Style Points: Creative Holiday Décor

It seems like it starts earlier every year. The holiday season appears, marked by special edition magazines on newsstands, brimming with ideas for new holiday decorations. Breathtaking interior design photos illustrating holiday décor from the White House, to your neighbor's house, accompany these ideas. It can make you feel a bit overwhelmed; especially if you're brand new to designing your home for the holidays or if you want to make changes to bring new life to your home and you're not quite sure where to start. Here are some tips you may not have thought of to help you add more sparkling pizzazz to your holiday décor.

Inspired Color Schemes

A fabulous way to make a change to your holiday décor is by being imaginative with your color selections. Although I have a good set of holiday basics, each year I add a bit more to my collection of ornaments by incorporating a new color. So in future years, I am able to combine different elements together to create a new look. Every year I change the focus of color on my tree. Last year I tried non-traditional shades of celadon green and cream. It was unexpected and the colors were just gorgeous together. Adding to my collection allows me to increase the number of trees I decorate this year. Although I have one focal point tree, I love the idea of having a tree in the foyer, and in the dining room as well. I won't stop at trees either; I change the color of table settings, holiday ribbons, wreath picks and lights.

Tablescapes for holiday entertaining

A tablescape is a planned design for your table using various elements that make a unique statement. Tablescapes are fun to plan and are uniquely suited to your holiday table. Most often the table is set in preparation for a meal. However, you can certainly leave the table decorated all season long. Combine the color used throughout the house in your napkins, tablecloth, placemats and centerpieces. To create an inexpensive and eye-catching centerpiece layer fruit over greenery snipped from your back yard. Or taking a cue from my celadon green and cream color scheme I talked about earlier, use a fresh green apple to hold the place setting cards. At parties I have attended, I taken home place cards and menus which have been hand-beaded, stenciled, painted, and hand-lettered using calligraphy. These cards are a wonderful way to show off your creativity.

Being Creative without the Pressure

The primary reason I love the holiday season is because I get to spend more time with family and friends than I normally do throughout the year. I really think this is the best part of it all. I believe that decorating my home encourages togetherness and helps create new traditions, and special memories for all that pass through my door. With so many things to prepare for the weeks seem to fly by a little faster than normal at this time of the year. One way to simplify my life and make a bit more time for myself is by hiring an interior designer or decorator who specializes in holiday décor. I have found that interior designers can do as little or as much as you need them to do. Another great thing is that they offer a change of perspective that you may not have thought of. So if you enjoy taking part in the decorating of your home like I do, but feel as though it may be too much work, hiring a designer can help ease the holiday pressure and make your home beautiful. Be sure to book early though, good designers are quite busy around the holidays too.

Holiday Art Details

Did you know that your artwork could definitely be at odds with the rest of your holiday décor? This happens when summer art subjects or more abstract art is paired with holiday decorations. Surprisingly, it is an often-overlooked element when planning a change for the holidays. Your artwork should reflect who you are, your feelings and moods, and when you're in the mood to celebrate or appreciate time with your family, make sure that you think about how to change your artwork. It is ok to change your artwork around. A change to your foyer or mantle during the holidays will make a dramatic impact, without much cost. Removing or rotating art throughout your home at other times of the year creates new interest. Art is also available for short-term lease so the cost to you is kept to a minimum.

Cleanup

After the enjoyable dinners and visits from friends and family, it's easy to feel stressed by the mere thought of having to remove your decorations and put them away for another year. The key to making this a painless process, is through careful planning and organization. You may not have started last year, but it's never to late to plan for storage of your decorations safely and effectively. Choose clear and sturdy plastic boxes to store your light strings, ornaments, small wreaths and tableware. Wreath boxes are created especially for wreath storage but be warned that cardboard boxes may become damaged throughout the year depending on the storage conditions they encounter. Best to keep all holiday decorations in a temperature controlled area away from intense heat, cold or water. Wreaths can also be wrapped in plastic and hung in your garage, attic or basement. Finally be sure to label all the boxes on at least three sides so that no matter which way you place the box you can always see what is inside.

Best wishes to you as you plan your creative holiday décor!

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Style Points: Your Creative Resolutions

At the end of each year, we take stock of what we’ve accomplished and the goals we want to set for the coming year. And because of what I like to do, it is inevitable that each year many of my friends and clients talk to me about their resolutions to be more creative. Together we discuss art and home projects, garden designs, new paint colors and elaborate party plans. Yet by mid February, many have fallen back to their old routines and are left wondering where their creative intentions have gone. None of the projects that seemed so inspiring at one time are in process, and worse it seems that they are all but forgotten.

In contrast, each year my creative projects have grown in magnitude and importance in my life. I have written, created and taught new workshops, expanded my creative business, blogged, explored new art materials and finished more new projects than ever before. Projects I once never thought I could tackle. And next year I’m lending even greater importance to my creative projects.

So this year, when my friends ask how to make their resolutions stick, I’ll talk to them about becoming their own creativity coach. With clear intention, you really can manifest creativity in your life in tremendous ways. Here are four simple steps to make it happen:

1. Explore your ideas. I like to do a mind-map for all my creative projects. Take a huge piece of paper out and assorted colored pencils or markers. Write down each creative project you want to do. Don’t edit yourself before you start. Just write until you can’t write any longer. Once you’ve finished, sort the list by what excites you the most.
   
2. Schedule the projects and add reminders. In a special calendar, assign a date for each project. These first two steps (exploring and scheduling) are very important. We all know that words have power to change our circumstances. Writing your creative goals in a place that you refer to often will keep you motivated to achieve them. Don’t stop at assigning a date for the project; determine when you will buy materials, prep your work areas, or explore an art opening for new inspiration. Doodle all reminders on your calendar in bright colors so that you won’t miss them.
   
3. Take action. Follow through on what you’ve scheduled. If you really can’t meet your objectives, then reschedule. Don’t just delete it or ignore your projects. Ignoring your projects leads to a negative pattern. And by all means, celebrate your victories. It is important to congratulate yourself when you’ve taken action.
   
4. Chronicle your achievements. Once you’ve finished your project, take pictures, blog, journal or otherwise document your success. This journal will inspire you as you dream up new creative resolutions in years to come.

New Products/Services

We enjoyed Etsy so much, we found that it was an ideal place to open up shop too. ArtisticLifestyling.etsy.com

Many of the project files, and custom work we do can now be found at Etsy. We'll be adding to our offerings as the days go by. But for now, please...

Enjoy!

Lise

Style Points: Creative Gift Guidelines

For those of us who are planning ahead, shopping season probably began a month ago. However, I am just starting to realize that there are only about 49 days until Christmas.

In an attempt to do something a little different this year, I introduced the idea of a handmade Christmas to my children. In one case, I received a lukewarm response, where my daughter poetically noted that many things are not able to be made by hand. (read: the stuff she wants) In my son's case, I received a smirk; as if to say "Mom can't be serious."

Yes she can.

I am determined that we mark this season with some creativity and artistic living. But in everyone's best interests, I've modified my original idea a bit, and come up with some new gift-giving guidelines. And here they are:

1. We will endeavor to make at least one gift for every recipient on our list;
2. These handmade gifts should in some way support the dreams or goals of the receiver; and
3. These gifts will be wrapped exquisitely. The wrapping paper, card, or tag should tell a story. The storyline is up to the giver, but can include how it was made, how you felt while you made it or why the recipient was chosen to receive the gift.

So that's pretty simple - just three guidelines.

For gifts that are not made by hand, I have chosen to support other artists. I have started shopping at Etsy.com. If you haven't discovered this gem of a website, I think you will be pleasantly surprised on your first visit.

In the coming days and weeks, I will share my handmade gift photos with you, so keep reading, and

Be Creative!

Lise

Style Points: My Favorite Hostess Gifts

A close friend of mine is invited to what promises to be a fabulous party at the home of another friend. She asked me to give her a few ideas of what to bring the hostess.

Here are my suggestions:

If you're crafty, you may want to make some hostess gifts for all those parties you've been invited to this year!

• For the hostess that loves to bake; create a beautiful layered chocolate chip cookie mix in a large glass jar. (Canning jars are beautiful for this gift). Simply layer the appropriate ingredients - white and brown sugars, flour, chocolate chips. Write up a pretty a tag with the directions on how to whip up the cookies. Tie the tag around the top of the jar with a pretty ribbon or raffia.
  
  
• Make and give scented candles or handmade soaps in a pretty container.
  
  
• Many friends send you pictures of their kids during the year. Take those pictures and create a mini scrapbook or collage project. They will love this - and I promise, they won't receive another quite the same.
  
  
• Create a small gift basket, fill it with things that have a special meaning for the family. Some possible themes: Game night: popcorn, candy, and a classic video; Gourmet chef: exotic spices, hand-printed recipes, oven mitts; or Creativity Box: Crayons, markers, good paper and journals.
  
  
• Share your gifts - If you specialize in a specific art medium, bring a small sample to your host or hostess.

If you've run out of time to create something just stop by the book store and grab a book or two. I like to pick one up with a title that they may not think of buying for themselves. In fact, this is my favorite gift of all, because depending on the title - it keeps on giving when the party is over.


Enjoy your next party!

Lise

Update :: Visit Gabriela Delworth's website and inquire about ordering a beautiful crown for a birthday girl. The crowns are truly something to treasure!

Style Points: Creative Tables

Accidents happen. But accidents can be turned into something beautiful. I'm not talking about the accident with your Thanksgiving turkey; I'm talking about the broken china and other pieces you can use to create a beautiful table.

So this holiday, when your special guest accidentally drops your last Lenox plate, pick up the pieces and be creative! When the holiday hoo-ha settles down, you can start designing and executing a table for Thanksgiving 2007!

Here are some directions for making something beautiful out of any broken dish accident!

Mosaic Tables

Materials:
tile
broken china (flat pieces)
marbles
broken glass (tempered auto glass from the auto glass repair shop works very well for mosaics)
grout
water
large sponge
tile adhesive
tile cutters
table top

Directions:
Map out a design for your table or other structure. Depending on the surface, you can transfer the design using transfer paper or just wing it. I'd suggest doing something unusual. If you're taking the time to create a mosaic, you might as well do something spectacular!



Find Inspiration Here

And Here Too!

Break the tile or china pieces into desired size. Use the tile cutters to clip edges as required.

Apply tile adhesive to the back of the tile or china piece. Apply to the table.

Once all tile/china has been applied, grout and let dry.

Wipe all grout away with the wet sponge.

Then set the table for the kids (or the grownups) and enjoy a good meal!

Be inspired!

Lise
___________________

Other Links:

Broken By Design:

Mo Ringey

Broken Back Mosaics

France Art Realisations

Majolica Mosaics

Style Points: Creative Weekends In from the Cold!

It's been hovering in the 30's and 40's overnight at my house lately. Though it's perfect power walking weather, I'm not spending much time outdoors when the sun's not shining bright or I'm not VERY active. So, to mark this transition back indoors, I decided I needed to do something creative over the weekend.

I started two collage projects for my kids. I'm not finished yet, but I have one jungle and one ocean theme started. This is the jungle where grandparents peek out at you through bamboo stalks; and an ocean where my two-year old floats with some big, colorful fish. I am planning to add a poem to each canvas. Maybe about jungles and oceans or fish and trees. I love the way a collage seems to draw you in. People stop and stare, hoping to find themselves on the canvas. It's fun, magical almost.

My next project will likely involve beads. I'm debating about whether to make a couple of beaded valances for my daughter's room, or a beaded light fixture for over her tub. Either project will likely add an opulent vintage appeal. These projects are soooo girly and creative, but they give me what I seek in most of my projects... INSTANT GRATIFICATION!!!

So I'm looking forward to seeing YOUR completed projects, whatever they may be.

Be Creative!

Lise

Style Points: My Trends

Forget what someone tells you is trendy. You know what’s trendy? Your thoughts are trendy. Follow them.

Today my thoughts tell me that my home should be a work of art. A work forever in progress.
I am one of those people who is meant to wander from space to space, dragging beloved objects, photos, art, and collectibles. Placing these objects in different spots; to use, to view, to admire, to let these things inspire all of us.

I'm wishing for a cold snap, because I want to sit in my home, and turn on my fireplace. Grab a good book, write down my dreams, and new projects. Today I want to do some research, bake some homemade cookies, & drink a good glass of wine. I want to appreciate the meal I make tonight with my own two hands. I want to understand where my children are coming from.

My next projects involve new workshops, and creative ideas on displaying the things from people I love. I want to use heirlooms not just live with them in my cupboards. I am thinking about painting my walls in bright colors, and expanding the painted chalkboard in my studio to take over a big wall. That way I can give myself permission to write on walls and make pretty pictures every day. So, forget trends. Live your legacy. And by all means...

Be Creative!

Lise

---Sometimes I Sits and Thinks image of a quilt by Valarie Jean Bailey.

Holiday Wreath Making, Buying Wholesale

I received an email this morning from a reader who was interested in making and selling holiday wreaths and wanted to find some resources for buying wholesale. I thought I'd share my response with everyone:

Debbie writes:

DO YOU HAVE ANY LINKS TO WHERE I MIGHT ORDER HOLIDAY PICKS LIKE MICHAELS CRAFT STORES SELLS. I WOULD LIKE TO BUY THEM WHOLESALE AS I WANT TO MAKE AND SELL WREATHS THIS FALL?

Hi Debbie,

Check out the following links:

Worth Imports

Santa Supplies

Direct Floral

Dollar Days

Rolands of California

Kincaide Studios

Also, depending on where you're located, you may have a local floral supply store that sells all types of wreath-making materials at a wholesale price. A local interior designer will also likely have a list of wholesale suppliers.I would love to see your projects!

Lise
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Side note:

Some of these companies sell wholesale only. Since Debbie is making and selling wreaths in large quantities, wholesale is definitely the way to go. Even if you want to make a number of projects to give as gifts, wholesale might be a good option for you. For smaller quantities, you can still find excellent retail sources that provide a decent price. Feel free to email me with any questions on buying wholesale.

Be creative!


Lise

Style Points: Forts and other Play Spaces

When I was much younger, I spent most of my time outdoors running and racing. I was a real tomboy. My friends and I stayed out at night until the dinner bell rang throughout the neighborhood. We played really juvenile neighborhood games, built tree forts, and sometimes played a random game of tetherball. I can remember spending the most time on the fort. In fact, the fort building lasted for multiple years, until a group of boys decided to claim our home base. (imagine that!) For many hours during those years we would drag wood and other scraps over to our tree to build another stage of our project. It wasn't the Taj Mahal, but we were fiercely proud of our outdoor getaway. Unknowingly, we were fulfilling what I believe is a basic human desire, to be creative. And we were. We created a magical place for us to play and dream, all out of building scraps and other found objects.

My wish is that every child (and adult) take the time to build a play space from their own imagination. Preferably outside in the fresh air and wide open spaces where they can play scavenger, pirate, hunter and protector of the fort; for years on end.

Our fort was of course, the girls-only variety. Our hideaway. We would venture out, tease the boys, run back, climb up the 40 foot tree, pull up the rope and laugh ourselves silly. Hmm. I could use a bit more of this type of adventure in my life today.

Anyway - take some time, tap your imagination, build your own fort and protect it from intruders.

Be Creative,

Lise

Style Points: Thoughts on Purchasing Quality Furniture

Periodically, we feel the need to share another writer's perspective about home design, furniture, or other creative industries. Today, we feature the article of James Rusch. He shares his insight about how furniture is made and how long you can expect it to last.

Enjoy!
____________________

You get what you pay for.

We are living in a disposable society. Our description of forever is different than our parents and dramatically different than our grandparents. Forever, to many of us, is some amount of time less than 20 years, to others less than 5 years and sadly, for some it is measured in days.

Computers are, by design, out of date usually within 6 months of when you buy them. Most things are made to be obsolete in a very short period of time. Automobiles are marketed to consumers to be replaced every 2-3 years (24-36 month lease) even though their usable life is much longer. Why? Because it is in the interest of the manufacturer to do so.

Some things may need to be discarded. Technology is advancing faster than we can keep up. Some people think this is good. Mostly, these are the people who profit by our current lifestyle.

Are there things we can do to cut down on the costs of living in this throw away society? Definitely!

When you are looking to purchase something, don’t look just at the immediate price. My parents and grandparents always said, “You get what you pay for”. If you buy something cheap, most times, you will need to replace it in a relatively short period of time. If you buy a $2000.00 used car, you don’t expect it to last as long as a $10,000.00 car unless you put more money into maintenance.

Another example is furniture. Have you ever seen a piece of furniture in an antique shop that was made out of particleboard with a veneer over it? NO. The reason: it doesn’t last long enough to qualify as an antique. I’ll admit that when you are looking to purchase a piece of furniture, you are not thinking about where it will be in 100 years. But the concept is the same. The manufacturers of these “throwaway” products have come up with all kinds of euphemisms for particleboard. They will say things like “made with solid wood products” (translation: this used to be solid wood until we ground it up into sawdust and made our products with it) or “made with wood solids and veneers (translation: a little wood around the edges to make it look like real wood, but mostly veneer).

Now as far as the cost of “throw away” verses quality. Here is an example: you buy a piece of “particleboard” furniture for $200.00, and maybe spend a few hours putting it together. In a few years, it starts to wobble or the veneer starts to peel off and you want to replace it. Let’s say it lasts 5 years. In that time, with inflation, the replacement piece has gone up to $250.00. You have, in essence, spent $450.00 and in a few more years, you will need to replace it again. If you would have bought a quality piece of furniture made out of solid wood, it might have cost $400.00 right away but it will be with you for years and then you can pass it down to your children. Which is the better deal for you?

All would agree that it costs a lot more to throw something away and buy new than to keep the old one. Sometimes it has to be done, but sometimes it can be avoided by just figuring the “true cost” of something before you make the purchase.


James Rusch is a 6th generation cabinetmaker and the president of The Wood Shed, maker of Solid Oak storage systems for CD’s, DVD’s, VHS tapes, audio cassettes, bookcases, etc. You can see their products at their website.
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Be Creative -

Lise

Style Points: Surprise Passageways

I had one of those recurring dreams this morning. No surprise that it was about an old house that I seem to own. The intriguing part of this dream seems to be the need to explore the home. It was not designed using a conventional floorplan as there are various hidden staircases all around that lead to rooms you might not stumble upon for years at a time.

So this "dream" house prompted me to look for ways to incorporate secret doors into home design. I was amazed to find a few companies that provide faux bookshelves that are really a passage to another room. There are also movable stairs, furniture and fireplaces. That panic room you saw in the Jodie Foster movie is indeed doable.

This design element sparks a lot of creativity. You can make a hideaway art studio, office, storage for valuables, or even a 'secret' passageway linking children's bedrooms; small enough for children to climb inside and dream up lots of fun. Or like me, you can just dream about it, literally.

Have a fabulous weekend!

Lise

Style Points: A Creative Costume

So this weekend, while at the mall with my daughter, we discovered this adorable lion costume at Pottery Barn Kids. I thought it would be adorable on my son Ethan (on the right).

But I decided not to buy it. I am determined to make one instead. And now, with that decision made, I'm doing research for a quick and easy costume idea, for a sewing novice. It doesn't look too difficult to make, but I would appreciate any pointers/ideas. If you have any patterns or ideas you can recommend for a simple lion costume, please post them or send them to me. Ethan and I thank you!

Be Creative!

Lise

Style Points: Make your Statement

In addition to paint, one of the easiest way to make a bold statement is by adding words to your walls.

I love the idea of having words on walls. In my last home, I chose to add a simple reminder to my wall. It read, "When you dream, dream big." This was before I knew about Wonderful Grafitti and other wall word companies. So, I made my own wall words by hand. Here are the very easy instructions:

1. Think about what you want to say. Quotes, recipes, names, ideas. They all have a place somewhere.
2. On your computer, choose a font in the size of your choice. Type up your quote and print it out.
3. Choose a good location for your words.
4. With transfer paper behind your paper, trace the outline of the letters onto your wall. (Make sure the words are even!)
5. Fill in the outline with paint. I use paint pens and small brushes for this project.

This technique can also be used to transfer more than words. Try adding your doodles and other drawings to the wall. Combine design elements to create a custom mural.

If you'd prefer the simplest method visit Wonderful Grafitti for inspiration and order directly from the company or your designer.


Either way...

Be Creative!


Lise

Style Points: Creative Home Project Files

In my last post, I talked about taking certain aspects of your lifestyle with you when you're traveling. I guess it should be no surprise that part of my traveling arsenal would include my creativity kit. I can't go anywhere without a way to doodle, sketch or take notes about something. Though my Moleskines are full of new design ideas, this is nothing in comparison to my style project files I keep at home. Actually, files are an understatement. Library seems more accurate.

So what's in my project files? Well, they can be classified narrowly by home and garden design; art and workshop design projects; and food and event plans. However, each area naturally bleeds over into the next. So that when I plan a party for my friends, I may sketch out the seating arrangements, traffic patterns and table scapes. And when I do a new art project, I also map out the steps for how to transform it into a workshop.

At a minimum, my project files always contain journal sketches, product lists, material specifications, room layouts, resource names/addresses, color/material swatches and inspiration/wishlist type comments for functional and emotional considerations.

In our October Artistic Lifestyling newsletter, I disclose how you can plan, organize and consult your own portfolio so that you can begin to articulate your ideas for creative home projects. If you'd like to subscribe, the link can be found on our website.

Be creative!

Lise

Style Points: Living Away from Home

I do a fair bit of traveling for my job. After my first several business trips, I discovered that when I am on the road it is important to treat myself well. A night spent alone in a nice hotel, with room service and a good movie or book can be a real blessing. An extended stay, however, can really start to bring on homesickness. So, here are my tips for taking your 'lifestyle' on the road:

• Stay connected - Time stands still for no one, and I don't want to miss important events and deadlines. Organizing and planning allow me to easily keep in touch with what's going on at home when I am away. My favorite is a blank notebook, but you can choose from engagement calendars, phonebooks, notebooks, or electronic devices/PDAs. All the important details stay with you and make it easy to stay in touch.
  
• Photos - In the back of my planner I have pictures of my family. This used to be sufficient, but now with the latest round of baggage restrictions I left the large planner and my photos behind. But no bother what with all the online photo storage providers; I can access family pictures where ever I am in the world through my internet connection. Luckily you don't even need to lug a laptop through security as my phone gets me connected to the internet in a snap. I guess this is a new twist on the "picture phone"!
  
• Scents - Have you ever stayed in a non-smoking room that reeked of smoke anyway? I have! And trust me when I tell you it's no fun for a non-smoker. So now, if I am staying overnight anywhere, I always bring scented travel candles to freshen the hotel room. Even when there is no stale air, the candles familiar scent helps me relax in the new environment.
  
• Portable creativity - Any seasoned traveler spends a great deal of time waiting around in an airport or between meetings. My portable creativity "kit" includes a moleskine journal, markers, and pens. I can take it out and sketch my surroundings; plan an event; doodle or dream journal. Making the wait in the airport - well, bearable.
  
• Bring a good book - My girlfriend and I were discussing a few new books she began reading on her last business trip. A week-long convention allowed her to finish an exciting new novel in a few nights time; a feat that may not have been completed if she had been at home. Traveling allows for many reading opportunities, so I don't travel without having something good in my bag. Check out our gift shop, where we feature our recommended books and products related to our blog posts. You might find a good book for your next trip!
  

Enjoy your time away!

Lise

Home Arts Inspiration

I thought I would share a recent email I received from my friend Valarie Jean Bailey. She writes:


Dear Lise Richards

Your Artistic Lifestyling Blog Site is ever so inspiring. The green color scheme of your
graphics is cooling to the eyes and adds tranquility to one's vision.
I especially want to comment on your Family Collage Workshop, it did indeed inspire
me.

I was designing wall pockets for a commission from a NC children's museum, when I came upon your workshop. Using family & friends photos & pix from my backyard bird sanctury, I made the attached wall pocket.

Thank you so much for your wonderful creative & inspiring ideas.

Valarie Jean Art Quiltz

Valarie Jean, you've taken the collage project to a new level. This is amazing!

Thank you for sharing!!

Lise

Style Points: Fall Front Door Decor

Each September, my mother used to drag out a well-loved, (but kind of tired looking) bundle of Indian corn to hang on the front door. This usually heralded the start of the Fall season. While my mother had a decent artistic flair, I'm kind of shaking my head in wonder at why she would want to use the same display. (Especially when the Indian corn was missing a few more kernels each year!)

Nevertheless, adding a seasonal touch makes our house more inviting, but it's always a good idea to shake things up a bit. So to that end, here are some changes you can make to your entrance that help create a wonderful first impression!

• Start at the curb - If you happen to have a rural post, you can dress your mailbox with festive fall decorations, stencil, paint or just use elegant weather-resistant stick-ons. The curb is also a great place to add those beautiful mums!
  
• Dress the door - Unless you live in a Victorian style home, the general rule of thumb on painting the exterior of your home is to use no more than three colors . This might show up in trim colors around windows, a color for shutters and one for the door. If you've got only two colors on the outside of your home, it might be time to choose a new stand out color of paint or stain for your front door. See how the door in the photo really stands out?
  
• Create and hang your beautiful fall wreath and make sure it is completely secured. There is nothing worse than thinking someone has come for a visit, only to find out it's that wreath a-knockin'. Wreath projects are a wonderful tradition to start with your kids. Don't limit yourself to what you see in the craft store customize it. Ask your kids to paint something and add it to your wreath.
  
• If your harvest decor usually includes the requisite pumpkins and gourds, consider something new. A great project for kids are decorative luminaria. Usually luminaria are brought out for the winter holidays, but there is no reason I can think of to wait. Draw vivid pictures on white paper sacks, secure them by pouring sand in the bottom, and add a votive candle. A simple and beautiful project. Luminaria are a wonderful way to light up the night; a thoughtful touch for visiting guests; and this creative lighting plan certainly doesn't look like a runway for circling airplanes!
  
• Finally, ensure your garden beds are tidy, walkways are clear of debris, cracks, dents or chips. Consider resurfacing, adding a new stone or brick veneers or using commercial concrete stains for walkways that have seen better days.

I hope to post some of our own luminaria photos. I'd love to share your photos here and on our website too. Be sure to email me photos of all your projects!

Be Creative!

Lise

Garden Style

Before the cold weather sets in, you'll notice new plants showing up in front of your farmer's market or food store which signals that it's time to plant your Fall flowers and bulbs and make something creative!


Two of my Fall favorites are mums and marigolds. Both of these plants prefer full sun, rich soil and good drainage.

Mums come in a variety of different colors including yellow, white, purple, orange, and pink. For the best design, I find that they make a bold statement when grouped together as a border plant or in combination with existing shrubs.

Marigolds are wonderful when planted in mass and give a wonderful pop of color to your garden beds.

Here is a quick list of last minute gardening tasks before Winter:

• Plan your Spring bulb garden. It's usually safe to plant hardy bulbs in late October or early November after the soil has cooled. Hardy bulbs flower in the Spring and include tulips, irises, daffodils and hyacinths.
  
• Plant shrubs and trees now. Be sure to water and mulch well.
  
• Divide any of the perennials that seem to have leveled out on their growth or flowering habits. Though not all varieties should be divided in the fall; it's safe to divide your hostas, daylilies, iris and geraniums.
  
• Rake those leaves and fill your compost pile. Compost from fall leaves doesn't attract as many pests as compost piles filled with kitchen scraps. A good tip for those who don't like furry surprises :-)
  
• Be sure to celebrate with an end of season outdoor gathering. Plan a project for everyone to take part in. Maybe it's a sculpture for your backyard, or stepping stones to keep your feet out of the mud. Whatever the project, make it fun and memorable.
  
• Light up the chiminea, relax and take in the beautiful color of the Fall season.

Enjoy!

Lise

Style Points: Color Trends

Every year, Pantone creates a list of the top fashion colors for the coming year. This year the company has forecasted 72 standalone colors and wonderful combinations. These color choices will dictate home and fashion products in the next several months. They will appear in pillows, wallpaper, appliances, and now Pantone has even created a delicious line of paints.

For anyone considering a new paint color for their environment, please ask your designer to show you the expanded collection of palettes!

Here are the Pantone Color Institute's top 10 modernized colors for next year:

SILVER PEONY
TARRAGON
OPAL GRAY
GOLDEN APRICOT
HOLLYHOCK
GREEN SHEEN
GRAPEMIST
CAFE CREME
STRAWBERRY ICE
SKY BLUE

If you're interested in taking your color selections a bit further, I am conducting a complimentary online color workshop in the next few months. Send me an email and I'll add you to the participant list.

Enjoy!

Lise