Julea's Home Staging & Styling Blog

Julea's work on HGTV Thursday 11/5!!!! - A Dining Room This Time

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 14:03:53 -0600

See what Julea does for an empty space, for new homeowners on My First Place.

Air Time Thursday - November 5, November 8th and December 22nd. 7:00 pm CST! http://www.hgtv.com/my-first-place/picky-and-plugging-away/index.html

The 2^nd home in a series of 4 - From furniture selection to finishing touches, see how Julea take a space from plain and empty to elegant entertainment ready!

Death, My Favorite Motivational Speaker

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 12:03:16 -0500

Instead of sitting in some auditorium, or reading a certain book, my inspirational speaker has been a different fellow. You may at first think this post odd being categorized under Business Tips and Planning, but please read on...

My brother passed away on October 5^th after a 1 1/2 battle with prostate cancer. For those of us that have lost a loved one (I have now lost both of my siblings and my Mom,) part of the mourning process is self reflective. We take heed of our own lives - We ponder our own self worth, things we've accomplished, things we have not, as well as life's pleasures and sorrows.

Life is well life - No pity party here. If you go through it thinking "Why Me?" "I Should of...," "Well...That's because..." - You know what? It will just pass you by.

So let's reflect on that in terms on how we look at ourselves within our businesses. We are all independent business owners; it's a part of our self make up, our life's elevator speech. And how COOL is that? We determine our own business destiny. We get to plan our path - With that, let me share with you things I've learned from my favorite motivational speaker - Death.

He's a bare bones kind of guy. He helps you make finalized plans, his directional message launches lessons smack into your psyche - No warm and fuzzy accolades or sayings from this speaker.

When my Mom passed away in '98, I sat intently listening to her eulogy and absorbed her wonderful life story balanced with a perfect mix of family, work, play and volunteerism. Toward the end of her life, although afflicted with a dire disease, she continued to live life at full speed - Golfing while Terminal. It took her death to motivate me to act on my new career path. There sitting in a drawer for three years was information on specialty training in Interior Redesign & Home Staging. There is sat in that drawer -Waiting for me to say the cost was worth the educational results, waiting for me to say I had the time to juggle kids/ husband with work, waiting for me to devote myself to building a business. Within 6 months of her death, I had started a new business, and taken that training - Moving full speed into a career I felt passionate about. Now going on 11 years, I just love my job. So what did Death teach me? Do not wait for some revelation to be motivated to move on a passion - Just Do It!

So now with the passing of my brother, I reflected on what fills my day. Made up of only so many hours, how do you want to spend it? Time management is a huge issue with many business owners. How wonderful that we get to dictate how each of our days is spent? But how easy is it to let that control go? The key here is to create that perfect recipe of success - To balance it correctly, make room for that perfect harmony of family - work - play. Create that list of what is important to you within those areas to make your day fulfilled - Are you busy Twittering, when you could be taking a beautiful fall walk with your spouse/child/self instead? Can you give yourself a raise, which will allow you to spend more time doing a hobby, or taking a class? Can you hire a service/person to free up tasks you dislike? Evaluate your hours spent during the day and how that's working in terms that perfect recipe for success.

Pretty great speaker isn't he?

Tread Carefully When Seasonally Staging a Home

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 09:26:53 -0500

I'll be getting interviewed for our local paper in 1 hour on Holiday Decorating & Entertaining. After spending the weekend compiling my thoughts and doing a bit detective work, here are a few thoughts on Holiday Decor for your home.

Retail can be overwhelming, you can be swayed and tempted a few times within an isle these days. From new color combinations in the ornament lane, to adorable tiny bales of hay to adorn your tabletops - Retailers aim for you to spend. So here is a philosophy to apply when seasonally decorating -

When seasonally staging/decorating a home keep true to the bones of the home and the decorative style of the interior. Be very careful when dressing and styling the home to keep in-tune to the price point, architecture, and decorative interior style of the home whether it is for sale or not.

Example: A Colonial looks best with classic seasonal decor on the outside - The burlap Hoe-Down theme looks out-of-place with the classic lines and refinery of the home. Instead, replant your entry Urns with seasonal finds - Tall grasses, mums, kale, pumpkins or gourds. Or create a bit of whimsy with a pumpkin topiary by stacking graduated sized pumpkins within the urns. Symmetry is key when working with formal style. (Pumpkin Topiary www.lowes.com)

Inside: IN this same style home, an entry or dining table looks festive with a fall inspired floral in an eye-catching container of polished copper or silver. Apple baskets or primitive wood containers will not be in-tuned to the home's style. Instead, mix in a bit of everlasting pods, berries or branches to bring a bit of the "nature" trend alive. Purchase plaid or a fall colored stripe yardage from a local fabric store for use as runners, simple throws or as pillows. The plaid or stripe pattern will pair beautifully with your traditional interior design. Want to create that cozy feel - Look for throws in a small pile "fur" such as sheared mink.

On that same note, it is a struggle these days to find the time to even consider not using paper plates, paper table clothes and throw away serving trays when hosting a celebration. DON"T! Unless you have over 60 coming, paper is just a no-no. Whether it is a Broker's open or a Holiday gathering for friends and family, take the extra effort and make it special.

Example: Broker's Open - If you have to get "throw-away," purchase clear plastic or at least the paper square plates in a solid color. Crazy patterns and motif only fight with what is on the plate, and if they're extra cute, become the conversation rather than the home... Transfer the chow to new platters. If the food is store bought, by this simple move, it goes ready-made to home-made. from thrown together, to thought out. Add a bouquet of fresh seasonal flowers, a "with compliments" bag of pumpkin seeds with your card attached, and you've just made a great statement.

Home Stagers Move You in Too!

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 08:01:36 -0500

Beyond the typical home stager's repertoire of prepping that home for sale, we have an array of added services aimed at clients moving in.

Take an existing client as an example. 1st recommended by her Realtor when she 1st arrived in the Chicago land area from Louisville in 2007, she wanted to put her stamp on her new home. We used what she already owned, and made her new home hers with a new wall color paint palette and interior redesign.

Three years later, relocated again - I'm at it again with her new home in Indiana.

Color Consultation- Often times a new homeowner wants to start decorating their new home from the get-go. Gone with the old homeowners, in with color choices in-tune to her belongings and personal style.

Interior Redesign- We take what you have and make it all work within your new home. In a few hours, your blank space becomes your space. Your room becomes balanced, functional and unified. Best of all, you get instant gratification, validate your existing pieces, and readies the space for family and friends. If added items are desired, the home stager will create a "wish list" of things that will enhance the room further.

Shopping & Traditional Design Services- If you'd like to refresh and add to your collections, we can make suggestion or shop for those new pieces. We too offer more traditional design service such as window treatments and one-of-kind accents such as custom floral arrangements to add those finishing touches to your space.

End Result: A home you can call you own, without the stress of thinking you have to buy ALL NEW. A space you can entertain and live-in within a few weeks of moving in.

Before closing -

Two Weeks after move-in... Home

Wall Colors: SW7738 Cargo Pants SW7736 Garden Sage - Fireplace Wall

- Room is now arranged, and a new item wish list established -

•· Larger wall art for over sofa (We have plenty of room in this home to find a new place for her old art and clock.)

•· Big Chunky Candle holder and candle display for Mantle vignette.

•· New floral for side table.

"The thing I love about you Julea is that I would of thought to put everything back just the way you had it in my old home, instead your found a whole different way of arranging and displaying my things to fit into my new home - creating something fresh and new." - Angela

“Falling” in Love with Your Home 2009 Style

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 14:20:55 -0500

Mother Nature is beginning to put on her grandest show for the year, and we're heading to the attic or basement for all those boxes marked "Fall Decorations." As many of you would agree, fall is a great season to change out or update your seasonal and home décor, but just like our wardrobe, sometimes we need to weed out or refresh our stash. Here a few ideas and tips to help you update your home for the season and infused the latest trends into your home décor.

•1.) Give your rooms a new arrangement. Fall is the perfect time to review your spaces and ready your rooms for the upcoming succession of holidays. Like a blank canvas, a new arrangement gives you an introduction for a medley of fresh ideas from accessory placement to infusing new color ideas. By starting at the base, you can layer on interesting new ideas, rotate your collections and perhaps come up with something totally new! (Insider Arrangement tip: Your hearth, piano or picture window is appropriate launching points for your new redesign.)

•2.) Shop Your Home & Reinvent It. Unveil those fall décor boxes and sort through your decorating goods by shopping your own home. Metallics are at the fore front of 2009-10 trends. Could your ceramic pumpkin and Indian corn collection get a hip makeover with a quick coat of trendy antique copper paint; perhaps those pitted cabinet knobs, a lamp bases, or a painting frame could be given the same coat, creating a new metallic tread to your décor? From lamp shades to art print's mats - small changes made to your old stuff gives them the same result as a bit of Botox!

•3.) Put it into Rotation. The same stuff out all the time, in the same place becomes a bit dull on the eyes - Consider a rotation of your accessories. Packing away a few of your room accessory staples when seasonally decorating, not only rejuvenates your room, but when you bring it back into the mix, put it in a different spot! My motto is - "A pumpkin in, means a Llardro out. "

•4.) Layer it On. As the temperature goes down, the layers come out. Nothing speaks more to the season than cozy & warm textiles. Hot trends are nature inspired textural prints, animal motifs and ethnic patchworks - So incorporate layered fabrics and other textiles like rugs into your seasonal decorating. Have an old quilt that can be reinvented into a beautiful pillow, framed as art, or upholstered into a footstool? (Horchow's Patchwork Stools.) Don't be afraid to layer more than one rug on the floor or consider that rugs can be wall art too. (Insider Tip: No one ever said you can't use fabrics as accessories - Down tables, tossed on sofa backs or tucked into or on top of bookcases or armories.)

•5.) Setting the Room's Mood. Nothing is cuter than Mr. Scarecrow you picked up at the craft show, but is he appropriate sitting in your formal living room? Remember to set the mood of the room with how you accessorize it. Mr. Scarecrow would be better far better suited to hang out in the kitchen, and sitting on your cocktail table a re-purposed silver serving tray adorned with pine cones, leaves and candles more befitting for the flavor of the room. Ombre is a trend, so why not invest in a few large ombre colored candles for a new candle look. (World Market Ombre Candle Holders.)

•6.) Coordinate with Color. Incorporating a new color palette into a space is one of the easiest ways to revitalize a room. Some new color combinations may evoke your creativity when seasonally accessioning your rooms, looking for a new pillows, window panels, throws or creating vignettes:

-Coffee Bean Brown paired with Artichoke Green

-Deep Plum paired with Paprika

-Apple Green paired with Tomato Red

-Smoky Blue paired with Champagne Beige (Panels from Pottery Barn.)

Home Stager's work on HGTV in October

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 06:56:31 -0500

Filmed almost a year ago, my 1st of 4 spaces I designed for HGTV's "My First Place!"

A whole lot of work, but oh so much fun, with homeowners and a production company a sheer delight to work with - These projects came to me fast and furious; ever challenging me to tie my home staging and design resources & experience seamlessly together.

Episode HMFP-1105H

•· October 22, 2009

8:00 PM e/p

•· October 22, 2009

3:00 AM e/p

Commitment Before Contract?

First-time home-buyers Andy and his girlfriend Lindsey have begun searching for a home in the northern suburbs of Chicago. However, Lindsey isn't totally sure that she wants to buy a house with Andy before they're even engaged. She doesn't know that Andy plans to propose once they're in their new home, and neither of them knows how difficult the process of buying can be.

Since 1999, Interior Stylist Julea Joseph has owned Chicago area based design and staging business - Reinventing Space. Your seen her on HGTV or Chicago Tribune's CLTV giving homeowners expert insight on how to refresh, style and celebrate their space -Whether prepping their home to go on the market, just settling in, or just in need of a change.

From the Mouth of New Stagers - K.I.S.S.

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 09:35:19 -0500

So I just had the honor to train two new Interior Stylists this week - The biggest bonus is that I'm taught by them too.

Both of my students came from fabulous Graphic & Art Design/branding backgrounds, so when it came to the Marketing portion of the training, we had a lot to share.

An Aha moment came to me when discussing Websites - It was a very interesting discussion...

As we all know, it is natural for those interested in this industry to GOOGLE about - Looking at sites and taking a personal look at those in the industry. The interesting conclusion for both students was that we Stagers/Re-designers spend a lot of time creating novelettes on our sites - Especially when it's about ourselves.

Almost in unison they spoke about how on our sites the story consistently unfolds that from childhood forward, we've had a vested interest in furniture rearrangement and Barbie Dream Home design. While that is all good for speaking for the obvious passion for our skill, no one really wants to spend a half hour reading about our life from toddler on up.

We live in a time of Tweets and text messages, and just like our home staging; you've got around 5-10 seconds to make a 1st impression. So why is it that when we ply our trade, we're aware of the short attention span our consumers, but when it comes to our sites, not so much?

The Secret Formula to Creating a Beautiful Home - The Perfect "Mix”

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 08:43:38 -0500

Ahhh... wouldn't it be pure bliss to have an unlimited budget to make your space lovely. No regard for the bottom line or being reduced to look at price tags? The sheer joy.... For me, there is no fun in that - What about the hunt, the use of creativity and inventive cunning to reach the same end? Now that's bliss...

A core philosophy's of my business is getting the right "mix" - Defining when to spend it and when not to when it comes to decorating and styling your home.

For me, a beautiful space has a rich collectiveness - A "mix" of rich with poor, old with new - A secret recipe that in the end defines the legacy and personality of the homeowner. My business signature is using what you have, and then moving on from that. For most of my clients, shopping is not an issue, nor is what they already own - It's the mêlée of pulling it collectively together to distinguish their space and define their style. Whether they're puzzled on how to make their living room inviting or launching into a remodeling project - Most struggle with knowing how to mix that perfect recipe.

My secret formula is to know when to use it, when to spend it, and how to get the look for less. The total package has to fit together with your personal taste, style of your home and most importantly - Your Budget! It doesn't matter if I'm staging your home, helping you decorate for a party or holiday, or consulting on a major renovation - The formula is the same.

So what's my formula? How you obtain that perfect recipe? Here are the three ingredients:

USE IT: Most of us over the years have acuminated things, whether bought, inherited, or found, we have stuff. If you take a hard look at your stuff; I guarantee there is treasure galore within your inventory. Can you repaint, upholster, and update it? In another room, would it look better or have better use? Your old stuff is your legacy, it defines who you are, and if it doesn't, I'll let you know. As an educated professional, my talent is to be able to identify what can be used or not when it comes to making your spaces beautiful. Although, most would not cast me to appear on "Antiques Road show," I'm pretty good at knowing what's worthy, and really good at using it if it fits into the grand plan.

Whether it's a couch, painting or lamp, I'll let you know if it will work, or if it's an undiscovered treasure that we can use "as is," or is worthy of a reinvention. I did a staging recently and came upon a signed Leroy Neiman print that the homeowner had picked up at a garage sale. They were going to toss it because the matting was ragged and damaged and the print was falling out of its frame. After a quick look over and a suggested run to a framing store for a re-mat & tune-up - They'll have a pretty snazzy "real" piece of showcase art!

SPEND IT: O.K., even though I'm supposed to be the budget decorator, you just have to sometimes SPEND IT! Love that vintage French one-of-a-kind-kind; will be perfect for my awkwardly sized foyer- Entry Table? - Go get it. It will become the showcase to your home. You'll love looking at it every day and it will define the style of your place. There has to be expensive in the mix - and there will be a times that spending the big bucks is a worthwhile or part of the grand plan. That stuff may be pricey, but you can fill in the blanks with less expensive or fabulous finds.

The other piece of SPEND IT has to do with the quality of things. Sometimes you can't get it for less; sometimes the workmanship upstages the price point. Your inherited Grandma's dining room set can be broken or made by the SPEND IT choice you make. Pair her set with off-the-rack Target window treatments and rods and her set is reduced to a "tired pass-down." Pair her set with custom one-of-kind window treatments and the set is upgrade to "antique heirloom."

LOOK FOR LESS: Getting the LOOK FOR LESS is a two- fold feat. The 1^st feat is to see if you can find the expensive, SPEND IT item for less (you still have to pay $$$ for it though.) And the 2^nd feat is to be to make choices at discount store, and have the eye for inexpensive items that LOOK expensive. Shopping expensive is easy; anyone can walk into the Mart and find fabulous stuff, expensively priced. Finding its identical twin or a knock-off for a fraction of the price takes talent and an eye. Getting that look for less, filling in those blanks makes for that perfect "mix."

Say you've got a few lovely Sterling silver pieces. Pair those with a few more in silver-plate, and the plate becomes instantly "Sterling" by association... The end result is a beautiful mix...

The #1 Needed Skill of a Stager - Make Sure you're Shrink Wrapped

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 10:40:04 -0500

Back in the day, when I had just started my new business, I struggled with defining my bio for my brochure. Yes, I had taken specialty redesign & staging training, yet I didn't have a degree in Design, but rather a degree in Psychology. My naivety pressed me to think that my degree would be meaningless to my prospects.

Little did I know that one of my greatest assets in the success of my business has been that wonderful degree! And because I quickly discovered that what I did for a living, yes, required me to have great decorative and creative skills, more importantly was my aptitude and understanding of the psychology of people.

...I'm not a home stager, I'm your house shrink!

I can't stress the absolute significance of refining your skills to include an in-depth education in understanding your clients and prospects. Whether you are meeting with a Realtor as a potential associate, conducting a Staging Evaluation, or talking to a reporter or producer on the phone - One of the main components to your trade success - is that you understand the needs and personality types of not only your clients, but those associated to your business.

How do your honed skills benefit your business? The list is endless...

•· We are in the business advising and consulting homeowners regarding the most expensive purchase they ever made, and likely a majority slice of their net worth; as well as their safe haven and emotional grounding- board. Knowing their personality type is a crucial element in not only conducting one-on-one business with them, but also how you creatively and productively provide your services for them.

•· We are in the business as being a reliable and educated resource for our Business Associates, helping them create a better revenue stream and professional image. Understanding your associates' personalities, how they conduct business and how you can morph your skill and service set to benefit their business style is a crucial component to your business philosophy and plan.

•· We are in the business of understanding what the latest trends are in consumer spending and needs in the Home & Garden arena. Having sharp listening, communication and trend spotting skills allows you to be on the cutting-edge of your industry and serve your clients well.

•· For business success, one has to been able to network and promote themselves in the community and media. Understanding how to effectively pursue these key associations, and create a long term relationship with them allows you to become the go-to resource - Keeping you in the Public's Eye.

How do you refine these skills? There are so many resources available.

•· Learn through Industry Mentoring. Find someone in the industry that is an expert and learn from them. The best education is to be educated by someone like you.

•· Take courses in psychology and use your to-the-trade only resource partners' educational forums. Many of your business or industry partners have wonderful education workshops on this subject - One of my favorite ones came from a window hardware company!

•· Be a voracious reader - Take the time to be a student of text. I dug up an awesome Doctoral Thesis on the psychology of the home buyer as it pertained to model homes, and found in its bibliography an eye awakening book on the social psychology of home decorating and design.

Al Fresco Spaces - Making your Outdoors Magnificent

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 11:10:06 -0500

As our latest season, summer, is almost upon us, we are all a buzz to making our outdoor living space a haven.

Whether your home is on the market or not, your outdoor spaces should show as well as your indoor space.

If you are need of a bit of inspiration, here are a few tips, advice and ideas from my own outdoor spaces to yours.

Be inspired to eke out areas of your yard into "rooms." This can be done by establishing an area for an activity, or by anchoring a space with a structure. A room is established by adding a gazebo, fireplace, garden or by simply adding a solid surface to your lawn with concrete patio pavers or decking.

Once your space has been establish, you can furnish and adorn your new room(s.) - Retailers have a whole host of wonderful outdoor elements to make your space shine. You can also get creative by repurposing flea market or household finds to add a special flavor to your décor.

1.) Fun with Rugs.Whether you pick-up an outdoor rug retail, or shop the web, rugs can anchor seating areas and add an element of sophistication to an outdoor space. I found this awesome rug company which sells just the most fabulous outdoor rugs made from recycled plastic - My favorite find is on order from Mariachi Imports for $75.00.

2.) Hot Seat. Ceramic garden stools are those awesome little barrel or vase shaped pieces that you've seen popping up in catalogs and stores. These hipster seats can be used as seating or display purposes, and come is an array of colors. My latest was found in clearance for $20.00 at HomeGoods.

3.) Old is Renewed. Re-purposing a pair of old windows I found curbside created a more interesting space. After a coat of spray paint, and hung with eye hooks and chain - These old window have a new view for around $5.00.

4.) Curtain Call. Although my iron gazebo came with muslin drapes, they would not withstand the weather and were boring white - My cobalt blue outdoor fabric panels from JCPenney were just the ticket for my blue-hued inspired decor; and all of 29.99 per panel after I waited for them to go on sale, and brought in a extra 15% off coupon! Score!

5.) Light it Up. Make sure to set the mood in your outdoor space with lighting. Either electrical or by candle, lighting is an essential element for your new space. I found my garden chandelier at a sample sale, but you can make your own by visiting Sunset Magazine's Site which has instructions to make your own.

Want more tips, the latest outdoor decor trends, and exterior home staging ideas visit my website at www.julea.com. Make sure to visit my site BLOG too!

Since 1999, Interior Stylist Julea Joseph has owned Chicago area based design and staging business - Reinventing Space. She specializes in giving homeowners expert insight on how to refresh, style and celebrate their space -Whether prepping their home to go on the market, just settling in, or just in need of a change. Julea is a frequent segment guest on CLTV's "HomePlus" show. You can also see Julea's work coming soon on HGTV's "My First Place."

The Stuff We're Made From - Creative Application to Your Craft

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 16:44:27 -0500

I know this is slightly off-key for an Active Rain Home Staging post - But I felt the need to share.

It's not actually all the content that can be applied to our craft - But the creative process in which I gather the materials to create the end results.

I'll be hosting my niece's baby shower in September. As I was going through magazines and books - I found these great recipes, twisted them slightly and came up with this month's recipes for the "Easy Gourmet" Cable TV show. ( Wghich I film once a month for a local Cable TV Channel.)

Every show that I do, I create some sort of table setting or decorating plan as part of the show ( I'm a decorator, not a chef!)

Table Setting Idea: For this month's table setting idea - I mixed vintage styles - Wonderful quilted fabric yardage I had picked up for another project - Which gives us a kick-off to June feel with its cabbage rose motif and soft summer colors. I paired the fabric with my Retro "soup and sandwich" luncheon set - Which is PINK! I threw in a bit of current - with stemless platinum banded wine glasses. The wine I selected for the dishes was "Fat Bastard" Rosé - Which is you know the label, the packaging is as deviously delicious as the liquid inside!

The Floral arrangement is perfect for any Centerpiece - for a buffet or entry way for entertaining. I used a knock out, lush hanging "coned" container garden I picked up my my local grocery store. The "cone" container is all the rage this season, but for a centerpiece I removed the wire hangers, and placed it in a gazing ball stand. What a instant statement for a summer soiree!

The lesson learned is - Don't be afraid to pair different styles. By using color and purpose as r common thread - It all works. Being slightly out-of-the box is GOOD!

BLTs with Caesar Mayo
-Shopping Cart
· 1 Package of pre-made bacon of your choice.
· 3 tablespoons of Mayo
· 1 tablespoon fresh Parmesan cheese
· 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
· 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
· Splash of Worcestershire sauce
· ½ clove of finely diced garlic
· 2 anchovy fillets
· Crusty bread slices
· Sliced ripe red tomatoes
· Romaine lettuce leaves
· Salt & Pepper to taste

1. In food processor, combine mayo, cheese, lemon juice, mustard, diced garlic & anchovy fillets, mix to smooth.
2. Cook bacon as per package instructions.
3. Toast bread.
4. Spread Caesar mayo on bread slices. Layer on each side of bread tomato and lettuces, then pile with bacon.
Serves 4.

Cold Cucumber Soup
-Shopping Cart
· 1 large English (Hot House) cucumber peeled and cubed
· ½ Yellow Bell Pepper cubed
· 2 Green Onion diced
· 1 teaspoon fresh mint chopped
· ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
· 1 tablespoon dill mix spice
· 1/1/2 tablespoons olive oil
· 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
· 1 cup yogurt
· 1 cup sour cream
· Chopped chives to garnish

1. In food processor, puree all ingredients till smooth.
2. Chill 2 hours.
3. Serve with chopped fresh chives, and dollop of sour cream.
Serves 4.

It’s my Prerogative – A Philosophy on HOME STAGING

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Mon, 18 May 2009 08:28:05 -0500

I did not want to hijack Cynthia's great blog on staging vs. decorating http://activerain.com/blogsview/1079414/decorating-staging-decorating-staging, but since the subject came up... Here's my thought...

If you want to stay in the game - Evolve.

A home stager in business in 2009 HAS TO EVOLVE AND BECOME A HYBRID - You need to seamlessly combine both staging, decorating and design skills to service your client properly.

The longer I am in this industry, and now that staging is becoming a norm in the selling process of a home, and the longer that HGTV and other shows educate the homeowner, the more I validate my Home Staging Philosophy.

Why?

-Because today's consumer demands it. In the old days you could just follow the basic rules of home staging and the potential buyer was WOWED - Not anymore. Every buyer is so much more decorative savvy than 10 years ago... And because she is, you need to be way ahead of the curve.

-Because we have a surplus of product. In today's market, you better package that product to the maximum. Indeed use some of your staging skills in doing so, but honey, you better do your research, and know exactly who the target market is for that home, and execute the staging for their tastes and desires.

•- Which means you pull out your decorating and design hats and jam them on your head too. Paint that room another color than beige, add more than a painting to dress the mantle, and have the buyer invest in custom window treatments if the price point and target market buyer of the home demands it.

Since 1999, Interior Stylist Julea Joseph has owned Chicago area based design and staging business - Reinventing Space. She specializes in giving homeowners expert insight on how to refresh, style and celebrate their space -Whether prepping their home to go on the market, just settling in, or just in need of a change. The founding member of the Interior Stylist Network, she offers networking, mentoring and educational services to those in the industry.

Watch Staging Tips from recent TV airing -

UPDATED! Chicago Stager on TV - Super Staging Tips on CLTV - Watch Video

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Wed, 13 May 2009 14:05:41 -0500

Make sure to tune-in to Chicago Tribune's CLTV this weekend, May 16 & 17^th - Homes Plus show!

Professional Home Stager & Interior Stylist Julea Joseph will be featured with a recent Staging she did for a Homewood couple on a bare-bones budget.

See how with just a few gallons of paint, focused and strategic staging, and a bit of elbow grease - Any home can take center stage!

Before...

WATCH SEGMENT: http://weblogs.cltv.com/business/realestate/homesplus/2009/05/staging_story_before_after.html

If you don't want to empty your purse, but want to make sure your home is prepped, polished and perfectly package for today's very competitive market - Here are some home staging tips Julea will be discussing.

•· Always keep-in-mind the price point when making changes.

•· Consider your home's style and feel when updating and decorating.

•· Clean, un-cluttered and neutral is appealing to a wide group.

•· Add a bit of flavor with a pop of color or seasonal flair.

•· Make sure to check the 5 senses within the home.

For your local listings visit www.CLTV.com. Homes Plus is on at 9am. and 1pm. every weekend.

Since 1999, Julea Joseph has owned a Chicago based design and staging business - Reinventing Space. She specializes in giving homeowners expert insight on how to refresh, style and celebrate their space -Whether prepping their home to go on the market, just settling in, or just in need of a change. She also offers workshops, seminars and educational services to the public and others in the industry.

For more information, visit Julea's site at www.Julea.com.

Shhhh.... The Biggest Perk of Having a Partner in a Professional Stager

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 09:09:03 -0500

Stagers - Doesn't it just crack you up when you're in conversation with a Realtor telling them about your profession, and they say something like - "Oh yeah, I do that too for my friends who I list for..." I use to quizzically rebuttal; now, I just say really... and knowingly smile at my smart Realtor partner across the room.

I don't need to get into the minutia of all the basic benefits a Realtor should already be educated on by partnering with a professional stager -

•• Assist the Realtor to show the home in its best light and make wise, cost effective updates.

•• Free up time for the Realtor so they can sell & market the home.

•• Takes pressure off the Realtor through objectivity.

•• Minimize tension.

But I WILL share with you the details of the biggest perk you may have over looked.

•• A Professional Source.

A professional, well established Home Stager is just like a same Realtor - They have their own contact list, business associates, as well as savvy selling strategies and marketing skills.

Contact List: A well established stager has formed a mailing list over the years she's been in business. We send out newsletters, etc... just like you, helping market you & your listings. And... I highly doubt our list coincides with yours.

Business Associates: Most home stagers usually offer interior decorating services as well, which means she can work not only with your sellers, but with your buyers to make their new home beautiful too. And as you well know... A happy homeowner is your best referral. And because she also offers these services, she has a chocked full list of loyal and great service contractors.

Savvy Selling Strategies: We want the job as much as you do. We bring in a whole other selling methodology to help educate your clients on the benefits of staging.

Marketing Skills: No different than you, we are constantly marketing our services; we bring another level of exposure for your listings. Home Stagers and Re-designers are media daredevils, some even have a PR Pedigree - Meaning they're had some really nice media exposure. They have no fear of sending out press releases, blogging, conducting speaking engagements, etc...- Their creativity easily extends to creative marketing.

CASE in POINT:

This Home Stager's recent Active Rain post: Bare Bones Staging Budget? The Case of Two Teachers, Two Mortgages and a Baby.

Professional Source Results:

•- Savvy selling strategies & PR Pedigree helped convince bare bones budget seller that staging was worthy of stretching their pocket book.

•- Use Contact list by including post link in monthly E-Newsletter.

•- Used Marketing and Speaking skills by conducted mini- staging workshops at Broker's Open House.

•- Used PR Pedigree Again - Home staging was filmed by local TV show.

Photo: Smart Realtor creating her own PR Pedigree...

An Eco-Chic Room Makeover - Celebrate Earth Day by Shopping in Your Own Home

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 10:00:50 -0500

It's now chic to be frugal. It's cool to conserve and you're a total faux paus to even consider throwing it all out and starting over.

April 22 is Earth day and I think it's just awesome that we're collectively re-educating ourselves on how to be a bit more GREEN. But when it comes to making your home interiors beautiful, how do you following the emerald trail, and make Mother Nature proud?

Simple, you use what you already have!

A Room Re-Arrange - Give your spaces a fresh new look with a new room arrangement. As the season changes, so should your interiors. A change in your room's foot print is a great way to revitalize your space. Take it a step further and switch out some of your furniture and accessories too. Swap out your dark wood side tables for those glass and metal ones from another room, or give your room a seasonal focal point by re-arranging the furniture to face your picture window rather than the fireplace.
Re-Move or Rotate - Sometimes by just removing or rotating your belongings, your room will have a fresh new look. I call it "archiving." Too many family photos, a collection that has been you curio forever, or flower arrangements that have seen better days - Remove, or rotate them. Perhaps that collection can be swapped with another, or the family photos can be scatted around the home in smaller numbers, or the floral arrangement can be rejuvenated.
Rejuvenate Exisiting Things - Reinvent that tired floral arrangement by giving it a second life. Gather all your florals and stored stem and give them "re-do" by swapping stems, containers and greenery. That old dresser can be repurposed into an entry piece or dining buffet by reviving it with a fresh coat of paint, knobs and a great tassel attached to one of the drawers. A stale lamp can be given a new light with a new sassy shade, a new harp, or a nifty specialty finial. A favorite print can be re-matted and framed in a style or color.
Reupholster or Slipcover - That much loved old couch, side chair or settee which most likely has great bones and could use a shot of Botox with a stylish new fabric, and plump new cushions. Older pieces were sure built well, so if you've inherited a great arm chair or couch - It's in your best interest to have it reupholstered or slip covered. Although a bit costly, it is a far cheaper design method than investing in an expensive high-end sofa which could run you thousands. The upside is you can do custom detailing such as nail heads or more than one slipcover - Which will give you a couture look.

Resources:

www.fastframe.com

www.lampfinials.com

www.paulsupholstery.com

www.berforenafterslipcovers.com

Since 1999, Julea Joseph has owned a Chicago based design and staging business - Reinventing Space. She specializes in giving homeowners expert insight on how to refresh, style and celebrate their space -Whether prepping their home to go on the market, just settling in, or just in need of a change. She also offers educational, seminar and mentoring services to the public and others in the industry.

Bare Bones Staging Budget? The Case of Two Teachers, Two Mortgages and a Baby

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 15:35:01 -0500

Ah-Hah! You thought that hiring a professional Stager would cost you big bucks and they were exclusively for fancy, expensive homes. Think again. With the wise advice of a pro, a homeowner can make smart, economical updates and enhancements to their home to get it prepped and ready for the market.

Case Example: Two Teachers, Two Mortgages and a Baby...

With a baby, two mortgages, and salaries as a music teacher and swimming coach - This young couple was working on a super tight budget to make their for-sale home shine! With the help of a stager, they made great choices on how to prepare their home.

Home Statistics: Starter or Down-size Home 2 Bedrooms 1 Bath Price $150,000.00

Pluses: Great cottage feel features, fireplace, beamed ceilings, nice size rooms, awesome, high ceiling bonus room off kitchen.

Issues: Empty, Too personal choice of paint colors.

Action Plan: Because of the price point, no drastic changes were made - Instead, work with what you have - Add a fresh coat of paint, a few ceiling light fixtures and strategic staging.

#1. Make repairs and updates yourself. With a few stager chosen paint colors and a few key economic updates - In one weekend the home began the shine - Paint, etc...$ 150.00

#2. Empty Rooms? What should I do? Rather than renting furniture, the homeowner purchased and borrowed a few advised key pieces. Once sold, the new will go to their new home - Furniture $ 1400.00

#3. Making it a Home. Once painted and furniture delivered, the professional stager swept through the house - bringing in a host of accessories, art and window treatments, thus turning the house into a home - Staging Fee $ 750.00

Results: See for yourself.... http://www.realestateshows.com/393418

Since 1999, Julea Joseph has owned a Chicago based design and staging business - Reinventing Space. She specializes in giving homeowners expert insight on how to refresh, style and celebrate their space -Whether prepping their home to go on the market, just settling in, or just in need of a change. She also offers educational, seminar and mentoring services to the public and others in the industry.

HGTV, Computer Crashes, Quiches & Other Daily Deeds

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 15:23:56 -0500

I've been seemingly out of the loop, which is odd because I'm always fluttering around. It all started a few weeks ago...

Excitedly, I received a phone call from the HGTV production company that I've worked with before -They had yet another design project for me. The room needed to be installed in little over two weeks and within a 24 hour window. I could do that.

I called my resources, met with the HGTV clients, and came up with a design plan. Created a budget, implemented a paint palette, picked out a new chandelier, choose furnishings and accessories and sketched out the window treatments - then created a time-line for all the resource installations and deliveries. I can pull all that together without a hitch...

Flew to Florida for a long weekend to visit my Dad. I liked that.

Installed that HGTV Room - It turned out magnificent! I did that.

The it just happened, slowly at first - Just a little glitch there, a lock-up there, and then WHAM - My computer had crashed. Call it a virus, called it an infection - Call it whatever you want - BUT I COULDN'T GET INTO MY COMPUTER! ..And that's when it all fell apart. I do not know how you operate, but for me - I am my computer. It is my very work essence, it is how I stay on track and organized - It is how I do my business and communicate... And it was all gone. No ICONS not Task Bar - Just a big lock-up...

Sure, I have my Google phone that I can read and send simple emails with - But it does not help me put together story boards , window treatment proposal, update my website or do a hundred other computer implemented tasks that make my life and work organized. I DO NOT LIKE THAT.

Thank goodness for an external back-up purchase, safe-mode, and a spare discarded desk top computer of my son's. It took almost two weeks of messing around, head -aches, around 1000 "Let's just re-boot it again and maybe it will work" sentences, and a computer savvy husband.

So here's where the daily lesson comes in - Make sure to purchase an external hard drive and back- up your computer once a week. I bought a Maxtor Black Armor 160GB unit - Super easy to use, and yes I was able to save all of my data, luckily.

And the quiche - It's a recipe I am now able to type up on my computer for my monthly newsletter and local cooking show which I'm filming tomorrow. Whew. .. It feels good to be back in the loop...

2009 Decorating Trends - Grey Matters...

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 07:51:38 -0600

There is a hip new color in town - If you're thinking of giving your home a fresh coat of paint, adding new window treatments, or are looking to invest in a new piece of furniture, Consider Grey.

Grey is the new hue, the new neutral - It's the new Beige. Grey has been sneaking into our palette over the past few years, showing up in fashion, and as now as part of new collections in large décor retailers such as Crate & Barrel, West Elm and Horchow. Pick up any decorating magazine, and you'll see it too. My latest catalog by FLOR proudly displayed it. (Photo courtesy of FLOR)

So what's so great about grey? Grey is most associated with the practical, timeless, middle-of-the-road, solid things in life. And in times of economic challenges, well, grey is solid like a rock.

This new neutral pairs perfectly with a wide range of colors, can bridge the brighter jewel-tone hues that are very popular now, and pairs beautifully with black, white and all shades of brown.

And if you are an art lover, grey is the perfect backdrop to display your collection.

Here are a few Greys to try out:

A great staging color - Ben Moore's London Fog 1541, not quite gray, not quite beige - a bit of both - Delightful.
Sherwin Williams Gateway Gray 7644 -a beautiful warm tone, perfect for foyers and halls.
Or if you need a bit of drama, try Ben Moore Affinity hue in Sparrow AF-720. This deep green gray is stunning when paired with cream and pewter.
Or it's close cousin, Sherwin William's classic Library Pewter 0038 which I used in a model's library paired with cool blues, chromes, and browns http://www.realestateshows.com/286608.

So if you're ready to take a leap into a new color, grey may be a new choice for you.

2009 Decorating Trends - Next week - Enrich your home with Jewel Tones &

Get HOT HOT HOT with Caribbean Colors

Recycling Interior Redesign, the NEW design concept of 2009!

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 15:26:34 -0600

You read it right - I said NEW! Imagine my shock and awe when I opened this past Sunday's Chicago Tribune Magazine to read that an interior designer has expanded his business to include "arranging what the client already owns." Heck, I even had my new Readers on, could it be, did I read it right - Interior Designers offering..... Re-design? Instead of looking down their noses at us - They're copying us? Cool...

Since the inception of my business over 10 years ago, my business philosophy has always been, "Let's use what you already have 1^st, then go shopping..." It's pretty much the mantra of all of us specialty designers, also known as interior re-designers or arrangers. Throw staging in there, and we're all a happy bunch. My clients are smart cookies, they love what they already own, like to shop, love their home, but some how struggle to pull it all together. They really love that I do not ask for a $10,000.00 retainer, nor do I hold my nose when viewing their stuff...

We're pros at looking at a space and being able to instantly come up with a new floor plan for a room, over, and over and over again. We're a spa day for your space - In a day you get a whole new room. Bonus, it's your stuff - Bonus, Bonus, you get a very happy husband! We are masters at accessorizing, using color and corralling collections. We can shop your home like it was a super Home Goods at the Mall of America. The best part - we make that old stuff look fresh, chic and new. And if we need you to shop, we give you a list. A list! We were GREEN, before we knew what GREEN was!

So, here are a few tricks of the trade and the inside track to the NEW design concept for 2009- Rearranging Your Space. Whew...Welcome to the 21^st Century!

Start with a Clean Slate - Before the 1^st piece of furniture is positioned, take an inventory of all furniture options in your home. Could something from another room give the space a whole new look? Could you give a new look to an old piece by reupholstering, painting, or using for something else - like a drop leaf table as a sofa table?
Start with a Focal Point - Every space has something fantastic about it. Great view, fireplace, built-ins .... Position your main seating arrangement to take full advantage of the focal point. Focal points can change from season to season.
Stay in Scale - Make sure the furniture placed in the room is in scale to each other. Your Grandma's petite sewing chair will look odd next to your overstuffed reclining sofa.
Remember the Room's Purpose - If you are planning on reading in the space, make sure to have the right lighting; if you are planning on entertaining, have enough tables for each of your guests to place a drink on.
Wall Art can be Anything - If it can be hung on a wall, its art.
Be Creative in Accessorizing - Short lamps can be made taller by a stack of books. Three or more of a similar thing is a collection. A vignette is at its best in odd numbers
Mantle Mantra - Mantles look their best when a few large accessories are placed on it.
Add a Bit of Fresh - Every room look great with a vase of fresh flowers, a real tree, or something organic.
The Unexpected - Make sure to add one thing that is a bit different, a little odd, or is something unexpected. It adds character to a room and creates conversation.

How to Home Stage on a Budget

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 12:46:04 -0600

We all watch those reality home staging improvement shows on HGTV...

In what seems like a day... A home that has been haplessly sitting on the Market, goes from drab and hopeless, to totally fabulous. The makeover is incredible! From a whole new kitchen (including appliances and really cute back-splash glass tiles) to a household full of new furnishings - All for a mire $2000.00!

WOW, Staging sure seems remarkable.

Well, just like a sub-prime mortgage.... What seems too good to be true, well, is. The truth is - the TV show has a behind-the-scene staff of around 20, and they got that cute glass tile for free - Check the credits.... If you actually totaled the actual real-time labor and material cost you'd be at least five times that price, if not more...

But have no fear, ALL staging doesn't have to cost you a pretty penny - In fact, if smartly done, staging can make a huge impact -without the hefty price tag. The trick is having a smart Realtor and a good Stager. The smart Realtor knows that staging is going to take the home to the next level, and is the ultimate marketing tool. The good Stager is packed with creativity, and can advise the homeowner on cost effective updates that don't break the break, and will give you a bang for your buck to boot.

-Take my two latest staging as examples.

ONE - Done two weeks ago - This poor empty town home that had sat on the market for over 250 days. Now with a new Realtor, the Realtor brought in her Stager - Smart Realtor. The now out-of-state owners were willing to have the unit merchandised within a small budget. I worked with the existing color scheme, removed, touched up, and staged the unit within a frugal budget. The products were purchased JUST for the unit, and will stay with the unit when sold (A sassy marketing tool...) Beside just merchandise, a small bistro set and air bed were used to enhance the space. The home was listed just over $200,000.00 the staging cost around $2000.00.

The home was staged on Monday, the home went on the Market that weekend, and they had a Buyer on Tuesday. The home is currently under contract. So within 48 hours of going on the market, the home had a buyer... WOW, Staging is truly remarkable.

http://www.realestateshows.com/show.php?id=371391&resize=1

TWO - My second staging was just done this past Saturday. The home had been on the market since September, with no interest, and now has a new Realtor - who brought me in. Smart Realtor. From my suggestions the now, out-of-state seller agreed a few weeks to painting a few key rooms of the home (SW-Steamed Milk.) The paint crew worked Thursday and Friday. I came in at 8am. on Saturday morning to stage the home. With some merchandising, using what was left in the Unit, and a few additional purchases (lamp shades and towels not in my stock) - The home was staged. They have a rental contract up to 6 months for the product. The home is listed for $250,000.00. The staging was around $2500.00, and that included painting.

With a bit of advertising the Realtor has had 12 showings since Sunday, all with gushing reviews, and THREE very interested prospects, and another showing tonight. UPDATE: AN OFFER ON TUESDAY, AND IS IN NEGOTIATION !!! SO, STAGED ON SATURDAY, WRITTEN OFFER ON TUESDAY...

http://www.realestateshows.com/show.php?mls=basic&id=374821

So, with a bit a frugality, a great selling & marketing team - You too can stage your home on a budget.

Since 1999, Julea Joseph has owned a Chicago based design and staging business - Reinventing Space. She specializes in giving homeowners expert insight on how to refresh, style and celebrate their space -Whether prepping their home to go on the market, just settling in, or just in need of a change. She also offers educational, seminar and mentoring services to the public and others in the industry.

The "Glamour Don'ts" of Staging and Redesign

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 16:30:06 -0600

Just like our favorite magazine, we stagers/redesigns have our own list of pet peeves when it comes to our craft. Here are a few....

•1.) Faux Greenery/Silks in Odd Areas. Always place trees, plants or greenery in areas that they could actually grow. Their sole purpose is to give the illusion they are real, therefore need sun to grow. Visa-Versa on silk floral arrangements. You would never place a fresh floral arrangement in direct sunlight; it would wilt and die in a day.

•2.) Floating Art. When hanging art over a sofa or a case good, associate the height to the item to retain good visual contact. The display will not look right if it seems to float above the object - it needs to be grounded. 18" from the back of the sofa is a good rule of thumb. And slightly above the smallest arrangement for the case good.

•3.) The Rug Scale to Conversation Area Faux Pas. A rug can create and define a conversational grouping. Make sure that the scale of the rug is in-tune to the scale of the furniture/objects associated to it. A sofa should either be sitting on or no more than 8"away from a rug. Just about the same size as the cocktail table is not a scale formula for rug size.

•4.) Accessorizing with Evens. When accessorizing or creating vignettes, the golden rule is "Always in Odd Numbers."

•5.) Forgetting the Focal Point. Every space has a fabulous purpose or emphasis. Focusing on the purpose and/or emphasis of the room will allow you to set the mood and arrange the furnishings and accessories properly.

•6.) Forgetting the Stature of the Home or Room. Wicker doesn't belong in formal living rooms, nor does a Big Lots ficus tree in a Tony Tudor. Make sure the things placed in a room or home go with the perceived personality and stature of the space.

•7.) Flood Window Treatments. Traditionally drapery panels are set 1/2 in. off the floor. 1" is pushing it and 3" off the floor is creating a Capri.

•8.) Being Light Challenged. Every room should have at least three light sources for the function of space. Ceiling lights do not count. The perfect formula is to have them placed in a triangle pattern around the room; which will create movement and flow to the space.

•9.) Table Short. Anywhere someone sits in a functional space should have a table in reach of a seated person. The exception is a transitional space such as a foyer or hall.

•10.) A Mirrored Mess. Mirrors over fireplaces or sofas, oh my... Mirrors should always reflect something beautiful - Not a ceiling fan, walk rail or wall. You can be excused if it is a decorative mirror that shows as art rather than function.

Julea Joseph is a Chicago based design and staging business - Reniventing Space that specializes in giving homeowners expert insight on how to refresh & style their space - Whether prepping their home to go on the market, just settling in, or just in need of a change. She also offers educational, seminar and mentoring services to others in the industry.

Über Holiday Décor Tips

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 08:52:39 -0600

Furniture Arrangement for parties and gatherings...
Whether a gathering is 6-60 your furniture arrangements in your public areas need to be redesigned. A formal living room can be arranged to serve as seating for dinner guests. Circular tables and chairs can be added and dressed with layers of coordinating tablecloths, place-mats and runners to serve as extra seating for dining guests.

A foyer can host a bar; a family room extended dining, and a formal living room more than one conversation area. A favorite is to use an entry console to host wine or beverage selections, along with stemware and an ice bucket.

Focal points may change away from TV viewing to a glorious blazing fire or brightly lit tree. A definite party faux pas would be guest watch the tube rather than enjoying the company. Redesign your furnishings in a new arrangement with the emphasis away from the entertainment unit by creating a new focal point on the fireplace or tree.

Always take of traffic patterns and how you want your guests to move about your home into consideration. Guest should be able to move about your home freely and easily w/out bumping into chair arms or tables. Removal of a few pieces for the gathering to a storage area frees up space for large amounts of people.

Great Conversation is the pinnacle to any gathering. Here are a few tips to help motivate your revelers....
Champagne flutes hanging from red velvet ribbons from the foyer ceiling. Cut lengths of red velvet ribbon and mount to a ceiling or hang from an entry chandelier. Have a selection of scissors for each guest to ceremonially cut the ribbon upon entry to your home. The foyer serving as the bar area, especially works well with this conversation starter. Take the idea one step further and use the red ribbon as part of the invitation, as a small clue of the surprise ahead.

Baskets filled with Santa hats, red & white boas or scarves and toasty slippers set the stage for a lively party. Adults and children alike all like to "Dress-Up." For extra fun, have a Polaroid camera or two available for impromptu photo shoots.

Vignettes showcasing antique family photos enjoying a special celebration or mementos such as antique ice skates, sled or ornaments will bring up stories of the past and thread together guests. These vignettes are especially wonderful in areas that guests can mill around or be seated to chat about the past memories.

Fabric & Linens are easy holiday decor. Shop your local fabric store for fresh ideas and trendy prints...
Tablecloths, napkins, place mats, runners and fabric yardage can really help create a dazzling table settings and home decorating. Choose or shop for fabrics that coordinate with your holiday or home's décor.

Fabric can be tucked into bookcases, rivered on sideboards, topped on armoires or draped on chairs. Don't be afraid to mix and match textures and colors. Fabric is one of the easiest decorative elements to when hosting a celebration. The best part about using fabrics is they're compact and easily stored.

The Dining Room should make a real decorative statement in your home, but in many cases, it's one of the hardest to creatively decorate. Here are a few suggestions to inspire you... Whether for an intimate family dinner or a huge buffet gathering, a dining room was meant for celebrations and conversation; celebrate this "family" room with a rich, warm colors, conversation making displays, and wow décor that will make every guest want to sit down!

Divine Décor - Wrap wall art in holiday paper, bow and all. Sprays of evergreens, berries and seasonal picks can halo mirrors, paintings and doorways. Seasonal China can be hung on walls with plate hangers, easeled within China or curio cabinets or used as a tray for soaps in powder rooms.

China Cabinets can be refreshed to highlight seasonal china, heirloom ornaments, and seasonal floral. Normally mundane cut crystal with glow with a toss of color tinsel, small glass ornaments or a string of garland. Ribbon wrapped silk amaryllis or paper whites look splendid laid along a China cabinet shelf.

Chandeliers can host ornaments on ribbons, ivy, snowflakes and mistletoe. New holiday colored silk chandelier light shades can replace the existing ones, and the chain can be wrapped with fabric. Take it one step further and "wrap" each of the dining room chairs with seasonal fabrics also.

Julea is a Chicagoland based decorator that specializes in giving homeowners expert insight on how to refresh & style their space - Whether prepping their home to go on the market, just settling in, or just in need of a change.

The 7 Year Color Itch

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 18:52:28 -0500

Tales of an Interior Stylist - The 7 Year Itch

My job as an interior stylist allows me to help you celebrate all aspects of your home. My quest is that you are delighted with the way your home looks and feels each time you walk into it. My goal is that your home has your soul written all over it.

Although your home may seem complete, approximately every 7 years, we feel the need to make a change, especially when it comes to color. Do not fret over this itch that comes over you.

Our taste in color changes, just like our food tastes change. This is due to emotional and/or cultural maturity. For example, you may travel to France, and just fall in love with the alluring blue/green that your Inn displayed, or the fantastic Comté cheese that you married each night with your evening glass of wine. These cultural experiences may bring a change in taste and the way you want to reflect your living spaces.

Making those changes whether emotional or cultural are good sign, and mirror that you, as a person are evolving, changing and developing. Why not employ that change in a new color palette in one, or all your spaces. Be inspired by a color that you've been attracted to recently - It could it be inspired by a color trend that you've just fallen in love with, or perhaps a new interest in your life; Art collecting, travel, or a hobby. How about that special Inn that you stayed at with that unusual, but stimulating blue/green hue or that perfect buttery ivory color of that yummy cheese you ate? Why not be motivated by those colors and try them out as a new foyer hue, a knobby hand knitted throw on your living room couch, or even soft silky silk panels in your master bedroom?

By taking a new single hue and spreading that color around the house, it becomes a new exciting connecting thread that will visually move you from one space to another. Best of all, you've made a change influenced by something you've come to enjoy, and scratch that 7 year itch...

Reinventing Space specializes in interior redesign, home staging and interior styling. Since 1999, Julea Joseph has been creating beautiful interiors whether you live in Chicago or Orland Park. Her unique blend of creating interiors by treasuring the past, infusing new pieces, and mixing traditional design, makes for the perfect recipe for a beautiful home.

Chicagoland Home Stagers - Your SIF Round Table Invitation !!!

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 06:52:14 -0500

You Are Cordially Invited

The 2^nd Annual SIF Chicago Area

Professional Home Stagers Round Table

Wednesday, November 19, 2008 - 10:00AM -2:00 PM

Brook Furniture Rental Showroom

1915 Ogden Avenue, Downers Grove

All professional Home Stagers are invited no matter Association affiliation, business size, or training background. We welcome all individuals that want to actively participate and discuss the growth of the home staging industry.

Event Schedule:

10-11 "Meet & Greet" fellow Home Stagers

11-2 Working Lunch

Chicago Event Sponsor

For directions, visit www.BFR.com

R.S.V.P. to Round Table moderator & fellow Home Stager, Julea Joseph - JJJ@Reinventingspace.com Please note, space is limited, & you MUST register for this event to reserve a spot. Questions? Call me at 708.448.7500.

THE BORROWERS... No time to brand yourself - Just steal it!

Julea Joseph (Reinventing Space) — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 11:37:12 -0500

OK - I promised myself I was over this - For 10 years I have been bitching and ranting over the "borrowers, copycats and duplicators." Not only has it happened to me time and time again, but to so many of my colleagues.

It is such a creepy, stomach turning event when you go to a site, read a brochure, see a business name - That has been "borrowed" from yours. Words sucked out of your mouth, ideas from your brain, materials that took you day and days to write - POOF THEY'RE SOMEONE ELSES. The real creepy part is most of the time when confronted they're like OJ - They're so delusional that they've convinced themselves that they didn't do it. "Really, I didn't know - OMG. It must have been my Webmaster, Marketing person, brother-in-law..."

Now we have GOOGLE ALERTS and can run COPYSCAPE. Most of the time it's from your own research or we are tipped off by another. There is nowhere to hide.

Why or why would you invest so much money in training and business start-up costs to only pick a name that someone already has, or "borrow" someone else website layout, text or business philosophy? Part of starting a business is researching and developing your brand. If you can spend the time borrowing, take the same time to be creative, develop and research.

Just a week ago, I was GOOGLE ALERTED, and it wasn't a sentence, a word or two, but 266 words from my site on their front page!!! The "borrower's" excuse was the Webmaster did it! This is the same as "The dog ate my paper."

My favorite of all time was my X-Client that at the end of my consultation for her revealed that she actually wants to do this for a living, proceeded to take local training, and then name her business Change of Space Interiors (hopefully she got some accessorizing education...) She lives around a mile from me. - Clever! Hmmm... Can you say brand confusion to local prospects?

Trainers should be ashamed of themselves not to educate their students! Word-up! Please give them a ½ hour lesson about branding. And since this was a local training, I have no respect now for the trainer for not mentoring this poor lady and guiding her to be creative and smart.

A recent email from an education trainer says that she is going to now offer stock monthly newsletters that you can buy from her - The sales pitch is, no time, or just in case you're not a writer." WHAT! So someone else writes about how creative and innovated your business is, and what happens when someone takes you up on your ideas (Which are not your own?) There is also a national training company that has a generic website format - Each one looks exactly the same. So if you're a prospect, and you see site after site just the same - Wouldn't you be confused?

So here's the confusion - We try to make homes stand out from rest, enhance the best features, and set the home apart from the others? If you also offer decorative services, you're creative, innovated and have the business skills to help them with their interior design projects - And your website looks like 10 others in the same area?

In such a creative and very small niche business - YOU HAVE TO BE SMART, CREATIVE & INDIVIDUAL - Please don't be lazy, borrow, be inspired, or creatively change 10% of what someone else already has? Take the time and effort it took us to create your own materials.

"What took you days, weeks, months, years to create - Takes them mire minutes to copy." "What's easier ?"

HERE'S THE DOMINO EFFECT for being a "borrower."

•· IN terms of clients and prospects: We live in a world of GOOGLERS. Now more than ever, people are comparing, dissecting and in-depth researching before they hire someone.

•· IN terms of fellow associates and the press, GOOGLE Alerts, CopyScape and smart business owners look at other sites all the time. What happens is you get letters from attorneys, disrespect from peers in the industry, and a bad reputation.

•· As far as the press, they're even savvier - They seek out the unique and different rather than the same old same old. -They can spot a "borrower" instantly, they're wordsmiths.

•· As far as our Industry - We as a whole bitterly complain all the time about "bad staging," and how it lowers the standards in our field. It is the same when people see the same text, same ideas, and same names over and over again - IT BRINGS THE ENTIRE INDUSTRY A KNOTCH DOWN.