A year of monthly organizing

It's a new year and while most of us have great intentions to make a list and bring more order to our lives, the reality is, life goes on. We often stay too busy, commit to too much, and let things fall by the wayside. Here is where a year of monthly organizing comes in--we have found that things are more likely to get done when you have accountability. If simplifying your home or bringing more order to your living space is one of your hopes for 2018, we have the service for you.

Caroline on the job "Magazine edition"

Katie working on a pantry

Taryn organizing Holiday gift wrap for a client

Why monthly organizing will work for you...

• You have a standing appointment each month. If you are prone to procrastinating, never following through etc, having a monthly appointment with Help You Dwell will solve your problem.
• An HYD team member will be helping you every step of the way. We provide a new set of eyes and a different way of thinking about storage solutions. We can help you purge and prioritize the items that bring you the most joy.
• That pile of things to donate that never quite makes it to the car will get loaded up and taken for you each month
• Organizing your whole house gets broken down into manageable projects that we will tackle each month. We can work room by room, closet by closet, or we can work on larger projects like an attic or garage over a longer period of time. If you have a larger project in mind that you'd like to get done more quickly, we offer discounted rates for hours booked in addition to your 2 hour monthly visit. Making a list of each area in your home that you would like organized is step one!

We work with all kinds of people with all kinds of needs, budgets, and desires. Our goal is always to make your home work better for you and your family.

For more information, check out our monthly organizing page and submit an inquiry, give us a call (865)245-9080 or send us an email at info@helpyoudwell.com. We'd love to add you to our monthly rotation!

Organizing tips for cleaning off your desk

This past Monday was National Clean off your desk day! Yes, there is actually a national holiday for that! Who knew?

Getting your desk or home office space organized can often be overwhelming so we've compiled a few tips to help you get started.

After

Before

Step 1: Sort everything! Clear the surface and empty each drawer. Make piles of office supplies, things that don't belong on your desk, and go through that paper work! A good place to start in terms of paper is to think about the broad categories--Recycle, shred, file, attend to. The attend to pile will be the most time consuming so don't get hung up here quite yet.

Step 2: Find a place for each category. Using drawer organizers or a rolling cart if your desk doesn't have drawers for supplies makes it much easier to maintain order so that you aren't facing a disorganized and overwhelming desk again in 3 months.

Step 3: Allocate. Put everything in it's place-- including filing, shredding and recycling piles. Add a few simple decor items or a plant to your desk top if you'd like. I find that I'm more likely to use my desk if I've "beautified it".

Rolling Cart

Step 4: Work through that pile of paperwork that needs attention or action. Pay any outstanding bills, add any appointment reminders to your calendar, flip through the magazines and purchase or discard, and start a to do list of anything that can not be attended to at the moment. Keep that to do list on top of your active pile and commit to working through it over the coming weeks. If you have a place and a plan for your desk, the maintenance piece will just be your active paper pile.

Step 5: We would love to see what you are up to! Post a before and after picture of your desk and use our hashtag #helpyoudwell  Or if you'd like to skip steps 1-3 and let us do it for you, email us at info@helpyoudwell or give us a call (865)245-9080!

Items Inspired by this Post:

Katelier studio tour

The entrance to The Katelier at 628 Lamar Street. Photo by Katie Roach

In 2011, after helping several friends with wedding decor and flowers, Katie Roach officially started her business The Katelier, a business name that combines both her name and the french work "atelier" which means "a workshop or studio, especially of an artist, artisan, or designer." (Dictionary.com)

If you ask Katie how she got into floral arranging she will tell you that "Flowers found her". It's a beautiful thing when a business begins and then grows completely organically. With very little marketing aside from making arrangements for coffee shops and other local businesses to get her work in front of people, Katie has relied almost exclusively on word of mouth and it has served her well.

floral photos from @thekatelier

Katie started out apprenticing under Allie King of Sassafras flowers and after starting her own business, worked out of her 5th Avenue apartment. She likes to say that she was subletting her apartment from the flowers.

In early 2014 Katie opted for studio space outside of her home and joined several other woman owned businesses (including HYD) in operating out of The Hive.

The Katelier at The Hive

The Katelier at The Hive

The Katelier at The Hive

Two years later when a friend asked her for ideas about what to do with a small building he owned, Katie jumped at the chance for a little shop of her own.  After moving in 1 year ago, Katie has transformed the space and made it her own. Known for being incredibly resourceful, Katie has managed to make her studio look straight out of a magazine almost exclusively with second hand furniture and decor. Admittedly, Katie says she "buys sofas the way most women buy shoes", but this space is the perfect home for her collection. Aside from being Katie's workshop, her studio can be rented for small events, parties, and showers.

After spending significant time this year on furthering education and investing in honing her skills, Katie says that starting The Katelier has been the best thing she has ever done for herself and has been character building and life enriching. While her favorite kind of jobs are tablescapes and center pieces, she stays very busy year round with weddings. Her favorite part of the job is seeing the brides face when she see's her flowers for the first time on her wedding day. After all, this job is all about celebrating people and making spaces beautiful. (Side note-- Katie did all of the flowers for not one but TWO HYD weddings--we highly recommend her!)

Her favorite flower? Hellebore's and Garden Roses

Katie at the studio. Photo by Erin McCall

For more info on The Katelier floral services or studio rentals, check out her website, follow her on instagram @thekatelier, and like her on facebook.

A big thank you to Katie for giving us the tour!

Get the Look - Holiday Table Setting

Whether you are planning an epic Friendsgiving, or hosting your annual family Thanksgiving dinner, your table is about to take center stage and we are here to help you celebrate. Your table can create mood, reflect your personality, and provide a festive gathering space for loved ones. We have highlighted a few styles we love as well as offered some simple tips on how to achieve these looks on your own this holiday season.

RUSTIC: The design emphasizes rugged and natural beauty. It embraces nature-inspired textures and simple earthy colors. The ultimate goal is to create a feeling of unpretentious and organic warmth.

Photo via: Deer Pearl Flowers

• Take a few steps outside and search for natural elements you can incorporate.

• Keep the color palette simple by using soft neutrals, browns, & greens.

• Mason jars are always a winning element with this look.

1. / 2. / 3. / 4. / 5. / 6. / 7.

CONTEMPORARY: This design features neutral elements alongside bold color. The look should focus on the basics of lines, shape and form.

Photo via: Lauren Conrad Blog

• Use natural materials such as marble plates or wooden chargers to create an effortless contemporary look.

• Brass is making a come-back. Stand out with a soft palette and bold silverware.

1. / 2. / 3. / 4. / 5. / 6. / 7.

TRANSITIONAL: This design envisions new takes on old classics. Mixing and matching your old items with your newer style is key.

Photo via: The Perfect Palette

• Bring out your traditional silverware and mix it in with your updated tableware.

• Spray paint some small pumpkins, pine cones, or berries to create a fun new twist.

• As shown above, mix and match gold and silver to really make your table pop.

1. / 2. / 3. / 4. / 5. / 6. / 7.

Let your table be a refection of you and your family. 
Keep it simple.
Use what you have.
Add personal touches.
Mix & match.
Add greenery, plants & flowers.
Create height with stunning center pieces.
And most of all, create a space where you and your guests feel welcome to gather.

if these walls could talk...

Gallery walls are a wonderful way to display photos of your family and friends, your favorite artwork, and even objects, in a creative and personal way. With the endless lay out options and unique design patterns, it is no wonder they are gaining popularity along the walls of our homes. 

At HYD, it is our job to stay on top of hot trends that will come and go as well as highlight some tips, tricks, and designs we would designate as tried and true "classics." The gallery wall is a perfect combination of personal touch as well as moldable design and we are here to give our stamp of approval to this timeless trend. Now, we know the word "gallery" may carry some weight and cause some anxiety for some, but have no fear...HYD is here! We want to empower you with a few How To Tips to get your gallery wall started. We believe your walls can talk in beautiful, artistic and unique ways and we cannot wait to hear what they have to say! 

Tips & Tricks:

Attempting to display several photos in a cohesive and aesthetically interesting way may feel daunting. Trial and error with hammer and nails can get really ugly really fast. Before you even think about putting a hammer in your hand, here are a few ways to help save your sanity and your sheet rock...

• Layout: When it comes to laying out your desired gallery wall design, a floor rehearsal is a must. Whether your are going for a streamlined, mix/match, or random look, it is always a great idea to lay out each individual frame, object, and item on the floor to mimic how it will look on the wall. Play around with design, layout, balance, etc.. You will want the design to be centered and balanced on the desired wall. If you don't know where to start, placing frames at-least 2-3 inches apart is a good standard measurement to follow. Nothing has to be nailed into the wall until you are happy with the layout. Play. Lay it out. Think about it. Come back to it.  
• Command Strips: I can personally endorse this practice as I have used these to hang my own art and photos. These strips will not only save your walls from nail holes, but will also allow you to change the design as you feel lead to incorporate more or would just like to tweak the layout. 
• Butcher Paper: This is a very low cost way to make doubly sure you are in love with your design and that your design translates beautifully from your "floor rehearsal" to the wall. You will want to measure the butcher paper to cover the desired space of your wall then lay your frames on top of the paper and trace the frames (be sure to note exactly where the hanging bracket is located as that is a main point of the exercise). Then you can transfer the paper to the desired wall and poke through very lightly with a pencil to mark where your brackets will go. Once you remove the butcher paper, you will have a little map of where to place your command hangers or nails. Just remember the rule of thumb...measure twice and nail once.
• Tip: Playful and grounded are two words to keep in mind when thinking about your wall. Play with different sizes, shapes, textures, etc. You will want there to be at least one aspect or feeling that all of your pieces share that keep the wall grounded...i.e. color palate, frame size, subject matter etc. Again, don't be too restricted by this...have fun.
• Trick: This is YOUR WALL. As long as it brings you joy, you can not go wrong.

Alternatives to a Gallery Wall:

Perhaps you not ready to commit to a gallery wall or maybe they are not your style, or maybe you don't currently have the wall space but you still would like to showcase the things, people and art that you love. Well, we have some options for you.

Photo ledges are a wonderful way to try out the "creative cluster" effect on a smaller scale. This small gallery shelf can allow you to create depth, play with layout, color palate and texture all without a single nail!

HYD Client Photo Ledge

Placement:

Some great locations for your gallery wall or shelf are: along hallways, above a sofa, centered on a focal wall or even above a bed.

HYD loves to help you tell your story through a gallery wall. If you need a little help along the way, don't hesitate to reach out to us!        // info@helpyoudwell.com or 865.245.9080 //

pantry inspiration

When you're in a space that makes you feel happier, you tend to feel a little more inspired...and maybe even a little more motivated. Let's talk about a tidy pantry. I don't know about you, but when each kitchen utensil, appliance, and food item is in it's rightful place, it motivates me to not only eat healthier but to spend more time in the kitchen! 

Today we are sharing a few ordered pantry images to inspire a happier pantry.

Switching your stock pantry items into glass jars is a great way to display your food. The task may seem daunting, but once the chore is complete your pantry will instantly feel fresh and your food can easily be located in just a glance. 

Another great way to freshen up your pantry is to store items such as onions and potatoes in decorative baskets or accessible bins. Also, try putting your fruit in wire or mesh containers. 

Grab a trash bag, a few air tight containers and start creating a happier pantry! Who knows, you may be so inspired that you'll also organize your refrigerator!

Stay tuned, our Interior Designer is upgrading her pantry. More to come soon! 

money saving tips

Everyone loves saving a little money here and there, right? Check out our Money Saving Tips so you can start saving today!

Bottled Water: Spoiler alert: there is really NO difference between filtered tap water and bottled water. If you do prefer bottled water, buy a reusable glass bottle and refill it with filtered water! Bonus: less waste!

Mani/Pedis: Invite the girls over and do them yourselves.

Hair Treatment: Talk to your hairdresser about simpler ways to maintain your hair color or ask for partial coloring vs. full coloring. 

Cleaning Supplies: Dusting spray, Glass cleaner, Shower cleaner, Counter-top cleaner, Door knob cleaner. They are all essentially the same thing. Create your own cleaner with vinegar and water - vinegar cleans everything!  For wood, add a solution of water, olive oil and lemon essential oil. The olive oil seals the wood and the lemon essential oil still gives you that fresh smell. Bonus: These DIY's create non-toxic cleaning supplies!

Car-Wash: Even if you have to bribe your kids into vacuuming the car, cleaning your car at home is an easy money saver. 

Laundry: Switch your fabric softener out for reusable Woolen Dryer Balls. 

Landscaping: Mow your own lawn, plant your own flowers, rake your own leaves.

Individually Packaged Food: Buy in bulk! To create an easy-to-go snack, package your food into individual Tupperware that you already have on hand! You are literally paying for stuff you throw away when you buy individually packaged things! (ex: applesauce packages vs. buying a big container of applesauce that can be packaged in reusable containers)

Disposable Kitchen-Ware: Reuse, reuse, reuse. Use your actual ceramic dish ware and simply clean them and reused. Also be mindful of paper towels, plastic bags, and plastic baggies. There are other alternative options available that can be used time and time again.

Planning a Summer vacation

Image by Hope Stanley

Summer is officially here! Over at HYD we try to think of ways to help you stay organized not only in your homes, but also in making plans!

Our quick guide to planning your summer vacation is just a simple way to stay on top of things while you're enjoying the warm weather.

Step 1: The details

Image by lacqueredworld

Image by paperscribbles

Plan ahead, pick your dates and ask off work.

Figure out a budget and then decide what kind of vacation you would like to take. Looking for an adventure? Maybe you want to explore a city you've never been to or maybe you'd like to do some back packing or head to the beach.

Once you've decided on what kind of vacation you would like to take, think through who you would like to go with. Is it a family trip? A trip with friends? Maybe you want a nice getaway with your significant other. Make sure you are on the same page about budget, location, and agenda with all parties involved. While your idea of a vacation may be mostly relaxing, some people love to pack lots of activities in.

When figuring out where you will stay, we recommend checking out air bnb or vrbo which can often save you more money than staying at a hotel depending on where you are going. They are an international company! It can be really nice to have a full kitchen if you don't want to have to pay to eat out for every meal. Do some research on neighborhoods in the place you are visiting. Think about whether you want beach front, walkability to restaurants and activities, kid friendly spaces etc.

Step 2: Planning your schedule

Image by Texture Photo

Big Sur

Cafe No Se Image by frybydesign

Depending on the nature of your vacation, you may want to plan a lot of it out, or you may like to be more spontaneous and plan very little.  If you are going to the beach, your days may be spent mostly on the ocean or laying in the sun. However, if you are exploring a new city, you will have to plan ahead.

Where to eat: One of our tried and true tips on restaurant hunting (bear with us.. this might sound ridiculous but it honestly never disappoints) is to google "hipster guide to {whatever city you are visiting}". Those hipsters sure know how to eat is all I'm saying. Often times, the search results will come up with restaurants, interesting shops, and local tips on neighborhoods to check out and how to utilize public transportation. If you plan to eat in and have access to a kitchen, try researching local farmers markets and small locally owned grocery stores to have a more authentic experience of living in town.

Activities: This will largely depend on who is on this vacation with you. Many cities have free events in the summer time like concerts in the park, first Friday art crawls, or discounted museum days. Looking at local event calendars is a great way to see what's happening around town while you are there. Think about taking a cooking class (especially if you are somewhere overseas) or a swing dancing lesson. For kids, many art and science museums have great children's corners. You could also check out local parks or ask around about a swimming hole or public fountain that allows play.

Step 3: Packing

Image by InsideWanderer

Print all necessary paper work for travel and stay. Make sure you have access to online tickets as well. It's always a good idea to let someone back home know your itinerary, how to reach you, and who to call in an emergency. 

Suitcase: Make sure to check the weather as close to when you will be there as possible and remember to look into night time temperatures as well as many places have major temperature drops once the sun goes down. We recommend packing around a certain color scheme so that it's easier to mix and match outfits to cut down on the volume of clothing that you lug around. If you focus on basics and items that can be dressed up or down, it's easy to pack jewelry and accessories to change the feel of an outfit. Make sure to pack shoes that are comfortable!

Carry on: BOOKS! If you are a reader, bring a kindle or other reading device so that you don't have to cart around a library :). Journal and a pen (I never regret jotting down daily memories from my travels). Lotion, chapstick, a few healthy snacks (to avoid exorbitant airport prices), earbuds, phone charger, laptop (or not), and ear plugs are essentials.

Step 4: Enjoy!

P.S. If a summer vacay doesn't fit into your schedule or budget, consider a stay-cation one weekend and get out and do things around your own city that you normally wouldn't. Sometimes a stay-cation is just what the Dr. ordered :)

six changes you can make to feel less stressed

Have you ever come home from a stressful day of work and needed to escape? Maybe you already stay home and need a space to feel at ease. We've got six changes you can make within your home to help you de-stress. 

1. Add Plants: 

Decorating with plants not only adds life and freshness into your home, but by bringing nature inside, you will instantly feel a since of calmness. For Air-Filtering plants, be sure to check out this post!

2. Let More Natural Light In

By opening up your curtains, you are letting more Vitamin D into your home. Vitamin D aids in a stronger immune system and is proven to make you happier. Cozy, warm rooms can be calming, but when you need a 'pick-me up',  be sure to let some light flood in.

3. Add in Calming Colors

Colors such as blue, violet, pink, and green are known to help calm your mind. Whether you choose to paint your walls a calming color, or simply add in art or accessories, these colors are sure to sooth your mind and create a since of calmness within your home.

4. Create an area of Peace

From answering e-mails after hours to checking off a to-do list, your mind is constantly running. To create an area of peace, pick at least one place inside your home that you set aside for only non work related activities. Your brain needs a space where work isn't done so it knows to shut down and relax. 

5. Get Rid of Clutter

Easier said than done! Luckily, you have HYD to help you with this task. Getting rid of physical clutter also rids your mind of clutter. Taking time to put things away and clearing your space will help put your mind at ease and make your home feel more put together. 

6. Put away the Electronics

Scrolling through social media may ease your mind for a short time, but it is also known for making you feel more anxious and depressed. Give your eyes a rest by mediating, tending to your home and/or garden, going for a walk, or taking a bath. The list is endless if you'll only put your phone away, shut the TV off, and explore what's beyond your doorway.

A historic home tour

Our latest home tour is full of history and heritage. We had the privilege of touring the lovely home of Megan and Caesar Stair in Old North Knoxville last week. The Stair's moved in, in 2010 and have wasted no time making it home and bringing it to life in new ways.

The home design is by famous architect George Barber and was built in 1898. It's original owner; W.T. Lang, was the foreman at Brookside Mills a textile mill that was one of Knoxville's largest employers in the early 1900's.  The home was christened "Pinecrest" when it was built and the name block still remains in the yard. The guest house behind the home was added later and was originally built to house the 100+ cats that belonged to Mrs. Lang who ran a cat orphanage of sorts. The home was at one point split into 4 apartments but has now been lovingly restored back to it's original use--a family home.

In February of 2010 with snow covering the grounds, the Stairs had their first walk through and immediately fell in love. Megan says she was drawn in by the beautiful woodwork, character, and the hallway/landing in the upstairs which she immediately pictured her family making use of. Another thing Megan loves about the home is how the kitchen and tv room are tucked away towards the back of the house. While the front of the home is very open and conducive to large gatherings, it's nice to have the more functional/every day use spaces tucked in their own corners.

One of my favorite things that Megan said during the home tour was that each house has it's own style and when you move into a home, you have to be intentional about "honoring the house". Megan has done a great job of blending both antique and modern pieces throughout her home in a way that feels seamless but eclectic at the same time. When I asked Megan about her style of decorating she shared that a lot of her furniture pieces have been passed down from family members or are items that have been brought back from travels. She has several really neat pieces from Morocco.

That wallpaper!!! all the heart eyes

These beautiful built in's covered the master bathroom and closet.

Megan's favorite kind of decor is art. The house is full of paintings, sculptures, mixed media and sketches. When I asked if she had a favorite piece of art she pointed out a piece by her brother, local artist Ryan Blair . (pictured below) She has several of his paintings and mixed media displayed but this one is her current favorite.

Megan's favorite piece of art. Mixed media by Ryan Blair

The Stair's recently renovated the kitchen and did an incredible job! The kitchen is Megans favorite room and she noted that she spends a lot of her time there. The kitchen is a great example of how Megan has blended modern,updated looks with the age and style of the home itself.

I asked Megan what "home" means to her and her response was simple- "a place where I can be comfortable". Her hope is that others feel the same way when they come into her home. Megan's home is a really great representation of so many people that she loves, from her brothers art to furniture that other family members have made, to projects that Megan has taken on herself, the Stair home is truly a work of love and one that has turned out beautifully!

One of the things that we (at HYD) get asked often is "How do you go about decorating a home?" Megan had some great advice to speak to that. Megan's philosophy is that she has to love an item to purchase it. When it comes to art, she looks for things that move her deeply. She thinks creatively and saves up to invest in pieces of furniture that are quality and will stand the test of time. There are seasons of life where you use what you have, you make things on your own, you gladly accept hand me downs and then over time you figure out what you love and replace the things that were place holders for the time being. Megan is a big proponent for finding your own style and while sometimes you need the help of a designer, at the end of the day she recommends settling with what feels most natural to your own taste.

Thank you Megan for opening up your beautiful home and sharing your style tips with us!

DO'S & DON'TS OF DECORATING

We don't believe in following the rules when it comes to decorating, but there are a few do's & don't that can help transform your home into something you truly love. Below are a few tips & tricks to help you get started!

Grab your favorite art piece and accessories and curate a space that's your own! If you are needing help filling in the pieces don't forget to check out The Spring Flea happening this weekend at The Hive!

Still having trouble taking your space to the next level? Our Interior Designer will be hosting a workshop on April 29th to help you create a beautiful + functional space. 
REGISTER here today!

The Art of Design: creating beautiful + functional spaces

Workshop: Presentation to get to know the designer, plus tricks & trips on how to create beautiful + functional space. This is also the perfect time for any questions you may have for the design services HYD provides & your to-do list.

To-Do: Upon registering you will be given a questionnaire to help the designer with your wants + needs for the space. You will also need to provide photos of your space. (these can be sent via email.)

Take-away: Once the workshop is done, you will provide your questionnaire sheets and photos to the designer. She will then get busy creating a layout + comments and recommendations to help you achieve your goals for the space provided.
 

5 reasons you should hire an Interior Designer

Hello friends, it's Cassandra, Help You Dwells Interior Designer.  Do you ever read 'Interior Designer' and instantly think you can't afford one?  Maybe you're not quite sure what an Interior Designer can do for you. I'm here to lay it all out for you + give you the opportunity to know more about my services first hand! 

5 Reasons you should hire an Interior Designer: 

1. Professional Assessment: “A designer can give you a professional assessment of your situation, that will then lead to a solid plan of action. The order of things in a design plan is key in determining what can be re-purposed or should be edited. This will not only effect the budget but help you to spend it more efficiently.” - FreshHome

2. Save you Money: Yes, save you money. A designer may have an upfront fee for their services but their experience & knowledge can save you money along the way. Have you ever purchased a sofa from a warehouse, only to bring it home to find out it doesn't fit? Maybe you've painted your whole house only to realize that you don't love it. A designer will have already done the up front work of making your space just right. They can help you avoid costly mistakes & help you add true value to your home.

3. Budget + Planning: As stated above, Designers already do the up front work, including selecting items in your budget and planning for the right pieces. This is can also save you time, which saves you money! Designers know all the sources that fit any budget and do all the research so you don't have to. 

4. Liaison: If you are working with a contractor and/or an architect, having a designer readily available is key to a successful project. Designers know how to read architectural plans that you may struggle with. They are also great at finding ways to add value to your space that you may have not thought of otherwise.

5. WOW Factor: When you walk into a space that is well done, you can usually find a designer that was behind it. Designers are creative, they think outside the box; it's what they do all day long. They are knowledgeable and have an eye to really make a space special.

"Interior design is a multi-faceted profession in which creative and technical solutions are applied within a structure to achieve a built interior environment. These solutions are functional, enhance the quality of life and culture of the occupants and are aesthetically attractive. Designs are created in response to and coordinated with the building shell and acknowledge the physical location and social context of the project. Designs must adhere to code and regulatory requirements, and encourage the principles of environmental sustainability. The interior design process follows a systematic and coordinated methodology, including research, analysis and integration of knowledge into the creative process, whereby the needs and resources of the client are satisfied to produce an interior space that fulfills the project goals." -NCIDQ

Still not convinced that a trained Interior Designer is worth the money? Now is your time to find out! Help You Dwell is hosting a workshop at The Hive, Saturday April 29th.

REGISTER today for an opportunity to
create a space in need of design services.

Workshop: Presentation to get to know the designer, plus tricks & trips on how to create beautiful + functional space. This is also the perfect time for any questions you may have for the design services HYD provides & your to-do list.

To-Do: Upon registering you will be given a questionnaire to help the designer with your wants + needs for the space. You will also need to provide photos of your space. (these can be sent via email.)

Take-away: Once the workshop is done, you will provide your questionnaire sheets and photos to the designer. She will then get busy creating a layout + comments and recommendations to help you achieve your goals for the space provided.

*Please note only one space in your home per customer (this can include anything from a closet to a living room that needs special attention) Also, the workshop is limited to 12 persons due to the amount of work the designer will give each individual. Your follow-up may take up to 2 months. 

How To Clean Out Your Closet, Make Money, & Love Your Style

You spend hours scrolling through Pinterest collecting styles you long to wear. You shop online, at the mall, and at thrift stores. You go to your closet and feel like nothing you own truly speaks to who you are, the person you envision yourself as.

You know you want more out of your wardrobe but you already feel like what you have is too much; too overwhelming. If you’re honest, it’s a hot mess.

I get that. I really do. This describes me. And it describes most women of our generation. We have too much and yet never feel like we’re dressing for the real us.

Some scary statistics about our clothing habits.

The average woman:

• Throws away 65 pounds of garments per year.

• Has over $500 of unworn clothing and 300 clothing items in her wardrobe.

• Spends 4 hours a month deciding what to wear.

And although we have increased the number of garments we buy since 2012, we are actually spending the same amount of money overall. Anytime you want to diagnose a problem you look at the symptoms.

What all this tells me is that we’re buying and buying, yet we’re not really fulfilled or satisfied with what we have.

How do you solve this problem?

You have to get serious about your style and clothing and clean out your closet!

Do want to love your style, spend less time worrying about what to wear, minimize your life, and make money at the same time?

It may sound too good to be true, but doing all this is totally possible if you can clean out your closet the right way.

How do I know this? I spent 4 years working in a consignment shop where I helped women hone their style everyday. Overtime, I became an expert at knowing innately what worked and what didn’t for each unique woman. Many of my styling clients would later hire me to come into their homes and closets so that I could help them style what they already owned and get rid of the things that no longer served them.

Cleaning out your closet doesn’t have to be a pain. I promise! Before we talk about how to get started, I wanted to let you know I compiled all my experience cleaning out closets in one helpful place. Want to check out my insights? Download my free PDF guide to “Cleaning Out Your Closet”.

The easiest way to clean out your closet is to hire someone to save you time and do it for you. But if want to spend a little extra time, you and a friend can do this and be closer to the wardrobe of your dreams.

If you’re ready to dig deep and let go of all this crap that’s been holding you back, stressing you out, robbing your joy, and weighing you down then read on.

Step One - Preparation

Grab a friend or family member. Pick a staging area and schedule some time to do this. You’ll need some plastic garbage bags.

Step Two - Purge

Pull everything you own out of your closet and dressers and start to identify which pieces really fit your style, which do not, and which are hidden gems that you’ve been overlooking. It helps to have a stylist or friend present to give feedback and encouragement.

Make 3 piles:

1. Keep

2. Donate

3. Consign

As you go through each item, decide which pile it belongs in. Once you have all your piles, put the Donate and Consignment items into garbage bags.

Step Three - Organize

Now that you’ve gone through each item you’re ready to start organizing. Make sure all your clothing is arranged by category, color, material type, length, and sleeve length and that all the hangers are facing in the same direction. I go into this in extreme detail in my 3 Step Guide which you can grab here for free.

Wrapping it all up! Time to sell and make cash.

That’s it! You’ve done it. Congratulations. The hard part is over! I hope you feel so much better.

At this point you can take the garbage bags to their respective charities and consignment shops. The reason I recommend actual brick and mortar consignment shops at this point is because I want the clothing out of your house.

Now that you have a clean slate to work from you can start to use other methods like Poshmark, ThredUp, and Etsy.

If you’re local to Knoxville then you know that StateMint is coming up. Now would be an ideal time to clean out your closet and make cash. You can still sign up. I know I’ll be there selling my extra items too.

Author bio

Brianna is a Certified Holistic Health Coach, Stylist, and author of Simple Is The Cure. She helps stressed out creatives simplify life and health so that they can achieve their dreams and change the world. She and her firefighter husband along with their dog Beau live in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Thanks Brianna for your wonderful guest post this week! The gals at Help You Dwell highly recommend her Ebook Simple Is The Cure!

A tiny home tour

photo by Julia Sale

This month we took a tour of the lovely home of Julia and Garrett Sale. If you've ever wanted to see the inside of a tiny house, here is your chance! We were so surprised at how roomy it felt!

Garrett and Julia got married this past May and after spending a month traveling around Europe for their honeymoon, they moved into their lovely tiny house and have been working to make it home ever sense. At just around 480 Sq. ft, they have made great use of all of their space while somehow managing to keep it feeling open and spacious.

In reference to their style, Julia and Garrett tend to gravitate towards mid century modern, clean lined shapes. Julia loves all things earthy and noted that she has to be intentional about pulling in color to mix things up. One of her favorite parts of the house?? The window over the sink :) As a self proclaimed nature lover and plant collector, she loves being able to look outside while doing menial chores like washing dishes.

One thing we always ask on home tours is what people's relationships to their belongings looks like. Julia's mom always says, "You can't take it to heaven with you". Julia said she used to be much more sentimental. Obviously there are items that she feels connected to but she's gotten better at purging when she doesn't need something anymore. Having a tiny house helps with that on a very practical level!

One of Julia's favorite items in their home is a small wooden frog instrument that Garrett bought on their honeymoon. She admitted that it has not always been her favorite as she initially thought it was a total waste of money but the memories it brings to mind have made it become one of her favorites.

Furnishing a house is a process. Even a tiny house! Julia shared that being creative and practicing patience have been helpful for them in terms of putting a home together. Many people can't just go out and buy a house full of furniture. Julia discovered that taking the time to really figure out what you like is helpful in creating a house that flows well together. With Pinterest and Instagram, it's easy to get caught up in just making your home look like everyone elses. When you take the time to step back and really ask yourself what you gravitate towards, you are likely to make your house more of your own and not a copy of something you have seen before. A few of her favorite shops for home goods, decor, and furniture are West Elm, World Market, and Mid Mod Collective. 

We all have favorite spots in our home, Julia loves their bathroom. For a tiny house, the bathroom is pretty big and she loves to make it feel as much like a spa as possible. She focuses on the little things-- stating that sometimes the details make all the difference. Lighting a candle, hanging dried eucalyptus, or buying a fluffy robe are all small ways to set ambiance.

I asked Julia what home means to her and loved her response. She laughed and prefaced-- 'this is going to sound so cheesy but my mom always says "Home is where the heart is" and I completely agree, any place feels like home with Garrett. '

When I asked Julia how she hopes people feel when they come to her home, she said "I want people to feel welcome- to feel like they can sit down and stay awhile. I always want to have a spot for people to sit because when you have a spot, you are more likely to feel like it's okay to stay awhile."

Thank you Julia and Garrett for opening up your beautiful home to us and to our readers!

bringing plants indoors

Have you ever felt like a room in your home was missing something? That it is completely decorated, filled with your favorite things but isn't quite right? It may be time to add in some green - with a plant of course! Today we've laid out a few ways to use plants inside + indoor plants that help filter your air, keeping your space looking and feeling fresh!

Photo Credit: Adam Ford

Photo Credit: Life Simplified

Photo Credit: CONVIVAL

Photo Credit: Ashley Lauren Design Studio

Photo Credit: Kirsten Grove

Wheather you go big with a ficus or keep it small with baby succulents, adding plants into your home is the perfect way to melt the winter blues away and bring life into your space! Below, HYD has picked six different plants that not only look pretty, but also filter your air. (that's a win-win in our books!)

Images: 1/2/3/4/5/6

With spring right around the corner be sure to pick up your favorites at the local nursery! 

what is "hygge"?

hygge

pronounced: /ˈhʊɡə/
origin: Danish
noun
a quality of cosiness + comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment of well-being. 

---

Where did this concept come from?

Photo from It's Me, Charlotte! 

US Ambassador of Denmark describes hygge as: "the felling you get around thanksgiving, like being cozy and being with other people". It is imperfect and very casual. Practicing hygge is more about how things feel than how they look. 

Charlotte Higgins, from the Insider describes it as "a feeling of calm togetherness and the enjoyment of simple pleasures, perhaps illuminated by the gentle flicker of candlelight." 

Listen to Tsh, from The Art of Simple and Erin Loechner talk about hygge on this podcast. 

---

What does it look like?

Photo from House Beautiful. 

• Hospitality.

• Shared experience.

• Being an inviting person in an inviting space. 

• Creating a ritual, habit or space that allows you to enjoy the present moment. It isn't about striving for a specific style or look, but it is about being intentional with what you create space for in your space and mind. 

---

How can you incorporate this in your life and home? 

Wanna read more? Check out this book. 

You might have a specific blanket, pair of sweatpants or coffee mug that you can describe as
hyggelig, meaning hygge-like. These are your things that induce coziness and calm for you. 

Bringing the outside in is very hygge. Incorporating natural elements in your home, creates a sense of life and growth. 

A way to engage in this way of being is by putting your devices down. Shifting our focus from a bright little screen - to the people and places around us, invites us to participate in the moment to moment. 

11 Ways to Make Your Life More Hygge according to Country Living. 

We love that hygge is not something that you can order online, or grab at Target. It is unique to your life, your family and the way you live. It takes a little thought and creativity to incorporate hyggee, comfort and coziness into your life. 

Blog image source: The Art of Simple. 

welcome cassandra....

1.5 years ago this small town mid-west girl up and moved her life to East Tennessee for a job. I currently work at Blackberry Farm as a Junior Interior Designer, but that is only where the story begins. 

Image by Texture Photo

I started chasing this dream with one goal in mind: to get out of Kansas. I had no idea I would  fall so in love with Knoxville, TN and the people it has brought into my life.

My love for design became more than a hobby when I was in college. It wasn't until I was three years in and crying my way through pre-med classes that I knew something had to give. With a little help from a best friend, I switched majors and never looked back. I graduated with a small group of girls with a Bachelor degree in Interior Design and a minor in Construction Management. Space planning, simple, yet functional spaces, and tiny houses are where my true love for design soars.

I always thought the west part of the country was where I'd land, but the second I got the call to move to East Tennessee I knew God had much bigger plans for me than I could have ever imagined. When I stumbled across HYD I knew this was it. This was my passion, my goals, dreams, the whole reason I got into design; to help others. To help the everyday person find comfort, ease, and happiness within their home with a bit of rearranging, re-purposing, and overall function of their space. 

In my free time, you can find me trying to save my plants from dying, adventuring into the Smoky Mountains, or more than likely, cleaning up dog hair from my two husky pups.

I can not thank the #girlbosses of HYD enough for helping me pursue this dream alongside them. I hope you will too! 

sidenote: I have to give a shout-out to my husband. Not only did he follow me across the country but within the last year we have purchased a house, gotten married & enjoyed every minute of life together in our new home. ah, life is good.

join us: customized ideas for your space

-- You are invited to our first Help You Dwell workshop of 2017 --

Intro to the Art of Organizing:
Customized Ideas for your Space

Saturday, February 11
10am to 12pm @ The Hive

We've designed a hands-on workshop with you in mind. This event is a great way to get practical and realistic advice and direction for the hard-to love area in your home. We will be discussing organizational ideas and design direction all geared towards you and your spaces. 

Attendee's leave with a refreshed vision for their space, tools to make it happen and a beautiful HYD Canvas Tote. 

Light refreshments will be provided! 

We can't wait to meet you and share our thoughts and ideas for your home. Space is limited.

envisioning your space

Organizing and decorating can be challenging. We've found that it's easy to feel weighed down and stuck in the "stuff" that hinders us from loving our dwelling places. Think about the pile of mail on the kitchen counter, the clothes stacked on a chair in your bedroom, the crafts spread on your kids floor, and the mixed up files in drawers of your office... you might already be ready to give up after just thinking about it! 

A fresh approach might be the change you need in perspective to conquer your challenging space. Thanks to Instagram and Pinterest, we've lost a lot of our ability to envision things on our own. We pin the image of an immaculate office and elegant bedroom that are way outside of our budget, and when we shut our computer we settle back into the reality of our lackluster spaces. 

ENVISION.

enjoy these creations as you start to imagine your spaces with new eyes. 
Ashley Dawn Addair is the creative behind the visual beauty below. 

Close out of Pinterest, shut the computer, and open your creative mind. Here are some questions to think about as you re-think areas of your home. 

1. Who will use this space most? 
2. What key furniture does this space need?
3. What colors create the mood you want to inspire?
4. What textures deliver comfort, function and coziness? 
5. How can you create natural/warm light in this space? 
6. What memories do you want to make in this space?
7. How do you hope your guests feel in this space?
8. What current items in this space are you ready to purge/donate?
9. Do you prefer exposed or hidden organization of the stuff essential to this space?

Each space and home and it's people are unique. Don't limit your space by the images you see online, dream up your ideal space and incorporate the specific items you already love and possess. 

Happy envisioning friends! If you'd like some help and direction in your space, we'd love to work with you. 

---

*bonus- we stumbled upon this beautiful blog this week and had to share... Simple as That. Here's a link to a post with a free printable calendar "Collect Moments-Not Things"! 

home resolutions for 2017

The dawn of a new year is a great time to reflect and dream about the days ahead. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the lists of "shoulds", let's be practical as we think about how to be better stewards of our homes this year. 

There are ways to maintain order and organization on a daily and weekly basis but the beginning of a new calendar year is a great time to plan for the next four seasons. We're suggesting tasks, projects and specific areas of focus for each season. Show your home some love throughout the course of an entire year, one season at a time. 

So, we did some research and added our own touch to create a free printable for you. We've taken into consideration the weather and other factors that effect the ease and importance of certain tasks. Download, print, and share the Home Resolutions for 2017 right here on our blog! 

Our team is ready to help you with those areas that need organization, every season of the year. Give us a call to schedule your free consultation today 865.345.9080.