Holiday gift guide: Give the gift of experience rather than goods

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Christmas is less than two weeks away and we have a great list of gift ideas that won't clutter up the homes of the ones you love. We have compiled ideas for all age groups, budgets, and interests. We've even managed to think of ways to support local businesses without having to purchase tangible items. Whether you're shopping for "the person that already has everything", someone who is working toward a minimal lifestyle, or for someone that you wish would get rid of some clutter, we've got you covered. 

Experiences:

  • A Weekend away. Knoxville is conveniently located in driving distance from Nashville, Atlanta, Louisville, Chattanooga, and the Smokey Mountains. Try out an air bnb property rather than a hotel for a more personalized experience.
  • Dinner out. A few of our local favorites are A dopo, Knox Mason, Emelia, and J.C. Holdway
  • Manicure, pedicure, massage, spa treatment etc. Support a local salon like Wild Lavender or Pure Lux

Give the gift of classes or offer to teach someone a skill that you have:

  • Teach a loved one to knit, crochet, embroider, or sew. Loopville offers lots of classes for all levels of learning
  • Teach someone how to bake your "signature" treat or cook your favorite meal or give the gift of cooking classes at The Cutting Edge Classroom
  • Music/instrument lessons. Bill Jones Music offers many options.
  • Art or pottery classes. Check out Mighty Mud or ask a local artist if they offer private lessons.
  • Yoga membership or class package. The Glowing Body is one of our favorite locally owned studios.
  • Photography classes. Light Finds offers classes and private lessons as well!

Events:

The Mill & Mine: Image Source

The Mill & Mine: Image Source

Gift ideas for Kids:

The Basement community art studio. Image Source

The Basement community art studio. Image Source

Miscellaneous:

CSA share. Image source

CSA share. Image source

Think outside of the box this year and give those you love something that they will remember forever!

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Introducing Origami Day!

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I am so excited to introduce HYD's new friend, Samantha Lane, founder of Origami Day, to you. HYD is so thrilled to learn about her new company and how she's helping folks with time management and personal productivity!

Samantha came up with the idea after a health scare a few years back that led her to rethink how she was spending her own time.  Soon thereafter, she attended a time management class where the lightbulb came on and Origami Day was born.  Samantha's been applying Origami Day practices in her own life for some time now.  After walking alongside friends and colleagues assisting them with their calendars and how to use their time more wisely, she realized she had lots to offer our busy culture.  

So what is Origami Day? We'll start with the fabulous, simple, and very functional products:

The 2018 Origami Planner Notebook
This planner/notebook is so lovely and brilliant as it allows you to see the month as a whole, helping you keep track of the bigger picture with a year view as well. But that's not all, the journal has space for note taking, big ideas, and other important scribbles. These features  allow you to only grab one item instead of a planner and a journal and a notepad.  Available locally at Rala and online.

The Origami Day Planner Sheet
These sheets are designed with a unique grid that allows you to plan your week thoroughly. The next step is to fold your sheet along the provided lines allowing you to see your present day and the following day encouraging you to stay present and not be overwhelmed by the entire week. Available online.

Time Management Presentation
Samantha leads dynamic sessions that will inspire any audience to get excited about Time Management or Personal Productivity. Whether you are looking for a workshop, a conference speaker, or another special event, Origami Day is a great choice.

Origami Day is more than just the products though. It's also a new way of thinking. Samantha is dedicated to creating a culture shift, even if it's just on a small scale. She's come to realize that...

“... how we spend our day is how we spend our life.”
Samantha Lane, Founder

Samantha Lane, Founder

Just as HYD has seen the freedom and renewal that comes from decluttering the stuff in our homes, Samantha is now experiencing the great power that comes from decluttering one's schedule to create space and time for the things in life that truly matter.

And be on the lookout for some exciting collaborations between Origami Day and Help You Dwell this Spring!!

-- You can subscribe to Origami Day's newsletter here for Time Management tips and for upcoming events --

 

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Ideas for an Organized + Meaningful Thanksgiving

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Before you get overwhelmed or let another list of ideas make you feel like you aren't doing "enough"... we're sharing these tips to bring just a little additional function or fun to your Thanksgiving, but it doesn't have to be complicated. There is something very sacred and special about welcoming guests, family and friends into your home with as minimal fuss as possible. The hospitable act of opening your door, your table, your kitchen, your heart and your family is not to be taken lightly. Give yourself some grace. And if you are the one visiting someone else's home, go with gratitude. What if you chose not to get caught up in the expensive decor, fancy fixings, or newest trends this year? We challenge you to make a little commitment to yourself and whoever you are gathering with - that you will simply be grateful to gather, and the rest is all secondary. 

Our ideas to bring functionality + fun to your Thanksgiving:

Image from The Pretty Blog.

Image from The Pretty Blog.

  • Turn up the tunes. Make a family mix playlist on Spotify, so that everyone gets to hear a few of their current favorite songs. Or you can pick a genre or artist that everyone will love and have it playing in the background all day.

  • No Phone Zone. What if you and your guests all put your phones away (silenced and in another room) during your meal? Consider how this could eliminate distractions and foster togetherness at your table.

  • Take your feast outside. If the weather allows, shift your Thanksgiving meal outside - embrace the crisp fall air and a change of scenery. Ask your guests to bring camping chairs and set up a fire to enjoy after the feast. This will allow time to linger and savor the day a little longer. This blog post is an incredible inspiration for your outdoor Thanksgiving.

  • If you have help, take it. Don't try to be a superhero - let your people pitch in and give you a hand.

  • Walk it out. If you can find just 20 minutes, grab a neighbor or loved one in town and step away from the kitchen and enjoy fresh air and company for a brief break. If you enjoy your Thanksgiving meal for lunch, this is a great idea for the whole gang after the meal. Get your body moving for just a bit, you might even enjoy that pumpkin pie a little more if you do.

Links we're loving: 

Image from The Pretty Blog.

Image from The Pretty Blog.

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Get the Look - Holiday Table Setting

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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

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

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

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.

Behind the scenes of the HYD Flea

Tomorrow is the big day! The HYD Flea is one of our favorite events each season for so many reasons. We just thought it'd be fun to tell you a little about all the fun (and the crazy) that goes on during prep week.

Collecting for each flea starts just after the previous one ends. As we assist our clients with organizing, moving, or just rearranging their homes or offices, we carefully select items from them that they'd like to sell. This has been a great way to help folks let go of items they no longer need, allow clients to make a little money, and for us to create a shop filled with unique pieces you can't find anywhere else!

 
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The week of the sale is a little bonkers to say the least. : ) We're so very thankful for the guys at Moving Time who help us pick up the items at our client's homes and get them safely to The Hive! They are so good with our clients and careful with their home goods. Once the items are in the door, the task of inventorying and tagging begins and HYD takes great care to research values &/or information so that we get the right price for both the client and the shopper.

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Then comes the placement of all the goods. Now THIS is a job. We move stuff so many times before it gets in just the right spot. It's been such a gift to get to host the flea each season at The Hive. The space showcases the beauty of all the pieces and allows shoppers to enjoy a lovely atmosphere while they shop and visit with friends.

Spring Flea 2016

Spring Flea 2016

The day of the flea is lots of fun as well. So many old friends make their way through the door and lots of new ones as well! Music is playing, there's usually coffee to share, and lots of fun finds for your home.

Fall Flea 2016

Fall Flea 2016

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We hope you make time to stop by Friday or Saturday between 8am & 2pm to see all the treasures. 

We'll have an HYD Tote to giveaway to one lucky winner and don't forget...
It all goes HALF PRICE on Saturday from 12pm-2pm so don't miss your chance to get a real deal!!

A friendly feature: Bespoke Naturals

Image from @bespokenaturals

Image from @bespokenaturals

This week we wanted to introduce you to a local maker: Bespoke Naturals. We love their company and we wanted to share a little Q&A we did with them. Enjoy!

Q. Where did your idea and passion for this company come from?

A. Our idea for Bespoke Naturals originated from a desire to help a family member diagnosed with a serious illness. In researching healthier, more natural options for them, we discovered how many household cleaning products are quite unhealthy and filled with dangerous chemicals. Realizing the potential negative side effects of breathing in these chemicals, we began creating cleaning products free from harsh chemicals, preservatives and artificial fragrances.

Our idea for the Dog-Gone Flea & Tick Drops for Dogs came from a lovely little terrier that is allergic to the pesticides and chemicals in traditional flea and tick repellents. So, we set out to create a formula that is comprised entirely of a blend of dog-safe essential oils mixed with fractionated coconut oil.

Our ongoing passion for our company stems from the simple desire to share with others what we have learned about healthier living for ourselves, our families, and our pets. 

 

Q.  What is your favorite product?

A. We actually have two favorite products. First, is our counter top spray. We love the light fragrance provided by essential oils and how well it works around the house. Second, is our flea & tick drops for dogs. It keeps fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes away from our dogs and, unlike traditional chemical repellents, it does not cause them any problems.

 
Image from @bespokenaturals

Image from @bespokenaturals

 


Q. What is one thing you wish everyone knew about most household products?

A. We wish everyone knew a product label that says "natural" does not necessarily mean the product is really natural. The term "natural" is unregulated. There are no guidelines that must be followed in order to use the term. Therefore, a product may be labeled "natural" and still contain harsh chemicals or preservatives that may cause issues for sensitive family members or pets in the home. When you see "natural" on a product label, be sure to take a close look at the ingredient list.

At Bespoke Naturals, we never use harsh chemicals, preservatives or artificial fragrances in any of our products. So, you can trust you are using only the best for your family. 

 

Q. Who makes up your team at Bespoke?

A. Bespoke Naturals LLC is a two-person operation started by friends, Bill and Dedra, with an appreciation for healthy homes and healthy living.

 

Q. What are some holiday gift ideas you recommend? 

A. We recommend trying one of our gift sets. Each gift set comes in a cute gift box and contains everything you need to get started using our products along with a gift card. For the pet lover in your life that has a dog, we suggest our Dog-Gone Flea & Tick Drops for Dogs. They are convenient, easy to apply, and work well.

 

Image from @bespokenaturals

Image from @bespokenaturals

Thank you Bespoke Naturals your willingness to share with our HYD family! 

Bespoke Naturals, LLC
Web- bespokenaturals.com
Email- infobespokenaturals@gmail.com

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!

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 //

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These 5 Things : October 2017

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1. Find out how to organize your kitchen for under $100 at Target. 

2. The Happy Envelope is collaborating with local a few local photographers for Holiday Photo Sessions. 

3. Knoxville is getting our very own Food Truck Park - Central Filling Station. Coming soon and it's right near our office @ The Hive. 

4. Sarah, from Our Vintage Farmhouse wrote a blog that is inspiring to say the least - read it here. 

5. The 2017 HGTV Urban Oasis Giveaway is right here in one of Knoxville's downtown neighborhoods - 4th & Gill. Check it out! **Image credit: Tomas Espinoza

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Fall Flea

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We are so excited to announce and invite you to the Fall Flea @ The Hive. Come and shop with us! 

Our team has been curating a shop full of vintage treasures, gorgeous accents, and eclectic one-of-a-kind pieces of furniture and home decor. 

Friday // November 3
Saturday // November 4
8 am - 2 pm

Follow us on Facebook + Instagram for more sneak peeks of items for sale in the Fall Flea. 

Entryways for Fall

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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!

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Fall Leaves Coir Doormat // World Market

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 :)

** 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**

goodbye shame

There is one thing that is sure to keep all of us right where we are today and to keep us from any forward motion in our lives. It's shame. 

Inspirational image via @brilamberson 

Inspirational image via @brilamberson 

There is nothing productive about shame. It keeps you hidden, stuck, embarrassed, and far from opportunity and growth. So many people we know: our neighbors, family members and friends can easily get caught in house-shame. Here are some lies that shame would have us to believe: Your home isn't as beautifully decorated as it should be, your kids rooms are too messy to invite friends over, you could never host a dinner or party in your space, people would not respect you if they saw inside your house, there is no hope for people like you... I'm sure we could each rattle off many more lies that shame tries to keep us trapped in. Shame tries to put all the weight on our weaknesses. 

Spoiler alert - it's all lies. Shame is just a big lie. No matter how chaotic your calendar, closet, garage, purse, or your work desk is... it can change. (Insert hope!) Remember, we own our things, they do not have power to own us. It's time to make a power play and return power to the rightful owner- you! You have the capacity and ability to make things different. Little by little, progress is possible. Getting started is usually the most difficult part- it takes some serious courage and here are two other things that will be key to moving out of shame and into action. 

Inspirational image via @lisaclowstudio

Inspirational image via @lisaclowstudio

Inspirational image via @azford 

Inspirational image via @azford 

A humble perspective will go a long way when you decide to tackle an overwhelming task. Your "whole house" is a daunting and unrealistic goal for today. Small steps and little actions can snow ball into a great wave of order and organization in your life. Just pace yourself! Forgive yourself when certain areas or projects take longer than you intended. Make small goals and celebrate the completion of each one, they really do each matter. 

Inspirational image via @thenester

Inspirational image via @thenester

A kind friend is one of the greatest tools to bring with you on your journey from being stuck to making progress. Someone who will speak truthfully and also be sensitive to your emotions in a process like purging is so helpful. Look for these valuable qualities in a friend: someone who is able to laugh at unexpected finds, willing to grieve with you over painful memories, not afraid to remind you how many pairs of toe socks you already have. There is something magical about walking through a challenge with a dear friend - it eases the load and makes it a little more bearable. Accountability for keeping up with your journey to freedom from disorganization is another reason to bring a friend along. You aren't alone with your shameful thoughts, you have an ally to work through your thoughts with. 

It is one of the greatest joys we experience with our HYD clients when we see the weight of shame lifted as they start to see hope in their situation. We get to bring practicality, a plan and fresh perspective to places that are sources of stress and frustration for our clients. We carry hope and creative organizational ideas into closets, rooms, homes and workspaces that disorganization previously claimed. 

Challenge yourself today to identify an area of your home that brings up shame and create one small goal to accomplish this week. You can do it. Shame is a liar and you are capable. And if you want professional help, we would be humbled to walk alongside you on your journey to organization. 

 

Welcome to Parkridge!

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      A few weeks ago we had the privilege of sitting down with Rebecca Loy for an awesome Parkridge Home Tour. If you are unfamiliar with Parkridge, it’s a small historic neighborhood just east of downtown Knoxville. Filled with character, community gardens, and a good dose of grass roots movement, Parkridge is home to people from many different walks of life.

     Rebecca and Steve moved into Parkridge almost 9 years ago and haven’t looked back. Having always loved the idea of front porches, neighbor drop bys, and foot traffic, Rebecca was ecstatic when she realized that within 3 weeks of moving in, they had met more people in Parkridge than they had met in the many years they had lived out in the suburbs. Interestingly, Rebecca pointed out that American architecture today and for the past several decades has had a hand in keeping people to themselves, the disappearance of the front porch, and the introduction of the fenced in yard, all of which make it difficult to meet the people around you. Steve and Rebecca were looking for a place where people were out and about and after driving and walking around Parkridge, they found that the diversity and the neighborliness of the community were just what they were looking for.

Back fence in the alley way behind the Loy house. Dinosaur mural by

Back fence in the alley way behind the Loy house. Dinosaur mural by

Tell me about the history of your house.
The home was built in 1889 and F.E. McArthur was the original owner. The home itself was designed by famous architect George Barber and cost a whopping $2,975 to build. Kent Kendrick: a local contractor, bought it around 2006 and converted it back from three apartments into a single dwelling. He did a great job of keeping historic elements but also created a great flow in the downstairs layout/floorplan. It’s more open feeling than many of the other Victorian homes in the neighborhood.

Picture from "Victorian Cottage Architecture: An American Catalog of Designs"

Picture from "Victorian Cottage Architecture: An American Catalog of Designs"

Picture from "Victorian Cottage Architecture: An American Catalog of Designs

Picture from "Victorian Cottage Architecture: An American Catalog of Designs

What styles of homes/decor do you gravitate towards?
Ironically, I don’t really like Victorian style (which makes up a large part of Parkridge homes). I’m more drawn to the paired down, shaker style. I love simple lines and neutrals and tend to bring color in through accents. I’m definitely more of a stripe person than a curve/flower person.

Did your style happen organically or was it a process of figuring out what style means to you?
I’ve always liked the simpler stuff. Steve likes all the ornate stuff. Somehow it works itself out.

What is your favorite part of your home?
The front porch! It has become a gathering place for neighbors. I love that people feel permission to come up on a porch without a formal invitation.

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Do you have a favorite thing in your home?
2 pieces of art come to mind: The Kathie Odom Painting above mantel and the
Sarah Shebaro painting in the living room.

Kathie Odom painting above mantel

Kathie Odom painting above mantel

Sarah Shebaro painting

Sarah Shebaro painting

Do you collect anything?
Metal Trays, tea pots, and pitchers. I’ve been collecting tea pots and pitchers for 20-30 years. I love the utility and function of them but also that they are decorative and pretty. I started collecting trays when we moved into this house.
Also, somehow we’ve started a Starbucks mug/shot glass collection from every city we have been to.

Teapot and Pitcher collection

Teapot and Pitcher collection

Kitchen collections: Trays, bottles, post cards

Kitchen collections: Trays, bottles, post cards

What does home mean to you?
To me, home is people. It’s a family. If I was homeless, my home would be the tent with my people in it.

When people come into your home, what do you hope they feel?
I hope they feel at home. My house keeping style is somewhere in the middle. I don’t want people to be afraid to sit down for either reason— you don’t want things to be too nasty and also don’t want them to be too fancy. (Hilarious and so true) If you have a living room is should be lived in.

Dining Room with stain glass inlays

Dining Room with stain glass inlays

Office area

Office area

Living Room

Living Room

How is your home an extension of yourself or of your family?
I think our home is kind of the stage where we get to be us. The home is the primary place where people experience you. Your home is the most useful tool for inviting people into your life. We rarely have a week where we don’t have extra people here for dinner or stopping by to sit on the porch.

Steve and Rebecca Loy

Steve and Rebecca Loy

Pear tree in the front yard

Pear tree in the front yard

Raised beds in the front and side yard are home to tomatoes, peppers, and all kinds of herbs

Raised beds in the front and side yard are home to tomatoes, peppers, and all kinds of herbs

Green peppers

Green peppers

A big thank you to Rebecca for sitting down with us, sharing her thoughts, and letting us into her piece of the world!

 

Say HELLO to Erin!

Erin & her boyfriend. 

Erin & her boyfriend. 

“Write a blog about yourself,” they said. “It’s no big deal,” they said.

But it IS a big deal. This is a new beginning for me, and it. is. big.

Hi, I’m Erin, and I’m new here.

Some background about me and my journey. I was born and raised in Knoxville along with my younger brother. Momma has always been a nurse, and Daddy has always been a teacher. I was always careful , I always followed the rules, and I always made safe and calculated decisions. As a child, I thrived on peace and order in my life.

Erin & her family. 

Erin & her family. 

After high school, I made the safe and predictable decision, for me, to attend college in pursuit of a career in disability services. After graduation, I dabbled in the workforce a bit before seeking the comfort of structure and routine that I knew would be found within a graduate program. Thanks to one of my graduate school professors, I found myself working in a  full-time position as a disability counselor in a college. This was a dream job in my field with a salary and stability. At this point, I expected to follow in the steady footsteps of my parents and retire from my first and only "real career." 

Well, after a few years in this “dream job," I woke up to the realization that I had completely worn myself out. “This can’t be it," I thought. "I deserve to be passionate about my career too.” So I decided to expand the parts of my job that I really liked and, in doing so, turned them into a side hustle by opening a home and office organization business. I was still working my full-time job and, now, organizing on the weekends. I felt like I had finally found my purpose! And yet, while I loved the work I was doing, the reality was, my business was failing. After a summer of soul-searching, I took a leap of faith and reached out to the team at Help You Dwell. After meeting with them, I knew I was on the right path. I joined the HYD team, closed my small business, left my salaried career, and I’ve never felt this free. 

Erin's guinea pig - Prints. 

Erin's guinea pig - Prints. 

Did I mention that I’m not a natural risk-taker? Transitioning from the steady career I had always  been working towards and, instead, jumping into something new was terrifying. But, for the first time in a long time, I feel like I am exactly where I am supposed to be. Working with families and helping them lift the burden of clutter and disarray gives me life. God has allowed my passion to meet its purpose and it is a wonderful place to be. 

 

books, books & more books

DECIDING WHICH BOOKS TO KEEP

Photo via bookriot.com

Photo via bookriot.com

Consider these questions when sorting through which books you'll keep and which you are willing to part with: 

  • When was the last time I read this book?

  • Will I read it again?

  • If it's a cookbook, do I use it? Hint: the presence of food stains indicates a keeper.

  • Is the book a classic?

  • Does the book have specific value — is it a signed copy, first or collectible edition?

  • Is the book out-of-print or hard to replace?

  • Do you have mulitple copies? (Just keep one)

  • Do you have an electronic version of this book? (Let the paper version go)

  • Is this a book I've borrowed and need to return?

WHAT TO DO WITH BOOKS YOU'RE LETTING GO OF

  • Donate to: Friends of the Knox County Library, KARM, The Salvation Army, local churches

  • Specifically gift relevant books to: family members, neighbors, co-workers, or friends.

  • Recycle: if a book is beyond repair & has seen better days

  • Consign: your books at McKay's Books

 
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WHAT'S ON OUR BOOKSHELVES

STYLED BOOKSHELVES

Photo via designsponge.com

Photo via designsponge.com

Photo via designsponge.com

Photo via designsponge.com

Here's a fun video showing a few different ways to style your own bookshelf. And a cute infographic drawing of the different styles! 

It's all in the details: A downtown home tour

After having lived in their awesome apartment for about 2 years, Crista and Liam have hit the sweet spot--settling into a space that feels uniquely "them" and easy to enjoy. After living in South Knoxville while in grad school, they made the switch to downtown dwelling and haven't looked back. Crista loves the excitement of downtown living where you can walk or ride your bike to endless shops and restaurants, walk or ride the trolley to work, and can always find something to do in close proximity. After a year and a half living in the Firestreet Lofts, they moved to The JFG building which was home to a former coffee roasting business and feel like it's the perfect fit. Initially, it seemed that not having a yard was the only downside to living downtown but Crista and Liam now have a plot in the Old City Gardens where they are part of an awesome community of downtown dwellers and business owners that grow their own produce and herbs just down the street. Crista and Liam have been very intentional and thoughtful about the purchases they have made over the years and have learned that when you live downtown in a smaller space, you have to get serious about what you love and what is just taking up space. "We've found that buying things for the person you want to become,if you are not in the process of becoming that person, just leads to regretted purchases." Purchasing items that you love and that serve a practical purpose in your current space and life will keep you from the spontaneous buys that clutter up your home.

Crista and Liam's home & style philosophy is based on the quote below:

“The details are not the details, they make the design.”
— Charles Eames

In reference to the quote, they add that it's honestly a sentiment you can apply across your whole life. Whether in reference to work, attire, or home decor, in each area the details make up the whole. Paying attention to the small things makes the big picture so much better!

Living Room

Living Room

Dining area

Dining area

How would you describe your style of decorating?
I wouldn't necessarily put my style into a category— it's more of an approach. I’ve always been interested in interior decorating. Even as a child I loved looking at decor magazines and always had a file of clippings pulled from various places. I was always dreaming about ideas and re configurations. Functionality of space is really important in decorating— it has to drive how you fill a space. It can be a big challenge living down town with little closet space and small kitchens etc. We are slow to buy things and always take into account the quality of an item. We like to mix and match lots of different styles and era’s of furniture for a more unique look. We want to buy things that are not disposable— things we intend to keep for a long time. One of the things we really pay attention to in order to make sure things stay cohesive is color— we gravitate towards blues and grays with pops of red. We try to buy used or antique furniture and decor except for big investment pieces like our bed. We are always willing to wait longer to save up for items we really love and cherish. A few of Crista and Liams favorite local treasure troves are Mid Mod Collective and Willow Creek Antiques.

Master Bath

Master Bath

You have some really amazing pieces in your home, what is your relationship to your belongings?
Neither of us are super sentimental. The only things that we couldn't part with are family heirlooms. We have tried to do a good job with not attaching too many memories with “stuff”. Everything in our home has a function or a significance and we love it all but we aren’t tied to it in a way that allows it to have control or ownership over us. That being said, we have a few favorite items that would be hard to let go of. When Liam was born he was gifted a set of Silver ware from his grandparents with a really unique "H" monogram. (Liam's last name is Hysjulien) It's a beautiful set that we only use on special occasions. We try and form traditions around the items we love most. Another of our favorite possessions is our marriage certificate. We had everyone in attendance sign it saying that they would support our union and observed our marriage. It's a constant reminder that we have a wonderful community supporting us along the way.

Painting by Earnest Lee

Painting by Earnest Lee

Liam and Crista's marriage certificate

Liam and Crista's marriage certificate

Purchased at Lox at a First Friday Art Sale

Purchased at Lox at a First Friday Art Sale

Do you have any collections?
Baskets, dishes, and trays. We are very into corralling things to so that our surfaces remain clutter free. We definitely aren't minimialists which can sometimes feel sterile but we've found that clutter can be physically and emotionally overwhelming so we try to keep things simple. We love that our home feels lived in and representative of who we are.

Do you have a favorite piece in your home? Does our cat;Panda count? Favorite Room? Our bedroom. We have these amazing giant windows that make our room feel like an urban tree house.

Panda the cat in the master bedroom

Panda the cat in the master bedroom

Crista and Liam in front of the avocado tree that they grew from a sprouted pit 11 years ago when they first started dating.

Crista and Liam in front of the avocado tree that they grew from a sprouted pit 11 years ago when they first started dating.

What is your favorite thing about your home/why do you love your home?
 Truely--Who we share it with! Aside from that, It feels like the right space for our needs. The windows and the natural light are pretty incredible as well. We also love the high ceilings and the openness of the floor plan.

Guest Room

Guest Room

Master Bedroom

Master Bedroom

Master Bedroom

Master Bedroom

What does home mean to you?
We are home bodies so we spend a lot of time here. It has always been important to us that our home feels comfortable and happy to be in.

When people come into your home, what do you hope they feel?
I hope they feel how we feel— relaxed, cozy, and calm. We want the space to be used and enjoyed; comfortable. We love that our space is easy to rearrange and make conducive for all kinds of events.

Entryway

Entryway

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How is your home an extension of yourself or of your family?
Our home is definitely a collaborative outcome. We’ve thought about everything that occupies space here and both have really enjoyed the process of curating an apartment that feels true to us. A lot of our belongings are representative of specific trips and memories. It’s a space that we genuinely feel satisfied with.

Floor plan: 1100sq ft (2bd/2bth) Source

Floor plan: 1100sq ft (2bd/2bth) Source

Interested in where certain items are from? See the purchase list below. A big thank you to Crista and Liam for opening up their home and sharing their journey!

Master Bedroom

Master Bathroom

  • Chicken Art by Ernest Lee, folk artist in Columbia, SC

Spare Bedroom/Bike Room

Iron Bed: Goodwill (modified for structural support at Ironwood Studios)

  • Lamps: Rivermill Antique Mall in Townsend (rewired and shades from Calloway’s)

  • Square Table: Also from Rivermill Antique Mall

  • Martha Washington Sewing Cabinet: Blair House Antiques

  • Blue Pillow: Citizen Supply in Atlanta, GA

  • Wooden Shelf: Salvaged, as in literally picked up from the side of the road

  • Black and White Photo: Kudzu Antiques in Decatur, GA

  • Dolly Parton Print: Haypeep (was part of the SGC International printmaking conference held in Knoxville in 2015)

Entryway

  • Metal Cabinet: Salvaged

  • Yellow Dresser: IKEA

  • Bookshelves: IKEA

  • Rug: Antique Hand-Me-Down

  • Chicken Art by Ernest Lee, folk artist in Columbia, SC

Living Room/Kitchen

  • Couch: Room and Board

  • Record Holder: Mid Mod Collective

  • Rug: IKEA (similar here)

  • Coffee Table: Abode (used to be on Market Square)

  • Side Table and Long-Armed Lamp: Design By Conran Line at JC Penney

  • Lamp with Beige Shade: Etsy

  • Red Book Shelf: Antique

  • Bar Cart: Friends Antiques

  • Cat house: Amazon

  • Table and Chairs: West Elm

  • Beige Chair: West Elm (similar here)

  • Basket: Max Studio

  • Navy Floral Chair: Retrospective Vintage Store

  • Black and White Print: UT Print Sale, Allegedly by Jack Neely

  • Bergen Print: Antique

  • Hutch: Antique Hand-Me-Down

  • Kitchen Side Shelf: West Elm

  • Kitchen Island: Coldstream Market

  • Tablecloth: Etsy

  • Semi-Circle Wooden Cabinet: Uptown Market Antiques, Wilmington, NC

 

 

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Let's school this...

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back to school image.jpg

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!

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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. 

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. 

ultimate summer organizing playlist

There is something magical about the way music can ease a difficulty, bring enjoyment to a challenge and just make you feel good! We've compiled a little "summer organizing jams" playlist to share with you. It's a hodge-podge mix of some good tunes. Take a listen! 

What are some of your favorite genres, artists or playlists to listen to while working on a home project?

Happy listening!