Simple Ways To Makeover Your Bedroom

January 2, 2019 by 2 Comments

 

Bedroom Decor

 

Your bedroom is your sanctuary.  And, its décor should both put you at ease and express your personality.  It should be decorated in a way that makes you feel joy.  Because it is often used as a room to escape to, the best bedrooms combine comfort and style.  If it’s been awhile since you revamped your bedroom, it’s a project you should consider taking on.  Your bedroom is the last room you see before you go to sleep.  And, the first room you see when you wake up.  So, it’s important that you love the way it looks and feels.

There are simple ways to makeover your bedroom without spending too much time or energy.  Some of the easiest and smallest changes in your bedroom make a huge difference.   Here are a few bedroom makeover tips to help with the redecorating:

Start with the Bed

It’s not a bedroom makeover without revamping your bed.  It may be time for a new bed frame.  Especially, one that feels more luxurious and stylish. Check out your local options before you turn to shopping online for furniture. When it comes to your bed, it’s best to see and feel it. For example,  check out South Jersey furniture to see what budget friendly-options are in the local area.  If you live in a city like Los Angeles, drop by a showroom or check out the community classified.

One of our most important bedroom makeover tips is to buy new bedding to upgrade the look of your bed.  A quality duvet cover is one of the most important components of a bed.  And, it could have a pretty pattern, but should match the tone and colors of both your bed frame and your bedroom walls.

 

Bedroom Decor Ideas


Switch Out Your Curtains

A simple step that makes a huge difference in the bedroom is switching your curtains. When you’re shopping for new curtains, you should think about colors that match your theme.  Furthermore, consider blackout curtains if you’re someone who likes to nap during the day.
You can create the look of a more spacious bedroom by raising the curtains up higher.  When the curtain rod is mounted just an inch or two below the ceiling line, and the drapes hang to the floor, your bedroom will look more spacious.  Keep this trick in mind when you’re installing your new curtains.


Statement Mirror

A statement mirror is something that’s easy to buy and put up on a wall.  And, it’ll make a huge difference in your bedroom. Statement mirrors are typically large, with elaborate frames or unique shapes. For example, a mirror that looks like a farm window, a mirror that has a crystal frame or a mirror shaped like an arc are examples of mirrors that act as art in your bedroom.


Luxurious Rug

Another one of our bedroom makeover tips that will make a huge difference in a room is a beautiful rug.  Make sure it’s soft, feels luxurious, and is relatively plain. No need for intricate patterns, as you don’t want a rug to be an eyesore. Instead, choose a soft color that matches your bedroom’s theme colors.


Try a Stress-Reducing Wallpaper

When you’re revamping your bedroom, you’ll want to choose a couple of theme colours that you will use for the walls. Studies have proven that certain colours reduce stress and enhance your mood. The best soothing colours for a bedroom include pale blues, mint green, neutral taupes, pale greys and pale purples.  You can find inexpensive wall paper or wall decals on Amazon.  These colors can help put a fresh new look in your bedroom.

 

Bedroom Makeover Ideas


Use Thrift Store Finds

Another one of our bedroom makeover tips is finding vintage items.  Have you ever looked at your local thrift store’s home decor section? It’s definitely worth a look. You can upcycle and repurpose unique thrift store finds and end up with stylish bedroom décor. Look for beautiful vintage frames.  However, ignore any ugly art inside of them.  You can replace the art with something of your choosing and hang it on your bedroom wall.

Many thrift stores also have vintage globes for sale, retro fans, and other unique décor items that would look cute on a bookshelf or dresser. It’s important that your bedroom has some unique items so that it doesn’t look like a cookie-cutter bedroom.

 

 

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Unique and Thoughtful House Warming Gift Ideas

June 2, 2018 by Leave a Comment

 

 

house warming gift ideas

 

When your friends or relatives move into home, it is always nice to present them with a housewarming gift.  Especially, a gift that will show that you have put a lot of thought into it.  Unless they have specifically requested a gift card, giving one may show last minute shopping or little thought. So, make sure that your gift shows how much you care.  Here are a few house warming gift ideas:

 

 Inscribed Decanter

 For those homeowners who enjoy relaxing with a nice drink, a beautiful decanter with a personal inscription would be a good gift idea. You could write a message like ‘Good luck in your new home’ and the date below it so that they can always remember the date that they moved into their home.

Shot glasses are great warming gift ideas.  Furthermore, a set of nice shot glasses, along with an LSA shot glasses warmer is perfect.  If your friend is a tequila fan then this could be the perfect gift.

 

Cutlery Set

Determine if they have replaced their cutlery set recently.  If possible, find out the style and colors of their new dining room.  Try to select a cutlery set that will go nicely in the new place. You can even get a black cutlery that looks sleek or a mirror-finish copper set.  These sets make great house warming gifts. Matching tableware is a great option too.

 

Luxury Food Hamper/Basket 

Moving can be a very stressful time.  Doing the usual tasks like grocery shopping are going to be difficult while moving from one place to the other.  As a result, give a hamper/basket filled with some nice food and drinks.  A nice bottle of wine with two glasses will also go over well.

Buying their favorite foods will also show that you have put thought into making a personalized basket.  A luxury hamper from a store will make a perfect house warming gift.

 

Personalized Bathrobes

Buy a personalised bathrobe with their name stitched across the front.  If possible, purchase matching personalized robes for the entire family.  A fluffy bathrobe is the ideal house warming gift.

 

Candles and Infusers

Help make their new home feel familiar with scented candles.  Either candles or infusers help make the home smell heavenly,

 

Alexa (Amazon Echo)

For the homeowners that enjoy technology, give them an Amazon Echo.  If the house is fitted with smart appliances then this will be a particularly useful gift.  They can control their appliances through voice control.  Furthermore, they can ask Alexa to play some music while they’re unpacking boxes or enjoying a glass of wine.

 

 

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How to Shop for Curtains and Drapes

March 17, 2018 by Leave a Comment

 

how to shop for curtains and drapes

 

One of the biggest things that can influence the look and feel of a room is the homeowner’s choice of drapes or curtains.  However, unless you’re an interior decorator by profession or have the services of one on speed dial, it can be very difficult to pick the perfect set for a room.

But don’t despair.  Choosing the perfect draperies is not impossible.  Knowing how to shop for curtains and drapes really isn’t difficult.  Here are a few tips on how to shop for curtains and drapes for your home.

Drapes or curtains?

A lot of people often advertise drapes and curtains as the same product. Although they may look similar and perform the same functions, drapes and curtains are actually considered different.

Curtains, for example, usually refer to lightweight window treatments.  The material is often sheer, which makes them perfect for framing or accentuating a window.  Furthermore, black out drapes, blinds, or shades fall into the curtain category as well.  Drapes, on the other hand, typically refer to products that are made out of stiffer and heavier materials.  They are usually lined on the inside and are great for blocking out light.  Additionally, the work well making an open-window room totally and completely private.

Another how to shop for curtains and drapes tip is the length. Curtains are usually cut short enough that they barely touch the floor.  They give the room a light and airy presence.  However, drapes are often tailored so they can puddle on the floor.  This is perfect if you want the room to feel more formal or grand.

So, before you start shuffling through color and pattern swatches, first decide whether the room decorating needs. Than consider whether you want curtains or drapes.

To match or to make a statement?

Another one of our how to shop for curtains and drapes tips is to think about the color and pattern of the fabric.  Curtains and drapes make a visual statement.  This means they can definitely influence the look and feel of a particular room.  So, the color or pattern that you pick for your curtain or drapes is essential.

Therefore, you have to decide what you want your curtains or drapes to do. Is the primary idea for them to match your currently-existing décor, or do you want them to pop out and make a statement?

If you want the draperies to make a visual statement, bring natural-light photographs of your room or décor.  As a result, you can more accurately pick the color that will match and compliment your room.  Be sure to take sample swatches of colors that you like home.  This gives you an opportunity to see the colors in your light

If you want your curtains or draperies to pop, then feel free to go as elaborate or ornate with the color or pattern.  Just make sure that the color doesn’t clash too much with the rest of your decor. You can prevent this by at least buying a pattern or color that fits the room’s theme. Even a potentially clashing color can surprise you if it matches the theme of the room.

However, if you just want a new set of curtains and don’t want them to be the main focus of the room choose a set in neutral colors.  This allows the curtains or drapes to gently blend into the room’s décor.  Furthermore, such colors can range from stark white to softer cream, beige, or a lighter shade of gray.

Fabric matters

Once you decided on the window treatment and the pattern or color, consider what material you want.  Additionally, your fabric choice should not only dictate how great your window treatments look , but how durable they are.

If you’re looking to maximize the look factor of your curtains, many designers agree that silk, faux silk, linen, and velvet make great choices. They will hang in luxurious and elegant ripples.

If your goal is to keep out cold weather or just blocking outside light and sound, then consider heavier materials.  Suede, velvet, tapestry, and tweed should be at the top of your list.

As for durability, organic silk has a tendency to degrade when constantly exposed to the sun.  So, don’t expect your silk curtains to last for too long if you don’t take care of them.  Additionally, you can counter this effect by using a liner or by choosing faux silk instead.  Faux silk is more durable than real silk.

Keeping the tips listed above foremost in your mind should help you get a much better idea of what you actually want and need.  Finally, make sure to research the products or materials you are considering.  Most importantly, buy only from trusted suppliers.

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How to Buy a Photo Scanner for Family Photos

January 15, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Since you were born, your parents started taking photos of you.  The photo included other family members and other special events related to them.  However, these pictures can get lost or destroyed.  Unfortunately, along with the lost photos goes memories.  Today, I’m sharing parenting tips on how to buy a photo scanner.

photo scanner

 

 

The best way to save your family photos is to store them in your personal computer. Furthermore, one of the best methods is to use a high-quality scanner.  What does a scanner do?  It scans physical photos and transforms them into digital photos directly onto your computer.  Fortunately, you can save tons of them without worrying about them getting lost.

Also, scanners have existed since the 1950s.  However, they only became available for the larger public in the 90s.  The best photo scanner is are the flatbeds. They are easy to use and are compatible with almost every type of computer. If used excessively, many photo scanners can deteriorate your images. So, be sure to select a photo scanner that will endure usage.  Especially, if scanning your family photos is the main goal. 

In the $100 price range, there are lots of photo scanners that can do the job.  But, if you have used a camera with film negatives or you are planning on scanning artwork, a nice scanner can go up to $200. They can come with features that will hold your pictures in place.  This feature can be useful when scanning photos.  Additionally, you must pay attention to how they use the combination of light and mirrors.  If pixels are missing, and that is due to the light or the mirrors, the quality of your scan will be affected. 

As a result, there are three major points to consider when buying a photo scanner:

  • The first one is the resolution.  The more dots per square inch, the better your pictures will come out on the computer.
  • Secondly, image-sensing technology is very important too. Remember that contact image sensors are good for scanning documents.  However, the charged coupled device or CCD can hold a large number of photos and that is what you need.
  • Last, check the dynamic range and tonal range. The higher range it has, the better scan you will have.   For example, Letter D represents the top range. Same thing goes with the tonal range, the higher, the better.

Now that we’ve covered the basics of a photo scanner, you may also want to start considering a high-quality printer to reproduce your images as well.  Keep in mind that digital storage can be fragile, so “hard copies” are good to keep on hand. 

The types of printers used by artists for artwork should be considered.  However, these can become quite expensive.  Additionally consider a printing service, which uses very high caliber equipment to produce quality prints.

We hope you found our tips on how to buy a photo scanner helpful.  Go forth and start scanning your family photos! The market has a lot of scanners ready to be bought, coming in different shapes and colors, but remember that the specifications are the most important factor you have to look for when getting one.

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Shopping Tips for Infant Car Seats and Strollers

April 25, 2017 by Leave a Comment

Taking baby on the road? There are a number of things to keep in mind when you are shopping for strollers and infant car seats.  Today, we’re sharing parenting tips on infant car seats and strollers.  First, consider the age of the child.  Furthermore, how will you be using the stroller or car seat before you buy.

 

 

tips for infant car seats

 

 

Buckle up baby

First, you will start with a portable infant car seat.  It will also double as a carrier and a rocking chair in a pinch.  Infant car seats are designed to be rear-facing (the safest seating for a baby) and it snaps into a base. You will find all-in-one car seats on the market.  They are a tempting choice because they could potentially save you money. However, the one-size-fits-all design may not work for smaller babies or smaller cars.  For example, these infant car seats are big and bulky.  They are a good backup car seat or great for a caregiver. One car that can accommodate any kind of car seat is the Jeep Compass. Make sure the seat you are buying will actually fit in your vehicle.

Traveling with a toddler

Your next car seat will be a convertible model when your baby is about a year old. Experts advise you to keep the seat rear-facing until your child is at least two years old.  So, the seat has to be able to accommodate the extra leg room while facing backward. When your child has passed the 40 to 50lb. mark, you will want to change the seat to a forward-facing installation.

Toddler booster seats are also available, and they are cheaper than convertible seats.  However, they are only safe for a child who has reached the recommended front-facing age of two years old.  Next, basic booster seats are designed to “boost” your child up to the proper level for seatbelt coverage.  High-back versions are recommended as a safer and more comfortable option.  Be sure to check your state’s car seat regulations.  They could vary from state to state. 

Let’s go for a stroll

Before you buy a stroller, consider how you will be using it.  Will you be walking through the city or down a country road? You will need a durable, comfortable stroller with strong wheels and a safety harness. Some strollers collapse down into a lying position so baby can nap comfortably and safely.  This is perfect for trips to the mall or other events.

If you are moving baby from car to stroller for your walks, you may appreciate the kind where you can strap the car seat right into the frame. As baby grows and is able to sit up, walk and toddle away, you may want to switch to a lightweight, collapsible stroller that is easy to pack when not in use.

As with any baby equipment, it is important to take your time.  Most importantly, do your research and invest in a car seat or stroller that you feel good about. Once you do, pack up baby and hit the road.

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How to Bargain Shop For Kid’s Clothing

July 10, 2015 by
Today, I’m sharing tips on how to bargain shop for kid’s clothing.  It‘s amazing how much children grow in a year. Have you noticed that problem with your children? Kids grow out of pants, shirts, shoes and it happens quickly. At least 2 – 3 times a year I find myself going through my grandchildren’s clothing or asking their mother what kind of clothing they need to get through the summer, winter and the school year. Unfortunately there’s nobody to pass hand me downs too in the house for either, so I look for ways to shop wisely and within my budget.
Kid's shopping tips

How to Bargain Shop for Kid’s Clothing:

 

I’ve found ways to cut down on clothing expense and the children look fabulous.  Just walking into a store at any given time and just purchasing clothing is not an option for me. I shop on a budget and I want quality. Here’s 7 ways while shopping for kid’s clothing that have helped me cut down on expenses:

  1. Purchase clearance items  – I purchase coats, tees, jeans, shorts, sundresses etc. in a bigger size for the next season.
  2. Shop sales – You can score some great buys during the holidays too. Check on-line and your local advertisements for sale items.
  3. Free shipping and discounts – Not paying shipping costs or getting a discount on your order can help cut down on expenses.
  4. Shop thrift and consignment shops – I send tons of clothing to thrift shops that are in excellent shape. Others do the same.  So check them out.
  5. Don’t purchase designer items unless you’re getting a huge discount – Kids outgrow them too quickly, and you will rarely get your money’s worth.
  6. Check out neighborhood yard sales – You can find bargains on jeans for boys to play in and adorable dresses for girls.  If you have a newborn, I’ve seen tons of baby clothing that look brand new.
  7. Check out on-line yard sales – I’ve seen great deals on local Facebook sites too.
I don’t recommend purchasing used shoes for children nor do I think everything has to have a designer label. I would rather save my money for week-end activities and educational items for my grandchildren instead of having them dressed in designer cloths and too broke enjoy life.  We hope you enjoyed our tips on how to bargain shop for kid’s clothing.
 
What savvy tips do you have on how to bargain shop for kid’s clothing.  We all want to save money.  You may also like: 8 Back to School Shopping Tips
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8 Back To School Shopping Tips

August 12, 2014 by
It’s time for the kids to head Back to school!  Parents will be heading to the malls and other stores for back to school clothes, book bags, lunch boxes, and paper supplies.  The thought can make you feel overwhelmed?  Don’t fret, we sharing parenting tips on back to school shopping tips to help you prepare for the big event.
back to school tips, back to school shopping tips

 

First set a budget.  Next, seek out back to school bargains.  Most importantly, use our back to school shopping tips for ultimate savings.  Also, if you’re wondering how to stay on track with your budget?  A list will keep you on track and help you to not make purchases that your really don’t need.   Additionally, here are a few more back to school shopping tips:

 

  1. Check Your Child’s Closet Before You Shop – Before you head to the store, check to see if your child has clothing that can be used or passed down. A new shirt/tee can dress up an old pair of jeans.  A scarf can dress up an old shirt.  A new pair of shoes will dress up everything!
  2. Head to the Thrift Stores – Thrift stores are excellent places to find bargains on jeans, tees, coats and more.
  3. Recycle Old Jeans – If your daughter can still wear jeans from last year get creative.   Add a design with jewels or paint.  Better yet, distress them.  You can turn the old into new and updated look for the year.  Furthermore, make it a mother-daughter project.
  4. Don’t make large purchases – Next, don’t purchase everything at once.  It may save on time, but you will most likely spend more if you’re not purchasing sale items.  Set aside several week-ends to shop.  Especially,  when you have checked out upcoming sales ads.
  5. Look for Sales and BOGO deals –  Also, scour your local paper for upcoming sales.  Only purchase items that are on sale and start shopping early for the best deals.
  6. Shop at Dollar Stores – Crayola Crayons, notebook paper, notebooks, rulers, sandwich cases etc. can be found for a bargain.  Ollie’s, Big Lots, Gabriel Brothers etc. should be on your shopping list for these products as well.  Check Ollie’s and Big Lots for good deals on school supplies too.  I’ve found great deals at both.
  7. Head to the Clearance and Sale Racks – I stocked up on end of season tees and jeans this week-end for my little man.  Target and Old Navy have great sales on jeans. You can find good deals at Gap, Children’s Place, and Polo too.
  8. Check Out Deals On-line  – Finally, you can save on time and gas expense shopping on line.  Old Navy, Target, and Cookies Kids are great places to shop.  I look for sites that will ship for free.

Finally, we hope you found our back to school shopping tips beneficial.  You may also like:  Simple Tips to Consider for Studying Abroad.

 

 

 

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Black Friday Shopping Tips

November 4, 2006 by

Black Friday shopping tips

 

 

Black Friday is the biggest shopping day of the year. Also, it’s one of the best days to grab steals and deals.  However, your planning must start before you hit the stores.   Check out the ads days before and especially around Thanksgiving Day.  I suggest that you make a list of the items that you are seeking and the store that has those items.  If you get a chance, check ads for the more expensive items prior to heading out on Black Friday.  I would shop for those items first.

Additionally, many stores start Black Friday around 8:00 pm on Thanksgiving Day.  To help make your experience easier, here are a few Black Friday shopping tips:

  • Be patient and wear comfortable shoes.
  • Carry a list of the items that you’re shopping for.
  • Set a budget, and don’t exceed it.
  • Map out a route so you don’t have to back track to stores.
  • Carry the ads with you, you may encounter a discrepancy with the sales clerk.
  • Be an Early Bird shopper, between 5:00 am and 11:00 am, for the best deals.
  • If possible, leave the children at home. You can accomplish more if you don’t have to stop to feed the little ones or leave because they’ve had a major meltdown.
  • Shop on-line in the comfort of your home. On-line retailers offer Black Friday deals too.
  • Get a gift receipt for any holiday purchases for exchanges or refunds.

Most importantly, remember the true meaning of the holidays.  As a result, don’t overextend your purchasing power. Just because an item is on sale doesn’t mean that it’s a bargain.  Set a budget and stick to it.  You may be able to find the item at another store or for a lower price at a later time.  Be sure to take your patience and manners with you.  There will be hundreds of shoppers looking for a deal just like you.  You may also like: How to Become a Flea Market Shopping Pro. 

 

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