Downsizing doesn't have to be a drag!

Downsizing, downsizing, downsizing....we have been hearing this term A LOT lately and unfortunately many people see this as a negative experience but look at the positive side - it is a new beginning, a fresh start and a fun and exciting stage in life. The thought of downsizing can be daunting and overwhelming but here are some great ideas on how to approach this task with a plan!

1- List it! Not your house but your items, the ones you love and cannot live without. The others you could try selling or giving away to charity

2 - Think thin! Start thinning out your items about 3 months before the big more this will eliminate some stress

3 - Size it up! Compare the new room sizes to rooms in your current home, this will help with furniture planning and deciding what you can use in certain spaces. there aren't too many people who can use a floor plan to figure that out.

4 - Disconnect! Start in the areas that don't have a lot of sentimental connection such as the garage and the kitchen. You'll find a lot of 'extras' - who needs 10 mixing bowls and 6 spatulas? those are some easy places to start de-cluttering and you will feel like you are getting a lot done!

5 - It is better to give! Try donating items to local shelters, community centers, schools etc...you never know who might benefit from your old items and you may feel better about giving back instead of tossing out.

6 - Get a second opinion! Bring in neighbour, a friend or family member who will be honest with you about your items. Because you are so emotional invested and have been for so long it is tough to be ruthless. Ask for a second opinion on that set of dishes or the 1970's credenza.

7 - Plan ahead! Make a plan of how you want the furniture set up in the new home. this will help out the movers and yourself on the big day.

8 - Get organized! Colour code, label...find an organizational system that will help determine what goes where. Make sure everyone knows and understand the simple system.

With some pre-planning and help from family, neighbours and friends downsizing can be stress free and enjoyable. It is an exciting time and a fresh opportunity in another stage of your life - so have fun with it!

'Tis the season to be stylish...

Yes, it is almost that time of year again...the holiday season is upon us! I just love this time of year when everything is decorated and everywhere looks so festive. So have you started your holiday decorating?

Not sure where to begin?

Start with a colour palette and if you don't think there is much of a choice beyond the traditional red, green and white, think again....

Holiday decor of the season has really changed. You can opt for the traditional colours but why not go metallic? Silver and gold look so elegant and timeless and paired with white or red, very sophisticated. Or maybe you prefer something fun and funky, try splashes of turquoise, fuchsia and orange - brighter is better! Or maybe a more natural and organic look is more your style, try natural tones and decor pieces straight from nature with edible elements such as cranberries. Are you more Hollywood chic? Even glamourous high heel stockings and animal print ornaments are readily available.

Check out your favourite stores, they always have something special for this time fo year.

Whatever your taste and style be sure to celebrate with decor it can really put anyone in the mood for the holidays....

Go BIG or Go Home!?

We all know the saying' go big or go home!' but I say "go big at home!'

What do I mean by that?

Big items in the home can really set the tone for your decor aesthetic. Here are some big ideas for your home:

- A big piece of art in a dining, living or bedroom really makes a statement even if it is not bright and colourful even a simple black/white piece can really be bold in a room.

- A big chair such as a chair and a half, is a perfect cozy spot for morning coffee or sexy and sophisticated with a glass of wine.

- A big and bold area rug in a living room! It is like art but on the floor

- Big fluffy pillows on a bed in the master or guest suite radiate luxury and chic comfort

- A big storage piece such as an armoir or credenza looks way more stylish (and is more practical) than having several smaller storage pieces in a space

- A big ottoman looks clean and modern and is super practical and multifunctional too

Even in a smaller space such as a condo or loft big items can work, just select the important ones like the chair or storage piece and don't over stuff the room. A few bigger items will really draw the eye in, too many big items will make any space feel tight and small. The bigger items should set the tone and then balance the room out with smaller details ...Big is Beautiful!