My daughter and I worked together to rub the dishes with some pressure, and in about 20 minutes, our set of white Fiestaware was looking as good as new.

Once they were all clean, I popped them in the dishwasher to sanitize them.

So, as you refresh your home for the new year, give this little dish makeover a try. It’s a small step that makes your everyday dishes feel fresh and bright again!

And if you want to keep the momentum going, come join me inside the Home Decorators Club for our January Declutter Challenge ! We’re doing this month as a simple, doable reset—little pockets at a time—so you don’t get overwhelmed (because nobody needs a “tear the whole house apart” project in January ��). You’ll get weekly prompts, quick wins you can actually finish, and lots of encouragement from other members who are doing it right alongside you. Plus, it’s the perfect follow-up to this dish refresh: once your cabinets look clean and tidy, it’s amazing how motivated you feel to clear out the extras and make your everyday spaces work better. If you’re in, grab the details and sign up here: [INSERT HDC DECLUTTER CHALLENGE LINK] . I’d love to have you join us—what’s the one area you’re most excited to declutter first?

Kick Off Your New Year with a Four-Week Decluttering Series

Sun, 28 Dec 2025 19:09:46 GMT

A Sneak Peek Into Our January Decluttering Series

As we welcome the new year, I’m thrilled to share a little preview of the four-week decluttering series I've planned with my Home Decorators Club. We’ll be tackling a different part of the home each week, and I’ll be going live on Facebook every Friday to educate and cheer on our group. If you'd like to join us for this FREE series, please go to https://www.facebook.com/groups/homedecoratorsclub

I'm launching this at home in my own kitchen, going through the cabinets and drawers. And starting things off with a small but impactful change: swapping out my Christmas and Fiesta dishes for some "every day" ones. I am loading my everyday dishes back into the cabinet for winter, and set the table in new ways

I had decided I had too many Fiesta dishes. I have been collecting these dishes for 43 years. So it was time to part with ones I was not using. I separated them, washed them, and donated the ones I could part with and put the ones I wanted to keep in the pantry. These dishes served me well when my now-grown kids were young. I could tell by the color dish who left their dishes in the sink, or ate in the family room or left on the patio. It was so helpful when they were young. So I got rid of ones I never use, colors I wasn't as fond of, and kept what I know I will like and use. I offered the donation dishes to my daughters to see if they wanted any of them. What isn't gone by the end of the declutter series will be donated to charity. (Below are what I kept that I store in my pantry.)

While I swapped out my Christmas dishes for my everyday set, and in the process, I took the chance to give the cupboards a nice wipe-down, wash everything thoroughly, and rearrange the shelves. It was the perfect time to do a bit of a refresh.

I was able to part with one-off dishes, items that were just taking up valuable space. I use a system to make decluttering simple. Join our Facebook group to learn an easy way to declutter your belongings.

And as I did that, I also started a little “donation box” for dishes I no longer needed. I’ll be checking with my daughters to see if they’d like any of them before I donate the rest. So consider this your friendly little preview: before we jump into the full decluttering plan, you can start by doing a simple swap and a quick tidy. And if you’re curious about how I removed those pesky cut marks from my Fiestaware, you can check out the linked post here!

And here below are the everyday dishes I now have in my kitchen cabinet.

Happy New Year, thanks for joining me this month as I discuss decluttering and care of our household items. Until next time! XOXO

3 Easy Ways to Make Your Home Feel Holiday-Ready in an Afternoon

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 23:28:19 GMT

Let's do some Holiday Magic...

There’s a moment every December when we look around and think, “Is my home even ready for the holidays?”
If you’re feeling a little behind—or just not in the mood for a big decorating project—you’re not alone.

The good news: your home doesn’t need a total makeover to feel festive and welcoming. A few small, thoughtful touches in the right places can completely shift the mood. As you scroll through the photos in this email (from my home and clients’ homes), notice how simple most of the changes really are.

Here are three easy ideas you can do in an afternoon:

1. Style a “welcome zone” near the front door
Clear one small surface—an entry table, a bench, or even a chair.
Add:

A tray or platter you already own
A candle or small lamp
A sprig of greenery or a small bowl of ornaments

This becomes the first “ahhh” moment for you and your guests as they come in.

2. Warm up your seating area with layers
Before you buy anything new, gather:

Throw blankets from around the house
3–5 pillows in similar colors (cream, red, green, gold, or whatever you already have)

Group pillows in odd numbers on the sofa and chairs, and fold throws over the arm or back. The goal is inviting and comfortable, not staged and stiff.

3. Create one simple centerpiece that can stay all month
Use what you have:

A runner or scarf
A tray, platter, or cutting board
A few candles (battery or real)
Greenery (real or faux), pinecones, or ornaments

Keep it low and simple so you can see your guests across the table. This can live on your dining table, coffee table, or kitchen island and instantly says “holiday” without having to rearrange your whole house.

A Little Goes a Long Way

If this feels like a lot, choose just one of these to try first—maybe the welcome zone, or a cozy corner where you have your morning coffee. Small changes really do add up.

As you look at the photos I’ve shared, I hope you feel inspired, not overwhelmed. Your home doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s to be beautiful. It just needs a few spaces that feel warm, lived-in, and ready to hold the moments you care about most this season. Check out my Instagram for more ideas. https://www.instagram.com/impressionsredesign/

If you try one of these ideas, I’d love to see it. Until Next Time, Jonelle'

Softening Your Space with Textiles

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 21:25:56 GMT

Why Textiles Matter

There’s something about a home filled with soft, inviting textures that instantly makes you feel at ease. It might be a cozy throw tossed over the back of a chair, linen drapes catching the light just right, or a vintage rug that feels like a soft landing pad underfoot.

Textiles are the heart of a cozy, lived-in space. They add warmth, comfort, and personality. Whether you’re redecorating or simply refreshing a room, textiles are one of the most impactful and affordable tools in your design toolbox.

Textiles engage all the senses. They soften harsh lines, dampen sound, bring in color and pattern, and give your home a distinct personality. A room filled with only hard surfaces can feel sterile. Add a few fabric elements, and suddenly it feels grounded and welcoming.

Here’s what textiles bring to a home:

Warmth and comfort: A soft throw or a pile of pillows instantly makes a space feel lived in and cozy.
Color and character: Textiles are a great way to experiment with patterns and colors without permanent changes.
Acoustic softness: Curtains, rugs, and upholstery help reduce echo and make a room sound as inviting as it looks.
Seasonal flexibility: You can easily swap out textiles to reflect the time of year—light cottons for summer, velvets and knits in cooler months.

Twelve Ways to Use Textiles in Your Home

Pillows – Use on sofas, beds, and benches. Mix patterns and textures for a layered, curated look.
Throws – Drape over chairs or beds, or fold in baskets for accessible comfort.
Rugs – Define spaces, add softness, and bring in pattern. Layering rugs adds visual interest.

Curtains and Drapes – Use to soften windows, create height, and control light and privacy.

Table Linens – Runners, placemats, and cloth napkins make everyday meals feel special.

Bedding – Layer quilts, coverlets, and decorative pillows to create a restful retreat.

Upholstery – Refresh a bench or chair with new fabric for an instant update.

Wall Hangings – Fabric art, tapestries, or vintage textiles bring softness to large wall spaces.

Shower Curtains – Use fabric options to bring beauty to bathrooms, where most surfaces are hard.

Window Seats and Cushions – Custom or ready-made cushions can turn a nook into a destination.

Lampshades – Fabric shades add warmth and help connect color schemes in a subtle way.

Seasonal Swaps – Change textiles throughout the year to reflect the mood of each season.

Real-Life Examples

In one recent bedroom project in a primary bedroom, trading plain bedding for richly layered coverlets, pillows, drapes, and a textured throw makes a striking difference. It turns a functional room into a calming retreat.

✦ Where to Find Great Textiles

Shopping for textiles is like treasure hunting. Here are some of my favorite sources:

HomeGoods or TJ Maxx : Great for budget-friendly throws, towels, and pillows.
Etsy : Incredible handmade finds—think vintage Kantha quilts or hand-loomed Moroccan rugs.
Peruvian Connection : Their alpaca throws and garments are both luxurious and ethically made. (Bonus: It’s where I shop for clothing too!)
Spoonflower : If you’re a DIYer, try their wide array of custom printed fabrics and peel-and-stick wallpaper.
Target & Amazon : Reliable and accessible—look for Hearth & Hand, Threshold, or Rivet lines.
Antique Stores & Thrift Shops : You’ll be amazed what you can find—vintage linens, tapestries, or even handmade quilts.

The Finishing Touch

Textiles are more than just decorative layers. They are what make a room feel alive, personal, and comfortable. Whether you’re staging a home for sale or settling in for years to come, thoughtfully selected textiles bring your space to life.

Interested in adding softness and style to your home? I’d love to help you design a space that feels as good as it looks.

You can see photos from real homes and projects featured in my work throughout this blog. These are not showroom setups—they are real homes, filled with comfort, personality, and thoughtful design choices.

Until next time! Jonelle'

Let’s make your home a place you love even more.

Visit www.ImpressionsReDesign.com
Email jonelle@impressionsredesign.com
Call or text 916.833.7807
Follow @ImpressionsReDesign on Instagram for more decorating inspiration

Happy New Year! Happy New Home!

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Sun, 05 Jan 2025 22:41:43 GMT

Let's Celebrate!

Happy New Year! I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season filled with joy and laughter. As we step into 2025, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the year ahead.

Reflecting on 2024

This past year has been a whirlwind of activity and growth. We’ve had the pleasure of working on some incredible projects, and I want to take a moment to highlight a few of our favorites:

One-Day Room Redesign

We transformed a client’s living room by rearranging existing furniture and accessories, creating a fresh and inviting space without the need for new purchases. They couldn't believe the change at it happened for under $500.00

Resale-Ready® Staging Consultations

Partnering with local real estate agent Pam Stafford, we did staging consultations with her clients to help get them on board with all that needed to be done to get their homes ready for the market. These homes resulted in quicker sales and increased offers, showcasing the power of professional staging advice.

 Home Offic e Revamp

With more people working from home, we are redesigning more home offices to enhance productivity and comfort, tailoring each space to the client’s needs. Our Penryn Client told us the office revamp was a real game changer. She can't wait to work on other rooms now.

Seasonal Décor Workshops

Holiday decorating is a huge part of my November/December business. Besides the standard 5-10 Christmas trees I decorate for clients each year I Hosted workshops teaching clients how to decorate their homes for the holidays using budget-friendly and creative ideas. I love the speaking opportunities and teaching ways clients can have a more up leveled look to their Holidays

Short Term Rental Friendly Design

After transforming several Airbnbs into stunning, guest-ready spaces for my clients I have never felt more ready to take on these transformations. From selecting cohesive color palettes and durable furnishings to adding thoughtful décor touches that elevate the guest experience, each project was designed to create inviting and memorable stays. Whether it was a serene lakeside retreat or a coastal getaway, the goal was to merge style and function seamlessly. These updates not only enhanced the properties' aesthetics but also boosted their rental appeal and profitability.

Looking Ahead

In 2025, we’re excited to continue bringing your home design dreams to life. To kick off the year, we are planning some upcoming events and favorite tips to help you start the year with style and fun: Be sure to sign up for our monthly newsletter with links to all our events and join our Facebook Group "The Home Decorators Club" to stay up to date on all thing home decor.

Newsletter sign up:

Home Decorators Club

Make Christmas Eve Unforgettable

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 19:57:54 GMT

10 Ways to Make Christmas Eve Unforgettable with Impressions ReDesign

I love Christmas Eve! As a grandma to seven wonderful grandkids and a mom to three daughters, Christmas Eve is one of the most magical days of the year in our family. It’s a time for cherished traditions and making lasting memories. It's a time when we are together.

If you’re looking for ideas to make your Christmas Eve truly special, here are 10 ways to celebrate with warmth and joy!

1. Light Candles to Set the Mood

Create a cozy and peaceful atmosphere by lighting candles throughout your home. Whether it’s a centerpiece on the dining table or a cluster on the mantle, the soft glow adds a magical touch. Pair it with your favorite seasonal scents like cinnamon or evergreen for an extra layer of warmth.

2. Watch a Favorite Christmas Movie

Nothing beats snuggling up with the family to watch a classic Christmas movie. My favorite is White Christmas—Bing Crosby, Rosemary Clooney, and that incredible soundtrack! Here are some timeless classics to consider:

It’s a Wonderful Life
White Christmas
Miracle on 34th Street
A Christmas Carol (1951 version)
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Frosty the Snowman
A Charlie Brown Christmas
The Polar Express
Home Alone
Elf

3. Cozy Up in Matching Pajamas

In 2018 everyone in our family received a matching pajamas on Christmas Eve. Whether they’re matching or themed, it’s a fun tradition that sets the tone for a night of togetherness—and great family photos!

4. Capture the Magic of Your Christmas Decorating

It has been a family tradition to take a picture around the Tristmas tree (Thats my Mom) love to look back on photos of Christmas past. Before the festivities begin, take photos or a video tour of your holiday decorations. Start at the front door and capture every festive detail. It’s a wonderful way to preserve the memories and see how your decorating changes and evolves each year. Its wonderful to look back on my Mom's Christmas decorating photos too!

5. Host a Christmas Eve Hot Cocoa Bar

Set up a cozy hot cocoa bar with toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, candy canes, and chocolate shavings. Let everyone customize their own cup of cocoa to sip while enjoying your favorite Christmas activities. Add a few festive mugs for an extra special touch!

6. Make a Holiday Ornament

Gather the family and make some fun ornaments for the tree.

Blessings Ball Ornament: Provide paper slips or small tags, and have everyone write down what they’re most thankful for. Place the notes in a clear ornaments or tie them to the tree. It’s a meaningful way to focus on gratitude and togetherness during the holiday season.

Family Photo Ornament: Print small family photos and glue them onto lightweight wood or cardboard cutouts. Add glitter, ribbon, and a date to personalize each one before attaching a loop to hang on the tree.

Cinnamon Stick Star Ornament: Glue five cinnamon sticks together in a star shape, securing the corners with hot glue. Add twine for hanging and decorate with small embellishments like dried orange slices, berries, or glitter for a rustic, fragrant ornament.

Wooden Painted Ornaments: Pick up unfinished wooden ornaments from a craft store, along with acrylic paints and brushes. Let each family member paint their own design—whether it’s holiday scenes, abstract patterns, or personal touches—and seal them with a clear varnish for a keepsake that lasts for years.

Button Christmas Tree: Use a foam cone, hot glue, and an assortment of colorful buttons to create a whimsical Christmas tree ornament. Start at the base, gluing buttons in layers as you work your way to the top, then finish with a small star or bow.

7. Bake Christmas Cookies Together

Christmas Eve morning is perfect for baking cookies. I like to make the sugar cookie cut outs and have the kids help me frost them. Let the kids help with decorating while holiday music plays in the background. The cookies become a delicious treat for later—or maybe for Santa himself!

8. Take a Holiday Lights Drive

Pile into the car and drive through neighborhoods filled with festive lights. Bring hot chocolate and cookies to enjoy as you admire the creativity and sparkle of the season. It’s always a highlight of our evening.

9. Wrap Last-Minute Gifts

Many times we have a few presents left to wrap, so we make it part of the celebration! With beautiful ribbons, handmade bows, and some festive music playing, it’s a chance to slow down and enjoy the process.

10. Attend a Christmas Eve Service

To me, Christmas Eve feels sacred, and attending a church service is a beautiful way to reflect on the true meaning of the season. If you’re not able to go to a service, consider reading the Christmas story or sharing a prayer with loved ones.

Christmas Eve is a time to embrace traditions, create new ones, and savor every moment with family. I hope these ideas inspire you to make your Christmas Eve magical. What are your favorite Christmas Eve traditions? Share them in the comments—I’d love to hear them!

Wishing you a warm and joyful Christmas Eve,
Jonelle
Impressions ReDesign – Love Your Home More

Celebrate America Recycles Day

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 20:38:50 GMT

Celebrate America Recycles Day with Impressions ReDesign!

Mark November 15 for a celebration of creativity and sustainability—it's America Recycles Day! Here at Impressions ReDesign, we’re big believers in reimagining what you already own. By giving your existing decor a renewed purpose, we not only refresh your home but also reduce waste, helping make eco-conscious living part of every room.

Redesign as Recycling

With a passion for upcycling, I’ve completed countless home projects that use existing pieces in fresh, creative ways. For example, an old wooden ladder can be transformed into a charming towel rack in the bathroom or a unique display for blankets in the living room. Repurposing these items isn’t just practical—it’s an art form that adds character and charm to any space. By focusing on what’s already in your home, we make redesigning a truly sustainable choice, contributing to a circular economy and reducing the need for new materials.

Celebrate America Recycles Day from Home

Ready to get creative? Here are a few easy ways to make sustainable choices and upcycle items in your own home:

Reimagine Old Furniture : That well-loved pine bed can be repainted for a guest room, a dresser could become a kitchen island, and any cabinet can become a sweet bedside table with a coat of fresh paint.

2. Repurpose Containers : Empty jars or tins can store pantry items, craft supplies, or serve as planters for small succulents.

3. Turn Fabrics into Functional Pieces : Turn unused sheets, curtains, or tablecloths into reusable shopping bags, rags, or even pillow covers.

4. Get Creative with Decor : Tin cans can be reused to make lovely centerpieces for weddings. Wine bottles make lovely candle holders, or centerpieces with a little added décor. You can remake candles by re-pouring with was all of your "spent" candle jars. Its fun to re imagine items you are no longer using.

This America Recycles Day, go ahead and recycle everything at home you have been dying to get rid of. I invite you to celebrate by reimagining your home with purpose. Embrace the power of repurposing and give new life to the items around you. Let’s make every space beautiful, functional, and environmentally friendly. At Impressions ReDesign, we believe in creating spaces you’ll love—thoughtfully, purposefully, and sustainably!

About America Recycles Day
America Recycles Day ^SM is a national program of Keep America Beautiful and is the only nationally recognized day and community-driven awareness event dedicated to promoting and celebrating recycling in the U.S. Since its inception in 1997, communities across the country have participated in America Recycles Day on November 15 to educate, promote environmental citizenship, and encourage action. Learn more at AmericaRecyclesDay.org .

Above is a job I did using what the client had to stage and make their home ready for sale. It was a great savings to them as there were no rentals needed. There is so much we can do using what we already have

At Impressions ReDesign, we’re advocates of ‘reduce, reuse, and recycle,’ and that begins with using our clients’ own pieces as the foundation for their design,” shares Jonelle Tannahill, founder of Impressions ReDesign. “Instead of encouraging new purchases, we creatively reuse furnishings and accessories, honoring the sustainable values that America Recycles Day promotes. It’s exciting to see how many affordable and green design options have become available over the years, making sustainable decorating even more accessible.”

With our unique redecorating services, Impressions ReDesign offers an affordable way to breathe new life into spaces by maximizing the potential of what clients already have. We specialize in creating fresh designs that keep sustainability front and center, focusing on renewing, reusing, and recycling furnishings and decor. In addition to using items our clients already own, we also connect them with trusted local resources and contractors, ensuring every element of the redesign process is environmentally conscious. From specifying eco-friendly products to repurposing materials, we work to make every project as sustainable as possible.

By taking these steps, you’re not only giving your home a fresh look but also supporting sustainable practices that reduce waste.

Have Fall, until next time, Jonelle'

Simple Halloween Décor (You might even have)

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Sat, 05 Oct 2024 21:36:44 GMT

For anyon e aiming to enhance their Halloween décor check out these tips

At Impressions ReDesign, creating a sophisticated yet spooky ambiance for your rooms are a breeze! Start by repurposing your existing Halloween, Fall, and home accessories to maintain elegance without overwhelming your space. Opt for deep, rich colors and a few tasteful, seasonal accents like candlelight and subtle décor that whisper Halloween instead of shouting it. With a touch of creativity, you can achieve a beautifully designed room that invites warmth and intrigue, making your home the perfect backdrop for fall gatherings. And many of the items shown in this post I made myself, or made over.

1. **Start With What You Have**

Before buying anything new, take a good look around your home. Often, the most unexpected pieces can be reimagined for Halloween. For example, I’ve used **pewter goblets** as a dramatic touch on my dining table. Their old-world charm fits the spooky season perfectly but remains elegant.

2. **D IY Touches Make It Personal**

I love doing things myself, so for this Halloween, I’ve **painted off-white pumpkins** to keep them neutral yet seasonal. You don’t need flashy colors to make a statement—subtle tones like off-white, cream, and even black create a much more refined look. Add in **spell bottles** and **old books** to your table setting, layering them into your centerpiece for that mysterious, gothic vibe.

3. **Keep the Color Palette Sophisticated**

Sometimes it's fun to ditch the commercial orange and go for more elegant tones like: Seafoam, cream, and pewter. These colors instantly give your space a sophisticated and understated spooky atmosphere. For my table, I used black and cream antique dishes, and chicken salad plates—the fun designs add an antique feel, and when paired with black accents like candlesticks and my antiqued owl, the look really comes together. It does not screem Halloween, but has a "feeling" of it.

4. **Candlesticks for the Win**

Candlesticks are a must for Halloween décor. If you have **old candleholders**, bring them out and mix them with black or cream-colored candles. The flicker of candlelight adds just the right amount of eerie elegance to any space. These 1970's ceramic jack o'lanterns are great in the corner with flickering faux tea lights to add life to them.

5. **Personalized Halloween Details**

For a creative twist, look at how you can add a Halloween flair to everyday items. I love adding a simple black paper Halloween mask to old family photos—just something small to hint at the season without overwhelming the space. This is the type of decorating that feels thoughtful, not gimmicky. Or take an old dollhouse and spray it black and make it look like a haunted house.

6. **Skip the Commercial Spooky Decor**

My goal every year is to avoid the typical commercial spooky décor. No plastic spiders or inflatable ghosts here. Instead, think subtle and refined. By using the old cauldron spraying it black and antiquing it:

I made the witches shoes too...by decoupaging over an old pair of pumps, funny I could even wear them if I'd like!

New Paragraph

And this doll was going into the trash as her hair was matted. Now she has an "afterlife" (I added lace and baby powder on her face. I even think it looks spooky!

Old books are recreated into spell books, and old jars and filled with interesting items in oil to use as DIY spell bottles. I’ve created a curated look that’s both festive and sophisticated.

Thank you for taking the time to stop in and learn more about how to make your Halloween truly special this year. We hope you found some inspiring ideas and helpful tips that will add a touch of magic to your celebrations. Until next time, take care and keep the spirit of Halloween alive! Warm wishes, Jonelle.

Fall Table for Four: A Simple, Collected Setting

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Thu, 05 Sep 2024 20:37:31 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Autumn is truly a remarkable season. The colors become inviting, and the air starts to crisp. I always decorate my mantel first. Its subtle but gives me a feeling of early Fall. Next I enjoy crafting a seasonal tablescape without any new purchases—simply utilizing treasures from my butler’s pantry, cupboards, and cabinets. For this fall table, I’ve combined various pieces, and I adore how the chartreuse, tobacco, and cream shades harmonize, resulting in a beautifully soothing table setting.

The center piece is one of my favorite elements—I used a vintage wooden pedestal bowl that I re-oiled to make it shine like new. I filled it with green moss, leaves, greenery, and three large ceramic acorns that I bought years ago at Pottery World in Rocklin. It’s simple but feels so special.

The runner is from Crate & Barrel—what I love most about it is the length. I can easily tuck it under if I want to adjust the size. The napkin rings are black wire dragonflies that belonged to my mom, adding a touch of nostalgia to the table.

As for the napkins, they create a globally inspired tablescape. They are from my favorite brand Peruvian Connection. The rich colors—Jaipur pink, teal, tobacco, and cream—come from an 18th-century block print from India, set on a chartreuse cotton sateen base. I’ve tucked the everyday cutlery inside the napkins to keep things simple and clean.

The pewter mugs were a gift from my friend Joy who moved to the Midwest and gifted her friends small treasures to remind them of her. They feel just right for this table.

I also included a teacup and saucer for the dessert course.

The plates (and cup and saucers) are very special. Richard and I picked up this set, “The Mill” by Alfred Meakin from Staffordshire, England, on an anniversary trip to Santa Rosa. The hand-engraved dishes have so much history and I love the green and cream Transferware design. I use them for so many holidays including Christmas, St Patrick’s Day. Anniversary, Thanksgiving, and more!

The top plates, with their pheasant pattern, always remind me of late fall and hunting season. I love the color and how the tree behind the Pheasant softens the look.

The chargers are woven, wrapped reeds—I have a set of eight and love how they elevate any meal. To top it off, I added two chartreuse pottery pieces (a pear and a serving dish with apples) that I found at garage sales many years ago. They’re fun, quirky touches that pull it all together.

Lastly I a dded candles, since it is an evening dinner I will likely dim the chandelier for ambiance.

I also added a few pottery pieces that I collected at our annual Swap. A large chartreuse Pear...

And post modern plate with apples (above)

It’s amazing what you can create by just gathering items from around the house! What’s hiding in your cabinets that could make your next gathering feel special?

Your turn, how do you like to decorate for Fall? Until next time! Jonelle'

Simple Ways to Add Color to Your Home

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 23:20:00 GMT

Brighten Up Your Space:

How to Perk Up Your Rooms with Color

As the seasons change, it’s the perfect time to refresh your home with a splash of color. Whether you want to create a cozy retreat or energize a space, color is one of the most powerful tools in your design toolkit. Here are a few simple yet impactful ways to bring a fresh burst of color into your rooms:

Introduce Bold Color Through Artwork

If you're not ready to commit to painting or a full room makeover, bold artwork is a great way to add vibrant color. A large, eye-catching piece can become the focal point of any room, instantly transforming the space and adding personality. Whether it’s an abstract painting or a striking photograph, the right artwork can inject energy and style into your décor.

Add Colorful Accessories

Accessories like throw pillows, rugs, and curtains are perfect for experimenting with color in a more flexible way. Brighten up a neutral sofa with a mix of patterned pillows, or place a colorful rug to anchor the room and tie the elements together. These touches allow you to refresh the space seasonally without a major overhaul.

Refresh Your Furniture

If your furniture is looking tired, consider giving it a facelift with a pop of color. Reupholstering chairs, painting an old dresser, or even swapping out neutral cushions for something more vibrant can make your furniture feel brand new and inject life into the room.

Bring in Nature

Nature offers an endless palette of colors that can bring life to any room. Houseplants, fresh flowers, and even bowls of seasonal fruits can add a splash of color in an organic and refreshing way. Consider the deep green of a fiddle leaf fig or the bright yellow of sunflowers to instantly brighten up your space.

Use Statement Décor Pieces

Incorporate a few statement décor pieces that reflect your style and add pops of color to the room. A colorful vase, a vibrant throw blanket, or even a set of brightly patterned drapes can create visual interest and make the room feel more dynamic and inviting.

Adding color to your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming or permanent. Small, thoughtful changes can make a big impact. Above I shared photos from local projects to show how a touch of color can completely transform a space. Stay tuned, and let’s bring some joy and vibrancy into your home this season! Until Next Time!

Update ideas for the breakfast room, nook, dinette or whatever you call it

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 19:24:07 GMT

Transform Your Breakfast Room with These Cozy Additions!

Looking to add a touch of charm and functionality to your breakfast room? We have some fantastic ideas to help you create a cozy and inviting space that will quickly become the favorite spot in your home. With a few simple additions, you can transform your breakfast room into a warm, welcoming area perfect for relaxing, sipping coffee, and enjoying meals. Here’s how:

Create a Sitting Area

Start by setting up a comfortable and stylish sitting area. Here’s what you need:

Reading Chairs: Add two comfy reading chairs that invite you to sit down and relax.
Lamp: A good lamp provides the perfect lighting for reading or cozying up with a cup of coffee.
Nesting Tables: These are great for holding your books, coffee cups, or a vase of fresh flowers.

Set Up a Coffee Station

A delightful coffee station can make every sip special and add a personal touch to your breakfast room:

Coffee Maker with Pods: Ensure you have a variety of options for your coffee-loving guests.
Selection of Teas and Cocoa: Cater to all preferences with a selection of teas and a cocoa bar.
Vintage Glass Drying Rack: Display your favorite dishes for a touch of nostalgia and charm.
Flameless Candles: Add the most realistic flameless candles to create a warm, inviting glow without any fire hazard.
Upcycled Glass Jars: Store sugars, cocoa, and marshmallows in upcycled glass jars for a sustainable and stylish touch.

Arrange Dining Space

Finally, make sure your dining area is both functional and flexible:

Table and Chairs: Place a table and chairs in the center for everyday meals.
Extra Chairs: Position extra chairs across the way to accommodate more guests.
Table Extenders: Keep two table extenders in the closet for when you need extra space for larger gatherings.

Use Artwork to Brighten the Space

Add a splash of color and personality to your breakfast room with thoughtfully chosen artwork:

Bright Paintings or Prints: One thing you will notice in nearly all my room designs are large pieces of great artwork. Select pieces that reflect your style and brighten up the nook.
Gallery Wall: For a more casual look create a gallery wall with a mix of photos, prints, and even kids' artwork to make the space feel personal and lively.

Incorporate Greenery

Bring life and freshness into your breakfast room with some greenery:

Florals: Fresh floral arrangements are always lovely on a breakfast table. Picking up even a small grouping of flowers at the grocery store and enhance the look and feel of the room. I love to add greenery from my yard o make the arrangement look larger.
Potted Plants: Place small potted plants or herbs on windowsills, tables, or shelves.
Hanging Planters: Use hanging planters to save space and add a vertical element to your décor.

Whether you are modern or minimal or traditional or "grandma chic" you will find that by incorporating these elements, your breakfast room will become a versatile space that’s perfect for morning coffees, evening chats, and everything in between. Enjoy your newly enhanced breakfast room and the cozy, inviting atmosphere it brings to your home!

Transforming your breakfast room can be a fun and rewarding project, and we’re here to help every step of the way. If you’re looking for more tips or personalized advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to Impressions ReDesign. Let’s create a space you’ll love. Until next time! Jonelle'

Quick and Easy Ways to Add Curb Appeal

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 22:33:40 GMT

Property values increase when well-landscaped

Enhancing your home's curb appeal doesn't have to be a daunting task. With a few simple steps, you can make a big impact and create a welcoming atmosphere for potential buyers or guests. Here are ten quick and easy ways to spruce up your home's exterior:

Regular Maintenance: Keep a consistent schedule for watering, mowing, edging, and weeding your lawn. A well-maintained yard is the first step in making a great impression.

Seasonal Planting: Remove any dead plants and replace them with colorful, seasonal flowers. This not only adds vibrancy but also shows that the property is well cared for.

Fresh Mulch: Add a fresh layer of mulch to all flower beds. It instantly revitalizes the look of your garden and helps retain moisture for your plants.

Declutter the Yard: Remove any lawn décor and equipment. A clean, uncluttered yard looks more spacious and inviting.

Inviting Entryway: Make sure your front porch and entryway are clean and inviting. Repaint the front door if needed, and power-wash the exterior of the house to remove dirt and grime.

Lighting: Ensure that the porch lighting is working properly and free of cobwebs and spiders. You might need to update with fresh paint or a new fixture all together. Good lighting not only enhances safety but also adds to the overall appeal.

Outdoor Furniture: Use outdoor furniture to create inviting spaces. A cozy seating area on the front porch or in the backyard can make your home feel more welcoming.

Window Cleaning: Clean all windows inside and out. Sparkling windows let in more light and give your home a fresh, well-maintained look.

House Numbers: Ensure your house numbers are visible and stylish. Consider replacing old numbers with new, modern ones to enhance your home's curb appeal.

Backyard Matters Too: Remember, the same rules apply to the backyard. Keeping it tidy and inviting can make your home stand out even more.

By following these simple steps, you can boost your home's curb appeal and create a lasting first impression. Whether you're preparing to sell or just want to enjoy a more attractive home, these tips will help you achieve a beautiful exterior with minimal effort and expense.

At Impressions ReDesign, we specialize in transforming homes to maximize their appeal and value. Our One Day room makeover service delivers a room update using your existing furnishings. We offer comprehensive services, from color consultations to staging consultations, ensuring every detail is perfect.

Let us help you make your home shine. Contact us today to discuss how we can assist in enhancing your home's curb appeal -- creating a welcoming environment and maintaining the value of your investment. Together, we can make a lasting impressions. Until next time! Jonelle

Backyard Bliss: Transforming Your Outdoor Space with Fun Updates

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 21:52:32 GMT

Whether you have a spacious garden or a cozy yard, there are endless possibilities to create a beautiful and functional outdoor space.

Here are some ideas to inspire your backyard makeover:

Summer is here, and it's the perfect time to transform your backyard into a personal oasis. Whether you have a spacious garden or a cozy yard, there are endless possibilities to create a beautiful and functional outdoor space. Here are some ideas to inspire your backyard makeover and make it the go-to spot for fun and relaxation.

1. Gardens & Greenery

Plant vibrant flowers, shrubs, and trees to add color and life to your yard. Consider creating a vegetable or herb garden for a sustainable touch. Not only do these plants enhance the beauty of your space, but they also provide fresh produce and herbs for your kitchen.

2. Outdoor Living Spaces

Set up comfortable seating areas with outdoor furniture, hammocks, or swings. Add cozy blankets and pillows for a welcoming vibe. If you have indoor furniture that you no longer need, consider repurposing it for your covered patio. This can create a charming, eclectic outdoor seating area without breaking the bank.

3. Fire Pits & Fireplaces

Install a fire pit or outdoor fireplace for those chilly evenings. It’s perfect for roasting marshmallows and enjoying the company of family and friends. A fire feature can also serve as a focal point in your backyard design.

4. Lighting

Use string lights, lanterns, and solar lights to create a magical ambiance. Proper lighting can extend the usability of your backyard well into the evening, making it perfect for late-night gatherings.

5. Dining Areas

Create a dining area with a sturdy table and chairs. Consider adding an outdoor kitchen or BBQ station for the ultimate dining experience. This setup is perfect for hosting dinner parties, tea for four, or casual family meals under the stars.

6. Pathways & Walkways

Design attractive pathways using stones, pavers, or gravel. They can guide guests through your garden and add structure to your landscape. Pathways also enhance the overall aesthetic of your yard.

7. Water Features

Add a fountain, pond, or even a small waterfall to bring tranquility and a soothing sound to your backyard. Water features can create a serene environment and attract wildlife like birds and butterflies.

8. Decor & Accents

Personalize your space with unique décor items like garden statues, outdoor rugs, and colorful planters. Don’t forget to add a touch of your personality!

9. Install a Mister System

Beat the summer heat by installing a mister system in your backyard. Misters provide a refreshing cool-down for your guests, making your outdoor gatherings more comfortable and enjoyable. They're perfect for those hot California days when the sun just won't quit.

10. Host Backyard Activities

Creating memorable experiences in your backyard can be as simple as organizing themed events. Here are a few ideas:

Movie Night: Set up a projector and a large screen or a blank wall, spread out some comfy seating with blankets and pillows, and don't forget the popcorn! String lights or lanterns can add a magical touch to the evening.
Hawaiian Night: Embrace the island vibe with tiki torches, leis for your guests, and a playlist of tropical tunes. Serve up some refreshing cocktails and snacks, and consider adding a small pool or water feature to complete the ambiance.
Birthday Party: Personalize the celebration with decorations, games, and a designated area for gifts and cake. Outdoor furniture, like picnic tables or lounge chairs, can be arranged to create cozy seating areas for guests to mingle.

11. Use Mosquito-Repellent Plants

Pesky bugs can ruin a good time, but with the right plants, you can keep mosquitoes at bay naturally. Here are a few mosquito-proof plants to consider:

Citronella: This plant is well-known for its mosquito-repellent properties. Place citronella plants around seating areas for maximum effect.
Lavender: Not only does lavender smell wonderful, but it also keeps mosquitoes away. Plus, its purple blooms add a pop of color to your garden.
Marigolds: These bright, cheerful flowers are a great addition to any garden and have the added benefit of repelling mosquitoes and other pests.

Transforming your backyard into a perfect retreat for relaxation, entertainment, and making memories is easier than you think. With a few thoughtful updates like repurposing furniture, installing a mister system, and adding mosquito-repellent plants, your outdoor space can become a haven of comfort and fun. Whether you’re hosting a themed party, enjoying a cozy evening by the fire pit, or simply unwinding in your new outdoor living area, the possibilities are endless.

At Impressions ReDesign, we specialize in maximizing your space to its fullest potential, both indoors and out. Let us help you create a backyard that not only enhances your home but also enriches your lifestyle. Ready to get started? Gather your friends and family, and let’s transform your backyard into the ultimate oasis today!

Feel free to reach out for more tips or to discuss how we can assist with your home transformation needs. Happy summer, until next time!

Jonelle Tannahill

Designing a Pet-Friendly Home

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Thu, 16 May 2024 18:39:20 GMT

Do you appreciate a cozy, inviting home as much as I do?

Well, you're in good company! Like you, I'm a dedicated pet lover, proud to call two cats, Akiera and Elsie, and a lovable Bernese Mountain Dog named Shasta part of my family. Living with these furry companions has taught me firsthand about the joys and hurdles of creating a pet-friendly home. And let me assure you, I'm not the type of designer to raise an eyebrow at a little fur or the occasional untidiness. In fact, I relish the opportunity to help my clients navigate every challenge with creativity and practical solutions. So, let's dive in and explore some tips I've picked up along the way to ensure your home is both stylish and pet-friendly!

1) Choose pet-friendly materials: opt for durable, easy-to-clean fabrics like leather or microfiber, canvas, denim, and durable synthetic materials for furniture and upholstery. I’ve even found success in the past with top-grain leather: If a leather - real leather furniture doesn't have a weave for cat claws to sink into and doesn't attract fur. These materials resist scratches and stains, making them ideal for homes with furry friends.

2) Embrace washable textiles: Invest in washable rugs and slipcovers to make cleaning up pet messes a breeze. Machine-washable fabrics ensure that your home stays fresh and stylish, even in the face of inevitable accidents. Check out Ruggable.com rugs - they are designed to be pet-friendly because they are machine washable, stain-resistant, and water-resistant. The rugs are made of two pieces: a rug cover and a non-slip rug pad. The cover can be detached from the pad and washed in a washing machine, while the pad can be wiped clean with soap and water. The cover also has a water-resistant barrier to prevent liquids from reaching the floor

3) Designate pet zones: Create designated spaces for your pets to eat, sleep, and play. Whether it's a cozy nook for your cat or a play area for your dog, giving them their own space helps them feel secure and prevents them from wreaking havoc on your decor. Create a pet room – we use our laundry room for animals eating areas, a cat tree, and litter box. All out of sight and out of mind during the day to day.

4) Incorporate pet-friendly décor: Choose décor items that are safe and durable for your pets. Look for unbreakable decorations and avoid fragile items that could pose a risk to curious pets. Puffs, faux fur throws or soft pillow like toys will work well with pets.

5) Prioritize safety: Keep harmful substances like toxic plants and chemicals out of reach, and secure electrical cords to prevent chewing accidents. Pet-proofing your home ensures that your furry friends stay safe and happy. I enjoyed reading this article on Pet Proofing a home: https://www.americanhumane.org/fact-sheet/pet-proofing-your-home/

As we wrap up, remember that creating a pet-friendly haven is all about finding that perfect balance between style and functionality. By choosing pet-friendly materials, embracing washable textiles, and designating specific pet zones, you can ensure that your home remains both stylish and practical for you and your pets. Don't forget to incorporate pet-friendly décor and prioritize safety to create a space where everyone feels comfortable and secure. Happy decorating! Warmly, Jonelle’

Nostalgic Tablescapes

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 17:15:02 GMT

Entertaining with Vintage "Diane" Dishes

Today, I want to share with you the charm and versatility of incorporating vintage "Diane" dishes into your tablescapes and setting ideas.

Let's start by diving into the story behind my collection of Diane Fine China. I received this cherished set from my aunt Donna, more odd pieces from my grandma, and stumbled upon some gems at garage sales. With each piece, there's a story—a bridal shower here, a Christmas dinner there—all woven into the fabric of family gatherings.

Over the years others I have known have seen this china and said “I have some of that set too!” So they gave me the pieces they had since they did not have a full set nor did they want one. I also found an unfinished set at a garage sale in the 1990’s. I have in total place settings for 48, though not at all a complete set. I long for the coffee/tea server, yet I have most everything else that I know of.

Over the years I have used it for memorials, bridal showers, church teas, Christmas dinners and even my own wedding. I love sharing it with friends for their special occasions, showers, anniversary parties, birthdays, and we recently used them for the Jane Austen Tea. In fact, I find myself reaching for these dishes once or twice a year, and they've become a favorite tablescape for special events.

What makes these dishes truly special is their history. Back in the day, businesses like grocery stores and gas stations would sweeten the deal for customers by offering complimentary dinnerware as promotional items. The Diane pattern, with its light-blue floral design and beige-and-silver accents, was one such treasure that found its way into many homes.

The Diane pattern of porcelain dishes was crafted by Wade Fine China, known for its exquisite craftsmanship and timeless designs. Introduced in the 1970s, the Diane pattern quickly captured the hearts of collectors and homemakers alike with its delicate floral motifs and elegant color palette of light blue with beige-and-silver accents. Originally the first few pieces were given away and later each week specific pieces were sold as a promotional item in small-town grocery store chains. It's fascinating to explore the history behind vintage tableware giveaways from yesteryears. From the days when grocery stores and gas stations used promotional dinnerware to attract customers. Many of you will remember the iconic patterns like Golden Wheat and Blue Willow.

Now, let's talk about how you can incorporate these once-free or "special offer" dishes into your own tablescapes and setting ideas. Here are a few tips and tricks:

Mix and Match: Don't be afraid to mix your vintage Diane dishes with modern pieces for a unique and eclectic look. Pair them with sleek, contemporary flatware and glassware to create a stylish contrast or keep it vintage by adding other floral or transferware patterns..

Embrace the Floral: Let the floral patterns of your Diane dishes inspire your table decor. Add fresh flowers in complementary colors to your centerpiece, or opt for floral-printed napkins and table runners to tie the look together.

Layer with Texture: Create visual interest by layering different textures and materials on your table. Mix in woven placemats, antique or linen tablecloths, and metallic accents to add depth and dimension to your tablescape.

Set the Mood with Lighting: Set the mood for your dinner party or gathering with strategic lighting. Use candles or string lights to create a warm and inviting ambiance that highlights the beauty of your vintage dishes.

Personalize with Place Cards: Add a personal touch to each place setting with handwritten place cards or personalized tags. Not only does this add an extra element of charm, but it also helps guests feel welcomed and special. We also added vintage items to our tables so guests could chat about the strands of old pearls, 1800's glasses, the silk bag or try on antique gloves.

Whether you're hosting a formal dinner party, a cozy brunch with friends, or a romantic date night at home, vintage dishes are sure to elevate your table decor to new heights. So dust off those heirloom plates, pour yourself a cup of tea, and let's create some unforgettable memories around the table together.

As you embark on your journey of creating beautiful tablescapes with your vintage dishes, remember that each setting is an opportunity to weave together cherished memories and personal style. Whether its a table for two, or a special tea for 40 friends don't let friends go it alone! If you're seeking more inspiration and camaraderie, I invite you to join our Home Decorators Club. We're a community of passionate decorators, sharing tips, tricks, and inspiration to help you transform your home with beauty and creativity. To join us, simply visit our website at www.homedecoratorsclub.com or join our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/groups/homedecoratorsclub and sign up for our newsletter. Let's embark on this journey together, creating spaces that inspire and delight. Here's to setting the table for a life filled with beauty and joy!

Until next time! Jonelle

Home Concierge Services

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 20:34:52 GMT

Navigating Your Homes Challenges with Recommended Experts

Successfully managing a home comes with its own set of challenges. From ongoing maintenance issues to navigating paint dilemmas and coordinating reliable service providers.

In my experience, having a team of skilled, trustworthy, and dependable individuals is essential. A talented designer breathes life into spaces, while a meticulous painter adds a sense of "NEWNESS" a vibrancy. A reliable handyman ensures everything is in top shape, and the expertise of a flooring specialist or an electrician adds those finishing touches. When these professionals come by way of a recommendation, it can truly transform the homeowner's experience, instilling a sense of calm and confidence.

A savvy realtor understands the significance of assembling a strong "team." They not only cultivate great relationships with top-notch professionals but also offer invaluable recommendations and advice.

Picture having a home concierge, recommending trusted service providers to elevate your living space. It's an advantage to knowing "that certain realtor" that can help you with the upkeep of your home.

Now, who should be on every homeowner's speed dial for a seamless living experience? First, are the most networked and connected partners - your realtor and designer. They are there to help you figure out any other trade and make great recommendations. Here's a curated list of indispensable contacts to keep on your home list:

Realtor - Your indispensable ally for seamless home transactions and strategic real estate investments. With a vast network of trusted professionals at their fingertips, including contractors, inspectors, and mortgage lenders, they streamline the process of home ownership.

Interior Decorator/Designer - Interior Decorator/Designer - Elevating your space with tailored aesthetics and optimized functionality, ensuring every corner of your home, inside and out, reflects your unique lifestyle needs.

Painter - Repairing, touching up, adding color and life to walls, ceilings, and exteriors.

Handyman - Handling various repairs and maintenance tasks knowledgably & promptly.

Flooring Expert - Enhancing the foundation with quality flooring, maintenance & repairs.

Electrician - Ensuring a safe and well-lit environment. Can advise on solar.

Plumber - Addressing plumbing issues and keeping water systems in check.

Landscaper/Gardener - Cultivating outdoor landscapes for a welcoming & inviting appeal.

Home Inspector - Conducts thorough assessments & recommends maintenance to catch issues early on.

Mortgage Advisor - Providing financial guidance for property investments.

Insurance Agent - Safeguarding your home and possessions with the right coverage.

Cleaning Service - Maintaining a tidy and clean living environment.

Architect - Offering insights for structural modifications, changes and improvements.

Roofing Specialist - Keeping your shelter secure from the top down.

Pest Control - Protecting your home from unwanted pests and annoyances.

Technology Specialist - Ensuring your smart home systems operate seamlessly.

Furniture Restoration Expert - Breathing new life into quality furnishings and cherished pieces.

Organizational Consultant - Helping declutter, organize and optimize storage spaces.

HVAC Technician - Maintaining heating and cooling systems for comfort.

Window Treatment Specialist -Enhancing natural light and privacy.

Home Security Specialist - Who prioritizes safety measures for your home.

Having these recommended experts at your fingertips ensures a homeowner is equipped to address any need promptly and efficiently, creating a home that stands the test of time and makes for a better investment.

Life throws us all challenges, and homes require constant attention.

Your realtor and designer aim to minimize your stress by providing recommendations of trusted industry service providers that can help you with all your home needs. Whether it's a quick fix or a complete transformation, this team ensures your home gets the care it needs. After all a home is most likely you largest investment.

Next time you face a home improvement challenge or simply want to enhance your living space, reach out and get some solid recommendations. Let your trusted connections and their expertise guide you. Realtors and designers both can connect you with knowledgeable tradespeople.

When you are in need of trusted and knowledgeable tradesmen don't hesitate – give your designer or realtor call away. Your dream team is ready to turn your homeownership vision into a reality.

Have a great day, Jonelle

The Art of Bookcase Styling

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 01:31:08 GMT

Elevate Your Space: The Art of Bookcase Styling for Every Season, Color, and Theme

Bookcases are more than just storage; they're a canvas for creativity, a reflection of your personality. Whether you're an avid reader or simply love the aesthetic appeal of a well-styled bookcase, transforming this space with the changing seasons, color schemes, or themes adds a dynamic touch to your home décor. Let's delve into the art of bookcase styling and explore how you can revitalize your space throughout the year.

I love to change up bookshelves. Many times I take a seasonal approach above you can see two Christmases where I used the bookcase to showcase holiday items:

Winter Wonderland:

Transform your bookcase into a winter wonderland with cool blues, silvers, and whites. Swap in holiday-themed book covers or add seasonal ornaments for a festive touch. Above is our bookcase in 2014 (10 years ago in red) and 2023 last year a more minimalistic look.

Spring Awakening:

Embrace the freshness of spring by incorporating vibrant colors and botanical elements. Swap out darker book covers for lighter pastels, and intersperse them with small potted plants or floral accents.

Summer Vibes:

Infuse a dose of summer into your bookcase with beachy tones and nautical accessories. Consider incorporating shells, coral, or coastal-themed bookends for that laid-back, summer vacation feel.

Fall Harvest:

As the leaves change outside, let your bookcase mirror the warm hues of autumn. Add rustic touches with wooden décor, and introduce cozy elements like small pumpkins or autumn-scented candles.

Above I see I used travel treasures for my bookcase. I see the Eiffel Tower I purchased after my trip to France. And some white ironstone pitchers from England. Its wonderful to be able to display your travel treasures.:

Travel Tales:
Showcase your wanderlust by arranging your bookcase with travel-themed books, maps, and souvenirs. It's a great way to reminisce about your adventures and inspire future travels.
Vintage Wonderland:
Create a sense of nostalgia with a vintage-themed bookcase. Incorporate old books, antique trinkets, and sepia-toned photos for a touch of timeless charm.
Artistic Expressions:
Turn your bookcase into a mini art gallery by displaying books on art and incorporating sculptures or framed artworks. It's a dynamic way to celebrate your love for creativity.

I also like to use color or material to keep things cohesive looking. Color-Coordination gives a more elegant look. The above has my mercury glass collection within the shelves. Below is how I have the shelves today using blue accents. (Now you know my TV is hidden behind the doors of the center cabinet.)

Monochromatic Mastery:

Opt for a sleek and modern look by arranging your books by color. This creates a visually striking display, turning your bookcase into a piece of art. Experiment with shades that complement your overall color scheme.

Rainbow Rhapsody:

For a burst of energy, organize your books in a rainbow spectrum. This not only looks visually appealing but also adds a playful and eclectic vibe to your space.

Neutral Harmony:

Create a calming and sophisticated ambiance by organizing your books in neutral tones. Pair beige, whites, and grays for an elegant, timeless look.

Cohesive Materials:

Try using the same materials to give your shelves a fresh look. All tin, or all mercury glass, or sterling silver will give a more up level look. Or the below bookcase has all natural materials collected on trips. It has a very 1970's vibe with hand woven baskets, original sketching, baskets and more.

Your bookcase is a versatile design element that can evolve with the seasons, color schemes, or themes that resonate with you. By infusing your personality into the arrangement, you not only create a visually appealing space but also tell a unique story about your interests and experiences. So, go ahead, experiment, and let your bookcase become a reflection of your ever-changing style and taste.

If you find yourself in need of guidance you might want to join our Home Decorators Club www.homedecoratorsclub.com. Or for even more help taking your bookcase styling to the next level, Impressions ReDesign is here to help. As a trusted partner in creating captivating and personalized home aesthetics, I offer expert advice and hands-on assistance to elevate your space. Let's turn your bookcase into a true reflection of your unique taste and lifestyle. Contact me today, and let the journey to a more stylish home begin.

Until next time! Jonelle'

8 Simple Yet Unforgettable Celebrations

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 01:41:20 GMT

Gather up your friends and family!

Creating unforgettable holiday gatherings is an art, adding your unique touch can truly make these moments special. Let's delve deeper into each of these eight holiday gathering ideas to inspire you to plan a simple interactive and fun event with friends (or family) Starting with my favorite, the cookie exchange:

1. Cookie Exchange Party:

A cookie exchange is not just about the cookies; it's an experience. Encourage guests to bring five dozen creatively homemade cookies and include a holiday recipe. Provide special holiday tins and boxes for guests to box up their assorted cookies. Consider judging in categories, such as the most creative, sentimental, or personal favorite. Elevate the ambiance with a charcuterie board, some savory hors d'oeuvres, and don't forget the festive tunes to complete the atmosphere.

2. Ornament Exchange Festivity:

Turn the simple act of exchanging ornaments into a cherished tradition. Specify a budget, and have guests bring beautifully wrapped ornaments. Create a fun game where guests draw numbers to select or "steal" ornaments. Extra points go to those who bring handmade ornaments, adding a personal touch to the tree. Ensure the gathering is filled with laughter, warmth, and perhaps some holiday-themed snacks and maybe a simple fun craft for them to make and take home.

3. Gourmet Hot Cocoa Bar:

Transform a regular hot cocoa into a gourmet experience. Offer an array of toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, and candy canes. Provide options for dark or milk chocolate, paired with regular, coconut, or almond milk and assorted syrups. This delightful setup is perfect for a quick spot to hang out before heading out to see Christmas lights or as a sweet ending to a special dinner.

4. Gingerbread House Village:

Take the gingerbread house decorating to a grand scale by creating a village. Guests contribute various buildings (school, church, business) to form a neighborhood, or town. Craft stations can be set up to add extra elements like trees, street signs, mailboxes, roads, or fences. Keep the food simple yet hearty with a chili bar an array of toppings. Each guest can bring cookies for dessert.

5. Dinner On The Move:

Elevate the traditional progressive dinner experience by adding small activities at each house or keeping it simple with good food and company. (Above guests help decorate for 30 minutes at each house) Start with appetizers at House #1, move to the main meal at House #2, and finish with dessert at House #3. This is a great experience for couples too, especially when you add an element of surprise to the festivities. This is the perfect event for a viewing of holiday decorating too!

6. Classic Christmas Movie Night:

Picking a classic favorite is a good idea for a Christmas movie night. Bring Christmas movies to life by encouraging guests to dress up as characters, enjoy themed food, and watch the movie together. Popcorn, full-size candy bars, and festive snacks complete the cozy movie night experience. Don't forget to provide a few fun icebreaker games as guests arrive.

7. Under $25.00 Gift Exchange:

Add a twist to the classic gift exchange by incorporating a fondue party. Guests bring wrapped gifts, and the left/right game adds an element of fun and laughter. Fire up the fondue pot, open a package of cheese fondue, and let the warmth and joy flow through the evening. Don't forget the background music and candles for added warmth.

8. Holiday Ornament Make and Take Party:

Host an ornament-making party that doubles as a crafting and socializing event. Set up crafting and refreshment tables, allowing guests to unleash their creativity. This all-evening affair ensures there's enough time for projects to dry, fostering a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. Pinterest is a great place to get ideas, and make sure you have everything you need to make the craft at each station. Preparation is key for this event. A potatoes bar or mexican food pot luck would be fun and easy meals to execute for an evening of creativity.

As we delve into the spirit of the season, these holiday gathering ideas are designed to turn moments into memories. Whether it's the aromas of freshly baked cookies at a Cookie Exchange Party or the laughter echoing through a Gingerbread House Village, these festivities are crafted to bring people together in the most interactive way.

As the owner and designer at Impressions ReDesign, I understand the importance of creating spaces that evoke emotion and leave a lasting impression. If you find yourself inspired by these ideas yet you don't feel your home is "ready" for guests I'd love to help you.

At Impressions ReDesign, we specialize in transforming spaces, not just for special occasions but for everyday living. From design consultations that add value to your home, to furniture and accessories arrangements using what you already have, let's collaborate to make your vision a reality.

Feel free to reach out for a free 15 minute consultation, whether you're looking to refresh your space for the holidays or contemplating a more comprehensive redesign. Together, we can create a home that not only reflects your style but also becomes the backdrop for your most cherished moments.

Wishing you a season filled with joy, warmth, and the magic of beautifully designed spaces.

Until next time! Jonelle'

Need A Kitchen Update?

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 21:35:02 GMT

"Updating your kitchen does not have to be all or nothing!"

Jonelle Tannahill

Most of us say that our kitchens are the hearts of our homes—and that's why they're one of the most exciting rooms to renovate. But taking your kitchen to the next level doesn't necessarily require a full remodel: Before you start tearing down walls or replacing countertops, consider the many ways you can elevate this space without breaking out your power tools (or hiring a contractor). Simple changes like adding a fresh coat of paint or easy DIY projects (think swapping out your faucet and taps) can transform your kitchen into a gathering space you feel really good about.

Paint it Fresh: A new paint color can breathe life into your kitchen. Choose a palette that complements your style and the existing elements in the space.

Update Hardware: Replacing cabinet handles and drawer pulls is a quick and budget-friendly way to give your kitchen a modern or classic touch.
Swap Out Faucets: Installing a new faucet can enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of your sink area.
Under-Cabinet Lighting: Adding under-cabinet lighting not only illuminates your workspace but also creates a cozy ambiance in the evenings. .

Open Shelving: Consider removing a few cabinet doors and adding open shelves to display your favorite kitchenware and create an open, inviting look.
Fresh Backsplash: A new backsplash can instantly modernize your kitchen, and there are many affordable, peel-and-stick options available.

Organize and Declutter: Sometimes, the best way to improve your kitchen is by simplifying. Invest in clever organizers to keep your space neat and efficient.
Statement Decor: Introduce a statement piece of decor, like a unique clock, artwork, or a stylish rug, to infuse personality into your kitchen.

Here you see there are plenty of creative and non-invasive ways to transform their kitchens into spaces they truly adore.

Ready to transform your kitchen into a space that you and your family will truly love? Whether you're looking to make simple changes like a fresh coat of paint or embark on more extensive DIY projects, the possibilities are endless. If you need guidance, inspiration, or have any questions about your kitchen update, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to assist you every step of the way. Your dream kitchen is just a few thoughtful upgrades away, so let's get started on creating a space that's both functional and inviting. Contact me today, and let's make your kitchen renovation journey an exciting and fulfilling one.

Until next time! Jonelle'

Turning Odd Pieces of China into Unique Cake/Candy Stands - A DIY Guide

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Sun, 17 Sep 2023 23:33:01 GMT

Transforming Vintage China into Elegant Cake and Candy Stands

As an interior decorator with a passion for creating new and interesting pieces for the home, I often find inspiration in unexpected places. One day, I looked at my collection of odd china pieces gathered from thrift shops and garage sales and decided to embark on a DIY project that would transform them into charming cake and candy stands. Today, I'm excited to share with you the step-by-step process of making these delightful and functional pieces for your next tea party or special occasion. The best part? You can "use what you have" and repurpose your china and candlestick holders to create your very own unique cake and candy stands.

Materials You'll Need:

Candlestick holder

Plate, bowl, or any china piece you like

Clear epoxy craft glue (I recommend E-6000 or GOOP)

Step 1: Prepare Your Pieces Before you begin, thoroughly wash all the china pieces and candlestick holders you plan to use. Clean surfaces ensure a strong bond for your cake/candy stands.

Step 2: Mark the Center To ensure your stands are centered and well-balanced, mark the center of each china piece. This will serve as a guide when attaching them to the candlestick holders.

Step 3: Glue It All Together Apply a generous amount of E-6000 or GOOP glue to the top rim of the glass candlestick holder. This glue is excellent for bonding glass, metal, ceramics, and more. I got mine at Joann's with a 40% off coupon! Carefully place your china piece onto the candlestick holder, and for added stability, turn them both upside down to dry. To apply even pressure, you can place a book on top of each upside-down stand. Let them dry overnight to ensure a secure bond.

Step 4: The Final Touch Once the glue has fully dried, you'll have your very own unique cake/candy stands, repurposed from china and candlesticks you could find at any thrift store, flea market, or garage sale. I love that I made each stand separate, allowing me to use them in various ways. Just remember to consider the height of the base concerning the plate you choose to ensure stability.

Step 5: Explore Your Creativity -- Feel free to explore your creativity by using different combinations of china and candlestick holders. You can mix and match colors and styles to create stands that perfectly suit your home decor and occasion.

The above are three separate stands. I just put one on top of the other using earthquake putty to keep them together. It is more versatile. Below you see two of the three in use.

With a little DIY magic and a dash of creativity, you can turn those odd pieces of china and forgotten candlestick holders into stunning cake and candy stands. The process is not only fun but also environmentally friendly, giving new life to old treasures. I'd love to see your creations, so don't forget to send me a photo of your unique cake/candy stand or post it on our HomeDecoratorsClub.com Facebook Page. As for me, I'm diving into more china treasures this weekend to come up with new ideas. Enjoy the process of creating something new out of something old!

Want to see more? I have taught this craft as class at Del Webb, to Christian Women's Groups and wives programs at retreats. I can lead a class for your woman's group too. They are two hours, I bring everything that is needed and your guest goes home with a new stand - or two. And they have a lot of fun.

Contact Information: Jonelle Tannahill

Impressions ReDesign Phone: 916.833.7807

Email: jonelle3@gmail.com

Website: www.ImpressionsReDesign.com

Houzz Profile: houzz.com/pro/jonelle-tannahill/impressions-redesign

Check out my social media or reach out to me.

PS There are a lot of ways to use your cake stands. Here I used them to display my perfume collection in my bathroom. (Below)

Mastering Your Morning Routine: Tips for a Tranquil Start

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Sun, 17 Sep 2023 22:33:22 GMT

Rise and Shine: How to Create Calm Weekday Mornings

Fall is the perfect time to get your home, and your life, in order. As an experienced interior decorator, I understand the importance of a well-organized home, especially when it comes to weekday mornings. In this blog post, I'll share a variety of tips and tricks to help you set up your home for stress-free mornings. Who doesn't want to start their day with ease and simplicity?

Functional Entryway:

The entryway sets the tone for your home. Use that coat closet to gather your coats, hats, gloves, and other outerwear items. Incorporate a functional console table with storage for keys, shoes and bags. This prevents last-minute searches for these items as you leave in the morning.

Command Center:

The first step in streamlining your mornings is to establish a command center. Choose an easily accessible location near the daily entry point of your home. Whether you have a spacious mudroom, a cozy foyer, or just a small designated area by the door, you can create a command center that suits your space. Incorporate either a printed or online calendar, along with a master calendar where each family member's schedule is color-coded for easy reference. Include a drawer or bin of frequently needed supplies like pens, pencils, tape, and more. Your command center should cater to your family's specific needs, so think about what usually piles up in your entryway or what often gets forgotten and create a system for those items.

Reading Nook:

A cozy reading nook can be a delightful addition to your home, especially when it comes to stress-free mornings. Imagine a comfortable chair bathed in soft morning light, a warm cup of coffee in hand, and a tranquil space to read mail or make your daily to-do list. This dedicated corner not only provides a peaceful start to your day but also encourages relaxation and mindfulness. Consider adding a stylish lamp for both functionality and aesthetics. Whether you prefer a plush armchair or a window seat with a view, your reading nook can become your sanctuary amidst the morning rush. To learn more about setting up this spot go to https://www.impressionsredesign.com/create-a-cozy-reading-spot

Kitchen Set Up:

In the heart of your home, the kitchen, you can set up for smooth weekday mornings. Organize a designated tray with frequently used cooking items right next to the stove. This arrangement ensures that utensils, spatulas, and cooking oils are always within arm's reach, making meal preparation a breeze. A coffee/tea station is another fun area to arrange for a quick cup of your favorite morning drink. Additionally, maintaining a neatly arranged pantry and keeping your most used plates, teapot or silverware close at hand. It’s also nice to hang your mugs and cups so they can be grabbed easily.

Bathroom Convenience:

Keep your bathroom stress-free by having towels, shampoo, and everyday items within arm's reach. For those who love an early morning workout, consider hanging your exercise clothing on the bathroom door the night before to eliminate excuses for not getting started.

Checklists:

For adults who navigate the complex web of responsibilities, including work, retirement, appointments, and family commitments, checklists become invaluable tools. These lists serve as trusted companions in ensuring that nothing falls through the cracks amidst the hustle of daily life. Consider creating a checklist tailored to your unique needs, whether it involves work-related tasks, appointments with healthcare providers, or family obligations. With a well-structured checklist, you can confidently approach each day, feeling organized and in control. It's not just about remembering everything; it's about experiencing a sense of accomplishment as you check off tasks and move steadily through your busy schedule. Whether it's a list on your phone or one hanging by the door, this simple practice can make a world of difference in managing your multifaceted life.

Grab & Go Food:

We are all trying to eat better. Sunday evenings are perfect for prepping grab-and-go food. Create individually portioned snacks and refrigerated items for lunches and snacks. You have the freedom to choose healthy options, and it's cost-effective compared to store-bought snacks. Don't forget about salad jars with dressing at the bottom and sandwiches for the week that you can make and freeze. Prepping food on Sundays ensures that your weekday mornings remain stress-free.

Pre-Packed Bags and lunch coolers:

Ensure that you are prepared for the day by packing your grab and go food items, snacks or lunch in a “stay cool” bag -- ready to go. Also pack your water bottles, I like to pack one thermos with just ice to freshen and cool down my bottles during the day. Try getting them ready the night before, including items like books, iPad, and any required documents or paper you’ll need for the next day.

Plan Your Outfits:

Review your calendar for the week on Sundays and plan your outfits accordingly. Select everything you need for each day, including underwear, pants, shirts, shoes, and accessories. This simple step removes the stress of deciding what to wear during the busy weekdays.

Additional Ideas: Here are a few more tips to make your mornings even smoother:

Morning Playlist: Create a morning playlist of your favorite upbeat tunes to set a positive tone for the day.

Tech-Free Zone: Designate a tech-free zone during breakfast to encourage face-to-face conversations.

Aromatherapy: Incorporate essential oil diffusers or scented candles with calming scents like lavender or citrus in your morning spaces. Pleasant aromas can set a serene atmosphere.

All the above will help you get more done with less stress. Incorporating these ideas into your daily routine can transform your mornings from chaotic to calm. It takes a bit of planning on the weekend and evenings, but the results are well worth it. Small changes can have a significant impact on your day-to-day life. Now, your mornings can start with tranquility, leaving you more time to savor that morning coffee. Feel free to share your experiences or additional tips on our Facebook page at www.impressionsredesign.com. Together, let's make weekday mornings stress-free and fabulous!

Until next time! Jonelle’

Jewelry: Not Just to Wear, but to Decorate! Innovative Home Display Ideas

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Sun, 03 Sep 2023 23:48:48 GMT

Using Jewelry to Weave Your Home's Story

In this month's blog post, we dive into your jewelry box looking for cherished jewelry pieces. Pieces that are unique, intimate, and stunning to display throughout your living spaces. It's time to explore the art of making memories tangible, and turning your home into a canvas that tells your story in every sparkle and strand. Welcome to the captivating world where wearable art as home décor.

Using Jewelry in Vignettes:

When curating vignettes for your home, let your jewelry tell its own story. Create a cozy coffee table scene by stacking niche art books, placing a scented candle, and draping a bold necklace over the open book. This casual arrangement exudes chic and unpretentious charm, inviting guests to peek into your world. This relaxed approach offers an intimate glimpse into your unique story, with each grouping of items weaving a narrative.

Choosing the Right Jewelry:

Okay, its not going to be “right” for every piece of jewelry you own. Begin by selecting the jewelry pieces that resonate most with you – those that carry sentimental value, vivid memories, or simply make you remember when and how your acquired it. Avoid overwhelming your space with too much; opt for a few cherished items that will truly shine. It's about quality over quantity, letting each piece steal the spotlight.

Coordinating Colors and Textures:

For a harmonious look, consider the color palettes and textures of your jewelry. Choose items with similar tones or materials to create a cohesive atmosphere. For instance, pair a vibrant beaded necklace with a vase of flowers or accent pillows that mirror its colors, binding the elements together in a visual symphony.

Incorporating Jewelry in Different Rooms:

Don't limit yourself – jewelry-inspired décor can grace any room. Transform your bathroom with a perfume bottle display adorned with a piece of bling, or grace your studio with artfully draped necklaces hanging from hands. The kitchen can become a tapestry of memories when you display a favorite bee broach in a flower arrangement. A note of caution, you can take it too far, think a few displays in the home, not one in each room.

Rotation and Seasonal Changes:

The beauty of jewelry-inspired décor lies in its adaptability. Rotate or rearrange displays seasonally or when inspiration strikes. Your home's story will evolve, and your jewelry will evolve with it. Do you have a collection of Christmas or holiday pins? Use them on linen napkins to give them a more festive look. Or, hang larger strings of beads as curtain tiebacks, letting the sun in during the darker winter months.

Can you think of more engaging ideas for displaying jewelry as decor at home? Please respond with your ideas or photos!

As you add more personal touches to your living space it becomes more personal. A reflection of your journeys, passions, and memories. Every piece you choose to display carries your unique story. From the vintage brooch handed down by generations to the daring statement necklace that reflects your bold spirit – each piece woven into your décor is an ode to your individuality.

Now, it's your turn to embark on this creative journey. Start transforming your home into a gallery of your life, a reflection of who you are and what you hold dear.

Whether you experiment with elegant drape arrangements, nestle precious pieces within décor accents, or hang necklaces over unexpected fixtures, let your imagination guide your displays.

Thank you for joining me on this exploration of the art of marrying jewelry and interior design. Stay inspired, stay creative, and remember – your home is your masterpiece in progress.

Until next time! Jonelle’

Unlock the Magic of Interior Decorating

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 17:16:29 GMT

Transform Your Home with These 6 Simple Tips

Hello aspiring home decorators and homeowners!

If the summer heat is getting you down and you've been longing to create a stunning and inviting living space but feel overwhelmed by the process, fear not! With a little creativity and some smart choices, you can turn your home into a beautiful haven that reflects your personality and style. Let's explore some interior decorating tips for novice decorators and homeowners.

1. Embrace Your Outdoor Space:

Don't overlook your porch, deck, or patio; instead, treat it as an extension of your living area. Add cozy seating, string lights, cushions, and a fun area rug to create a comfortable outdoor oasis. Enjoy fresh air, chilled drinks, and lots of laughter with friends and family in this inviting outdoor space.

2. Play with Color:

While neutrals can create a soothing atmosphere, pops of color can inject life and energy into any room. Consider adding colorful accents through artwork, decorative pieces, pillows, or even a bold-colored couch. Don't be afraid to experiment with vibrant hues to make your space stand out.

3. Thrift Your Way to Charm:

Thrift, antique, and consignment shops offer unique pieces that can add character to your home. Be patient and take your time browsing these treasure troves to find pieces that match your style. The effort will be worth it when you see how these curated finds transform your space.

4. Illuminate with Illusion:

If natural light is limited, create the illusion of brightness by sticking to a light color palette, removing window coverings, or adding more lamps. Incorporate mirrors and strategically place them to reflect and amplify available light. Consider rearranging furniture to maximize the natural light that filters into your home.

5. Make Use of Vertical Space:

Expand your storage options by utilizing vertical space. Install shelves that extend to the ceiling to maximize storage while adding an element of visual interest. A media console with ample shelves not only offers storage but also acts as a showcase for your cherished décor.

6. Personalize Your Space:

Above all, let your personality shine through in your decor choices. Display cherished mementos, travel souvenirs, family photos, favorite books, and artwork that resonates with you. Your home should be a reflection of your journey and the things that bring you joy.

Remember, interior decorating is an exciting journey of exploration and self-expression. Embrace the process, and don't be afraid to try new ideas. Whether you're starting small or undertaking a complete overhaul, these tips will help you create a space that you'll love to call home.

Feeling stuck? Give me a call and we can chat over additional ideas, or meet up and brainstorm together.

Happy decorating! Until next time, Jonelle'

Feeling the Inflation?

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 20:13:22 GMT

Is anyone else out there feeling this inflation?

Prices are going up and I am finding I don't want to pay these over inflated prices. Anyone else with me? There’s no hiding the fact that inflation rates are on the rise in the U.S., with CORE inflation increasing by 6.28% and the CPI increasing by 7.7% in a 12-month period. Overall, everything from the price of energy to food to vehicles is on the rise. (Facts in this article are from https://www.zippia.com/advice/inflation-statistics/)

Finish Projects

I decided to put myself on a financial diet and really think about every purchase I make. I am also going to work with what I have. Perhaps I will work on some of my projects around the home that I haven't had a chance to tackle. You know those unfinished projects. Like my pantry, back yard, jewelry box and more. I can even make simple in-expensive home updates. Do you make lists? I find them a helpful way to stay focused on projects I am working on like my pantry below.

Entertain At Home More

I find myself inviting friends over and doing more "lunches" at my home rather than eating out. I have found a few meals I enjoy serving and try to keep the ingrediencies on hand.

Cut Costs on Food

Grocery costs are up 10.2% for the 12-month period ending in February 2023, according to Food Price Outlook data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Eating Out has also gone up in fact so has the amount requested for tipping. I know I am planning on doing more meal planning. We are eating at home more too. We also have a producing garden that I love. We still get a Hello Fresh delivery so we have little food waist. Some weeks I order online for a local fresh produce company and that saves me going to the store. These are all ways that we can curb our food spending.

Save Money on Getting There

I for one am happy to be driving an electric vehicle. Gas prices are still climbing so what we have been doing is driving less. My husband and I are both working from home some, and we think about every trip. We talk each day to see if we can combine one trip with another. Other ideas to try would be running errands in batches, carpooling or using green transportation options such as public transportation, biking or walking anywhere within a short distance can also save you money.

Use What You Have

Here is where I come in: shop your house! It’s the best way to find items that will look nice in other areas of your home! Use what you have and be mindful that you don’t need to keep spending. It could save you a lot of money. Learning to make do instead of buying new not only saves you money, but it’s also good for the environment. If you want some help as to where to put your own furniture, give me a call. As a designer I can help you design your home using much of what you already have. A new look without the purchases. Here is another blog post on "Use What You Have" decorating.

Plan Ahead to get Budget Vacations

With year-over-year increases in the price of jet fuel and hotels, AB&B's and other lodging establishments are also on the rise. And with dining up in price, too, this year's vacation is likely to cost you more than in previous years. One thing to consider is vacationing Domestic, saving the international more expensive vacation for a future date. Regardless, book your flights ahead of time—ideally at least six months in advance—and comparison shop airfare rates using online savings tools such as Hopper.com and Skyscanner.com. Having flexible travel dates can help you select the cheapest flights, as prices vary depending on the day of the week. You might also want to look into travel rewards credit card that provides a percentage back on qualified purchases in the form of points or miles.

Buy Secondhand

Check out items on the second hand market before you look in new retail stores. While there can be good deals at local thrift and vintage stores, you can also find plenty of bargains without leaving the house. Local marketplace sites, sellers can list secondhand items they no longer need, and buyers can get quality pieces at a hefty discount. These sites are especially useful for staple pieces, such as sofas, armchairs, and tables, that can be expensive when you buy them new. You might even get inspired to sell some of the things you are not using!

Here are a few popular marketplace sites to check out:

OfferUp
Craigslist
Facebook Marketplace
ETSY

Let me know if you have found other ways to keep your personal spending down. You can connect with me by email jonelle3@gmail.com, text 9168337807 or on social media @impressionsredesign

Until next time! Jonelle'

Decorating with Odd Numbers: 5 Places to Use This Trick

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Thu, 04 May 2023 21:03:57 GMT

How Odd Numbers Can Make Your Home Décor Stand Out

As an experienced interior decorator, one of the most important rules I follow is decorating with odd numbers. The simple trick of working in odd numbers is a great way to create visual interest in a space, and can be applied in many different ways.

Here are five places where I frequently use odd numbers in decorating:

Furniture Arranging

When arranging furniture in a room, consider grouping items like chairs, side tables, or lamps in odd numbers. For example, a grouping of three armchairs creates a more cohesive and visually interesting look than just two. Similarly, a grouping of five decorative objects on a coffee table can add depth and dimension to the space.

Artwork on the Walls

Hanging artwork on a wall is another place where odd numbers can be applied. A collection of three, five, or seven framed artworks creates a visually appealing and balanced composition. You can also mix and match different sized frames and artwork to add texture and interest to the display. Love this set of three leaves by www.vivaterra.com

Vignettes on Tables, Mantels, and Bookcases

Creating vignettes on tables, mantels, and bookcases is a fun way to decorate with odd numbers. Vary the heights, shapes, and colors of the objects in your display to add visual interest. For example, a grouping of three different sized candles on a mantel creates a cozy and intimate atmosphere.

Pillows on Sofas and Beds

When using throw pillows on a sofa or bed, odd numbers also work well. A grouping of three, five, or even seven pillows can add depth and texture to the space. Mix and match different colors, patterns, and textures to create a personalized look.

Decorative O bjects in General

Finally, odd numbers can be applied to almost any decorative objects in your space. For example, a grouping of three vases on a side table can add a pop of color and texture to the room. Similarly, a grouping of five decorative plates on a wall can create a unique and interesting display. I like to mix it up a little on bookshelves and have a few shelves with an even number of items on it, and a few with odd numbered items.

In conclusion, decorating with odd numbers is a simple yet effective way to create visual interest and balance in a space. By applying this trick to furniture arranging, artwork on the walls, vignettes on tables, mantels and bookcases, pillows on sofas and beds, and other decorative objects, you can create a personalized and visually appealing space.

Thanks for reading, until next time... Jonelle'

Creating a Luxurious Guest Room Experience

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 21:00:54 GMT

Make Your Guests Feel at Home: Tips for a Well-Designed Guest Room

If you're looking to create a guest room that anyone would love to stay in, following these tips can make all the difference. By decluttering the space and leaving only the essentials, you can create a clutter-free haven. A good bed and luxurious bedding will ensure your guests have a comfortable night's sleep, while good lighting and window treatments will provide the right ambiance for any task. Providing a desk and side chair, clean towels and new soap, and even adding a splash of color with fresh flowers can take your guest room up a notch. Remember, it's all in the details when it comes to creating a welcoming and relaxing space for your guests to enjoy.

Are you looking to create a guest room that will leave your friends and family feeling pampered and relaxed? A well-designed guest room can make all the difference in providing a comfortable and inviting space for your guests to rest and rejuvenate. Whether you have a dedicated guest room or a double-duty space that needs to function as a home office or hobby room, these 10 steps will help you create a guest room that your friends won't want to leave. From decluttering to adding luxurious bedding and thoughtful touches, we'll guide you through the process of designing a space that will make your guests feel right at home.

When it comes to designing a guest room, creating a comfortable and inviting space for your guests should be your top priority. You want to make sure that your friends and family feel welcomed and at ease during their stay, and that they have everything they need to feel comfortable and relaxed. But designing a guest room can be a daunting task, especially if you've never done it before. Where do you even start?

Want to learn more? Attend our next Home Decorators Club event:

Date with Design - Creating a Perfectly Cozy Guest Room
Monday, Apr 10 · 4–5 PM
Google Meet joining info
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/ork-ioyj-irg

Presentation 1: Design on a Dime - Guest Room
See how items from the HDC SWAP inspired the design of this members guest room.

Presentation 2- Jonelle Tannahill will be sharing “How to create the perfect guest room”!

We will cover:
1) Finding affordable furniture
2) Choosing bedding
3) Ideas to create a cozy atmosphere
4) How to make the space more personal
5) Incorporating storage solution

By the end of the hour, you’ll have the tools and knowledge to create the perfect guest room on a budget!

We will open the google meet about 3:45pm
For best access please join from you PC, MAC or iPad

If you have difficulties joining please contact

Jonelle Tannahill - 916-833-7807
Lori Tollefson - 916-607-3833 See less

What a great event that was! We have a free handout telling the top items you need in every guest room. Thanks for reading, Until next time! Jonelle'

The Art of Creating a Cohesive Look

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Fri, 24 Mar 2023 16:13:29 GMT

Here are four things that all cohesive rooms have in common and how you can achieve them in your own home:

Do you love to look at model homes? Then you probably noticed how perfectly cohesive they are. Each room flows into the next, with no disruptions. Every space is so well-thought out and the colors and furniture all complement each other nicely. As a designer, I understand the importance of creating a cohesive look in home decorating. Cohesiveness can make your home feel more put-together and inviting, while also reflecting your personal style.

Creating some commonality among the pieces you bring in your space makes it feels intentional and cohesive. Another trip designers use is to repeat the same materials throughout a home. Try these four tips in your home today and see what YOU think!

A Set Color Story: Creating a consistent color scheme throughout your home is essential to achieving a cohesive look. Choose three to five colors that complement each other and use them throughout your home. Vary the amount of color and the items in a particular color in each space so it’s not too boring or predictable. Remember, one color should be your primary color, with a secondary and tertiary color that make up about 50% and 25% or less of the space, respectively. Accent colors can be used sparingly.

A Defined Style: Having a defined style that you can at least put into words is key to a cohesive home. You don't have to have a popular style, but you should be able to identify what fits within your style and what doesn’t. Create commonality among the pieces you bring into your space so it feels intentional and cohesive.

New Paragraph

Traffic Flow: A well-thought-out floor plan can do wonders for a space. Arrange furniture in clusters creating conversation areas and avoid lining all the furniture along the wall. Pulling furniture away from the walls can create a more intimate setting.

Consistent Materials: Repeat the same materials throughout your home to create a visually cohesive look. For example, if you have velvet pillows in your bedroom, try incorporating velvet in different ways in the rest of your home such as velvet drapes in your dining room and a velvet chair in your living room.

Incorporating these tips into your home decorating process will undoubtedly help you achieve a cohesive and well-thought-out look throughout your space. Remember to keep your color scheme consistent, define your style, repeat materials, and pay attention to traffic flow. By doing so, you'll create a home that not only looks good but also feels good. So why not take the first step towards a more cohesive home design today? Start by incorporating some of these tips and see how much of a difference they can make. Still feel you need help decorating your space? I’d love to work with you to create a room that reflects YOU!

This month I am offering a FREE webinar

Creating a Perfectly Cozy Guest Room
Monday, Apr 10, 2023 · 4–5 PM
Google Meet joining info
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/ork-ioyj-irg

“How to create the perfect guest room”

We will cover:
1) Finding affordable furniture
2) Choosing bedding
3) Ideas to create a cozy atmosphere
4) How to make the space more personal
5) Incorporating storage solution

By the end of the hour, you’ll have the tools and knowledge to create the perfect guest room on a budget!

Until Next Time!

Jonelle'

From the Heart: A Collection of Simple Valentine's Day Table Ideas

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Sat, 04 Feb 2023 19:07:17 GMT

Valentine's Day Tablescape Ideas

Valentine's Day is a special occasion that deserves a special setting. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner for two, a couples luncheon or a family gathering, setting the right mood is key. A beautifully decorated table can elevate the ambiance and create an unforgettable experience. In this blog post, we've gathered a collection of simple items from home that can be made into a Valentine's Day table that will help you create a love-filled atmosphere. From heart-shaped décor to floral and candlelit arrangements, these ideas are easy to implement and will add a touch of romance to your celebration. So, get ready to be inspired and add a little love to your Valentine's Day table.(Above my wedding floral china and a pink salad plate and pink chocolate set.)

Look for INSPIRATION at home. Let your table be a canvas for your love and appreciation of your friends and family, and you'll see how beautiful it can be. Always shop your home first to keep it budget-friendly. I like to go around my house and grab things I already own to use in my tablescape: Party chargers, cloth napkins, candles, linens, and special glasses (like this red set.) I also ask that you think of non-traditional items for the table. Things like this cute bird lamp (I added the red beaded shade.) Special knick nacks like a red glass heart paperweight work too. I put it all on my dining room table and look to see if I can see a theme.

2. Choose a color scheme : Red and pink are traditional for Valentine's Day, but consider other romantic colors such as blush, lavender, or gold. When you have a specific color scheme, your décor is much more likely to look cohesive. Sometimes using non-traditional colors for table décor is fun, try apricot, blue, or light green. Now go around the house and find things in your Valentine colors

Select a ta blecloth : Find a traditional tablecloth that fits your table. You can also layer a tablecloth with luxurious fabric such as satin, silk, or velvet in your chosen color scheme. Try additional tableware like napkins, and runners: I love linens and mixing them on a table. If you have been storing them for a while by all means iron them so they will look more elegant. In the past when I needed a red accent for my table I took apart an old red knit velvet formal dress (that no longer fit me) and made it into a beautiful table runner. So don’t be afraid to gather from everywhere in your home because you never know where you’ll find items that will make your tablescape unique. When you think “outside the box” the results are surprising and will save you money.

4. Table setting: why not opt for elegant plates, glasses, and silverware that complement your color scheme? I like to mix dishes and layer them. Many times I find wonderful sets of dessert plates, and I use them as accent plates. Don’t be afraid to mix bone china with ironstone or plain-colored plates with floral or pattern plates.

5. Make a list of what you still need: I like looking online for more inspiration once I have a direction. Places like Pinterest and blogs have some great ideas. (My Valentines Pinterest Board is here: https://www.pinterest.com/jonelle3/valentines-day/ ) Do not look at just the Valentine's Day Isles in stores. Many times those items look too juvenile and loud or the colors are too bright. Instead check out the florals, linens, glassware, and more in the regular aisle of the store. And don’t be afraid to check second-hand stores, many times they have Valentine's items on display in January and February. **Take a photo of your inspiration item or swatch of your colors with you when you shop

6. Arrange centerpiece: A bouquet of roses or other florals, candle arrangements, or a large pink box centerpiece are great options. Tie in your centerpiece to your table settings by repeating some elements and colors. Remember people talk to each other over the table so don’t make your centerpiece too tall to distract from the line of sight.

7. Add personal touches: Place cards with your guests' names, a printed menu at each place setting, sprinkle rose petals, or include a small favor or treat for each person are just a few ideas. These noteworthy touches adorn the table and make the guest feel so special.

8. Final touches : Consider misting the room with essential oils, dimming the lights, setting a romantic ambiance with music, and placing votive candles around the room to complete the look.

Your Valentine's Day table setting is an expression of your love, and that's what makes it truly special. Why not create a special table that tells your story, it will be Valentine's Day to remember!

"Love is not just a feeling, it's a beautiful work of art - and your Valentine's Day table setting should reflect that."

Check out my video where I set an entire table in less than one minute on You Tube: Jonelle Tannahill on YouTube

Thanks for joining me as we discussed Valentine's Day Table Decorating

Until Next Time!

Jonelle'

Staging Your Home With What You Have

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Tue, 13 Dec 2022 04:05:50 GMT

ReSale Ready Staging

What is included in the Occupied Home Staging Consultation?

With an Impressions ReDesign home staging consultation, you will receive a full property evaluation, which includes a written report with all recommended updates, repairs, and list of furniture going out, paint colors, and what to store/sell/donate and what to keep in the home for staging. The consultation generally takes approximately two-three hours to complete.

Proper decorating techniques increase the value & potential of the home so that it sells for more money:

More interested buyers equate to less time on the market
Make the home up-to-date and contemporary so it appeals to more
Make sure that all the benefits of the home are highlighted
Demonstrate the lifestyle that appeals to buyers and is appropriate for the style of home
Showcase a home that will sell better than the upstaged competition

Why should I spend money on a house that I am selling?

For many people, their home is their biggest investment. Investing in Home Staging supports maximizing the return on this investment. Dollars spent on Home Staging go a long way to help ensure that you sell your home faster, and for more money. All statistics show that the investment in staging your home is always less than your first price reduction. Buyers are looking for a “move-in ready” home and will pay more to get this. Home Staging is about selling an experience, not just a home.

Don't you want to put your house in the best marketing position possible? Let me know if you have any questions about staging and I'll do a part two.

Thanks for checking in,

Until next month! Jonelle'

Elevate Your Guests Experience

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 18:25:53 GMT

Designer Problem Solving Series

Elevate Your Guests Experience:

Guest bathrooms are an important feature of a home. You want to put your best foot forward when planning this room. This homeowner wanted to update her guest bathroom to a bathroom she could be proud of. She has great taste but wanted to avoid making common decorating mistakes. I have done several projects with this client. This one, she wanted to update and elevate her guest bathroom. She wanted it to look more of a regency style updated with designer glam look. She wanted it to express her more sophisticated tastes and have it feel more colorful and clean.

Before above - The client wanted a cleaner brighter room but didn’t want to invest in changing the shower, bath tub unit. She also felt changing the tile floor would be too messy with dust from the demolition process. Impressions ReDesign planned this bathroom remodel that added beauty, function and a sleeker cleaner design. Now the client feels excited for guests to see the charm waiting just behind the door. The remodel came in at budget, and the work was done beautifully. Thank you, Mike Bates of Castle Holmes, who did the remodel -- we have done several projects together and enjoyed working on this project too. See the more photos here

We developed a design plan, a budget, and I handled the project management of the bathroom itself.

· We used fine art from another room to elevate the bathroom décor

· New quartz counter adds a layer of luxury

· Painted the existing cabinet a brighter more current color

More of clients artwork, new towels

· New mirror

· Changed overhead and vanity lighting for the desired glam look and feel.

· Used clients artwork

· Tiled the entire wall bathroom for illusion of more space

· Lined drapes to ceiling to add height and conceal shower/tub’s age

Do you have an update to your home that you have always wanted to make happen? Did you know as a designer I provide great local trades contacts, resources for your shopping and to make sure you find the “right“ thing I provide a detailed design plan and can shop with you or for you to help you find unique, versatile pieces you can use again and again in several rooms.

For more than 10 years Impressions Redesign has been designing planned living environments that reflect the client’s needs, lifestyle, and aesthetics. Our goal is to help our clients “Love their homes more”

What home improvements can we help YOU with?

Until next time, Jonelle’

Top Decorating Dilemmas -- And How To Fix Them!

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Tue, 27 Sep 2022 18:35:25 GMT

Decorating Dilemmas We All Have Them!

Hi, Jonelle Tannahill here, home stylist and designer at Impressions ReDesign. I love decorating and want to help others achieve their goals of having a beautiful and comfortable home. Many people struggle when it comes to decorating. I believe anyone can decorate and turn their house into a home they love (with a little bit of support). Raise your hand if you’ve ever bought home décor or furniture and when you get it home you realize it doesn’t quite work. Waisted money. Or, spent hours and hours at the store, with analysis paralysis, because you didn’t quite know what to buy and didn’t want to make a mistake.

I’ve figured out how to move past all of those arranging and buying hang-ups. So below, I’m going to share dilemmas in decorating and how to work them out.

1. Not defining your priorities

Before redecorating, ask yourself a few important questions: How long do I plan to live here? How will I use this room/furniture? How important is durability? The answers will help you make conscious decisions that could save you time, money and mistakes.

2. An uncomfortable conversation area

If you have an L-shaped seating area, which is awkward for chatting, you’ll need to create a more comfortable U-shape so that people can face each other instead of twisting to have a talk. A sofa and a pair of chairs are ideal to create a U-shaped grouping.

3. Awkward traffic patterns

It's important to establish your traffic pattern before you place your furniture. Watch out for door swings and windows; leave room for opening and closing them. You should have a comfortable 24” of space in which to maneuver in and around furniture. Sometimes we “float” furniture into a room to walk behind a sofa or set of chairs.

4. Badly lit rooms

Proper lighting is so important, and most people do not have enough lighting in a room. Do you have just one lamp on the side of your sofa or bed? Opt, instead, for a pair of lamps to flank both sides for a lighter and more balanced look. There are three layers of lighting, make sure all three are in your room.

5. Furniture of different heights

Avoid having a combination of very high and very low seating pieces grouped together, this creates a roller coaster effect. Instead, keep seating heights aligned as much as possible – no more than 3″-5”.New Paragraph

6. Rooms that are off-balance

Any room that has high furnishings on one side and low pieces on the other side will look like a ship is sinking. Instead try to keep both sides of the room fairly level, for example use a tree on one side to balance a tall cabinet on the other side of the room. If there is a fireplace with artwork above, use a bookcase on the other side of the room to balance the heaviness of it.

7. Ignoring a focal point

If you have French or sliding glass doors with a view, a fireplace or a large entertainment grouping — any one these might be your focal point. Be sure to face the seating area towards the focal point so it receives the attention it deserves. If you have a big picture window, place your sofa facing the window so the view and conversation area invites people to sit down.

8. Improper use of accessories

Most people have too many small accessories scattered around which makes their rooms feel cluttered. Select and display only your best and favorite accents and put the rest of your accessories away. Group collections together, in one spot, and if they are small gather them on a tray to give them more importance.

9. Ineffective use of artwork

As with accessories, it’s best to be selective. Hang only your favorite pieces and put away the rest. Gallery walls are great but make sure the pieces you choose all relate. Instead of trying to use the “eye level” concept (which doesn’t work), remember to hang all of your artwork at 57” as galleries do. Hint - or 3″ lower than you think: most people hang art too high.

10. Poor furniture place ment

If all of your furnishings are pressed up against the walls it creates a “wallflower” effect. Instead, turn some of the furniture perpendicular to the walls. Float your furniture - turning a desk or a pair of chairs will help to make the room look more aesthetically pleasing and spacious.

I work with busy homeowners to update their space so they will “Love their home more.” I create a space using your furnishings, art and accessories while developing a design plan for what you might need to fill in. Your design will be functional, seamless, and very up to date. With my help you can save money avoiding costly mistakes, save time and have a more polished look. If you need support, please give me a call.

Jonelle Tannahill
Impressions ReDesign – Love Your Home More!

Jonelle@ImpressionsReDesign.com

ImpressionsReDesign.com

Serving the Sacramento Region - California
916.833.7807

Sign up to receive our monthly tips and decorating updates email http://eepurl.com/cIRyYj
L ooking to make a change? Expanding, moving, downsizing, rightsizing? Within a day, we will transform any room in your home or office from ordinary to extraordinary using your existing furnishings, artwork and accessories and you will receive a beautiful design plan that fits your needs.

Let’s hang out, check out the designs I’m currently working on @impressionsredesign Until Next TIME! Jonelle'

Decorating Vintage

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Thu, 01 Sep 2022 18:46:39 GMT

How to add character and charm to your home

Creating unique interiors is what I do. In working with what people already have I find homes are full of personality and it’s my job to pull it all together into a wonderful design.

Decorating with vintage is a delightful way to give your home character and unique style. Immersed in history, vintage pieces tell your story and bring a personal touch to interior design. It can be a cherished heirloom passed down through your family or a treasure picked up at a thrift store any way you get them they can be worked into nearly any room.

Decorating with antiques adds a sense of charm and history. A room is always more interesting when gathered over time. When you add a unique piece, it is a surprise in the room. It creates visual excitement as well as something new to talk about with guests.

Many times, vintage or antique pieces are finely crafted to stand the test of time, they bring much needed character and charm to any décor. I often use Pinterest to seek out inspiring ways for integrating antiques and vintage finds into a home.

Here are 6 tips for decorating with vintage items.

1. Buy Only What You Love

When choosing vintage pieces only “buy what you love.” The idea of a piece gaining large value over time is a false promise. Buy or accept from family only what “moves” you, what you will be happy with for a long time rather than what you think might become valuable. It’s about finding pieces that speak to you on a personal level. Something that has true meaning to you.

2. Mix Old And New

Today we love the look of combining different periods – try mixing deco, Bauhaus, and mid-century modern décor. By not sticking to one era your room will not look dated as quickly. Take the time to curate and shop in a variety of places, you end up with a much more “collected over time” look.

When decorating with vintage pieces don't feel like everything needs to match. It’s much more interesting to work with a variety of woods, and to mix pieces from different countries, styles and periods. There is no need to focus on one historical period or genre which perhaps reflects the time in which your house was built. For example, I like to mix an antique table with more modern upholstered chairs. And if you go for a more modern sofa, then try a vintage coffee table.

3. Quality Pieces Are Worth The Investment

Vintage pieces are often better made. The materials used were generally high quality – hardwoods and unusual woods that people don't use now. As for fabrics you will see more silks or embroideries, and more handwork. For quality, design and durability, antique furniture is often a much better value. Any scuffs and imperfections are often celebrated in antique furniture not dreaded.

4. Vintage Textiles Add Warmth

Vintage textiles such as cushions, pillows, lampshades or bedspreads add beautiful color, pattern and softness into an interior. If you have a just piece of antique fabric, you can frame a panel as a piece of wall decor.

Many vintage textiles are made by hand with exquisite craftsmanship, these vintage fabrics showcase an array of different sewing techniques. Be on the lookout for Indian Kantha quilts, Japaneze Shibori fabrics, Uzbekistan embroidered Suzani panels, Japan's kimonos silks, Scottish tartan patterns, and Cambodian. These vintage textiles are one-of-a-kind, with beautiful local colors and patterns that tell the tales of times past

5. Up-Cycle Vintage Pieces

Take a second look at what you have at home already. Many things can be updated (or upcycled) Try recovering a mid-century armchair, chalk painting an old sideboard, or framing new artwork with an old gilt frame. All these give vintage finds a new lease of life – making it a great way to create unique pieces for your home.

By re-purposing pieces of vintage furniture, you will also provide a great sense of satisfaction to be continuing the life of an item which may otherwise have been discarded.

6. Architectural Clues

Take your cue from your home to create the best effect when you’re decorating with antiques. By keeping in mind the style and type of home you live in when decorating with vintage art or wall décor you are working “with” what you have. Taking inspiration from the architecture of the room is a good place to start. If the architectural features are curved – as in arches, its nice to repeat that in the room with an arched mirror or piece of framed artwork.

7. Vintage Accessories tell stories

I find that adding something original, from which any conversation can start adds interest to a room. Vintage and antique pieces give your guests something new and unusual to look at and talk about. The below vintage soup terrine is just such a piece. I use it for soup, a centerpiece with candles, or collecting ornaments. I am asked where the scene is from, how I came upon this set of dishes, and how old it is. What vintage pieces have you added to your home? Have you inherited any??

BONUS: How Do You Mix In Your Vintage Décor? It is preferred to MIX vintage pieces with more contemporary items, as you don’t want to create a "period film set" feeling. Try injecting warmth and comfort from mixed woods and old textiles. Bring that collected look with throws and fabrics that have a worn patina. Vintage and collectable accessories will give any room a real sense of depth and personality. They add a bit of “quirk” and give a space which might otherwise be boring and lifeless.

I find that by adding something original, from which the conversation starts, an antique gives your guests something new and unusual to look at and talk about. What antiques have you added to your home?

Great Places to Shop For Unique Vintage Home Finds

Etsy.com - Etsy carries one-of-a-kind vintage items sold by individuals just like YOU. In the search box you can find whatever you need for your home while buying directly from independent sellers. Their large selection and affordable prices make them the perfect go-to for vintage finds.

TumbleweedAndCompany.com - Authentic Vintage and antiques. Home décor, garden, architectural salvage from around the country from true pickers. Their shop the perfect destination 517 Vernon Street, Roseville for all things rare and vintage.

SandyBryanVintageHome.com - A coop of dealers who curate an amazing look and feel in the store. They carry ironstone, antique accessories, painted chippy piece's, glass and unique finds. Beautiful store great for inspiration. 509 Vernon Street, Roseville, CA

TheCratePeople.com - Owner and curator of the online shop, The Crate People, proclaims their “deep passion for forgotten items with a history” and that’s exactly the kind of thing you’ll find here. Shop a wide selection of refurbished furniture and home décor that has a rustic and industrial feel.

TheHuntVintage.com - The Los Angeles shopkeepers behind The Hunt have an eye and a love for Mid Century style. Check out The Hunt for a handpicked selection of high-quality designs with a little bit of Hollywood glitz and glamour thrown in for good measure.

That's it for now. Let me know what fabulous antique is your favorite in your home... Until next time, Jonelle'

Buying Online for Home Decorating

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Wed, 03 Aug 2022 04:48:56 GMT

Using online sources to furnish your home can give you more options than you can get locally.

Using online sources to furnish your home can give you more options than you can get locally. But you will need to prepare and research in order to get the best furnishings at the best prices. Here are some tips and tricks that will make your online buying more positive.

Of course, if you’re not careful, online shopping can turn your home decorating experience into an expensive, frustrating experience that can turn out costly.

And remember, just because you can buy it online doesn’t mean you should buy it online. Sofas, or you main seating in any room should be tested in person if at all possible. Also large items like sofas, chairs and tables come with large shipping amounts. (Even if it is free shipping to you it is rarely free shipping back to manufacturer when it does not work out.)

1) Before using home décor stores online, always check the seller’s return policy. Certain furniture and accessories, especially sale items, are nonrefundable or exchange only. Oftentimes they’re final sale. This means that if there’s something wrong with your item, you could very well be stuck with it. Go over the return policies

2) Befor e you buy both in person and online pull out the measuring tape to make sure the item fits in the spot you want it and more importantly that it can make it through the door.

a. Measure the room that it will go into to ensure that it will fit inside the space.

b. Measure the doorway entering the home, the hall, elevator cabs, and/or tighter corners, and doors on the way to the room

c. Make sure you take note of height, depth, and width.

d. Still unsure - use painter’s tape to mark where furniture or art in the space will go

e. If it feels a little big – do a mockup out of cardboard boxes to understand the scale and relationship to the room.

f. You need to know how far the item is going to jut out into the room.

3) Order material swatches and samples when available. It is too hard to get the color right on your monitor. You also can’t see/feel the texture. It is nearly impossible to rely on fabric and color selections when it comes to shopping online. So order a sample, even if you have to pay for it. It is much cheaper than making a mistake.

4) Read the reviews – the actual customer reviews! Those reviews will tell you everything from quality, to color, clarity, workmanship. Be sure to look for pictures that other people have posted on the review of that same product.

5) Get social! By monitoring business Facebook pages or signing up for alerts from top retailers, furniture stores, and flash sale sites like One Kings Lane, Wayfair, Overstock, Chairish, and Gilt, you’ll be the first to know when things like top-of-the-line furniture, kitchen items, and home accessories go on sale. So check out the places you want to get items, get on their email lists so you don’t miss their sales.

Be patient and keep an eye out. Don't rush to purchase. If you need even more help give me a call. I have a lot of experience making purchases both online and in a store. Both ways have value. Let me know if you use any of the above hints, Until next time... Jonelle'

Why Stage My Home

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Thu, 02 Jun 2022 23:19:35 GMT

ReSale Ready Home Staging

At Impressions ReDesign, we stage homes so it sells fast, for top dollar without wasting your money or time on unnecessary decorating expenses. Whether you own a small condo or a sprawling McMansion when we work together you will see results:

• Sell your home fast for the best possible price!

• Save money by using what you already have, rather than renting furnishings!

• Use our decluttering process to make your home buyer-ready!

• Make your home shine and stand out above the competition!

Most importantly you don’t have to move out. Or replace all your furniture. Or turn your house into a sterile showroom. We help YOU get it ready to sell fast without stress and share our contacts for painters, plumbers, inspectors so you can rest at ease.

Let us show you how quick, economical and fun it can be to stage your home beautifully, using what you already have. We will also help you by planning every step of the way in decluttering and depersonalizing your home in a way that makes it more attractive to buyers.

In addition, we can supply many items needed to make your home look updated. Our soft staging for the Master Bedroom, Master Bathroom, Kitchen, Living Room, Dining Room and Entryway can really make the difference. Soft Staging items include beautiful blankets, throws, pillows, small accessories for all the bathrooms as well as plants, artwork, mirrors, vases, area rugs, accessories, etc.

Our staging consults are both affordable and highly effective. The goal is to transform your home into one that stands out to any potential buyer walking through the door or looking online. Our trained eyes will guide you through the process of preparing your home for sale. We will come to your home, tour the property and provide you with a customized report with our detailed recommendations about how to best present your house for the market.

Many times, we declutter, edit then arranging your own furniture and décor. Extra furniture, pieces we can’t use? We then recommend placing furniture into storage or your garage. We find your treasures around your home and create a look that fits with your potential buyer’s demographics. Once our recommendations have been implemented, Impressions ReDesign can provide additional décor if needed for rent during the selling process. We arrange the layout for optimum visual appeal using current design trends that best suits marketing materials.

If you are thinking about selling give us a call to find out what it will take to get your home market ready. Who knows maybe just changing things around might just make you fall in love with your home once again?

Until next time...

Jonelle'

Happy 10th Anniversary to Impressions ReDesign

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Sun, 03 Apr 2022 23:43:31 GMT

I find it hard to believe I started my Business 10 years ago. (March 2012)

It was started before I really thought it all through. In that first year I helped clients reinvent their space with what they had without even a business card. I also did funky blog posts on my thrift shop finds, furniture makeovers, handmade draperies, favorite websites, and paint project adventures.

In May of 2012 I completed my certification in redesign in New York City with Lauri Ward, the pioneer of “Use What You Have Decorating” and one day room makeovers. I love her work; she created the most accessible and affordable approach to decorating. I remember launching my web site, with my daughter Jenna help- she created my first business cards, and a brochure. I was still trying to find my footing as an entrepreneur so book keeping, fielding inquiry calls and pricing my services was all new to me.

I want to give a huge shout out to the nonprofit SCORE (SCORE.org) for showing me the ropes and for my Tuesday morning SCORE “support group” of entrepreneurs who prodded me to do more. My business wasn’t started because I felt capable, but because I longed for change, I needed to earn money and wanted to work in a field I was passionate about.

That was before Instagram or Pinterest and on the cusp of Facebook. I was scrappy then and unpolished. I was willing to do anything home related – I was delighted in my focus with “Use what you have” decorating, and later added Resale Ready Staging, Holiday Decorating and more! I am so grateful I found clients who hired me to do all this.

Over these last 10 years, I’ve expanded my website, written more sophisticated blog posts, trained in color, developed my social media and marketing. I feel I have grown so much as a person and in this business. From staging to decorating I love it all! Running a creative business feeds all areas of my life. I have made treasured friends, done some remarkable designs and expanded my comfort zone to hosting Meetups, speaking engagements and online events.

If you have been with me for a while you know I have learned and grown so much in the areas of decorating, styling, writing, photography, sewing, refinishing, crafting, tablescapes, communications, videos, running a small business, marketing, social media, and speaking. And you know how committed and responsible I feel.

It’s amazing, things that I thought would be completely out of my reach, like running a Home Decorators Club, having a home I staged featured on HGTV, being included in a magazine, or being a guest speaker, became possible because I put my work out there and just said “YES”.

Starting my own business has been the best decision I’ve ever made for myself. Though, I may have had more prestigious positions, I never had a job that has pushed me to grow more! I love my business and creative endeavors; I’ve never once thought of quitting. I’ve always seen helping my clients as the heart of my business and the engine that drives everything else.

So, thank you. Thank you for being a client, or a follower of my social media, or a reader of my blog or newsletter, or invited me to speak at your event, or a friend who proof reads my work, or brainstorms with me on a walk. Thank you for cheering me on and encouraging me. And for forgiving my shortfalls. Thank you for challenging me and for not letting me get away offering less than my best.

I am grateful for each of you and appreciate your every comment, thumbs-up, email or phone call. I am celebrating my business Anniversary Monday April 11th at 2:00PM. Stop on by my house if you can! I wish I could share a slice of lemon cake with all of you so we could reminisce together.

I wanted to take a moment and say Thank YOU from the bottom of my heart

Love your home more,

Until next time!

Jonelle’

Holiday Decorating Timeline of Trends

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 00:45:02 GMT

Decorating has changed through the years...

Holiday decorating Trends Timeline

Decorating for Christmas is a favorite family pastime. Throughout the years we see many tree styling trends and décor slowly evolving and changing over time. There were a limited number of decorations in the early 1900s and later the decorations became mass produced, thus making them more affordable for everyone. Here is a Holiday Decorating Timeline of what was popular “when.” Reminisce with me as we recount some fondly remembered ornaments and décor:

1900--Americans started buying Christmas trees and sending out Christmas cards to their loved ones. Most ornaments were glass and came from Germany.

1910--Putting candles on one’s tree was widespread. A family had no more than a dozen special ornaments on the tree. Also, tinsel was popular to add shimmer to a sparse look.

1920–Because of the Great Depression families made their own ornaments and passed any extras on to others in the family. Christmas tree decorations included ribbons, satin balls, and glittered stars. Everyone cut down a live Christmas tree.

1930–In the late 1930s Jobs and money were more plentiful making it easier for people to obtain commercial Christmas decor, including sets of ornaments. People were drawn to a limited color palette and created edible decorations: popcorn balls and cranberry garlands.

1940–Families could now buy a greater number of boxes of decorations, including large collections of machine-made ornaments and bubble lights. They were extremely popular in the 40s and became a staple for many trees. A broad range of ornaments included toys, bulb ornaments, and a variety of tree toppers.

1950--The aluminum tree came into style making it possible to buy once and store in the basement for next year. Everyone wanted lots of white lights.

1960–New Faux trees were covered in flocking. Snowy trees made their debut in the 1960s and provided plenty of opportunities for more colorful decorating. Knee hugger elves, not to be confused with the Elf on The Shelf, were also popular during the 60s. Knee hugger elves were simply little novelty elves that sat in the homes of many Americans. Trees were decorated with hard plastic ornaments, candy containers, and lighted figures. I love this raffia angel tree topper...and is that tinsel I see?

1970--There was a resurgence of popularity in cutting down your own tree. The best-selling trees were Scotch Pine, Douglas Fir, Fraser Fir, Balsam Fir and White Pine. Decorations were coordinated efforts in the trendy colors of the day. This was the launch of the Department 56 ceramic winter villages to adorn a mantel or side table.

1980--The 80s had a more eclectic style during the holidays. Families shared mismatched ornaments as gifts and began collections of Snoopy, Precious moments, and—plastic, tinsel, and glass all combined. This included a blend of family traditions. Below is a Teddy Bear Tree. (You might even see one frog?)

1990--Themed decorating sets were sold. The use of whites, silvers and blues and pinks entered the scene. An increase in the number of ornaments and the use of colored balls and unique ornaments gathered over time but in the same color families. Having more than one tree was becoming popular. Below is a kitchen tree in bright pink and green.

2000--Themed trees continue to be strong from patriotic, to collections of angels, Santa's or nutcrackers. Families were back to cutting down live trees, and using traditional ornament groupings. White lights hung on the majority of trees. Below is a Santa Clause Tree with a collection of antique ceramic Santa's from around the word.

2010--LED Lights, synchronized music and color changing lights were popular as well as “pre-lit” trees saving time and money. Tree skirts moved over for tree collars, buckets, fur blankets and more nonconventional looks. Tree toppers were purchased every year to match the theme of the tree. This tree has dolls from around the world and international flags as garland.

2020--Today…well you tell me. What trends are you seeing today? Minimalist? Old World throwback? More glass? Natural straw? What are you seeing?

How are YOU decorating your tree this year? Same old, same old? Maybe take some hints from past years and change things up! Thanks for stopping by to read the blog post. Until next time, Jonelle'

The “WHY” Behind Adding Artwork to a Space

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 15:00:06 GMT

Artwork is Important. As a designer I am constantly working with clients as we choose artwork for their home.

Today I want to talk about the “WHY” behind adding artwork to a space. When you go to list your home, it is important to pay attention to how you present the home. You only have "one shot" when your listing goes active to capture as much attention as possible to ensure you get people in the door and multiple offers on the table.

A prospective buyers' first impression nowadays is captured from the screen of their phone as they quickly swipe through photos of “potential properties”. Did you know those prospective buyers have an opinion of your home within the first 10 seconds of seeing your photos?

As a stager we use artwork to draw a buyer in, to influence their opinion about the room. The use of artwork in a property being listed for sale is important, and for reasons you might not have guessed.

Here are six ways we use artwork to make an impact on potential buyers:

1. Express the Home's Perceived Value

Using artwork when listing your home can be a complete game-changer, but keep in mind that "any old piece" won't necessarily do the trick or set the right vibe. The quality of artwork SUPPORTS the price point. With the help of a trained designer, the use of the RIGHT pieces of art can elevate the elegance of the home and make it look even more worthy of your target price. Artwork can increase the perceived value of your home in prospective buyers’ minds.

2. Create A Look And A Feel

Using artwork can tie your color story together and make transitioning from one room to the next feel more fluid. When you have multiple colors going on within a single home, incorporating artwork that includes ALL of those colors will create a harmonious feeling. It punctuates the accent colors adding a fresh updated look and feel.

3. Set a Welcoming Tone

Artwork creates the "attitude" or "energy" of a space from the time a prospective buyer walks through the door. In staging a home, we tend to use artwork that is welcoming, tranquil, and warm so that we can create that friendly comfortable appeal the majority of prospective home buyers would like. The updated composition of a piece of art (think sharp lines, smooth curves, or vibrant splashes) can instantly create an appealing aura throughout the home.

4. Add Visual Interest

When choosing artwork, we look for pieces that create interest and flow accenting ceiling heights, grandeur of a room, and bringing together several rooms in an open concept. In addition to a great color story, the placement of the artwork can draw buyers interest from one space to the next space as they tour the home. Homes that are not staged, but vacant leave buyers looking at plain dreary-looking walls where they tend to see every imperfection. This home would feel very sterile and cold, perhaps even uninviting! The use of artwork creates flow and a cozy feeling for prospective buyers.

5. Makes Small Spaces Feel Larger

The use of artwork can actually make spaces feel larger! Artwork can change the visual perception of a space. By using large pieces with depth, we can make a room FEEL larger and more spacious.

By using a piece of artwork with height we can make the ceilings feel higher. In addition to the visual perception of the artwork, it is also important to allow the professionals to make sure that the scale and placement of the artwork show off the space in the best light possible.

6. The Finishing Touch

Art creates those interesting touches that tie the home together and make buyers see the house as their dream home. One of the most important aspects of home staging is making simple, yet tasteful choices that fit the atmosphere of the home. This is where art comes in. Art can be painting, applied arts, sculptural, glass, pottery, and accessories. Art creates those finishing touches that tie the home together and make buyers see the house as their dream home.

New Paragraph

Keep Your Closets Bug Free With This DIY

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 00:13:19 GMT

Keep Your Closets Bug Free With Cedarwood

Cedarwood has long been recognized as a moth repellent, and for good reason—it works. If you're lucky enough to have a cedar-lined closet or chest, be sure to make use of it. Otherwise, pick up some cedar planks, chips or blocks from the store, and place them wherever they're needed. I also put new tent traps out every six months to capture any stray moths. (see link below)

Here is how I make the all-natural cedar spray. It can be used on to protect your wool and cashmere sweaters, socks, and scarves from moths, and other pests.

Cedar Spray DIY

NEED

2-ounce dark glass bottle

40 drops cedarwood essential oil

1/2 teaspoon witch hazel

distilled water

INSTRUCTIONS

Combine cedarwood essential oil, witch hazel, and swirl in a bottle to combine. Top off the bottle with water.

Shake each time before use and spray on cedarwood planks, walls, blocks, hangers to freshen up the cedar. It also helps to lightly sand the planks a little, wipe clean, and then spray with cedar spray.

TIP

I do this in every spring and fall so I never had a problem with moths or other pests again!

Other ways I apply it…

1. Place a diffuser filled with cedarwood oil inside your closet.

2. Add a few drops of cedarwood oil to existing bags of cedar chips to increase the aroma.

3. Put a few drops of cedarwood oil on a clean sock, ball it up and place it in your closet.

4. Place baskets of potpourri infused with cedarwood oil in your closet.

5. Spray cedar plank drawer liners, hangers, and blocks with cedarwood oil

Clothing Moth Traps

NEED

Dr. Killigan's Premium Clothing Moth Traps with Pheromones Prime. They are Non-Toxic Clothes Moth Trap with Lure for Closets & Carpet. Just open, peel, and fold. Clean and Efficient. Pheromone attractant already in the glue so they are easy to use. They run about $20.00 for six traps.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H9F2VGH?ref=ppx_yo2_dt_b_product_details&th=1

Moth Tents - Clothing Moth Traps use potent pheromones to attract male moths and end the breeding cycle that produces new larvae that feast on your clothes. These culprits are the shy and quiet type, and often stay hidden. They may even initially fly right by the trap. Give these boys some time to be lured by the powerful pheromone. Keep in mind that female or juvenile moths will not be lured. Catching the males will end the breeding cycle thus ending your clothing moth problem!

THESE TRAPS:

· √ Safeguard your cherished items from further, or future, infestation.

· √ Protect your family’s health by using a completely non-toxic and chemical-free solution.

· √ Look great and are meant to be displayed as they target destructive clothing and carpet moths and end the breeding cycle.

Below is my closet, and yes those are all natural fiber sweaters and tops. So keeping bugs out of my closet is very important to me. I love to also run the diffuser with lavender and Frankincense essential oils.

If you'd like to learn more about essential oils check out my friend Kay Peña - Essential Oilologist's tips at https://www.kaycaregiving.com/

Until next time, Jonelle'

Why Decorate for The Holidays?

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 22:29:34 GMT

Is this the year you "Go Big"?

I believe sharing the holidays with family and friends is an important and memorable time. Like my mother, I often made my own special décor pieces for our family home. In the1980s, when my daughters were growing up, I wanted to keep that tradition alive by making Christmas ornaments and decorations for our home. I was committed to creating memories—like the moments I remembered as a child and was now building in my own family. Below hand made felt mice Christmas Ornaments

Over the years I’ve seen many trends; holiday ornaments, embellishments, florals and trees, which have changed and new decorating styles have evolved. Below is our tree from 1973. I see a mix of collected and made ornaments, and did you notice the tinsel?

Whether you’re inspired by your love of family, vintage ornaments, nostalgia, tradition, or you’re looking to create a home filled with trend-setting holiday magic, I invite you to become your own designer and to create your own holiday impressions. Below my kids and I Christmas1990. nearly all those ornaments were homemade

I love to share my inspirations, holiday decoration "before and after’s", and DIY tips and tricks for designing your own holiday look.

Follow my Facebook posts, Pinterest photos, and Instagram images. They all create innovative decorating styles while using simple designs techniques. Below is our family room last year.

I love combining old traditional decor with fresh new schemes. I also enjoy sharing images of my home and my clients’ homes during the holidays. It reminds me of why I began this journey, and I’m proud to know that people along the way might be inspired, and feel a part of it.

Buffet tables are fun to do as they highlight an important meal or event.

This bronze and gold tree was at the entry of my home. The Santa Clause has been in our family 20 years.

Bedroom are fun to decorate. Decide on a theme like say Penguins, then pull out your black, white and red decor.

And why not decorate your bathroom with a little whimsy, a few bubbles and a melting snow man!

So invite a few more friends over, tis the season after all, and enjoy your home all dressed for Christmas. Here is 2020's living room tree at my house. Are you ready to get started? Are YOU going BIG this year?? Thanks for stopping by the blog today.

Until next time, Jonelle'

Host a Home Décor SWAP and Entertain Friends

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Sun, 12 Sep 2021 00:28:25 GMT

SWAP with your friends for FREE!

For the past seven years I have been hosting a “Home Decor Swap” event in my home. I invite friends and family and on one Saturday (usually in September) we trade gently used household goods for something fresh! It’s a stylish and fun ways to update your home.

This idea came about because so many clients, friends, and myself had wonderful home décor items, that we were just plain tired of. The “Home Decor Swap” idea came after I hosted a few clothing swaps and wished someone would host a decorating swap because I thought it would be fun to get rid of a few guilt décor items and find something new for my home.

As a designer I often show clients how just a few new accessories can freshen up a space. And the thing is the pieces don’t have to be new —just fresh and current—like what they’d find at a store. The swap idea meshed perfectly with the green motto: Reduce, Reuse, Restyle. Your home will be freshened, landfills left alone, and merriment spread far and wide!

Here’s how it works: An exchange party is where each guest brings 5-8 home decor accessories in good condition to swap with each other! These are normally that they just don’t use anymore (such as a vase, picture, sculpture, wine rack, serving platter, silver, dishes, glassware, linens, rugs, bolts of fabric, holiday decor, lamps, chandeliers, …you get the idea). The items come in near perfect condition, clean and new looking. Decor items are dropped off the evening or afternoon before the event. Helpers receive them and set out the items in good retail

fashion on tables so everyone can view them.

The day of the SWAP everyone draws a number that will tell you when it’s your turn to pick an item to take home. We hang out, discuss the SWAP items and our plans for the ones we choose. Each guest brings finger food or snacks and you'll have plenty of time to visit. Everyone goes home with several treasures and new

friends too.

Not only will you have fun, but you’ll clean out your attic, find new (to you) decorating accessories, meet others who love home decorating, and help others in need (leftover items will be donated to local women’s charity)

Check out my SWAP Pinterest board for more ideas: https://www.pinterest.com/jonelle3/swap/

Your Invited to NEXT Years SWAP. They normally take place in September

Until next time! Jonelle'

Natural Decor For Fall

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Tue, 31 Aug 2021 16:32:23 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Fall Decorating 2021

Fall will be here before we know it. And decorating doesn’t for it does not have to be commercial scarecrow, bright orange pumpkins or crispy faux leaves. I like to keep it a more natural feeling by gathering branches from our yard, or collect apples from our tree, or acorns and eucalyptus on my walk about. A few years ago I painted my garish faux pumpkins antique white and I love the neutral feeling they bring.

Added to these lovely natural elements I use my every day home décor. I bring out my fall throw, table runner, pillows, and accessories. I like to use faded or muted colors of greens, subtle browns, grayed tones, and hushed rusts that almost read peach.

I love to use what I have around my yard, and around my home. Changing it up always makes things feel fresh. Check out my Instagram for daily posts on what I am doing to decorate for Fall, and throughout the year. https://www.instagram.com/impressionsredesign/

Here are my "go to" fall décor items I collect from my yard and nearby:

NATURAL décor For fall

Branches
Birch sticks
Oak Leaves
Apples, Peaches, Figs
Light Colored Pumpkins
Kale, Cabbage, Artichokes
Pheasant or Turkey Feathers
Antlers
Eucalyptus
Oak Leaf Hydrangeas
Mums
Acorns
Firewood
Wood Slices
Moss
Wheat
Pinecones

Thank you for stopping in today. I love sharing with you ideas to help you love your home more.

See you next time, Jonelle'

P.S. Here is how I painted my faux pumpkins:

And After of painted pumpkins below

Handy Garden Tool Organization

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Mon, 31 May 2021 20:51:00 GMT

Do you like working in the yard? It’s one of my favorite pastimes. It relaxes me, and fills me up.

I love when my garden thrives, when I pick flowers and when I propagate my succulents. What I don’t like is searching for a hand shovel, trying to find my watering can or buying two of the same tool because I didn’t realize I already had one. I’ve been thinking about this for quite some time: how I need one place to keep all my hand-held garden items, gloves, bags for pulling weeds and more.

Organizing your garden tools is important to make gardening feel simpler and more relaxing. I find that by organizing various garden tools nearby, the tasks seem easier, allowing me to work on the yard regularly if not daily.

Sometimes just walking to the garage and searching for tools, a basket, or finding my sprayer is a chore. I feel we ALL have accidently bought tools, thinking we lost what we already have, only to find it while cleaning and arranging stuff in the garage. Your budget, space, or years of experience gardening makes no difference; you’ll find that organizing your tools will make gardening that much more of a pleasure.

Here’s a wall mug rack I bought for my coffee station project three years ago. Unfortunately, I ordered it online and when it arrived it was clearly TOO BIG. So, it sat in my garage. Now it’s on my patio, at the ready, storing in plain sight my gardening hand tools, gloves, watering can, plant spray bottle, garden hat and more. Okay, it’s not beautiful, but I’ve used it so much since I hung it up! I also placed our multitude of family boots below it so we can throw on our boots and go.

Regardless of your availability of space or your level of expertise and budget, you can find a way to keep your garden tools close at hand and organized so that you never buy what you already have ever again.

Here is an article I enjoyed reading that helped inspire me to hang this rack where I can use it. I hope it will inspire you to organize your garden tools with materials you most likely already have.

41 Clever DIY Garden Tool Storage Ideas

January 28, 2021 - by Benita Abucejo

https://seasonalpreferences.com/diy-garden-tool-storage-ideas/

Below this canvas organizer is a favorite idea that would also be easy to make, or even easier to order.

Canvas Wall Organizer - Full Length

https://ecoist.world/products/garden-tool-canvas-wall-organizer

And this is my garden where I USE my garden tools. It's right across from the organizer. I am really enjoying having those tools so easy to access.

That's it for May, until next time!

Jonelle'

"Love Your Home More!"

What Do You Love About Your Home

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Mon, 17 May 2021 03:51:50 GMT

Just Five Things

My tag line for my business is “Love Your Home More!” That’s what I feel my job is, to help clients Love their home more. Do you completely love your home? or not?. I think being grateful for what you have (or what you can do!) is so helpful when it comes to loving your home.

Hopefully you have been focusing on your home and are excited about aspects of it. Maybe you have very few things you like about your home. Maybe it’s NOT your forever home, or you have a long way to go in making your home a place you actually could love. Perhaps you aren’t in a situation where you can make your home what you want it. I understand, I have been there. But for a moment just think about five things you like or love about your home right now)

What are five things you love about your home? That’s it, list them out:

When I close my eyes to think of it, I came up with these five things I love:

1)our fireplace that provides a cozy atmosphere

2)the views of our pond and the ducks playing

3)the moldings and special woodwork that Richard designed into the home

4)my studio space in the basement

5)the large laundry room with plenty of folding space.

All of these things make me smile. Of course, there are plenty of things that need fixing, or don’t match, or I’d love to update. Like you maybe I get bummed that I can’t do everything I’d like. So, each year I pick just FIVE things I can focus on.

Now ask yourself: what are five things I COULD DO this year to fall more in love with my home?

Now it’s your turn to make a list of what you want to do. And please, while dreaming of a project or two, don’t let a lack of funds prevent you from the joy in making the place you live right now your home. Yes, you might have to wait for some things you really, really want. Of course, I have been there, I’m there now! But I feel sure there are a few smaller things you can do (like rearranging furniture, thrifting new lamps, painting a dresser, cleaning out the closets)

Don’t think about that now, grab a cup of tea and sit back and dream of all the projects, purchases, changes you’d like to make. When you have a list of more than 20 things then go over the list. With your budget in mind prioritize the list as to what projects make you the most exited. Then pick five things you think you could do, things that are possible this year if you really worked at it.

I like to do creative things for my home, when I make things I *feel* joy. Even if you come up with very small things (new guest towels, new bedding or front door mat) it can trigger more.

Even on a very tight budget or sometimes with spending no money at all. I find I need to make changes in my home, always improving the look and more importantly the feel. When I don’t have money to spend, I come up with some creative things I can do or make or I start feeling discontentment. Does that happen to you?

I am asking myself what things I CAN DO this year, too. Even if you love your home, it’s fun to have new ideas in mind! Making progress on my home keeps me happy and out of trouble.

FIVE things I COULD DO this year to fall more in love with my home?

Are you with me???

Are you ready to "Love Your Home More"?

Let's go, write it down...stay committed.

Until next time, Jonelle'

Grandmother Always Told Me

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Tue, 04 May 2021 23:11:26 GMT

Call someone you love and share a memory...

It’s Mother’s Day weekend so I can’t help but think back to my grandmothers who played such an important role in my life. My grandmothers (yes, on both sides), Elsie and Ellen, gave me so much “advice.” At the time I hope I was grateful because sometimes it felt a bit “bossy.” They gave guidance on recipes, washing, dish patterns, cleaning substitutes, and of course parenting.

And now that I’m a grandmother, I better understand what a treasure my own grandmothers were. They freely shared “tid-bits” of information to help me save money, save time, make better purchases, be a better mother and most importantly be more confident. My grandmothers each shared advice through short sayings and quick conversations.

“One Man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” Grandma Ellen loved a garage or estate sale. She added to her collection of china service pieces, silver travel spoons, fun Knick-knacks and items for the patio. She’d find frames for her oil paintings, books, craft supplies and perhaps a new blanket for the guest room. She often said it was like a treasure hunt; you never knew what you might find. She also stated that it was a great way to have beautiful things on a budget.

“There’s no accounting for Taste.” Though Grandma’s taste was always impeccable, she showed me how to see quality in items I was looking for. She explained about types of wood, how furniture was made, differences in silver, and nuances in artwork. She told me not to buy cheap things, as I would end up throwing them away and wanting to get other ones of better quality later. She said to be patient, save my money, and wait for the right one to come along.

“Use your ‘good’ stuff.” Once while drying my Grandma Ellen’s china I said, “Your china is beautiful. Aren’t you afraid of breaking it?” She looked at me and laughed. She said she believed in using all the “good stuff” and not saving anything for “special.” She said that if anything ever happened to her my grandpa’s “next wife” would have no problem using the good stuff because she wouldn’t feel the “importance” of it. She wouldn’t know the years of saving up, or buying one plate at a time as they could afford. She said to use it all now and not to worry about what will happen to it later. So at home today you’ll always see my best china being used for the everyday cup of tea

”A thing of beauty is a joy forever.” This phrase is from John Keats’s Endymion. Grandma Elsie bought things she loved, things that would bring her joy. She didn’t have large collections but bought each piece of antique china, glassware or accent pieces for their beauty, quality and condition. She wanted me to decern, to learn to be selective in every choice I made.

“Home is where the heart is.” Grandma always impressed on me the importance of a lovely home, for things to be picked up, and for the home to feel cozy and lovely. They both had beautiful homes that expressed their individual taste. They made things for their homes, shopped wisely and knew how to carry out a theme. No matter how modest a home one can make it beautiful.

“Never look a gift horse in the mouth.” A “thank you” is very important especially if you don’t love the gift. When people are kind enough to think of you with a gift be gracious and thank them for their thoughtfulness. Find a way to use it, or donate it after two years.

“Any job doing is worth doing well.” Grandma Elsie was THE best housekeeper I’ve ever known. Her house always looked clean, uncluttered, and tidy. She had a routine for cleaning and shared many of her tips over the years. Grandma Ellen also worked in the garden and worked hard to establish a beautiful yard to punctuate what was going on inside the home.

So, what advice has your grandmother imparted to YOU? Have you heard any of these perhaps classic phrases? I’m sure your own grandma has told you many important things. Or perhaps she did it more subtly than my grandmas did.

It’s nearly Mother’s Day 2021. Give your grandmother a call today, and you’re sure to hear at least one piece of advice before you say goodbye. When they’re gone you’ll think about them often and be grateful that they cared enough to share their insights on life.

I may have inherited their décor pieces, fashion sense, and family heirlooms, but it’s the advice they gave me that will stay with me forever. What advice did your grandmother give to you? I’d love to hear it.

Until next time, Jonelle’

“Love Your Home More!”

Create A Cozy Reading Spot

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 00:25:39 GMT

A Place To Rest and Regenerate

Today in this blog I’m going to talk with you about nurturing your inner need to relax and unwind. I’d like you to consider fixing up a small area to be “your” space to read, draw, text friends, sip tea, and plan meals. This shouldn’t have to cost you a thing; in fact, you probably already have all that you need to pull this space together.

We’re all spending more time at home so finding the “right spot” to relax and unwind is more important than ever. Begin by walking around your house, visiting each room: look at unused corners in your bedroom, living room, guestroom, office or even a wide hallway. How much light do you need? How does each room feel? Do you need quiet? Or do you prefer to be in the room with others? Get the feel of the space: is there too much family traffic? Do you need it be darker? Do you like cozy and cramped or open and spacious? Once you’ve found your spot go ahead and pull it together with the items listed below. Don’t worry if you find out that this spot won’t work; you’re free to look around and find another. I’ve had my own cozy reading area in most of the rooms in my house at one time or another. Today I enjoy it by the fire in the family room. I don’t mind when my husband watches TV. I’m able to maintain my feeling of comfort and I can still read, write or drink my tea.

A Place to Rest

So, find your spot. Look for a large window that lets in heaps of light. Try a fireside chair where you can warm up. Or a secluded spot at the end of a hallway that gets very little traffic. Or, well, you get my drift here…

A Place to Sit

The chair is the most important part of this reading area. It simply must be comfortable. Find a cushioned, wingback or birdcage style comfy armchair that you can claim as your own. If you don’t like the looks of the one you have, but everything else works about it, why not order a slipcover and cover that old fabric? You can also have it cleaned. I’ve even chalk painted the fabric on one that I use in my sewing room.

A Footstool

It’s nice to have a footstool so you can put up your feet. So, grab a pouf, stool or ottoman for your feet. This isn’t the time to be sitting all posture-perfect. This is your place to lounge and put your feet up.

A Table

I like having a table or stool or shelves or sturdy ledges near my reading corner. It provides a space to work, assemble or create, whether you opt for a small pedestal table, an end table, or bookcase. It makes a great place for a tray with a hot teapot ready to pour as you read.

A Light

While a reading nook with a lot of natural light works best, I keep a good reading lamp to illuminate my chair. Tall floor lamps, a swag light, small accent lights or a wall sconce can create the cozy feel your space needs. You might try a 3-way bulb; these settings can adjust the lighting to your mood, task or the time of day.

A Pillow

A pillow can add comfort, color, texture or interest to any cozy corner. You can use it behind your head for a short nap or place it on the floor when you sit. I love the down or goose filled pillows and suggest using an 18” square. You can even change the look of the pillow with pillow covers by season.

A Basket

Baskets are a necessary storage piece for holding books, magazines, blankets, yesterday’s mail and more. Also they can store your reading accessories like glasses, pens, pencils and tissue to make your experience much more comfortable.

A Drink Coaster

Whether it’s your morning coffee or a weekend glass of wine, you need to have somewhere within arm’s reach to set down your mug/glass. This could be a photo coaster, a flat rock or fabric mug rugs. You’ll be more relaxed knowing the drink won’t leave a ring behind.

A Candle or Oil Diffuser

A cozy addition to any reading nook is a wonderful smell. I use either essential oils (can be calming or invigorating) or a soft smelling candle. (Most of my scents are fresh and clean and not too strong.) Sometimes the smell is perfect without even lighting the candle.

A Plant

Plants can help provide a calming atmosphere. Add a special plant for an organic décor. Lots of room? Try a rubber tree, Fiddle Leaf Fig, Jade plant, or hanging plants. A plant brings a fresh perspective that will quite literally—breathe new life into your space. If your space is smaller, opt for low maintenance plants like succulents on the windowsill.

A Blanket or Throw

Bring in tons of textiles to make your cozy corner even cozier. Choose something soft (like mohair) or fluffy (like sheepskin) for the winter months and something bright, woven and perhaps made of cotton for the summer.

An Assortment of Books

Try not to clutter your reading space with too many books, just those you’re ready to read, those that are inspirational or perhaps a journal – to capture your to-do list, thoughts, insights or reflections.

A Few Photos

It’s nice to think of those you love. Keep a few special photos nearby to reminisce. Tape some in your journal, on the table or in a book.

A Marking Pencil, and Pens

I’m a highlighter and annotator, so I keep highlighter marking pencils and other writing utensils handy. It’s such a great opportunity as you clear your head to have something to make notes with.

A Pocket Tissue Case

Because I always seem to need one, I keep a travel-sized tissue case handy. Ya’ never know when allergies or my reading material will move me to tears.

So Remember:

In every home there’s a space for a cozy corner. By creating one for yourself you’re acknowledging that you can read and rest and take care of YOU. If you have one, revisit it with this list in mind and make sure it’s somewhere you want to spend a little time getting refreshed. Keep it simple. A reading space can be a work in progress. You don’t want the design of the space to be an obstacle to your new practice of relaxing today.

Now use it! Make your To-do list there, serve up some tea and cookies, and read that book you’ve been meaning to get to. If you don’t have time to pull it together, schedule some time by making it an important appointment on your calendar.

Send me a photo of your Reading Area; I’d love to see it!

Love Your Home More!

Until next time…. Jonelle’

A Place To Rest

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Sun, 18 Apr 2021 17:34:09 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Good morning! Here is a place to relax on a Sunday. As a designer I am often called upon to help clients "love their home more" Part of that is helping them find where to relax. This backyard glider swing is just the right place!

How to outfit a Glider Swing

(Or any special relaxing spot)

1) Locate the spot in the yard that has shade

2) Take a timed 15 minutes to gather items from around your home. Bedding, tablecloth, books, tea pot, pillows, a throw, you get the idea!

3) Layer the bedding, add antique lace tablecloth on the top

4) Add some pillows for comfort and charm

5) Add some whimsy, I found this cute alpaca stuffed animal, and I also added wood beads hanging from swing

6) Find a table, or stool, or basket to keep things nearby

7) Add a tray with your tea service, and your favorite tea cup and saucer

8) Add few more books and I added a succulent plant too

9) Invite a friend, or your dog

10) ENJOY!

There ya have it! A wonderful place to relax and enjoy a Sunday morning. Thanks for stopping by.

Love Your Home More!

Until next time, Jonelle'

Travel Souvenirs For Home

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Sat, 10 Apr 2021 22:05:52 GMT

Travel Souvenirs

Series “What You Collect”

Vintage Silk Souvenir Scarf - Ireland 1950’s

I love to travel, how about you? My travels have taken me to nearly every continent and I never lose sight of how travel has influenced my decorating look and my ability to design homes with clients in every style. I am starting this *NEW interior decorating series of blog posts where I will talk about ways to display your travel treasures. Buying a souvenir on your travels could be a well thought out plan if you intend to use your travel gem. If you have the end in mind you will already know where it will go when you return home. I will be sharing multiple ideas as to how to display your travel finds, and what souvenirs you may want to look for while traveling.

Take for instance a silk scarf purchased in a second-hand store while vacationing in Ireland. This lovely vintage scarf with an emerald green border and scenes from Ireland really caught my eye. It was only $5.00 and was in perfect condition down to the square “original” ironed creases and gold tag that said “Ireland.” It had such wonderful scenes from notable places in Ireland: The Rock of Cashel, Dun Laoghaire harbor and Dublin bay, shooting the rapids at Killarney, and Twelve Pins Connemara. I love the history of these places:

· The Rock of Cashel is an ancient royal site of the Kings of Munster and first attained importance as a fortress. Its origins as a center of power go back to the 4th or 5th centuries.

· The Twelve Bens or Twelve Pins (Irish: Na Beanna Beola; the peaks of Beola) is a mountain range of mostly sharp-peaked quartzite summits and ridges located in the Connemara National Park in County Galway, in the west of Ireland.

· Dún Laoghaire is a suburban coastal town in the traditional county of Dublin in Ireland. It is the county town of Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown, one of the three authorities that replaced the old Dublin County Council. The town was built following the 1816 legislation that allowed the building of a major port to serve Dublin

· Shooting the rapids is a beautiful everyday scene for this area of Ireland. Notice the Old Weir Bridge, found in Killarney, Co Kerry, Ireland.

· And in the center of the scarf lies the Irish Celtic Cross - a symbol that conjures up all the mystery of the Dark Ages. It is also a popular symbol of faith, whether the belief is pagan, Christian or of any other religion. But perhaps it is most widely known as a powerful symbol of Irish heritage.

This lovely European silk scarf is small, only 11” X 11”. As a decorator I am always thinking of ways I can incorporate it into my home. I could:

Use it as a pocket scarf tucking it into your jacket pocket
Tie it onto my handbag (which I did when I was on my trip in Ireland.)
Frame it in glass on a creamy silk background. Use a square antiqued frame and hang it in my guest room.
Place it into a shadow box with other small trinkets, brochures, photos etc. from my trip to Ireland around it.
Center it and hand stich it onto a readymade pillow (pillow made in harmonizing color) That would go nicely on a bed or in a den.
When entertaining for tea I could use it at the center of the tea table, think of what a conversation piece it would be.
I have used it for St Patrick’s Day Vignettes on my table or mantel too.

Travel souvenirs are a great way to conger up past memories and share your love of travel. No matter how you organize your souvenirs do remember to get them out and use them, after all memories are what drives our happiness.

How would you use this small silk scarf? I think a silk scarf is a lovely souvenir, a piece of vintage history. I’d love to hear new ways I can display or enjoy it. Email or message your suggestions to me on Instagram, Facebook or my email address. I’d love to hear from you!

Until next time! Jonelle'

Keeping It Green At Home

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 19:07:21 GMT

Tips for Earth Day

It’s now chic to be frugal. It’s cool to conserve. It’s stylish to re-use! Today it’s a total faux paus to even consider throwing it all out and starting over when it comes to room designs.

April 21 is Earth day where we collectively re-educate ourselves on how to be a bit more GREEN. But when it comes to making your home interiors green AND beautiful, how do you following the green trail, and make Mother Nature proud? In this blog post I am showing you ways I stay "GREEN" by re-styling my home.
Simply, by using what I already have!

I recently did a quick refresh of my family/dining room. I was tired of the yellow paint. Here are seven photos showing you the small changes I made. I used the below tips making it affordable and fun!

Re-Move or Rotate – Sometimes by just removing or rotating your belongings, your can achieve a fresh new look. I call it “curating.” When you have too many family photos, baskets, books, a collection that has been your curio forever, or flower arrangements that have seen better days – Remove them and consider rotating them. Perhaps that collection can be packed away for a while or swapped with another. Those family photos can be put up on a hall wall, that floral arrangement can be rejuvenated and reused in another room. Each year I restyle my book cases and rotate by season what I place on them. (See above my shelves at Christmas)

Re-Arrange your room – Give your space a fresh *NEW look with a new room arrangement. As the season changes, so should your interiors. A change in your room’s foot print is a great way to revitalize your space. Take it a step further and switch out some of your furniture and accessories too. Swap out your dark wood side tables for those glass and metal ones from another room, or give your room a seasonal focal point by re-arranging the furniture to face your picture window rather than the fireplace.

Re-Use Existing Things – Reinvent that tired floral arrangement by giving it a second life. Gather all your florals and stored stem and give them “re-do” by swapping stems, containers and greenery. That old dresser can be repurposed into an entry piece or dining buffet by reviving it with a fresh coat of paint, knobs and a great tassel attached to one of the drawers. A stale lamp can be given a new light with a new sassy shade, a new harp, or a nifty specialty finial. A favorite print can be re-matted and framed in a style or color.

Re-upholster or Slipcover – That much loved old couch, side chair or settee which most likely has great bones and could use a stylish new fabric, and plump new cushions. Above are my dining room chairs. I've painted them THREE times! And yes those are recovered seats. Older pieces are built well, so if you’ve inherited a great arm chair or couch – it might be in your best interest to have it reupholstered or slip covered. Although a bit costly, it is a far cheaper design method than investing in an expensive high-end piece which could run you thousands. The upside is you can do custom detailing such as nail heads or more than one slipcover - Which will give you a couture look.

Re-juvenate - enjoy decorating your space with what you already have. I like to look around the house to complete each room. Maybe I'll find a faux fur throw, some coffee table books, colorful pillows or matching lamps. I move my things from room to room updating each look. (I also move my furniture, and please don't notice my lamps...I just saw that they are all on. LOL)

After one room is complete, you should have the confidence to continue decorating different rooms in your house in order to create the home of your dreams, not the home of someone else's dreams, and definitely not a boring box. The goal is to have each room look “ beautiful, fresh, current, updated.” *** TIP Each year I host a Home Décor SWAP with my Home Decorating friends. That is a great way to be green and trade wonderful home decorating items. Contact me if you'd like an invitation to our next SWAP.

Have fun decorating! Until next time... Jonelle'

Make A Memory - Collage

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Tue, 30 Mar 2021 22:38:12 GMT

Photo Collage Around My Mirror -

A refection of good times, special people and all the memories that make me happy.

This miniature history of my family and dear friends reminds

me of the stories, birthday parties, BBQ’s and happiness

families can bring. These important observers of my simple

daily rituals brighten my day and bring meaning to my

mornings and evenings. Favorite images are affixed around

the perimeter of my vanity mirror. I feel like I begin my day

surrounded by generations of wonderful memories.

This project is quite simple, I purposely printed these photos

in the same black and white tone so they all feel neutral to

age, time, and generations. It helps me see family

resemblances and remember stories and events. Here on

display are two sets of great grandparents, family milestones,

to my youngest granddaughter, each holding a significant

place in my heart.

I often pray for my benign spectators, and flash a smile before leaving each day. I point out to my husband special likenesses of the grandkids, or traits we all have in common. Meaningful pictures show a favorite date with my husband, specially curated photos of each of my seven grandkids, and antique ancestral marriage photos are all shown willy-nilly around the mirror.

Memories make me happy. The lovely cream pitcher that holds my makeup tubes and pencils is from a friend in Germany. The small Eiffel Tower was purchased in France while visiting with my daughter Jenna. The antique tray, and silver bottles and gold perfume atomizers all hold the every day supplies I need of moisturizer, toner, face wash and powder.

I love to use old bottles for the everyday transferring my favorite rose toner into a glass spray atomizer that gets exactly three puffs morning and night. The Coco Channel was my mothers, though the perfume may have "gone off" the bottle holds new meaning now that she is gone.

To make your own family photo memory collage around your mirror locate all the photos that you love and have wonderful memories of. Then scan them taking out most of the color so they are more neutral. The oldest photos are browner, the newer ones more black and white but they all looked okay this way to me. Then print them. I printed 100 and used 1/2 of them here. I ordered them online at Walmart Photo (it was very reasonably priced.)

Next use archival safe double sided Henzo photo strips on the back and affix them to the mirror. I don’t keep families together, or a time line, there is no rhyme or reason to how they are arranged. Rather I just put them up and welcome each one to join me at the mirror daily.

What do you do to keep your family memories alive? How do you store your photos? I love family history, and sharing family photos so you can bet there will be more posts on the subject to come. This small project took one evening picking photos, scanning them and placing an order at Walmart Photo Center online (Because of COVID-19 I did not take my thumb drive to kinko’s and print it as I have done in the past.) It took another evening to place the photos on the mirror. I used scissors to make some smaller, or trim off too much background. None of these are originals. I hope this post will inspire you to share your photos with others.

Until next time, Jonelle’

St Patrick’s Day Tea for Two

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Thu, 18 Mar 2021 01:00:24 GMT

Decorating for St Patrick's Day

Winter is nearly over and the days are getting warmer. St. Patrick’s Day is coming up and I have planned a small tea to enjoy with my granddaughter Kiera. Do you decorate for St. Patrick’s Day? While I am not a fan of the mass-produced decorations that seem to be designed for “kids parties”, you must know by now I do love decorating for all occasions! I like to create my own St. Patrick’s Day decorations by using what I already have.

I start by walking around my home to gather up anything green, vintage, Irish related, colored dishes, collectibles, etc. to go into my vignettes. I look through cupboards, in boxes, and in every room. I put the gathering on the table and begin making vignetts.

I am lucky I have an old emerald green lamp my grandmother gave me that I often use for the main attraction of this theme. This year I am planning a book discussion with Kiera, so I found a few old books to adorn my table. This is meant to be a simple table for just two in my Livingroom. Away from the hustle and bustle of our home where we can enjoy quiet conversation. I am planning on serving black tea, homemade cookies, Petit fours bite-size decorative cakes, some cheeses, crackers, and Elderflower Cordial water.

To keep my tablescape from looking too “childlike” I added gold accents. I concentrated on creating a sophisticated styled tablescape with rich greens, whites and golds, and then incorporated some subtle little “St. Patrick’s day” touches such as the gold hand sewn shamrock sachet that was in my grandmother’s drawers. Though I too keep it in my drawer, the sent is long gone but the Shamrock holds lasting memories.

The teapot is my “March Teapot” (from my 12 months of teapots I have collected over time) It has shamrocks embossed into the porcelain and a pretty gold ribbon accent. The 2 sets of cups and saucers were a gift from my High school best friend Margaret. I use them often with the gold rimmed plates (from Homegoods.) The napkins are from another special friend Shaun – It’s part of a set of eight with a matching tablecloth. I love to breakup sets and use them in smaller numbers, yet I am careful to wash the sets together so none get too faded.

My favorite things on this simple table are the gorgeous green glass hobnail votive holders – they give a glimpse into the past with the nostalgia of the fifties and sixties when these were so popular. I collected these when I was eighteen and I have 72 of them in eight different colors: clear, milk glass, frosted, red, emerald green, olive green and amber. Filled with candle light or a simple single stemmed flower, I use these for entertaining often.

I found his sweet set of a cream and sugar by VIKING Hand Made in the USA in the laundry room cabinet. They are the perfect color to go on this table. They are from the 1950’s when women’s bridge groups would have a mini set of cream and sugar for coffee/tea at each card table during monthly bridge sessions with friends. I love the vivid green color and how dainty they are. I think Kiera will love them too!

The final piece is the framed art. A gift from my dear friend Sue showing scenes of her town in England “Malmsbury” I have always loved visiting her and this treasure showing historical places of the town is a great memory. Beautifully framed this three-piece set of small prints shows the River Avon, Malmsbury Abbey, and the Malmsbury Town Cross. Love it!

What do you have around your house to make a special table for two?? Who would you like to discuss books with? I find these informal quiet teas a great way to bond and enjoy catching up on our lives. I hope you will make time to nurture your soul and share your own beautiful life journey.

Until next time, Jonelle’

P.S. I found these cute handkerchiefs that came from my grandma Elsie "E" I wonder what I will do with them next year for St Patrick's Day???

Easy Entertaining NOW

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Mon, 01 Mar 2021 00:44:40 GMT

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Take it Outdoors for a Safe and Fun Visit

We’re all getting burned out with the strict guidelines we’ve been walking since the pandemic hit. We’re ready for a shift on many levels. With many people getting their shots it will soon be safer to begin to gather together in small groups outdoors.

Today I’m sharing ideas to help you get back in the swing of entertainment. This is not a post on host musts, or do's and don'ts. Truth be told, it all comes down to one simple Mantra: relax and have a good time. It's a tad cliché but it works -- trust me! My own relaxed attitude has been the common denominator at every great event I’ve hosted. It's been nearly a year since I hosted my last party and the thought of entertaining makes me nervous. Here's how I'm going to approach my next small gathering:

1) Be More Spontaneous -- Less Rigid. Thinking of a favorite restaurant you want to order from? Do you have extra food in the fridge when you overdid it on pasta? Is there a recipe you’re dying to make? All these are reasons for you to host a small gathering of close friends. Even a short notice invitation works for small group parties.

2) Keep Your Guest List Intimate. Just a few couples would work while we enter back into entertaining. And I suggest you text those invites. Typing a personalized text is easy and clear. Just say, “Dinner Alfresco, bring a drink of your choice. Starts at 6:00PM this Friday. Come As You Are.” Then wait for the responses. With the Stay-at-Home order lifted we can gradually look forward to having outside visits again, but keep in mind, the California Dept. of Public Health regulations still stand with mandatory mask wearing (except while eating and drinking). Private gatherings are limited to no more than three households (including the hosts).

3) Keep Setup Simple. Now is the time to take a second look at your patio and do a redesign of that space. Enhance your patio space by adding: an open fire pit or fireplace, outdoor heaters, water features, landscape improvements, or more lighting. Check out my post on patio updates for more hints: https://www.impressionsredesign.com/patio-updates-to-enjoy-this-summer

4) Take the Chill off Winter Visits.

For colder afternoons/evenings keep some bright colored throws at the ready and remind people to wear layers.
Pillows are a must. Bring them out from your closet, or buy some outdoor ones with sun treated fabrics so you can leave them in place. (I bought this years outdoor pillows at Tuesday Morning.)
Of course fire pits and patio heaters can radiate a lot of heat, but the use of candle-light, luminaries or mini lights add ambience and an illusion of warmth.
Throw in an outdoor rug to buffer the feeling of cold from concrete patios.
I love the patterns and finish of melamine plastic plates for casual outdoor gatherings.
You can find all the above at Homegoods, Walmart, Macy’s, or your local World Market stores.

5) Set An Easy Menu. Instead of overdoing it with a full multi-course dinner, consider serving a simple bowl meal, a potato bar or skip dinner altogether.

Sunset Wine and Appetizer -- With BBQ shish kabobs you can experiment with skewering just about everything. Add to it fresh farmers market veggies and my favorite sweet potato wedges with an assortment of sauces, cheeses, herbs, spices and chives. Have everyone bring their favorite wine. Have a special tropical punch, tea and coffee available too.
Dessert and Coffee -- Steaming hot drinks are a great way to take the chill off cold desert nights. Have a short post dinner visit and serve steaming hot beverages like hot buttered rum or liquor infused hot chocolate or coffee drinks topped with whipped cream. Keep it simple and pair the beverages with a slice of cake or pie.
Chocolate Fondu Meetup -- What’s fun about fondue?? It’s the dipping of the variety of fruits, sweet stuff and one or two salty things to balance it out. Guests can be assigned two items to dip: strawberries, pineapple, orange slices, cookies, marshmallows, jumbo pretzels and more. Some other things that would work great as dippers are banana slices, shortbread cookies, pound cake cut into squares, brownie chunks or cheesecake squares. Be sure to buy bamboo skewers, available at most grocery stores. Set out your tea and coffee.
Grill ’in Good Time - - Steak and veggies on the BBQ are always a welcome treat. Add a salad, French bread and ask guests to bring dessert and drinks. BBQ’d veggies are so fresh and delicious any time of day, and I love trying them out with different types of seasonings too. Add a tin barrel with ice to house the beer, and a wine bar. I always add a coffee/tea area too. Click here to see my coffee bar.
Crudités Platter -- This is a must-have while entertaining and there’s one thing all our favorite crudités platters have in common: beautiful color and loads of seasonal flavor. The more artful your arrangement, the better. Start with what you have on hand and make a list of what you need to fill in. Click here for my check list of Crudite ideas . Ask each guest to bring their favorite bottle of wine or beverage.
Guacamole - - The green magical fruit with an added twist and a side of corny crunch is always a crowd favorite. Guacamole is delicious, easy to make, and can allow you to get as creative or traditional as you’d like. Add chips, beans in a crock pot, cheeses, fresh cilantro and more. Make homemade lemonade and add bowls of fresh herbs with recipe cards listing great "Add-in" combinations.
Burrito Bar - - Simple “make your own'' burrito bar is always fun. It appeals to the widest range of guests. Put out bowls filled with all the unique makings for an amazing burrito. I add taco shells and chips too. Add instant pot refried beans. For drinks try limeade with mint (I always add a little green food coloring.) Why not assign someone to make homemade margaritas, or you can rent a margarita ice machine.
Main Meal Salad Bar -- I love this party idea. It places very little work on the host family. Send out the invite and ask each person to bring two salad items to share. You supply, bread, dessert, and drinks. I love to see how my friends customize their salads to their liking. For drinks try a zesty Pinot Grigio or iced apple cider.
Support Local Restaurants -- Get takeout. Our group got together one Friday evening for “take out” Chinese food. Each couple contributed $20.00. It was a wonderful way to support our neighborhood restaurant and there was a nice tip in the end. Make hot jasmine and Chinese green teas, and a simple almond cake for dessert. Put out chopsticks to make it more fun! This is the simplest idea yet!!

7) Get Psyched! An hour before your guests arrive, put on your playlist music (something upbeat) , make yourself that first drink, put on comfortable shoes, touch up your makeup and take a deep breath. This will be fun! If you’re relaxed and having a good time, your guests will follow suit. This night is about being together -- not about being perfect . Just be one of the guests and leave the dishes for later.

That’s it for now. Let me know if you’re planning a small gathering.

Love your home more, Jonelle’

Additional Tips I’m Considering:

Consider buying an extendable patio table that can accommodate safe spacing of guests or be vigilant and spread out existing patio chairs six feet apart between couples.
Hosts should consider acquiring a hands-free antibacterial soap dispenser for the entry point.
In the powder room replace guest towels with either a tray of individual face cloths or disposable paper towels.
Just remember to keep safe social distance and wear a mask when not eating or drinking.

Ever thought about writing a book?

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 04:36:46 GMT

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I love to read! I read a lot of different kinds of books, articles, blogposts and magazines every year. I also write my own blog, and a monthly newsletter and various articles for other publications. So, every so often I get the idea of publishing a book…

Normally, thoughts like “I should write a book!” turn into “what kind of book would others be interested in?” I’ll write for a month or two, no real direction, and put it aside because of more pressing things. Still, sometimes my interest gets the best of me, and I do a bit of digging into what it would take to get published.

Fortunately, I have a trusted resource, a woman I met in a women’s business group who has a LOT of experience with this. Yvonne Whalen with The Pyrateheart Press is my “go to” person who helps people through the process of publishing a book. Her enthusiasm, creative ideas and huge heart make her the perfect “hand-holder.” She understands us creative people and has recently went through the process of writing her own book. (So she “get’s us!”)

Yvonne’s business https://www.pyrateheartpress.com/ does a free consultation where you can get valuable direction and insight into your book idea. She also offers a FREE “Writing Tips” resource that I am using for my book idea. The best part is she sells books on her website. You will enjoy perusing her books, they are fresh and modern.

If you are thinking about getting published, Yvonne is more than willing to share a few things she’s learned throughout her journey. Don’t hesitate to reach out to her. You never know what book might be inside of YOU!

XOXO Jonelle’

Now's a Great Time to Eliminate Clutter

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 04:12:42 GMT

Feeling motivated? Let's get started lightening up our homes with Eight Ways to Eliminate Clutter

At the TOP of my mind this month is getting decluttered!

There I said it! Have you begun Decluttering your place? ME TOO!

Eight Ways to Eliminate Clutter

1) Stop Spending
2) Know What You Have
3) It's Okay to Let GO
4) It's a "Stuff Mindset"
5) Make It -- Gifts
6) Less Packaging
7) Go Paperless
8) Kids Can Do It!

Let's break it down... Eight Ways to Eliminate Clutter :

1) Stop Spending – I know it’s harsh, but the number one way is not to bring it into your home in the first place. With each purchase you make, stop to think if it’s something you really need. It’s okay to treat yourself every once in a while, but when you do, make it meaningful and useful. So often we think, “I deserve this” and find ourselves purchasing $30 candles, vases, or knickknacks, which we often don’t need. How many of us have bought clothing and accessories “on sale” that we never wear? It’s best to think, “Do I really need this?” before each purchase.

2) Know What You Have – Keeping your home organized can seem like an

overwhelming task. I get it; I struggle with it too. Break the task into smaller periods of time. When your home is organized, you can quickly inventory what you have on hand. If you have a place for everything, you can look to see what you truly need. So save yourself a trip to the store to buy items that may already be hiding in your closet or drawer.

3) It’s Okay to “Let It Go” – Give yourself permission to let items go – no guilt. If you bought something you liked, but it doesn’t fit your current style – let it go. If it doesn’t fit – let it go. If you have too many – let some go. If you received gifts you don’t want or need – let them go. Giving useful items to charity is a nice way to “pay it forward” and you feel less guilty about getting rid of them. After all, you’re giving the item a new home, and it’ll continue to serve someone else.

***Annually our Home Decorators Club hosts a home décor SWAP. Each member

brings 5-8 items in good repair that they’re no longer using. We then SWAP a few items and enjoy decorating with something new. Here is a link to a past SWAP.

4) STUFF Mindset – Change your mindset to “experiences over stuff.” Make

memories, rather than give gifts.

For Holidays: It can be much more meaningful to do something together rather

than to give another toy, item of clothing, or home accessory that may not be

needed.

Annual Occasions: Try a birthday lunch, a fun drive to a new town nearby to

explore, a handmade card with an offer to do a special deed, or flowers from your

yard with a personal note of appreciation.

Congratulate an Accomplishment: Take them out to coffee or a movie, and

give them your undivided attention.

Kids Birthdays: Take them to a museum, or spend time hiking, geocaching,

playing outdoors, or enjoying a park.

A Job Well Done: Take a walk to the library and bring home some books.

Watch a movie together or make a craft or project together.

5) Make (Don’t Buy) Gifts – Create a meaningful and personal gift. It can be

much more special and fun to design something for a friend.

Spa items (salt scrub or candles)

Pasting a beautiful photo onto a blank card

Fresh flowers

Vegetable or fruit treats from your garden

Bake cookies

Homemade breakfast basket with bread, jam, and butter

A cheese and cracker basket

Tea bags with directions to steep and a nice note

6) Less Packaging Whenever Possible – Bring your own bags to all stores. I keep

two smaller ones in my purse at all times. Go for bulk items, bring them home and put them into your own containers. —And don’t save all that packaging from groceries or gifts. If you don’t plan on using the box, bag, or container within a week, put it into the recycle bin.

7) Go Paperless – Whenever possible, opt for digital when it comes to billing, books, magazines, movies and photos. Sometimes digital subscriptions and purchases are cheaper. Remember the days of records, cassettes and CDs? Now nearly everyone uses mp3s or digital streaming services to store and play music. Think of the space and clutter saved! For documents, photos, articles and ideas you want to save, simply take a picture of them, and save them on your computer by date and name description. This works great for receipts too.

8) Kids Can Do This Too – When it comes to kids clothing, toys, and books, it’s easy

for them to get overwhelmed and not use or wear many articles they have. To help – weed out their things often, at least every six months. You can put items in a box up high in the closet until they can use them. Donate what’s not needed, host a

neighborhood SWAP, or exchange items with friends/family. You can also encourage your kids’ school to hold a SWAP. Even swapping among your own kids, cousins and friends is possible.

Living Well, Spending Less with Ruth Soukup. On her blog she shares:

SIMPLE SOLUTIONS FOR A STREAMLINED HOME LIFE

I am so inspired by Ruth Soukup. Her book Unstuffed has so many

great ideas in it (many of the above I learned from Ruth’s book). It’s

available online or in bookstores. So, if you’ve been feeling weighed

down by clutter, it might just be the message your heart needs to hear!

Ruth’s inspiring personal stories as well as practical tips can be implemented right

away. It’s a guilt-free, stress-free guide to taking our lives back from all the STUFF

weighing us down.

Love your home more! Jonelle'

Happy Valentines Day!

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Sun, 03 Jan 2021 18:53:54 GMT

Sharing a history of wonderful Valentines

Happy Valentine’s Day!

I love to celebrate Valentine’s Day for many reasons from arranging a special bouquet to making a cake, chocolates, or cookies. My Valentines are always homemade, for example heart-shaped frosted cookies, homemade cards with sprinkles or cutout heart-shaped confetti, sheet music frames, heart-shaped silk or velvet pillows or loose tea that I place in envelopes with cutouts of doves, or the figure of the winged Cupid. When I was a little girl, the Valentine’s Day party at school was always one of my favorite days of the year. It wasn’t the candy, although that was great, and it wasn’t the Valentines, per se. I just loved that, on that day, everybody was kind to one another. Everyone in my class got a little card that said something nice. I never really had a boyfriend or a date; I just enjoyed the fondness of friends. As my daughters grew up, we used to watch a rom-com movie together, as well as exchange cards, and I made sure a special bag of treats would appear on their beds. Those days are gone but my children will always be my special Valentines.

When I met, and then married my husband Richard, I learned how romantic and special Valentine’s Days can be. He always has a beautiful (expensive) Hallmark card that has the most wonderful sentiment. He also gives me flowers, and or candy and something I had wanted (a small gift.) I give him a gift too, and usually make, a nice dinner at home complete with candles, flowers, and a heart-shaped dessert. Surprised?

What is YOUR favorite Valentine’s Day memory?

What do you do to celebrate?

Love your home more, Jonelle'

Holiday to Winter Decorating

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Sun, 03 Jan 2021 15:25:19 GMT

12 Steps to Transition from Christmas to Winter Decorating

Happy New Year!

Can you believe Christmas is over? I’m always amazed at how fast it comes and then goes. I love to get Christmas put away and organized for next year. Transitioning to winter is easy, all I had to do was take away the bulk of the greenery for a more subtle look, as well as remove the Christmas decorations and pops of red. And the good thing is that some of your Christmas decorations will probably work for winter too–just be selective, tone things down a bit adding just a few things that don’t scream Christmas.

Whether that’s touches of silver, white lights, or mercury glass, it’s nice to have a little bit of shimmer this time of year. These 12 easy and quick ideas will transform your home from Christmas delight to a soothing, cleaner, more pared-down winter look.

I spent all day yesterday finishing de-decorating and organizing my boxes, I thought a few of you might be preparing to do the same thing, so today I wanted to share tips on how to transition from Holiday/Christmas to a simple winter decor. Let’s jump in! This video shows what I did at home:

How To Transition from

Christmas to Winter Décor

12 Easy tips and tricks to decorate your home after Christmas!

Box up and organize your specific holiday décor - many Christmas decorations can double as winter décor but most will need to be put away. I love to organize my clear plastic bins by color and style. That way next year I will be able to pull only the bins I am using for the new holiday look. So now, go around the house and gather up any Christmas décor that you know will not work for winter. Pack up the mini-Christmas trees, the colorful ornaments, the Christmas wreaths, etc. Try to donate anything that you aren’t using, or tired of.
Declutter and clean – Put away magazines, left over gift wrap and bags, shoes laying around – all of it! Get it all up and off the floor. Then vacuum, dust, wash and straighten everything in the room. Now you are ready to re-introduce your winter décor.
Take away the Christmas Tree or try leaving your Christmas tree bare (with lights only). Some people enjoy having it up until the twelfth Night (also known as Epiphany Eve) It’s a festival in some branches of Christianity that takes place on the last night of the Twelve Days of Christmas, marking the coming of the Epiphany. So, you can opt to take it down then, be sure and pack up all the Holiday décor, especially the red and bright green items.
Add Greens and Rustic touches - Winter décor is toned down, try using simple, rustic touches like pinecones, pepper berries, birch branches twigs, evergreen sprigs, and the best of your greenery that is “real looking.” Use much less greenery than at the holidays. Even organic twine looks great wrapped around a pair of old books with a sprig of greens.
Bring in some branches - You can easily find branches in your yard, on a walk, or even on the ground at a park. And they’re free! Sometimes I spray paint them white, sometimes I spray them with “snow” and sometimes I hang ornaments from them. Use your imagination.
Leave out your mercury glass. The antique glass tones of mercury glass feel like winter. Silver mercury glass bowls can hold leftover silver Christmas ornaments, pine cones or antique necklaces and strands of pearls. If they are candle sticks add some cream candles, then add them to vignettes. Use them to store fruit on kitchen counters.
Use a diffuser with essential oils or scented candles Often the most inexpensive things can create a cozy space - like candles. Winter is a great time to warm up your room with candle light. Diffuse your favorite scent, and enjoy the cleansing properties of some oils. To learn more about using essential oils check this out: https://www.kaycaregiving.com/links
Bring in or make a fresh floral arrangement – white roses, soft lilacs, or lily of the valley. Try your hand at forcing bulbs in silver soup tureens or mercury glass bowls. I love Paper Whites, Amaryllis, Daffodils, Hyacinths, and Tulips. I recently learned about forcing bulbs here: https://www.simopdesigns.com/post/forcing-bulbs
Add soft pillows, blankets, and textures – Now is the time to pull out your cozy blankets and pillows. Those rich looking sweater-knit pillows, faux fur blankets, or wool plaid throws, add that welcoming feeling we long for in winter. You can even make your own knit pillow out of an old sweater too. Use soft winter colors, adding pops of subtle colors like winter whites, grays, silver, and soft pastels around your rooms, They will be a contrast from the traditional holiday colors.
Hang Mirrors to reflect light – In the darker days of winter you can add mirrors to your walls to reflect light. I find mirrors at second hand stores and repaint the frames. I love a wall of mirrors in a bedroom, adds so mystique.
Accent with lighting - Change out your light bulbs. In the winter it is nice to have the glow of a soft creamy light. You can also add twinkle lights, fairy lights as accents for vignettes, of on tables, in a lantern, on logs in the fireplace, or around some greenery.
Add In season Fruits - We have a lemon and mandarin tree at our family home in Lodi. So every winter I gather a box of lemons to display on a crystal bowl in the kitchen. It’s a great way to use that “wedding gift” crystal. I also fill a tall large glass cylinder container with orange mandarins, leaving a few green leaves for color contrast. That pop of organic colors sure adds a lot of zing to my kitchen.

As much as I love Christmas, it always feels so good to get the house back together after the Holidays. In February I’ll move out some of the winter décor and add a little pink for Valentine’s Day. I love to celebrate every holiday through decorating. But for now, I’m loving the clean, spare look! Want to see more photos? I have posted pictures to my

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impressionsredesign /

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpressionsReDesign

I hope you enjoyed these cozy winter decorating ideas that transition from Christmas to winter décor.

Until next time!

Jonelle’

Do You Collect Christmas Dishes?

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Thu, 10 Dec 2020 01:42:42 GMT

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Merry Christmas dear friends,
So I must ask... Do you use vintage Christmas dishes at the holidays??? Me too!

I have two sets of vintage dishes that I use for Christmas every year. They fit two very different color pallets. Both were collected over many years. Both dish sets are my favorites! I often mix both sets with other dishes I have to extend their use. (The table above shows my Christmas dishes 2014)

The first set is traditional red and green with a Christmas tree and farm animals. I began collecting when my oldest daughter was born. They are from Mervyn’s and I received a place setting every year for 8 years. Since then I have found an odd one or another at thrift stores. Five years ago I found a set of these dishes that were available at the Discovery Shop (Cancer Thrift Store in Roseville) I bought them - completing a set of 18 place settings. I have always loved how they mix so well with our everyday fiesta dishes. On December 1st I take my Christmas dishes out and put them in my kitchen cabinets and use them for every day meals. On January 1st I put them back in the butlers pantry and they wait until next year.

The second set of dishes I have are Holiday dessert dishes. This lovely 12-days-of-Christmas set made by Haviland is a fun collection. They originally came out each year with a new design from 1970 to 1981. The colors are perfectly muted and I love that they are whimsical. This beautiful series of collectible plates by Haviland Limoges depicts a scene from the 12 Days of Christmas. They are all signed on the back by the artist and stamped Haviland Limoges France. They are a lovely shade of powder blue & Jadeite green and each uniquely detailed by the artist. They measure 8 1/2" in diameter so look great on a white dinner plate.

The Twelve Days of Christmas Plates
Haviland Limoges, Collector Plates, Artist: Rémy Hétreau
1970 - 1981
Made in France. I have the entire set and love each one like a work of art:
1970 A Partridge In A Pear Tree
1971 Two Turtle Doves
1972 Three French Hens
1973 Four Coly Birds
1974 Five Gold Rings
1975 Six Geese A'Laying
1976 Seven Swans A'Swimming
1977 Eight Maids A'Milking
1978 Nine Laddies Dancing
1979 Ten Lords A'Leaping
1980 Eleven Pipers Piping
1981 Twelve Drummers Drumming 1981

On a side note you might remember I shared my mothers collection of
Haviland Christmas Ornaments designed by Jean-Jacques Prolongeau

He designed the ornaments from 1971 to 1979. Jacot Descombes, a Swiss artist, designed the 1980 and 1981 ornaments, while, an American, Elissa Stone, created the angels from 1982 on through 1990. Most large departments store sold them in the US during this time period. I only have 5 of the pieces handed down to me from my Mom and hang them on my tree every year. It is a lovely memory of my childhood and my love of Christmas decorating.

Fall Casual Entertaining

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Tue, 01 Dec 2020 13:51:45 GMT

Do you love to entertain? Here is a fun interactive meal!

Design your own Charcuterie Board

Have you ever seen or heard the phrase “charcuterie board” and wondered what the heck? I couldn't even say it let alone explain it. I’m breaking down exactly what it is, and how to make one.

Nowadays, serving Charcuterie (yes, it’s a French word) is a summer entertaining staple, and the more artful your arrangement, the better.

Big or small; round or rectangular; cooked or raw; there’s one thing all our favorite Charcuterie platters have in common: tons of vibrant color and loads of seasonal flavor.

Charcuterie Board Tips

· I buy everything for my charcuterie board at my local grocery store. For fruits and veggies I get them in my www.farmfrestoyou.com box (comes to our door every other week) Your element choices can be as basic or as exotic as you want. Choose items that you know YOU or your guests will like and that will display nicely.

· Take the time to make your board pretty and balanced. It was very fun to see how I could arrange everything to make it fit on the board. I lined some things up, and others were stacked some are in bowls.

· You can make your board ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Loosely cover it with plastic wrap. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours.

· Getting varied cheeses can be expensive. I stick to my favorites of sharp cheddar and a creamy Havarti with dill. Sometimes I add blue cheese crumbles for texture. Grocery Outlet has a nice selection of cheeses at a reasonable price.

· Serve your charcuterie board with wine, or with a sparkling non-alcoholic beverage. (Or both!) I also make my signature lemonade with mango.

· It’s nice to give your guests plenty of choices, but remember that the meat and cheese are rich and filling. Limit those items to two or three ounces per person.

· Cutting boards are perfect, but so is any kind of serving tray, or a cookie sheet covered with parchment paper.

Here are a few ideas that would work beautifully on YOUR Charcuterie Board:

• Petits Toasts, Baguette slices

• Dried apricots

• Sliced Salami

• Pecans, walnuts, almonds

• Colby jack cheese, sharp cheddar, havarti

• Green grapes

• Sliced kosher dill pickles

• Fig Spread

• Assorted crackers

• Sliced English cucumber

• artichoke hearts

• Grape tomatoes

• Ranch vegetable dip

• Sliced carrots

• Sliced turkey

• Fresh raspberries

• Olives: plain or stuffed

• Sliced fruit: apples, pears, oranges, melon

• Whole strawberries, raspberries, blueberries

• Cured meats: ham, pepperoni, prosciutto

• Round crackers: Ritz, Breton Cabaret, Breton Sesame

• Celery sliced

• Radishes sliced

• Brie cheese wheel

• Fresh mozzarella balls

• Small gherkin s pic kles

Enjoy serious grazing at your next event! Jonelle'

Change Things Up With These Tips

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Sat, 24 Oct 2020 17:35:01 GMT

Change things up with what you already have!

Use What you Have to Change Up Your Rooms

Let’s change things up! Are you tired of looking at the same rooms> Sometimes decorating your home doesn't require all new furniture or even new accessories you can completely makeover your space by simply freestyling what you already have. Here is a list of simple ways you can update your current home with all you have already. This will help you update your home and give you a fresh new feeling using your existing furniture, collections, accessories and décor items.

Shopping YOUR home

Look around your home to see what you are not currently using, but might work in another room. Check the attic, the garage, all you cupboards and storage places. Using what you already have in a fresh and new way can be so rewarding and it gives a fresh tweak to every room in your home. it also gives you an opportunity to rescue & restore Furnishings you haven't seen in awhile or make a plan to get rid of them.

Move furniture around

And I don't mean in just one room. It's easy to move furniture from one room to another especially breaking up a full Furniture pieces that came together. Today we just don't do that we like the unique gathered over time look of a room. Take a bedroom chair, and move it to the living room. moving chairs and other Furnishings from room to room can give you a fresh look.

Jewelry Displayed in a Creative way

Start with a small project like displaying your jewelry. Recover an old bulletin board with silky or beautiful fabric and then add push push pins to hang your jewelry or Mount hook or Hardware knobs inside an old frame to hang your statement jewelry beautifully colored jewelry can add a lot of visual effect to keep that outside the closet on the walls it keeps it from becoming Tangled and it's a beautiful display take your bracelets and make a bracelet stand for them

Use your collectibles

Collections are so much fun to have and they can even become a family treasure why not display them in an Artful way rather than an entire curio cabinet full of your collection try using the collection around the house take your prize pieces and integrate them into your existing vignettes and décor rotate pieces of your collection you don't have to have it all out at 1 if they're small collectibles you can put them on stands to bring more importance to them

Wash out those glass bottles

Displaying bottles can be a fun and freeway to decorate you can even die the bottles and color them and make them look at an accent color of your room display the bottles with a vintage style of heel feeling on your mantel with flowers or replace buttons and different small trinkets in the bottles the display purposeful things I like to clean out my bottles and keep them in a bin until I'm ready to use them I even use my bottles to store spices noodle and Pantry items

Displaying pamphlets and posters

Free artwork could be sitting in your own drawer. you can display concert flyers at your work station, kids school performance pamphlets on the walls of their rooms, advertising your business flyer in your office. you can frame the poster flyer or put it on hard heavy stock paper so that the edges don't flop over

Rethink your fireplace box

Spruce up your fire box with fun filler I like to use faux fern Greenery in the spring it looks so fresh you can also fill it with candles in the winter oh beautiful poinsettias at Christmas I've seen people turn books backwards and used books inside the Firebox if it's a non-working one birch logs always give a rustic feel you can add twinkle lights to them to give it a mystical feeling

Décor is décor

Bring me outdoor pieces in. Outdoor patio pieces can be used inside easily a small metal coffee table can be brought in and be used to the coffee table inside gardening benches are wonderful to place near the tub or as end tables bistro chairs can give you a temporary eating area with the addition of a small round table. I like using outdoor pillows inside to the colors are usually more vibrant and they're stepped they're certainly durable. Some of those more colorful outdoor rugs when brought into the house can give you a real pop. Lanterns. can be used inside or out.

Embellish what you have

I like to get creative with what I already have by top dying pillowcase pillow covers that I don't like any longer are dressing up an ordinary lamp shade with Rick Rack or special trim or hang picture frames with with chain or Ribbon or add wallpaper to the back of the cabinet, Also don't hesitate to make a covering for your book so that you can have a more cohesive look. Wrap them in burlap, white butcher paper, newspaper, fabrics to match the room, and brown paper bags.

Display what you find

Pull out those vacation Treasures special shell your wedding invitation postcards souvenirs and drink it and create fun ways to display them whether it be on Trey displayed in a vignette displayed in a wall arrangement of the collection from your vacation it's really brings your personality out into your decorating.

Coffee table update

Gather your most beautiful hard covered book and create interesting tablescapes on your coffee table. it's nice to remove the desk job jacket to reveal the beautiful color colors on the actual book at a plant person height and the third element can be a candle or a trinket and it should be a medium sized piece always use threes are odd numbers when putting your coffee table together

Mantle Arrangement change it up

Decorating an eye-catching mantle would include considering what already up there if there's a large picture or TV or mirror you want to decorate around it always working in odd numbers. You could put candle sticks on one side and the plant on the other

Open shelving can be fun

If you're tired of your kitchen and would like to do something different but don't know what to do you might consider removing the doors and turn just your basic cabinet into an open shelving (keep in mind you can keep the doors in case you change your mind later. Fill any holes with putty paint and stain the cabinets to match and it's play your favorite cookware large jars filled with Pantry Staples your favorite dishes stacked you can even add some color to it with plants or faux oranges are lemons.

Office update

Turn your everyday office accessories into works of art by wrapping your file boxes magazine holders or books, pencil holders with some wrapping paper that you love a quick amount of color and pattern will add a lot a class to your office you can also cover this brings a cohesive look to the room and smart and things up

kids artwork

I love to see kids artwork on the wall it's always a shame to see it stowed away in drawers and boxes you can take the hallway going to their bedroom and use it as a a gallery search the house for frames that are not being used and to give them a more cohesive look you can spray them all black or white or fun bright color then place your children artwork inside the frames and hang them like a gallery wall periodically you can even change out and rotate and let each child pick which piece are the most proud of to hang

Hang Plates on the wall

Do you collect China plates? Have you inherited a collection of China from your family you can use these various colors and sizes plates for a fun display. Add plate hanging discs to the back of the plates m(They can be removed if necessary in the future Plan your Arrangement before you start hanging. On the floor on a large piece of paper or newspaper. Mark where each piece will hang on the wall on the paper and then tape the paper onto the wall and put in your nails

Throw blankets

We all get many throw blankets over the years as gift it's always a good idea to swap out those throw blankets from room to room changing up color and texture that we need. throw blanket over the back of a sofa the edge of a bed or on a favorite chair be sure to show any pretty detailing or edging or trim or Fringe making sure it's visible. It can an instant pop of color Azure changing things up in a room

Bookshelf

A quick and easy thing to do to refresh a bookshelf it's incorporate new objects from around the house. from animal figurines, iron toy pieces that you found in the attic to serving platters anything with an interesting shade for design can be used on the bookshelf. if you have too many pieces to use I go by color so all white or all turquoise It's better to keep two odd numbers of objects on each Shelf and larger things always look better than a bunch of small things of course again if you have a huge collection rotate objects in and out from time to time rather than displaying everything all at once. I also like to keep my books to a minimum amount of colors still on the books in the living room you can have all Browns and tans and Earth colors. On the books in a bedroom you can have all blues and greys and navies. On the books in the kids room I can be a lot of fun multi-colors but then all the objects on their shells could be all white to bring a cohesive look.

Arrange in a new way

A fresh perspective can totally change how you look at a room. Experiment with different furniture arrangements to transform the space without swapping out any of its elements. Try flipping the living room sofa to face the other direction, or rotate chairs around the room until you land on the ideal placement. If you don't like the final layout, you can always move the pieces back

Find new things for the walls

You don't need to splurge on expensive art to create a striking wall display. Gather a collection of objects you already own, such as baskets or hats, and mount them on the wall to form one statement-making arrangement. Consider it a unique spin on the gallery wall. Unique gallery wall

Frame YOUR family Photos

Print out family photos and other favorite memories to hang in a personalized wall display. Gather up the frames you have and paint them the same color for a unified look. Here, basic black frames with white mats lend this gallery wall a polished look

Paint some furniture

Paint is a must-have tool for budget decorating, but this versatile medium is not restricted to walls. It can also be used to give dated furniture and accessories a much-needed lift. Try repainting wood furniture in a splashy color to instantly modernize an aging piece

Rehang Your Drapes

If your drapes have enough length, consider moving the curtain rod closer to the ceiling to give the room a greater sense of height. Before you make the move, measure your curtains to make sure they will still graze the floor if you reposition the rod. If you need a little extra length, try hanging the curtain from drapery clips.

Change up Your pillows

Pillows can be pricey, and if you're getting tired of yours, try swapping out the cover instead of buying new. Using the old pillow as an insert, zip or button it into a different cover for a fresh look. If you're handy with a needle and thread, consider making your own pillow covers. You can even use a sweatshirt or T-shirt for fabric.

Back Your shelves

Upgrade ho-hum shelves with a boldly patterned backdrop. Wallpaper, fabric, and wrapping paper remnants are all perfect fodder for lining the backs of bookcases or built-ins

SWAP out for Fall Decor

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Tue, 01 Sep 2020 12:35:10 GMT

Fall is here, smidgens of reds in the shades of sunsets, cinnamons and fired apples.

SWAP OUT YOUR DECOR FOR FALL

Fall is upon us and the temperatures are beginning to drop, the leaves are changing too and school has started. These are a few of the signals it's time to swap out your seasonal decor. You might already be thinking about changing your wardrobe from summer to fall or looking at some colder weather recipes like soup and casseroles. But have you thought about changing up your home? Here are some ideas that will help you transition from summer to fall:

Change to heavier, darker more “fall colored” pillows
Adding chunkier, or heavier throws
Use seasonal flowers like Chrysanthemums, Aster, Dianthus or Black Eyed Susan's
Adding pumpkins or gourds to your vignettes
Decorative lanterns look like fall and can be filled with pumpkins, candles or leaves
Add the yummy fall smells of pumpkins, apples, spices or caramels

It doesn't take a lot of money or time to warm up the main rooms of your home for autumn. I hope you will try these six quick updates using things you probably already have at home. So pack away your light and airy summer décor in favor of cozy velvets, faux furs and corduroys. Add in the rich colors of fall and deep textures with blankets. Baskets are another way to say fall and store things out of site too. If you love decorating now is the time to switch things up. If you are struggling give me a call, and I'll help!

J onelle'

Launching our NEW monthly Online Event: DATE WITH DESIGN

Thu, 27 Aug 2020 12:26:00 GMT

DATE WITH DESIGN

In the midst of these challenging times, we are now, more than ever, seeking comfort and familiarity at home. As we’re hunkered down at home, we find ourselves Looking at our homes and wanting to make some changes. You are a design enthusiast and you have found your tribe!

Do you love watching shows like HGTV's "Designed to Sell" “Property Brothers” and “Fixer Upper”?

Do you have a natural “knack” for DIY projects, creativity, imagination and a good eye for form, shape and color? Do you want to make some updates to your home and worry about making a mistake? No matter your style or budget, you’ll discover tips and techniques you can use to make any space feel like home.

Join us monthly for our DATE WITH DESIGN event where we will give the “dish” on decorating and share our enthusiasm for updating our space.

DATE WITH DESIGH Line up:

September 14 – Lighting Design Updates

with Deanna Melter, President of Global Sourcing & Online Sales, A Touch of Design.

October 12 – Happiness In Your Home

With Life Coach, Shaun Roney, From Revealedpath.com

November 9 - Holiday Decorating for the Designer Look

With Mark Snyder, Christmas and Company, Old Sacramento

December 14 – Winter Fresh Floral Design Instructions

with interior Designer Lisa Simopoulos, Simopoulos Designs

January 11 – Trends in Home Décor Accessories, Furniture and More

with Leslie Miller, owner of the NEST store in Auburn

February 8 – Home Updates and the Real Estate Market

with Realtor Taffy Maurer, lender Alice Giuffreda, and advice on Staging it yourself

March 8 – Flooring that Makes the Room

With Mark Knasko, Gold River Flooring

April 12 – Window Coverings Updates

Debra Williams, Owner/Interior Designer at Debra Williams Designs

2020 is a time to usher in a new decade of design. To find out just what that'll look like, monthly we will dish on classic styling, and do a deep dive into lighting, flooring, paint, and more. Learn what the current trends: from bold hues and hand-crafted accents to throwback details and classical motifs.

If you are wanting to update your home without making drastic changes then you will want to be on our monthly calls! Each month I will be live on Zoom with you to cover a monthly design topic. Learn what’s trending in the design industry, tips, tricks and tools to help with many common design challenges. Each month we will feature a guest who is a leader in our industry and we will do a deep dive on lighting, home accessories, flooring, paint and more.

Join Date with Décor for Free your first month to learn new ways to decorate your space and update your largest investment, your home! Each event will be just $5.00 (same price as a specialty coffee) and will be packed with great information, resources, tips and updated trends.

I am updating all the members on how our club will be operating as we move forward. We will meet online via Zoom each month on the second Monday of the month at 4:00PM

Each month we will focus on a different aspect of interior decorating and updating our homes. Hope to see you there! Questions, just message me! Jonelle’

5 Tips To Cinch Your Creative Space

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Fri, 14 Aug 2020 21:46:02 GMT

Create some space for YOU

I talk about designing rooms people love, but did you know I have a creative studio in my home that keeps me energized and inspired. My creative sewing/craft rooms have run the gamut from sewing on the dining room table, to storing things in a guest room closet and then several years in our hot unfinished attic. When my Mom suggested we finish our basement and make it into a design studio, well I was all over it!

Why not make a space in your home where you can soak in some time alone and get imaginative? Here’s how you can optimize your creative workspace or studio for ultimate inspiration. What I’ve found is that the secret to getting work done lies in our environment. Now go “shop” your house and gather some items to put into your new creative space, and make a date with yourself to get creative:

Designate a spot: It could be a desk in a bedroom, some space in the laundry room, or a guest room transformed into your creative haven, make sure you have space to spread out some ideas.
Get cluttered: I think clutter makes you more creative. Get out those paint swatches, favorite craft supplies and photos laid out in dis-order. So, go ahead and make a little mess!
The right lighting: Make sure you have plenty of lighting so you can illuminate your work and do some close work with task lighting.
Make the furniture work double time: First is the height of the table is important. Cutting tables should be higher to ease back pain. Watch your chair height to make sure you are not slouched.
Make it cozy: Since you plan on spending a lot of time in your workspace, you should ensure that it’s as convenient and comfortable as possible. If you have the space, always try to add one comfy spot for you to read, hand sew or just relax. I love my big comfy steampunk arm-chair,
Be social: While you may be efficient while working alone, studies show that bouncing ideas off others or working as a team can produce better results. So next time you’re in a creative rut just call a friend. I like to invite friends over to work on projects, sometimes they just bring their own handwork and we sew together.
Get personal: Put up your old paintings, photos of your family and friends, an old needlepoint, collage pictures and more. Remind yourself that you are creative and loved for it.
Grow inspired: Fill your space with inspiration: make an inspiration board. As you find an image or item that sparks inspiration in you, tack it to this board. After a while, you’ll have something unique and absolutely inspiring to look at.
Organize for aesthetics: I have antique cabinets, old thread display hanger, mug holder and a library card catalog to store many of my creative supplies. Upcycling items around the house is a fun and inexpensive way to organize your supplies.
Take a break spot: Put a tea pot, water kettle, tea bags and sugar on a wonderful tray. Store some of your favorite snacks so you can take a break and relax. Open the windows for fresh air. Taking regular breaks helps you stay on track. So, make a little corner in your workspace reserved for doing just that — stock it with plenty of snacks so that you can spend lots of undisturbed hours there. If you’ve ever tried to get work done while hangry, you know what we’re talking about. Stuck on a project? Relax, have a cup of tea, meditate, read a book or take a catnap, whatever helps you get your creative juices flowing again.

Enjoy your own creative space! Jonelle'

Keep your momentum!

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Wed, 01 Jul 2020 22:23:37 GMT

Make the most of the season by following these simple guidelines

Fall is a great reason to keep your resolutions. Whether it’s eating right or cleaning out the garage, here are some tips for making and keeping resolutions.

Make a list

Lists are great ways to stay on track. Write down some big things you want to accomplish and some smaller things, too.

Check the list regularly

Don’t forget to check in and see how you’re doing. Just because you don’t achieve the big goals right away doesn’t mean you’re not making progress.

Reward yourself

When you succeed in achieving a goal, be it a big one or a small one, make sure to pat yourself on the back.

Think positively

Positive thinking is a major factor in success. So instead of mulling over things that didn’t go quite right, remind yourself of things that did.

Art Meets Home

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Wed, 24 Jun 2020 13:24:41 GMT

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Art tells a story...And, when you love a piece enough to hang it on your wall, that story speaks volumes about you. Whether it’s your personality or what you value in life, art can be the perfect translator. It lets you forge deeper connections with those who come into your home. I am often asked "How do you buy art?" Here is the strategy behind buying something personal. Something that tells a story. Something you talk about when entertaining. What are your walls telling your guests?

1. Start with the end in mind
Have a project in mind: Maybe it’s an empty space on your living room wall that needs to be filled, or a desire to add energy or a specific color to a room.

2. Know your budget
A good first priority is your budget. You can buy original artwork regardless of what your budget is.You can get a very nice original painting by an emerging artist for less than 500 dollars. If you only have 50 dollars there are abstract pieces you can purchase. (But you will still need to frame them.)

3. Look for a deal
A good way to get great artwork on a small budget is to buy work directly from a new artist at a show. The work might even go up in value. You can always openly ask if there is any flexibility in the price. Galleries often incorporate a 5 or 10 percent discount so it doesn't hurt to ask.

5. What is the work’s “story”
Art is a conversation starter. When someone comes into your home and sees it on the wall, you hope that it’s good enough to inspire conversation. As the owner of the artwork, you really want to know the story behind it. So ask questions like: Who is the artist? When was it created? What does it mean to the artist? Color facts about the piece? Where is the artist from?

6. Buy something you love
Get out and start looking at artwork! The more you look, the more you’ll understand what you like. And no matter how little you know, or how afraid you feel, if you see something you know you love, buy it. You’ll be living with this art so you want to be inspired by it every day. And don’t worry if others don’t show the same appreciation of what you have chosen - Art is subjective and very personal. That’s why you want to show YOUR taste in your home.

7. Get your artwork professionally framed
Once you discover professional framing you will never want to trust your artwork to a box store again. I recommend taking things you want framed to a Professional Custom Framing Shop. I use Noel Flynn Gallery & Frame Factory -- his staff is amazing and will help you get a great look for your original artwork. I have found his prices very competitive with Michales and Hobby Lobby. The Noel Flynn Gallery and Frame Factory in downtown Roseville. Owner Noel Flynn is an artist who has sold hundreds of pieces, mostly watercolors both nationally and internationally over the span of 30 years. They will ensure your piece of artwork will look its absolute best!

Recently I have had the pleasure of working with International Art Consultant Nancy Hogstrom, owner of the International Art Source. She has shared with me some original artwork resources and broadened my knowledge of artwork in all mediums. Nancy has been curating artwork for International Hotels, Corporate Buildings, Hospitals and Homes for more than 20 years. If you would like a second opinion on art or to look at some original artwork, please reach out and we can discuss it.

***We held a Meetup event to learn "How to Buy, Mat and Frame Artwork" and it was very informative. We met at Noel’s shop in downtown Roseville, CA and you can see photos from that event here: https://www.meetup.com/Home-Decorators-Club/events/262980012/

Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an update. And please drop me a line and let me know what you would like to see me write about in future blog posts.

Jonelle'

Patio Updates To Enjoy This Summer

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Thu, 18 Jun 2020 13:05:31 GMT

Entertaining outdoors looks great with these updates

Are you enjoying these longer summer evenings? I am, so much! I sat in my back veranda last evening for hours sipping homemade lemonade, listening to the fountain, and appreciating all the plants and trees in bloom. This is such a relaxing time of year, I’m thoroughly enjoying spending more hours outdoors now that I have done a quick and FREE refresh of my outdoor space. I hope you are enjoying your outdoor space too!

5 Quick Updates For Your Patio

1) Rearrange your outdoor furnishings, consider adding a few indoor touches if under a covering - or take them in and then back out when you are using the patio Serving trays on the table, throws, baskets, extra pillows all add to that "homebody" feel!

2) Soften the look If you have a covered deck area or porch, utilize the vertical space if you aren’t already. Install hanging planters, drape bistro lights across the ceiling (or create a ceiling with string lights if one isn’t already there), or even hang outdoor curtains to make your outdoor space feel more like a living room.

3) Fill your planters with sunshine, using layers of plantings.. Why not update your pots and place them on stands for height.

4) add an all-weather rug to anchor the space: Just as they do indoors, rugs can have a big impact on your outdoor living area, so even if that’s the only change you make this summer, your space will feel distinctly different. Because of the materials, they’re made out of, outdoor rugs are often much cheaper than those made for indoors. But if you’re looking for an even more budget-friendly idea or can’t find a rug you like, DIY your own! You can brush or spray paint a border or other patterns on a plain rug to make a bold statement in your space.

5) Extend your hours of use by adding lighting Sometimes all a space needs is an ambience refresh. Depending on how exposed your outdoor space is, you can get really creative with the lighting sources. I already mentioned hanging pretty string lights, but we’re also big fans of oversized lanterns and stone hurricanes for candles, which always provide the best lighting for evening gatherings. If your porch is covered, you could even bring a couple of table lamps outside.

Do you have some ideas to add? Drop me a line and share what you've done. Jonelle'

Whats Positive about this Stay At Home Order

Wed, 27 May 2020 12:11:00 GMT

I’m sharing with you my TOP 5 Hobbies I have embraced during this Pandemic

These are the hobbies that are making a difference in our daily lives these past five months. Things that pick me up, make my day more bright and cheerful. I’d love it if you would share with me what hobbies you are doing now too.

#1 Walking with a friend

I am loving my early morning (6:30am) walks with my neighbor and friend Lisa. Not only do we walk 3-5 miles at a time but we also share experiences, interior designs, family advice and even ideas for dinner I look forward to the 2-4 days a week we venture our in tennis shoes and share our heart. I am sure the exercise is also a great benefit!

#2 Getting creative –

yes, I am LOVING my creative time. From working on client design ideas to re-making necklaces I never wore into my “go to” pieces by re-beading them. I have been sewing napkins, overdyeing my jeans and making holiday décor. I have enjoyed this creative time and sometimes even share the time with others in my studio.

#3 Baking –

Yep, I’m GUILTY! and loved every second of baking. From yeast breads to cookies, zucchini and banana breads, apple pies and even muffins. I have discovered new recipes and revived some old favorites. Here’s some favorite accounts that are inspiring me now: @awaywedough @handmadefarmhouse @

#4 Gardening

I jumped on the gardening late. It’s so therapeutic to garden. It’s become somewhat of an easy way of life and a great way to spend time during the summer. I can’t say I have become a pro, but it’s definitely taught me a few things. My tomatoes are THE best, my zucchini is HUGE and I grow seeded sprouts daily for my animals (and our salads) Next year I am planning on expanding the garden…

# 5 It’s a Duck life

Having animals to care for and interact with has been wonderful, from our sweet ducks (16 of them) to my mini button quail. Our rabbit Snickers free ranges by day and don’t forget our miniature goats Honey, Pepper Jo and Molly! Each of these animals have given me so much love and enjoyment. Richard and I have completed a few of their shelter projects including a NEW aviary out back!!

Tell me what hobbies you got into during this pandemic? Did you organize your house top to bottom? Get into a really good exercising routine? Read any good books? Have you started baking once a week? Painted some rooms in your house? I love this time we have to slow down and do things we truly enjoy. Don’t get me wrong I still miss normalcy, but we just had to adjust a bit. Until next month!

Gather with your Peeps!

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 16:12:00 GMT

Do you love to decorate? Do you enjoy talking about what you want to do in your home? Shopping for home decor? Learning new ways to decorate? Then you may want to join the Home Decorators Club .

A group for avid DIY and interior decorating enthusiasts! Facilitated by me, Professional Interior Decorator, Jonelle Tannahill, of Impressions ReDesign - impressionsredesign.com This group shares design topics, tours homes, shares decorating techniques, before and after pictures and holiday decorating themes.

The goal is to have fun, make friends, share ideas, resources and solutions. We learn and inspire each other to make home decorating fun and easy. The group meets at local interior design related businesses throughout South Placer County and Sacramento.

We love to check out interior decorating stores, furniture stores, art galleries and paint stores etc, all while discussing the latest trends. We learn what works and doesn't work in design, get inspired and have fun window shopping! Bring along photos and projects so members can help you brainstorm solutions and celebrate completed projects.

This group will encourage, inspire and be a great resource for information on home decorating. The mission of the Home Decorators Club is to bring together individuals interested in learning more about decorating their home. This fun, supportive group combines those who are a bit challenged when it comes to decorating their homes with those who just love decorating!

Members of the Group will participate in the following:

Fun and inspiring Monthly events on location

Round Table "Design Challenge" Discussions

Entertaining organized Shopping Trips

Caravanning on Home Tours

Annual Show and Swap: Accessories

Home Organization Tips and Techniques

Before and After showcase

Painting Trends and Finish Techniques

Cabinetry and Fine Furniture

Floral Demonstration

Bookcase Trends

Arranging Your Accessories and MORE!

A $5.00 donation per event is required and will keep this group active on Meet-up

Check us out at: https://www.meetup.com/Home-Decorators-Club/

Let's keep in touch through our monthly newsletter!

jonelle3@gmail.com (Jonelle Tannahill) — Sun, 09 Feb 2020 23:23:37 GMT

There are so many good reasons to communicate with site visitors. Tell them about sales and new products or update them with tips and information.

How are you holding up during this pandemic? I miss meeting up with friends. I run a Home Decorators Club as we normally have monthly meetings. The “The Home Decorators Club” launched in 2014. After hosting over 86 events with nearly 300 members I have made good friends, met some of the most interesting people and developed better connections with others who love to decorate. In case YOU are interested in decorating I'd like to invite you to sign up for our monthly email. I will It’s also a short recap of interiors, events, and projects I’m working on and sharing with YOU in mind.

Subscribe here

Each month I bring ideas to help you to find your inspiration, identify your style and define your “look” so that you can make decorating decisions with confidence. Clients, Home Decorator Club members, collaborators and friends all love getting my “short, informative, inspirational, entertaining and kind of addicting newsletter” ~ a quote from one of my readers (swear ~ wasn’t my mom!)

Thank you for “leaning in” during this unusual time. Whether you are staying home right now or working the front line, be safe.

Bored? look for more decorating updates for your home you can do right now (without leaving or ordering online) in my May newsletter. I promise you won’t be disappointed! So subscribe he re or email jonelle@impressionsredesign.com and I’ll get you signed up.

Love Your Home More!

With Love: A Celebration of Mothers and “Others”

Mother’s Day can bring both love and loss. This post honors not only our mothers, but the many “others” who have nurtured, supported, and cheered us on.

The #1 Thing That Dates a Home (the Free Fix)

No shopping required: Easy rules that make any space feel updated

How to Get the Most Out of Working With A Designer💛

Never worked with a designer on your home? Here are some tips!

The Dining Room

The Bathroom

The Family Room

Entertaining Reset - Be Prepared

Cabinet Reset Day: My Simple Trick for Cleaner Shelves + Easier Entertaining

The Annual Dish Reset (and why it works)

Step 1: Pull everything out (yes, everything)

Step 2: Wash + wipe

Step 3: Decide what stays (with a simple system)

Step 4: Put the “good stuff” where you can actually use it

Why I love this reset (especially during declutter month)

Try it this week (quick version)

A New Year Refresh: How to Remove Those Stubborn Silverware Marks from Your Dishes

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Kick Off Your New Year with a Four-Week Decluttering Series

A Sneak Peek Into Our January Decluttering Series

3 Easy Ways to Make Your Home Feel Holiday-Ready in an Afternoon

Let's do some Holiday Magic...

Softening Your Space with Textiles

Why Textiles Matter

✦ Where to Find Great Textiles

Happy New Year! Happy New Home!

Let's Celebrate!

Make Christmas Eve Unforgettable

10 Ways to Make Christmas Eve Unforgettable with Impressions ReDesign

Celebrate America Recycles Day

Celebrate America Recycles Day with Impressions ReDesign!

Simple Halloween Décor (You might even have)

For anyon e aiming to enhance their Halloween décor check out these tips

Fall Table for Four: A Simple, Collected Setting

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Simple Ways to Add Color to Your Home

Brighten Up Your Space:

How to Perk Up Your Rooms with Color

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Introduce Bold Color Through Artwork

Add Colorful Accessories

Refresh Your Furniture

Bring in Nature

Use Statement Décor Pieces

Update ideas for the breakfast room, nook, dinette or whatever you call it

Transform Your Breakfast Room with These Cozy Additions!

Create a Sitting Area

Set Up a Coffee Station

Arrange Dining Space

Use Artwork to Brighten the Space

Incorporate Greenery

Quick and Easy Ways to Add Curb Appeal

Property values increase when well-landscaped

Backyard Bliss: Transforming Your Outdoor Space with Fun Updates

Whether you have a spacious garden or a cozy yard, there are endless possibilities to create a beautiful and functional outdoor space.

Here are some ideas to inspire your backyard makeover:

Designing a Pet-Friendly Home

Do you appreciate a cozy, inviting home as much as I do?

Nostalgic Tablescapes

Entertaining with Vintage "Diane" Dishes

Home Concierge Services

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The Art of Bookcase Styling

Elevate Your Space: The Art of Bookcase Styling for Every Season, Color, and Theme

8 Simple Yet Unforgettable Celebrations

Gather up your friends and family!

Need A Kitchen Update?

"Updating your kitchen does not have to be all or nothing!"

Jonelle Tannahill

Turning Odd Pieces of China into Unique Cake/Candy Stands - A DIY Guide

Transforming Vintage China into Elegant Cake and Candy Stands

Mastering Your Morning Routine: Tips for a Tranquil Start

Rise and Shine: How to Create Calm Weekday Mornings

Jewelry: Not Just to Wear, but to Decorate! Innovative Home Display Ideas

Using Jewelry to Weave Your Home's Story

Unlock the Magic of Interior Decorating

Transform Your Home with These 6 Simple Tips