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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Entryways for Fall

As the seasons change and the colors start to pop let's talk about spicing up the WELCOME area of your home: the entryway. No matter how big or small, formal or informal, adding some seasonal personality to the entrance of your home will bring that festive Fall feeling we have all waited all summer to enjoy!

First things first, lets begin with what already exists in your space and tidy up our "palate." Start by analyzing the furniture in the area. Take stock of how items are being stored in, on, or under the furniture pieces. Clear out seasonal summer accessories (i.e. expired sunscreen, old or broken sunglasses, sun hats, sandals, etc). Store these items or discard if they will not weather another year. Next, give the area a good cleaning to prepare for the next season of storage and decor. Once the area is clean, bring in this season's necessities like a warm rain jacket, your favorite scarves and hats for chilly mornings, and your coziest pair of boots. This is where a piece of furniture with drawers is ideal for storing small autumn accessories such as gloves, pet sweaters, and your favorite chap stick!

Fall Leaves Coir Doormat // World Market

Now for the fun part, you have curated and cleaned and are prepped for the cooler days and now it is time to celebrate with the fabulous colors of this season. We like to think that the entryway actually begins just outside the front door. We love a splash of Fall foliage on the porch or on the door. This creates the first warm welcome as you or your guests approach your home. This can be done using a fall wreath, a bouquet or two of mums, and maybe some pumpkins. This does not have to be much, just adding a splash of color outside to welcome the season and your guests. If you are just feeling extra warm and spicy you can add a beautiful seasonal welcome mat like this one from World Market as well!

Once you enter the home, the "simple splash" approach still applies. We love pumpkins, gourds, and your favorite fall foliage strategically placed around the room. A tiny pumpkin on a key tray, a bouquet of vibrant leaves or flowers on a table is all you need to add that little festive pop to brighten up this area. We love how Julie over at Little Farmstead embraced the simple beauty of this season by showcasing her fabulous boots alongside some precious pumpkins. We think this is a "gourdgeous" combination :)

Feeling inspired? Need a little help? Well we would be delighted! Check out our October promotion below to find out how to let us Help You Dwell....for less :)

Image: Little Farmstead

** Also, this month HYD is offering an entryway/mudroom organization and refresh for a discounted rate of $75 for 2 hours. We'll help you rethink the way you use your entry way or mudroom... including furniture, storage, and decor.  This is a great time of year to show this area some love, with lots of friends and family sure to be visiting your home for the holidays!
More details by emailing katie@helpyoudwell.com or calling 865.245.9080**

Let's school this...

Such a bittersweet time of summer for all the mamas and papas of school-age kids out there. It's gone by so fast in some ways and in others, we cannot wait to get back into the rhythm of school. We totally get it. In an effort to make the next couple weeks move in the right direction with the least amount of stress, we've put together a few ways to get yourself and your kids ready to roll come that first day of school.

1. Get online and find the supply list.... today!
Most schools now post these on school websites, school Facebook pages/groups, etc.
And in Tennessee, this upcoming weekend, July 28-30 is tax-free weekend! While on the school website, check for meet-the-teacher dates and orientations too!

2. Pull backpacks, lunch boxes, water bottles, and lunch box containers out now to assess their status. Lots of these items are already on sale during the "back to school" season and can be great to purchase on tax-free weekend if needed.

3. Spend 15-20 minutes with your child in their room and take a quick assessment of clothes for the early fall and shoes. So often our kids are in sandals or barefoot all summer and we don't realize they've outgrown all their close-toed shoes, which many schools require kids to wear.

4. If you haven't already, be sure your kids immunizations are up to date. Most pediatricians and family physicians know what is required for each school in your area. If you're not sure, you can always call the school to confirm.

5. Take your kiddo(s) on a "date" sometime between now and the first day of school. Try to be intentional with them and give them the opportunity to talk about what they're looking forward to in the upcoming year and what they may be anxious about. This 1-2 hours could mean the world to them as you prepare as a family for what lies ahead.

It's not rocket science to get our kids ready to get back in the classroom but it is good to have a few reminders, especially for us who have older school-age kids and might be slippin' a bit (like me :).
Hope this list helps you and if you have any tips to share, we'd love to hear them and so would our readers! Comment below...

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! 

organizing your smart phone photos

If your storage is limited...

Google Photos - This is a great option if you have a gmail account. It allows all of your photos and videos to be stored in the cloud with unlimited storage (up to 16 mp an 1080p HD). When connected to wifi, all you have to do is open the app to begin syncing up all of your recent photos to the cloud. Then, you are able to delete all photos off of your device to free up internal storage, yet you still have access via the Google Photos app. Another great feature is the ability to categorize photos into albums that you can share with others. One fun feature is the ability to search for what photo you are looking for by keyword. Learn more about how to use Google Photos here. 

Here are a few other options for creating organized photo storage on your phone.

If you have lots of storage available...

Your iPhone Photos app might be doing more for you than you realize. The Photos app has multiple default albums it creates for you, like: all photos, videos, favorites, selfies, screenshots, people, places, etc. You can also manually create albums and select which photos are included. The editing feature in Photos has also improved. More tips here. 

Taking your memories from your phone to your home...

Image via Artifact Uprising. 

Websites like Shutterfly and Snapfish often offer discounts and promotions for printed photo products. Artifact Uprising features high quality clean line designs for your photos. 

summer survival tips

School's out for summer...The kids across Knox County are cheering for full days of play and fun, while parents have a new duty of planning summer activities and being prepared for whatever the fun days might hold! Here are a few ideas to help you be extra prepared: 

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Image via Yummy Mummy Club blog.

• In the car...

You never know what you (or your various passengers) might need. This pop up organizer has a place for everything. Consider keeping the following items on hand: paper towels, bandaids, umbrella, trash bag, activity books, bungee cords, sunscreen, nonperishable snack, and a beach towel. 

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• In the garage...

Coming home from trips, pool days or picnics - the garage sometimes becomes the landing place for these items. Having a trash can and recycle bin will help with efficiently clearing out the trash before taking bags into the house. Keeping Clorox wipes near by to wipe out coolers after being used, will keep them from getting nasty over time. Make it a priority to always wash the wet bathing suits & towels from a trip immediately. Rinsing off any items with sand or dirt on them will save you from future mess! 

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Image via Market Square Farmer's Market instagram.

• In the kitchen...

It seems like everyone is snacking more than ever in the summer. After a successful trip to the Farmer's Market, fill up a bowl with your fruit for anyone to grab on the go. Granola bars, PB&J, hummus, nuts are great snacks to grab on the run. If you have kids, designate areas for their snacks and drinks, separate from what you are using to cook meals to avoid confusion or clutter. Having paper products for an impromptu picnic will allow you to spontaneously decide to take your meal outdoors, and provides a quick and easy clean up. 

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.

spring has sprung

The cherry blossoms, dogwoods and azaleas are blooming. The grass is greener and the air is warmer. As our climate has decided to hit the REFRESH button, it's time to do so in our homes as well. 

Our Help You Dwell team has been busy at work these past few months. We wanted to fill you in and invite you to join us for some of the fun!

Image via Emily Jeffords. 

We've worked hard to come up with some exciting tips we've been sharing daily on WVLT First at Four with the lovely Brittany Tarwater, each day this week. Tune in today and tomorrow if you can! We've posted some tips to declutter on our Resources page - check it out. 

Another exciting way we're inviting you to join us as we REFRESH our homes this spring is by entering our giveaway we have going on- this week only! Enter to win our "Spring Refresh" giveaway on our Instagram page. We've collaborated to come up with an incredible value from local businesses. Nest Knoxville, You Own the Look and HYD have curated products and services that will be a great start for your spring refresh at home. 

Enter to win the Spring Refresh giveaway. 

Join us for First Friday at Nest, tomorrow - April 7. Natalie, owner of Nest has invited Help You Dwell into her beautifully decorated and furnished storefront. Location: 108 S. Gay Street. Come & enjoy a glass of wine with us, we'd love to meet you! This fun and relaxed environment is a great time to bring your questions and get to know us. We can't wait.

Don't miss the opportunity to participate in the first workshop in our series called "The Art of Design" with Cassandra, our interior designer. More details here. Registration is open! 

One more exciting thing we wanted to share with you: a new womens resale store, Clothes Mentor Turkey Creek has their Grand Opening today! 

Get connected with Clothes Mentor. 

ease the pain of organizing

No matter how overwhelming or dreadful the organizing project ahead of you might be, there are ways to make it less painful. We've put our ideas and actual experiences together and this is what we came up with. 

Background Music

There is something magical about your favorite playlist pumping that will empower you to do even more than you thought you could. Instrumental music is great for the jobs that take extra brain power, like reading and sorting through files. Jobs that require a little more heavy lifting and rearranging lend themselves well to your favorite sing in the shower songs. As your muscles are firing up and working hard, a power ballad or sing along helps ease the pain - you can just belt it out, as long as your neighbors like your voice. Music really can be the extra fuel to get your organizing project handled. We've experienced it first hand & it's really fun (even if you don't know all the words). Try some of our favorites: Productive Morning playlist, Amos Lee radio, Bishop Briggs playlist. 

Fresh Air

Image from fresh farmhouse blog. 

Whenever possible, open the windows (weather and allergy permitting). There is something soothing about fresh outside air flowing through your space. If you can't open the windows, pulling up blinds and opening curtains does wonders as well. This spring, try it out - while organizing or doing household chores, bust open a window and soak in that vitamin D and breezy air.  Especially in a room that feels dark, dated or overwhelming... a little air can be so life-giving. Hearing the birds chip, leaves rustling or bikers passing by remind you that you are not alone stuck in the space you are working on. 

Enlist a Teammate 

Invite a friend over. Twice the muscle and (wo)man power to get the job done! You and a friend probably both have an organizing project in your home you just don't want to tackle alone, so partner with each other! You need the kind of friend who understands what is important to you but who also isn't afraid to lay down the hammer and help you PURGE. The kind of friend who will notice if you are starting to hold onto excess and useless things, and gently remind you that you are only going to feel lighter if you let go. A friend can also laugh with you at the hilarious and embarrassing memories or items discovered. It does wonders to a friendship, to vulnerably share your mess and work through it together! 

Intermission

Set a timer for 1 hour on your phone when you begin your project. This will be a good pause time to get up, leave the room/project and grab a snack or water. Don't get too stuck in all of the stuff! 5-10 minute break times can be very helpful. Just make sure you commit returning to the project until it's done. 

Treat Yourself! 

Cheers! Image from @Anthropologie. 

Incentivizing a task is a great way to keep you empowered throughout the drag of the job. Instead of rewarding yourself with more "stuff" or material possessions - think of a treat you'd enjoy that is an experience. Here's a few ideas to celebrate a job well done: pedicure,, wine night with friends, fancy date night out, renting that movie you've wanted to see, or planning a family vacation. Invite kids to participate in this too - if they commit and tackle an organizing job in their room, reward them with a sleepover or trip to the trampoline park! 

We would love to hear your suggestions and ideas on how to keep organizing fun. Happy organizing, friends! 

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. 

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*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. 

color coordinated

Before we begin, if you are color blind- our sincerest apologies. However, we're confident that in some way, you will benefit from these colorful ideas regarding coordination, categorization & organization. 

What colors do you find beautiful? What colors represent kid friendly things? What colors say "dangerous" or toxic? What colors signify the holidays? 

There are so many areas of your home where a little color coordination might bring simplicity and order. 

Image from Amanda Griffin-Jacobs blog. 

TOYS. Assess the toys in your home, and decide whether it will be more effective to separate toys by type or by the child that will play with them. Separating by type is conducive to families with children near the same age. Separating by which child plays with specific toys might be better for a family with a larger gap in age and interest, such as a young boy with an older sister. Pick a color and designate a bin/basket or tub for each category of toy.
 

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Image from Simply Spaced blog. 

CLOTHES. A closet organized by color is aesthetically satisfying and incredibly practical as you sleepily sift through your clothes to find the perfect (orange, yellow, pink or white) shirt for today. It takes the search and rescue effort out of getting dressed every day. Follow the gradient of colors as you look for your specific blouse or pair of pants. 

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Image from A Bowl Full of Lemons blog. 

DOCUMENTS. While manila file folders are still classic, there are so many colorful options to choose from. If you are single, married or a mother to 12 children- you have important documents. Pick a color for each category, such as: Medical files, Home Warranties, School Papers, Bank Statements, etc. 

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Happy color coordinating! Some other places to implement color organization include: book shelves, craft areas, and your dishes! What are other areas you use color to bring order and simplicity?

We'd love to help you think outside the box in the areas of your home that stump you. Give us a call to schedule your free 30 minute consultation today- 865.245.9080

[ Blog post image source: Apartment Therapy ]

hosting for the holidays

Image from Remain Simple blog.

21 days til Thanksgiving! That reality might cause you excitement, panic or any feeling in between. We want to encourage a spirit of "intentionality" instead of "perfection" this holiday season. Think about being a guest in your own home this year: what do you notice, how did you feel, what was the focus? We're sharing a few practical and thoughtful ideas to create an intentional holiday gathering this week. 

Intention: your guests will see it, taste it, feel it and enjoy it. 

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While there are so many moving pieces to coordinate for the Thanksgiving meal to be ready, one thing you can have prepared ahead of time for guests to enjoy upon arrival is a festive cocktail. Make it in a large batch so you aren't spending time making individual mixed drinks. Don't forget to mix up a batch without alcohol. Take a look at this recipe. 

Image from The Kitchn blog.

In order to plan well, the host needs to know the amount of people they'll be serving. Send a text or email out 2 weeks in advance to get an accurate number of guests. Take a look at this helpful chart about servings and quantities for the size of your group. 

Don't go crazy with seasonal decor. Less is more! Instead of shopping for hours for the "perfect" centerpiece or tablecloth, look outside. Bring some natural elements in to create a rustic and welcoming table. Include your kids as you gather leaves, branches, or greenery from your yard. Lighting and natural elements will create a warm and inviting ambiance for your table. 

If you prefer a later Thanksgiving meal, someone is sure to be hungry before meal time. Whether it be your children, new acquaintances or yourself- these cranberry brie mini tarts are a beautiful appetizer that won't require additional dishes or silverware to serve and enjoy. If cooking one more thing feels like an unbearable burden, grab some cheese & crackers and have these out to snack on. 

Image from Fox and Briar blog.

Shift the focus outward. Your Thanksgiving table can be the launching point for a group investment in a local cause. There are so many ways to give back in our community. Take a look at this list of specific avenues to give of yourself this holiday season in Knoxville.

With just a pencil and paper, your feast can get a lot richer. Challenge your family or friends to take a moment to write out the things you are thankful for. If you want to go a little deeper, try sharing one or two of your items on your list. Gratitude begets gratitude and the thoughts shared around the table will create memories and meaningful moments.

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Share your favorite Thanksgiving decor ideas, organizational tools, and traditions with us. How does your family or community celebrate?  

to do lists at your fingertips

Image from Christina Williams blog. 

Our daily tasks are just as important to order and simplify as the physical objects in our homes and workspaces. While we are still huge fans of printed calendars and lists, it seems that we are quicker to turn to our smartphones to make lists or calendar appointments as we go throughout the day. What does this mean? 

We are all busy people- whether you are juggling kids, freelance work, creative ideas, or diverse clients, we can sometimes get lost in our devices, calendars and apps that are supposed to help us live simply. 

I've tried a few different methods of list making and a few apps created specifically for task organization. By far, the one I would jump to recommend to my mom, my roommates and my coworkers is Todoist. 

Why it might be a good tool for you:

• It allows you to streamline all of your lists into one location. When you add an item on your phone, (as long as you have internet) it will sync to your computer or tablet. This eliminates redundant list making and saves you time from transferring things from one device to the other. 
• You can actually attach a "priority" to the item you are adding to your to do list. This creates an order of importance among your list, helping you remember what the most important and potentially urgent items are. 
• The feature of "assigning a task to someone" is extremely helpful for a team working towards a common goal. It streamlines the communication process, allowing the app to serve as the mouthpiece and explanation of a task as well as a calendar with a due date. It could increase your productivity as a group or team as it cuts out the email or phone call in between. 
• Using the Todoist list for your tasks and daily duties, will create simplicity and space in your calendar. Instead of plugging everything you need to do in a day, into your phone calendar, causing it to look overwhelming and full to the brim- put your tasks in the Todoist list and enjoy the satisfaction of checking tasks off one by one. 
• The list stays up to date. It will show you the current day, or the upcoming 7 days. This serves as a form of auto clean up and fresh start for each day. If items don't get completed "today", you can simply click and add it to tomorrows list. 
• Todoist offers integration with over 50 other softwares and programs that will increase your ability to share and upload images or documents from other locations on your phone or computer. 

Image from Todoist Official Instagram. 

Follow @todoistofficial on Instagram. 

Follow @todoistofficial on Instagram. 

Check out why Hannah loves Todoist on a professional and personal level. 

Recently, I've been using my Todoist app like crazy in order to stay organized and up to date on tasks leading up to our Fall Flea @ The Hive. Is this event on your calendar? We'd love to see you there! Add it to your calendar today- Friday, November 4 from 8 am to 2 pm and Saturday, November 5 from 8 am to 2 pm. #HYDFallFlea 

the all purpose closet.

As much as it would fulfill our perfectly designed and organized dreams of each closet having it's own category of contents, sometimes we are presented just one closet for multiple purposes. Imagine one closet that needs to contain all of your seasonal decor, gift wrapping supplies, crafting tools, and cleaning supplies. We've come up with a few tips regarding each category, to help this closet function as functionally and organized as it can. These ideas can be applied regardless of the size or shape of the closet. Let's work with what we've got & get creative... after all this is why we call it "the art of organizing". 

Seasonal Decor.

Image from Eleven Magnolia Lane.

• Snap and stack ornament storage. Or if you have your own boxes, use those! Also try- egg crates or apple cartons for round & fragile ornaments. 

• Hanging your wreaths vertically with a hanger... what?! Read more on how to.

• Use your storage tubs and bins more efficiently. Empty all of your current holiday storage to see it all at once. Let go of the things you no longer like or don't want to use this season. Reorganize the bins into: outdoor decor, christmas tree decorations & lights, serving ware & hosting dishes. 

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Gift Wrapping.

Image from I Heart Organizing. 

• Use the door for vertical storage. 

• Gift wrap station in a shower caddy. 

• Use a mail organizer for bags.

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Cleaning Stuff. 

Image from The 36th Avenue.

• Use a shoe organizer for cleaning spray bottles. 

• Choose pretty containers (clear glass or labeled clearly) to hold all of your cleaning supplies. Like this.

• Get rid of all expired or toxic cleaning chemicals. Show your kids the supplies you want them to have access to and where they are to be stored. 

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Crafting Supplies. 

Image from Mad in Crafts

• Separate and distinguish between adult and children's craft supplies. 
• Encourage the kids who will use this closet to help in deciding where things go and how they'd like to set their things up. 
• Make room by purging items that your kids may have grown out of and would like to donate to another family. 
• Use vertical storage (this is a common theme in this blog post!) like a hanging shoe container for yarn. 
• Hanging paint storage: try this DIY trick. 

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If you love the pretty door image we used for this blog post- google some creative ways to make a bland and boring closet door POP! 

Post a photo of the space, room, or nook that you love dwelling in & simply tag us (@helpyoudwell) and one lucky winner will receive a free HYD Canvas Tote! Last week to win. 

Also, we're so excited to announce the Fall Flea we're co-hosting with The Hive on November 4 & 5. Watch our Facebook & Instagram for sneak peeks of the collection we've curated coming soon! 

your favorite nook.

Last week, we launched the "HYD Fall Challenge" and our hope was to inspire you to conquer the closets in your home one at a time. However, we realize we may have been asking a lot of you to show us your perfected linen closet in just 3 short days!

So this week, we are going to keep it simple. 

We want you (our friends & followers) to post a photo of one of your favorite areas, corners, nooks or spaces in (or outside) your home that you enjoy "dwelling" in. It doesn't have to be fancy or perfect. Then tag us - @helpyoudwell ! 

One random person will be chosen to win a free HYD Canvas Tote. You've got nothing to lose & we'd love to see some of your favorite spaces. We'll still share some tips on organizing another closet, but as far as the "HYD Fall Challenge"... the pressure is off.

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Week 2: Coat Closet 

Where to start?

• Pull everything out. All the jackets, umbrellas, shoes, hats & scarves, and whatever else might have made a home here. 

• Sort into categories. Discard: don't be ashamed if you find a few things that should be thrown away. Donate: old jackets, hats and scarves that you won't wear this year. Relocate: the jackets that should go into individuals closets, items that belong in the garage, anything that might be more useful to have in the laundry room. Keep: the jackets, umbrellas, hats and boots that make the most sense in this closet for you and your family. 

• Before putting the keep items back in the coat closet, take time to imagine and visualize the coat closet of your dreams. These photos might inspire you. 

What you need? 

•  Hangers

• Bins or tubs (various sizes, whatever works for you and your items)

• Hooks for the back of the closet door (umbrellas, children's backpacks, hats) 

• Shoe organizer (rack, hanging shoe organizer, boxes on a shelf)

*Keep in mind, these are all optional. We just made a list to get you thinking of the possibilities. As always, we encourage using what you have instead of purchasing a bunch of new things.

How to maintain? 

• Let your people know. Show them the changes that have been made. Tell them what goes where and what does not go in this newly refreshed coat closet. 

• Re-visit monthly or seasonally. Put a calendar reminder on your phone to gently nudge you to spend a few minutes sprucing up the closet, or discarding unused items. This way, you are enjoying your organized coat closet all year around!

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If there are areas in your home, garage, or office that you just haven't gotten around to organizing... we'd be happy to help. Give us a call or shoot us an email to schedule your free consultation! 

join the challenge

Fall has finally arrived. Let's hope the weather follows soon! We are devoting the month of September to an often neglected and problem area of our homes. You guessed it... the closets. 

What better way to get motivated and organized than joining us in the:

#HYDFallChallenge

For 4 weeks (every Thursday in the month of September) we will pick a specific closet to focus on in your home. Our blog will feature inspiration and tips to help you conquer your closets one week at a time. We want to see your completed projects each week! Post a photo to Facebook or Instagram (by the Monday after the blog is posted) with the hashtag #HYDFallChallenge . We will pick one random winner each week to receive the prize of a lovely HYD Canvas Tote! 

Why participate?

• Because your closets need some love every now and then.

• Because you will create space in your closets for the things you need and love.

• Because you might win a beautiful HYD canvas tote. 

• Because purging and creating space in your closets will inspire you to declutter other areas.

• Because donating and giving back to your community is life giving. 

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Week 1: Linen Closet

Begin by taking everything out of the closet (or cabinets). 

Separate the contents in a way that makes sense to you.

• separate by room of use (master bedroom, children's bathroom, extra bedroom, etc.)
• separate by color (whites, colors, neutrals, etc.)
• separate by type (bedsheets, hand towels, bath towels, picnic blankets, etc.)

Sort into categories.

• Discard- the torn towels or worn out sheets that you'd rather use in the garage or to dry off the dog. These can be put in a new place- laundry room or garage.
• Occasional Use- the towels, sheets and blankets you only need when you have multiple house guests at one time or when the whole family goes on a trip. These could be better stored under a bed in a vacuum seal bag. Table cloths might fall into this category- try to find a place closer to the kitchen such as the top shelf of the pantry. 
• Necessity- the ones you use every day. These are the ones that deserve a prime spot on the shelf in your laundry room. The trick here is that you don't need excess. Only have on hand, what you need and use regularly. Let your kids pick their favorite towels and blankets and find a shelf they can easily access. 
• Donate- Challenge yourself to fill a few grocery bags or even a trash bag of linens that you can part with. Our local KARM stores would be a great place for these to end up. 

Put back the contents that are here to stay.

• Think about who is using the linens and if they can reach what they need
• Put them back in a way that is practical and aesthetically pleasing (each time you open this closet, you'll be glad you did!) 
• Show your family members or roommates the new linen closet system!
• Share your photo and hashtag #HYDFallChallenge 

Happy organizing!

#HYDFallChallenge 

home office must-haves

Whether you work from home full time or not- chances are you need a space to handle paperwork, pay bills and get personal tasks done. We have a few suggestions for your home office space, even if you don't have a separate "office" room in your home. We know that space, furniture and budgets are all constraints here but we hope these ideas help you create a space that is productive and also a space that you love. Here are some must-haves for your office space.

SUPPLIES

• Notepad- If you are on a call or making plans, you need a place for those thoughts and numbers to land. Maybe a legal pad or clipboard would work for you, or maybe you are a sticky note lover. 

• Stationary and mail- Having the essentials on hand will set you up for success. Stamps, note cards, return address labels, and envelopes are the keys. 

• Pens- It's always helpful to have at least one highlighter and Sharpie available. Find your favorite writing tools and stock up so you don't spend time searching for them. 

• all the littles- We're talking paperclips, staples, rubber bands, tab dividers, etc. A drawer with dividers and different size containers is the perfect home for these supplies. Or if you'd prefer them to be visible, pick up a stylish tray to place on top of your desk as your "control center". 

SYSTEMS

• Contact Information- When you meet a new friend or get a business card, what do you do with that information? Create a system that works for you, maybe you have an album on your smart phone where you take pictures of the business cards you collect. Or maybe you have a box that functions as a  small filing system (alphabetically by name or type of service they offer) for contact info. 

• Calendar- Similar to contacts, you have the choice of paper or electronic. Some people like to use both. The great thing about using your phone calendar is the reminders and alerts that keep you on track. Planners and agendas are great for seeing your week at a glance and scheduling your days. Here's a link to some fun printable calendars. 

• Files- Again the question of paper vs. electronic is up to you. If you purchase an inexpensive scanner, you can digitally upload all of the papers that you need, in folders on your computer. If the traditional paper filing system works for you, go for it. Make sure to get folders that will allow you to separate and categorize the items you need to organize. Think colors, labels and dividers here. We love working with clients to come up with a personalized system that works best for you. 

COMFORT & INSPIRATION 

• Seating- Never underestimate the power of a comfortable chair. What you can do in a nice padded seat compared to a hard and rigid chair will surprise you. It's worth looking for just the right chair and spending a little money on. If you enjoy standing while you work, look into standing desk options. 

• Natural Light- Windows are ideal in any space that you will be spending time as they allow the sunlight to warm the room, energize your mind and get you going! If windows aren't present in your space, find a few lamps that will create warm and inviting light. 

• Plant(s)- It's life-giving to have a real life plant in your workspace. It's something to tend to, but it also reminds you of growth, our need for nourishment and the fragility of life. Find a little low maintenance succulent to start with. 

• Inspiration- We feel strongly about creating a space you enjoy. As you dream up this home office, what are the colors you love? Decorate with a few of your favorite prints or art pieces.

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If a home office seems unattainable or like a far fetched dream, let us come help create an office space in your home with you. We love empowering our clients through a personal and orderly work space. 

Before

After

Also, don't miss our Labor Day Special - One FREE Month of Organizing when you sign up for monthly organizing this weekend! 

consignment opportunity.

Fall is approaching; this means brisk mornings, pumpkin flavored everything, UT football games, and the holiday seasons approaching faster than we realize. As the weather transitions seasonally, so does our wardrobe. 

Is your closet full to the brim? Do you have clothes you rarely wear that are in mint condition? Would you love to make room for some new pieces? Want to make a little money on the clothes you can part with? What if we told you this was possible while also partnering to make a meaningful impact in 125 lives in our community? 

We are so excited to invite you to StateMint | An Upscale Consignment Event. This event was founded by Sarah McAffry, a Knoxville native who realized that Knoxville is full of fashion conscious women and men who need an event like this to buy and sell current fashions.  

Mark your calendars...

• Thursday, September 29 | 10 am - 8 pm 

• Friday, September 30 | 10 am - 8 pm

• Saturday, October 1 | 9 am - 3 pm

Ready to get started...

REGISTER - TAG - SHOP

 

See you there...

6700 Jubilee Center Way
Knoxville, TN,
37912 United States

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Have more questions? Ask away! 
Share the event with your friends and follow StateMintStyle on Instagram.