I could look at RH and Kelly Wearstler and Room&Board all day. But right now, as a recent grad and as a new mom, I can't afford it. And that's OK. Because I know I am not alone. And I also know I love my home and despite it being created on a budget, I feel like showing it off to anyone who wants to tour all three rooms of it. I want to lay out a couple of my tips and resources for you all who are also not at financial cloud 9 YET so you can still feel proud of your home.
1. HomeGoods - I visit my local HomeGoods store more than I would like to admit. And honestly, it is Baby's favorite store. I mean he literally has so much to look at. And almost every time I go there I see something that blows my mind. I have found interior designer gold here that looks designer. I was there recently with a friend and they had these charming gold cactus frames in two sizes. I think both together totaled under $10. Neither of us needed more frames but I simply said "If we walked into Jonathan Adler and saw these priced at $50 each, we wouldn't think twice. We would buy them right then and there." Perspective is everything. Don't let the price tag confuse you when you find a great deal.
2. Amazon - The simple things can be purchased on Amazon. Think bed sheets. Organizational containers. Frames. Candles. If you have already found a product you like, it's even easier to just do a quick search and one click purchase.
3. Estate Sale/Garage Sale - This is a new one for me. Actually, growing up we did this a lot but waking up that early didn't really sit well with my early twenties. But now, with a baby who wakes up early anyways, I love finding an estate sale. See my previous blog where I got a set of 12 silver napkin rings for a total of $5. Estate sales usually lend to better finds because there is no sentimental attachment between objects and seller. And they are literally selling EVERYTHING in the house.
4. Flea Markets - Sometimes still pricey, but sometimes just as good as an Estate Sale. I am going to the Los Angeles Flea Market this Sunday at Pierce College and will write a blog about any good finds on there. And remember, you won't always find stuff. Use these for inspiration too.
5. IKEA Hacks - OMG IKEA Hacks are insane! I see websites that cater specifically to how to upgrade your IKEA furniture with wood overlays and fancy hardware. I love it! But just remember, these hacks too add more money to a low budget furniture piece. So if you are really on a budget, these are great for those IKEA pieces you already have. Don't go buying all new IKEA furniture and expect it to not cost a chunk.
6. Refurbish - I am currently repainted and adding new hardware to a dresser I have had for going on 17 years. What took me so long to do this is beyond me. But stay tuned for that blog post coming up.
7. Holiday Sales - Look, I always say mix expensive with inexpensive. So yes you have to buy that designer throw pillow occasionally to dress up your HomeGoods pillows. But, holidays lend to amazing deals. There will always be a sale. So don't be afraid to ask your salesperson when the next sale is. And if they don't know and you just have to have it, leave your contact for them to reach out to you when the price lowers. Don't feel bad about this. That salesperson also wants to make a sale and while they may not be able to control the pricing, they will at least notify you when it is on a little extra President's Day discount!
Hope this helps for you to reach your interior design bliss! Comment below to tell me about some awesome finds you have had.