Hey Neighbors!
Halloween is done... that means we have to get ready for all the visiting and enjoying friends and family! If you're the designated host/hostess this year... don't fret! You have friends in town that are happy to help with any or all of that!
Sometimes when we're gearing up for these good times, we get a little Low Self Esteem- Home Edition... don't panic, it's perfectly natural! Remember these tips...
1. No One's House is Perfect
There is only one Martha... if you're not her...Your house doesn't need to look like a model home, the reason model homes look like they do, is that no one LIVES in them. Having a home that looks so exacting makes guests feel uncomfortable to even sit, much less enjoy kicking back with friends and family.
2. Make Small Changes with Big Impact
Perhaps you want to make your spaces look warm and inviting (who doesn't?) but a full redecorating isn't in your budget. Don't forget, your holiday Food & Beverage budget will be pretty large in comparison with other months! SO, what to do? First, change out pillows, drape a few throw blankets on sofas and chairs to literally invite your guests to relax. Changing out candles to warmer colors makes a difference too. If your budget permits, you can even change out your draperies providing they are simple, like a rod/pocket style. These cozy colors are good through March! A few natural looking florals, well placed, will also help your home come alive with Fall & Winter warmth & good cheer! I strongly recommend HomeGoods and Costco for getting the bang for your decor buck!
3. What Smells SO GOOD?!
Of course it's your Holiday Baking! But if it's not, use something to wonderfully scent your home... A product such as Scentsy (scentsy.com) is perfect! Low-heat bulbs equal no flame, wax is not hot enough to burn hands, and so many awesome scents to choose from! If you don't have time to wait for shipping... you pop over to Michael's and what you need.
4. Clean Out Your Fireplace!
When the outside smells of a crackling log in a fireplace, our scent memories are ignited with thoughts of warmth and family. Walking into a house with cozy fire in the fireplace is just SO awesome! You can find great info, checklists, and a well-qualified Chimney Sweep on Angie's List! Just don't expect one like you saw in Mary Poppins... I think they stopped the song & dance routines a few years back! http://www.angieslist.com/companylist/us/ca/diamond-bar/chimney-sweep.htm
Hope you all move smoothly into the season and create wonderful memories with your loved ones!
Warm Regards,
Meyer&Bloom
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
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