"Proudly Made in the USA", Bard International (www.bardintl.com) provides many yummy-looking faux foods, as well as decorative items.
We've had discussions before about faux foods. Some Stagers really pull out all the stops, while others (like me) might just use a basket of artichokes or apples. I've come to the conclusion that some of these differences are just regional.
However, for those who are looking for a resource, try Bard. I can practically smell the popcorn (great for home theaters)...not sure what kind of message a spilled martini would send, though!
(photo courtesy of Bard International)
Happy Staging! Julie
Julia Vigneron Maher, Nestings: Award-Winning Staging for Model, Vacant and Occupied Homes in Fairfield County, CT and Connecticut.
There was another syndicated article in our local paper, the Connecticut Post, on Staging: "The Art of Home Staging" by an ASID Designer, Rosemary Sadez Friedmann. Friedmann is located in Naples, Florida and is a prolific writer; I could not find a website for her but most of her writing appears to be concerning decorating-not Staging.
The author did bring up several good points, such as using neutral paint colors and having the home meticulously cleaned. Again, I don't know if Friedmann has any Staging experience, but some of her lines tell me she doesn't:
"The idea behind staging is to make the home look uncluttered and as professionally decorated as possible so it appears fresh and inviting to potential buyers." Staging goes beyond cleaning and de-cluttering. Staging's purpose is to define the functions of each space, provide good flow through the house, and flavor the home so it appeals to as broad a buying public as possible. Usually we're undoing the professional decorating!
"Having a home professionally staged can cost a lot of money, but there are ways you can do it yourself." How much is a lot of money? The mortgage payments you could save with a faster sale by virtue of professional Staging?
When faced with the Living Room, left, a Designer and a Stager will come up with two totally different solutions. A Designer will design the room for a specific client's taste. A Stager will have to highlight the room's limited features, create a focal point and provide good traffic flow into the adjacent Dining Room. Not to mention dealing with the bird and dog that live here, with all their attendant smells and paraphernalia. (I bid on the job, but they went DIY and spent months on the market.)
I think Stagers are always happy to have press coverage for our profession, but isn't it about time these news services and, indeed, our local papers themselves, have a real professional Stager write the stories? Editors should pay closer attention. I wouldn't dream of writing an article on kitchen design!
Home Owners and Builders should be sure they're talking to a professional Stager if they have a property to sell. Professional Stagers will help you sell your old house. Interior Designers can decorate your new home!
Happy Staging, Julie
Julia Vigneron Maher, Nestings: Award-Winning Staging for Model, Vacant and Occupied Homes in Fairfield County, CT and Connecticut.
Let me tell you all, this was no ordinary "Expo"! Oh no, this was more like an old-time Revival Tent Meeting! An event where one could go and meet - and even touch - the Stars of Staging! And yes, get Religion too!!!
How can I possibly describe the many talents that were present last Thursday, Nov. 12, at the lovely NJ Churchill Rental location? I believe over 100 attended this Expo sponsored by StagersList.com! So many old and new friends were there.
How can I describe my extreme delight to meet, IN PERSON, such AR luminaries as Terrylynn Fisher, Chris Fisher, Melissa Marro, Christine Rae, Shell Brodnax and several other major talents? And let me tell you all one thing about that Melissa Marro: she says she is "dry" and humorless. Well, watching her slide her lovely eyes around the room after a "dry" comment just makes you burst out laughing. She knows what she's doing, and I love it! (Good thing she brought her jeans...)
How much do I appreciate the Activerain blogging platform? It's been more than a year since my last post, and people were still recognizing me!
How can I describe the incredible value derived from this one content-filled day? Including entry fee, gas and tolls, the total cost was under $100!!! Key topics included: "Marketing for Explosive and Consistent Sales", "Market Driven Trends for Revenue", "RESA Overview and Update", "Feng Shui", "Overcoming Objections"...and many more. This day was packed with valuable information.
So, I got Religion, which is well-timed, as Nestings has re-entered the Staging field in Fairfield County, CT, with gusto. This Expo has re-energized me, and I came away with a long, but purposeful, To-Do list. Primary items include: joining RESA (I finally GOT it, Shell - thanks!), converting my newsletter to Constant Contact, and treating my business like a business. Hallelujah!
When this Expo comes to a city near you, I encourage you to clear your calendar and plan to attend!
Happy Staging - Julie
Julia Vigneron Maher, Nestings: Award-Winning Staging for Model, Vacant and Occupied Homes in Fairfield County, CT and Connecticut.
My charming, talented friend and neighbor, Karin Brey, is an award-winning artist in Fairfield County, CT, with a big heart. Every year my husband plants a large "neighborhood garden" of zinnias for all to enjoy. Karin gave him a small sketch of his garden in thanks. Her work is alternately impressionistic, pointillist, and dreamy. Much of her inspiration comes from the seasons and nature around her. Recently, Karin has introduced collage elements to her canvases. She will do nature "portraits", such as a homeowner's garden. Realtors: What a great gift idea!
Realtors and Stagers should get to know some local artists. You can refer them to Buyers, and sometimes use their art for Staging. Many local venues include the library, town hall, or banks. Be sure to check out art shows as well, and make some new friends!
Happy Staging, Julie
Julia Vigneron Maher, Nestings: Award-Winning Staging for Model, Vacant and Occupied Homes in Fairfield County, CT and Connecticut.
Looking for Staging training or continuing Design education? Have questions about your business plan or décor issues? This non-denominational Group is a forum for Students, Stagers and Trainers alike.
The Association of Design Education (ADE) was formed to promote excellence in the field of specialized design education. Each Education Affiliate offersa variety of programs ininterior redesign training, home staging training, andinterior decorating trainingthat exceed industry standards.
Everyone is looking for education; that's why AR is so valuable. This Group is looking for input regarding different training programs for Staging, Color, Redesign, Feng Shui, etc. YOU DO NOT NEED TO BE AN ADE MEMBER TO PARTICIPATE; ALL ARE WELCOME! Posts from Trainers regarding their issues are more than welcome. What are Students' concerns regarding their training? What kind of "next step" programs are out there? What did a Mastermind group do for you? What worked for YOU? What are you looking for?
As a member, I am seeking to spread the good word about ADE and help it grow. I am not an Educational Affiliate or Trainer, nor do I profess to be! If you have any questions about this group, feel free to contact me. I'm looking for my next step in Staging training - are you? Happy Staging - Julie
Julia Vigneron Maher, Nestings: Award-Winning Staging for Model, Vacant and Occupied Homes in Fairfield County, CT and Connecticut.
On my last model home project, I was asked to keep "green" in mind. It was difficult due to the low budget, but I managed to find some items made of sustainable wood, recyled rubber, etc. - I even purchased used books (now, that's recycling!)! It's hard to find cost-friendly earth-friendly items, other than used furniture! So I'm pleased to share this resource with my Staging friends:
One of my favorite green decor resources is the Viva Terra catalog: www.vivaterra.com. Recycled glass, metal, and plastics go into good-looking wine glasses, sculpture and outdoor rugs. You can find inspirational pieces such as these stone cairn candleholders:
These are great...but how about boulder-sized pillows to further the theme?
The embroidered Suzani collection, of 100% organic material could also be an inspiration:
The same fabric also covers two bench sizes, one of which makes a great coffee table.
The catalog also sponsors a blog at www.ecosalon.com, which covers health, lifestyle, fashion...Enjoy!
P.S. If green is the new black, what does that say about my all-black wardrobe? ;D - Julie
Julia Vigneron Maher, Nestings: Award-Winning Staging for Model, Vacant and Occupied Homes in Fairfield County, CT and Connecticut.
Come and Stage along with me! I did a Staging Consultation last year for this contemporary home nestled in the woods. What would your recommendations be?
My recommendations included:
Paint the stark white walls a light taupe
Remove the leather chair, ottoman, scatter rug, floor clutter and spindly plants
Add end tables and lamps - need more light in here
Remove the kimono and carved screen behind the TV (too taste-specific)
Place tall stick bundles on hearth to emphasize height of stonework fireplace
Move TV to left of fireplace and re-orient seating for one focal point
Add large-scale, nature-inspired art above sofa
Replace rug with solid or contemporary style in brown
Most of the additional items were available elsewhere in the house, so the only added expense would be painting, plus my Consultation. What else would you tell this client?
Nestings provides high-quality, value-added staging for occupied, vacant and model homes in Fairfield County and Connecticut. "Jump Start" selling your house with a Consultation!
Julia Vigneron Maher, Nestings: Award-Winning Staging for Model, Vacant and Occupied Homes in Fairfield County, CT and Connecticut.
The "Decorating For Dollars" article, written Elizabeth Razzi (a real estate columnist for the Washington Post) caught my eye this Sunday morning. It was in our local paper, Connecticut Post, in the real estate section. I'm a little peeved that our paper ran the article like a news story, when it's really an opinion. Here's the link:
As a real estate expert, she doesn't know what professional Staging is really all about. This is what she wrote:
"I'm still not convinced most buyers need to spend their money on a stager's advice." (Huh? Isn't the seller/Realtor spending the money? She continues...)
"Cash is short, and it could be better spent on the tasks all sellers need to tackle, such as removing or replacing old carpet; repainting in fresh, neutral colors; cleaning and repairing windows; and prettying up the yard." A professional Stager will advise sellers to tackle all those things before they stage! As I like to say, I won't put lipstick on a pig!
She does give a pitch for "Home Staging for Dummies" (after all, it's only $20), and says "Still, I hesitate to dismiss the idea, especially for some sellers. If a couple of hundred dollars spent on a consultation with a stager can help you gain an edge over competing sellers, go for it."
Then she decries the "anonymous tastefullness" provided by "these tasteful ladies". It's not about the decorating - it's about showing off the features of the house!
Realtors and sellers: If you have any questions about the value of Staging, contact a couple of your local Stagers. Most provide consulting and hands-on services at various price levels to get your house sold quickly and profitably.
Julia Maher of Nestings provides high-quality, value-added staging for occupied, vacant and model homes in Fairfield County and Connecticut.
Julia Vigneron Maher, Nestings: Award-Winning Staging for Model, Vacant and Occupied Homes in Fairfield County, CT and Connecticut.
So GREEN is the new black...even major catalogs such as Pottery Barn and Williams Sonoma Home are featuring "green" furnishings, with reclaimed or sustainable wood sources, organic cottons, and recycled materials. Wait, did I just say "recycled"?
Want to go GREEN the original way? RECYCLE! This is more than the newspaper/plastic/metal cans routine we do once a week. Look for recycled furniture! The easiest sources are estate sales, consignment shops, and antique stores.
Part of my business is selling "antiques" at local antique galleries, one of which is Stratford Antiques Center, located in Stratford, CT: www.stratfordantique.com. With 200 dealers on 16,500 square feet, there is a lot of merchandise to look through. Be sure to keep a creative eye when looking, however, because you might want to think about how something can be, rather than how it currently looks. Here are some examples:
Got a large entry? This super settee would look great painted out white or red. I'd leave it in the rich mahogany finish and upholster it with padding and a bright contemporary fabric.
It's size is grand, but would be approachable with some modern touches.
My favorite item in the gallery! This table is old - and would look great with the contrast of chrome and leather chairs, no?
Mrs. Brady might want her floor lamp back, especially after the shade is changed out for a linen short barrel shape.
Important Note: When buying lighting, always be sure it's in proper working order. When in doubt, have it re-wired!
Some pieces are room-ready. This sideboard has a new life with the fresh coat of white paint. Super in a sunny breakfast room.
Some dealers specialize in Early American, which mixes well with transitional and mid-century styles.
There's the funky and the fun - that chair is fab!
Classic chairs just crying out for a new life: cleaning, fresh updated fabric and a glass dining table!
This is my booth. I focus on faux bamboo, Hollywood Regency, and early painted finishes - an interesting mix. I also sell a lot of lighting and good art.
The black framed chair to the right of the chest is one of a pair. Originally very "Lana Turner", they were bright yellow, with bright yellow crushed velvet upholstery! I had the faux bamboo frames painted black, then reupholstered in linen. They look great in any setting.
So there's a quick tour, and hopefully some incentive to visit your local antiques gallery the next time you need a set of dining chairs, or a new piece for the guest room, or something for the foyer...Remember to keep your creative eye open to the possibilities!
Nestings provides high quality, value-added staging for occupied, vacant and model homes in Fairfield County and Connecticut.
Julia Vigneron Maher, Nestings: Award-Winning Staging for Model, Vacant and Occupied Homes in Fairfield County, CT and Connecticut.
OK, here's all you need to know about why you should attend this conference:
ALEXANDRA STODDARD ALEXANDRA STODDARD ALEXANDRA STODDARD ALEXANDRA STODDARD ALEXANDRA STODDARD!!!
Alexandra Stoddard is a philosopher of contemporary living, an interior designer, and author of many best selling books, including the classic Living a Beautiful Life: 500 Ways to Add Elegance, Order, Beauty and Joy to Every Day of Your Life now celebrating its 25th anniversary, and Choosing Happiness: Keys to a Joyful Life, in a fifteenth printing. Things I Want My Daughters to Know: A Small Book About the Big Issues in Life was introduced at the 2004 National Book Festival in Washington, DC, and is currently in its fifteenth printing.
As a pioneering writer and lecturer on personal happiness for the past twenty years, Alexandra has inspired millions to break the "rules" and pursue fulfillment. Stoddard's original theme of living beautifully and spiritually every day has resulted in appearances on Oprah; with Barbara Walters; Katie Couric on the Today Show; the Christopher Lowell Show; as host of the Home & Garden television series "Homes Across America;" and profiles in major magazines and newspapers worldwide.
In 1963 Alexandra went to work for the doyenne of American interior design, Eleanor McMillen Brown, becoming her special assistant and close friend. Thirty years ago, after her mentor retired, Stoddard started her own international design firm, Alexandra Stoddard Incorporated, with Mrs. Brown's blessing. When not on book tour, she continues her business today splitting her time between Manhattan and Connecticut.
It is an honor to have Ms. Stoddard join us at our conference!
Disclaimer: ActiveRain Corp. does not necessarily endorse the real estate agents, loan officers and brokers listed on this site. These real estate profiles, blogs and blog entries are provided here as a courtesy to our visitors to help them make an informed decision when buying or selling a house. ActiveRain Corp. takes no responsibility for the content in these profiles, that are written by the members of this community.
"Proudly Made in the USA", Bard International 
When faced with the Living Room, left, a Designer and a Stager will come up with two totally different solutions. A Designer will design the room for a specific client's taste. A Stager will have to highlight the room's limited features, create a focal point and provide good traffic flow into the adjacent Dining Room. Not to mention dealing with the bird and dog that live here, with all their attendant smells and paraphernalia. (I bid on the job, but they went DIY and spent months on the market.)
Announcing a new group on activerain.com:
Got a large entry? This super settee would look great painted out white or red. I'd leave it in the rich mahogany finish and upholster it with padding and a bright contemporary fabric.
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