Your home is your haven, a place of comfort and familiarity; a sanctuary that reflects the people and things you love, but more importantly, it reflects you. There’s no better greeting after a hard day’s work than the welcoming warmth you experience when you cross the threshold into your beloved abode. So why not make it beautiful?
At SisterSpeak we believe that beauty should surround us everyday in some small way. Our homes are no exception. In fact, our homes should be among the most beautiful and inspired places that we inhabit during the course of our lives, no matter their square footage or market value. No, having a beautiful home is not about money, but about bringing your personal style to life with the goal of creating comfort, serenity and an environment of love.
I've always relished the presence of beauty in whatever spaces I found myself in over the years. As a girl, I cherished my tiny little room, embellishing my bed with pretty, soft pillows, and eagerly looking forward to the spring updates that my mom would insist upon for all our rooms. As the seasons changed, so did the decor. Heavy winter spreads were replaced in the spring with airy, cotton quilts and matching sheets. New rugs were scattered on the floor for soothing comfort underfoot, and heavy drapes were replaced with priscilla curtains or light cotton panels that flowed with ease with the slightest hint of a breeze.
As a college student I reveled in the freedom to create spaces that were unique to me with all of my favorite belongings in clear view--photos of family and friends, my favorite pillows and prettiest sheets, and small art pieces scattered here and there. I carried this same love of comfort into my home as a wife and mother--though I admit its challenging sometimes to maintain "beauty" in a home with four busy and active children (and a husband!). But I manage, even if in a scaled back way that's more realistic for our lifestyle--to beautify areas throughout my home.
Whether you're married, single, with or without children--whatever the case--your home should be a constant source of physical, psychological, and spiritual comfort. Whatever it is that makes you happy or that evokes a sense of peace and happiness within your heart, surround yourself with it everyday and watch the beauty in your world multiply before your very eyes!
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A FEW MORE BASIC TIPS FOR A BEAUTIFUL, SERENE HOME!
TIP 1:
Before you decorate, CLEAN! Nothing's worse than a new look on top of old clutter ! Invest a bit of elbow grease in tidying each room. If there's a lot of tidying to do, start with one room and spread the work out over several
weeks to avoid stress. Remember, this is supposed to be fun!
TIP 2:
Commit to cleaning carpet at least once a year especially if you have kids or if carpet is a light color. It's worth the cost!
TIP 3:
If you or someone in your family has allergies, consider wood floors over carpet. Carpet holds dust, mildew, mold, fungi, and a host of other allergens that could contribute to poor respiratory health especially for children and elderly family members. If this is a serious issue for you or a loved one, consider investing in this upgrade for health's sake. If it's not in the budget, invest in quality air purifiers. |
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6 QUICK WAYS TO INSTANTLY WARM
UP YOUR SPACE
1
Paint an accent wall
in a warm color as a focal point in your living room or den. Complement the wall with a stylish grouping of your favorite art pieces or photos in pretty frames.
2
Add plush pillows in pleasing colors and textures that blend with your decor. Toss them on your couches and chairs for the ulitmate lounging experience. Don't forget to add a comfy throw for cool winter nights.
3
Surround yourself with plants! Live plants add an instant splash of life and color to any decor and do much to lift your spirits. And if the budget allows, bring home fresh flowers from the local market or florist as often as possible. You'll love the feel they add to your space.
4
Add earthy accent pieces like vases, urns, and decorative bowls in wood, ceramic, and stone to your tabletops and shelving. Place them in groupings for added impact and visual interest and enjoy!
5
Check your lighting to ensure you've got the right color for the effect you desire (warm, soft or cool white; or daylight). Total lighting makeovers can be expensive, but changing your bulbs can make a huge difference. Consult your local home supply or hardware store for advice and be sure to invest in energy efficient bulbs to cut your energy costs & benefit the environment.
6
Last but not least! Don't forget the candles! No space is complete for the modern woman without candles--an excellent source of light (and fragrance) on mellow nights! Be sure to choose lead-free candles which are better for your lungs! Soy candles are also an excellent option!
Try these & feel the difference! |
