How to Make Your Home Office More Green

How to Make Your Home Office More Green

We’ve all had bad days where our home offices look like an entire case of paper exploded all over the place. In my office, I call those days “the day before quarterly taxes are due.” All joking aside, I’ve spent most of the last year dedicated to making my home office a more green and sustainable space. I’ve really wanted to focus on going green. So, I’ve put together the steps I took to reduce my own carbon footprint as I made my home office greener.

How to Make Your Home Office More Green

Unplug and Switch Off

Working from home has its perks, like being able to roll out of bed and straight into your office (aka the kitchen table). But did you know that even when your devices are in sleep mode or turned off, they’re still sucking up energy? It’s like they never learned the concept of personal space! So, let’s give them a timeout and unplug them when you’re not using them. It’s a simple way to reduce energy consumption and save some money on your electricity bill. Plus, it’s a great excuse to do a victory dance every time you successfully unplug something without accidentally pulling out the wrong cord (we’ve all been there).

Reduced Paper Usagehome office

Reducing paper usage is usually the first thing people think of when they think of going green in their home office. No matter which invoice system you’re using, you should be able to save your invoices to your computer or the cloud instead of printing them. If you’re a fan of white papers and other downloadable content like I am, leave it on your computer and read it there, or move it onto a tablet so you can read it from the couch instead of printing it out.

Move client files that aren’t sensitive to Google Docs. If you need to store sensitive data, make sure that you’re using a certified encrypted method. Switch from a paper planner to an online calendar; Google Calendar can do just about anything these days, and you can sync it to Trello or Asana so you can keep track of important meetings and deadlines. You really can go paper-free.

Opt for Energy-Efficient Lighting

Staring at your computer screen all day can make you feel like a vampire avoiding sunlight, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for a dreary office environment. Say goodbye to those old incandescent light bulbs and hello to energy-efficient lighting options. LED lights are not only more eco-friendly but also last longer, which means fewer trips to the store for replacements. And if you’re really feeling fancy, you can even get smart light bulbs that you can control with your voice or your phone (cue the “I’m living in the future” dance). So, let’s shed some light on your eco-friendly home office and reduce your energy consumption, one bulb at a time!

Used an Eco-Friendly PrinterHow to Make Your Home Office More Green

For some businesses, using a printer can’t be avoided. If that’s the case for you, choose a more eco-friendly printer. I recommend the Epson EcoTank Wireless Color All-In-One. EcoTank printers use less expensive ink than cartridges, and the bottles are better for the environment. The super tank bottles have as much ink as up to eighty cartridges; that’s a lot of landfill space you’re saving! Printworks sells reams of 100% recycled paper so that when you’re printing documents, you’re reducing your use of new paper, too!

Shop the Thrift Store

When it comes to furnishing your green home office, the thrift store can be your best friend! You can often find some incredible deals on office furniture at the neighborhood thrift. When I needed a new filing cabinet, I was able to find a like-new one, with a working lock, for a few bucks. If you’re looking for an office chair, make sure you test your find out before leaving the thrift store. It’s an unpleasant surprise if you find that the chair has been spun so often it won’t stay attached to the base!

Use Smart Power Strips

You know that feeling when your computer, monitor, printer, and who knows what else are all plugged into one power strip, and you break into a cold sweat wondering if they’re silently plotting against you? Yeah, we’ve been there too. But fear not, because smart power strips are here to save the day (and potentially your sanity). These nifty little devices are like the bouncers at the club, monitoring your energy consumption and cutting off power to devices that are just hanging around, being energy vampires. So, say goodbye to unnecessary energy waste and hello to a power strip that’s smarter than your average bear (or vampire, for that matter).

Buy Recycled

You also have some options if you want to buy recycled. Office mats, which keep you from damaging your carpet or laminate floor, are easily found with recycled options. Cube bookcases are great for storing books or other essentials. Durable plastic notebooks can be made from recycled materials, too! For a while there, every time I hit the office supply store, I would cruise through the aisles for stuff I knew I would be purchasing soon so I could price out recycled options; sometimes I would find recycled products I didn’t even know existed!

Embrace Natural Lighting

Natural Lighting in roomWho needs a fancy ergonomic chair when you can have the warmth of the sun as your office buddy? Embracing natural lighting not only gives your workspace a fresh and inviting feel but also helps reduce your reliance on artificial lighting. So, open those curtains wide and let the sun work its magic on your productivity levels. Just make sure you don’t blind yourself with the glare on your computer screen, or you’ll look like you discovered a secret talent for impersonating a zombie. Natural lighting is the eco-friendly way to light up your office while also giving you a healthy dose of vitamin D. It’s a win-win!

Stay Organized

greenery on deskIt sounds strange to tell you that staying organized is part of going green. But I’m going to tell you why. Whenever we let our offices get cluttered with stuff, our first instinct is to buy more stuff to get it uncluttered. The truth is, we usually don’t need more stuff to get it uncluttered; we just need to put everything away in the first place. Once you get your green office set up, keep it tidy.

Add some time to clean your office into your schedule every week, and plan to do a deep cleaning once a quarter. Move everything around and vacuum, wash the windows, and organize your bookshelves, and the whole lot. If you stay organized, you won’t need to buy more stuff. But if you do, for some reason, need to replace something, make sure that you recycle it if it’s at all possible, so that you keep the green cycle going.

Plant Some Actual Greenery

If your home office is feeling a little too stale, it’s time to bring in some actual greenery. No, we’re not talking about those fake plants that collect dust faster than you can say “décor disaster.” We mean real, living plants that not only improve the air quality in your workspace but also add a touch of life and personality. Just make sure you’re not accidentally turning your office into a jungle with plants growing out of every corner. A balanced amount of greenery will give your eco-friendly home office a fresh and vibrant vibe. Plus, if you forget to water them, just blame it on being too focused on saving the planet.

Go green in your home office by taking these simple steps today!

Going green is one of those investments that you will pay more for initially, but that you will thank yourself for in the long run. Ultimately, it will pay off, and you’ll appreciate the changes you made further down the line. I can also tell you I feel more productive and have a clearer head space to accomplish things when it’s organized than when it’s not organized.

There are several ways to make your home office more green. Working remotely means you can ditch the commute and work from the comfort of your own home. To make your office more eco-friendly, start by replacing incandescent bulbs with LED lights. You can also take advantage of natural light by opening blinds and curtains during the day. If you need to use additional lighting, look for energy-efficient options.

Another way to reduce your environmental impact is to choose environmentally friendly office supplies, like refillable pens and recycled paper. If you are going to head out of the office, use a reusable bottle which you can also use in the office day to day to help you get your daily water quota. Finally, be mindful of your energy usage. When you’re not working, power down electronics and unplug them from the power strip. Taking these steps will help to make your office more green and sustainable.

Thanksgiving Day Decor Ideas for a Festive Celebration!

Thanksgiving Day Decor Ideas for a Festive Celebration!

The Thanksgiving holiday is a time to come together with family and friends to celebrate all that we are grateful for. It is also a time for festive decorations! If you are looking for some ideas on how to decorate your home for Thanksgiving, you have come to the right place. In this blog post, we will discuss a variety of different ways that you can deck out your house in celebration of the holiday. From traditional decor to more modern ideas, we have something for everyone! So sit down, get comfortable, and let’s get started!

Thanksgiving Day Decor Ideas

Traditional Thanksgiving Decor

Looking to add a touch of festivity to your home this Thanksgiving? Then look no further than your backyard! With an abundance of fall fruits and vegetables, it’s easy to create beautiful Thanksgiving centerpieces, tablescapes, and door decorations that will make your home feel warm and inviting.

Start by gathering some fall fruits and vegetables like pumpkins, squash, and gourds. You can display them on your front porch or in your entryway as a colorful and welcoming addition to your decor. Then, bring the harvest inside by using hay bales, corn stalks, and branches to create stunning Thanksgiving centerpieces for your dinner table. For a truly unique tablescape, try using a charcuterie board as your base. Simply arrange fall fruits and vegetables, along with some meats and cheeses, on a large cutting board or serving platter. Finish off your Thanksgiving Day decor by making a DIY wreath for your front door. All you need is some fall foliage, a bit of twine, and some creativity! Whatever you do, there’s no shortage of ways to add a festive touch to your home this Thanksgiving.

Rustic and Natural Thanksgiving Decor

Thanksgiving Day Decor ideasOne way to get into the Thanksgiving spirit is to decorate your home with seasonal items like pumpkins, squash, hay, and cornucopia. You can use these items to create Thanksgiving centerpieces, fall wreaths, tablescapes, and charcuterie boards. Another great way to decorate for Thanksgiving is to use natural elements like leaves, branches, and berries. You can use these items to create door wreaths, mantel decorations, and table runners. By incorporating some simple tips and ideas, you can easily transform your home into a stylish and welcoming space for holiday gatherings.

Cozy Thanksgiving Decor

When the chilly autumn breeze starts blowing and the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and orange, it’s time to cozy up your dining room for Thanksgiving. Get ready to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that will make your guests feel right at home. Picture soft throw blankets draped over chairs, plush pillows scattered around the room, and a crackling fireplace casting a gentle glow.

And don’t forget about the essential element – a delectable Thanksgiving menu that warms both the heart and the belly. With cozy Thanksgiving decor, your dining room will become a snug haven for friends and family to gather, eat, and create memories.

Nature-Inspired Thanksgiving Decor

Are you tired of the same old Thanksgiving decorations year after year? Shake things up this turkey day with some eye-catching nature-inspired decor! Imagine transforming your dining room into a cozy woodland retreat, with leaves, pinecones, and branches adorning your table.

Not only will it create a stunning Thanksgiving table setting, but it will also give your guests a taste of the great outdoors while they indulge in your delicious Thanksgiving menu. This nature-inspired decor is all about bringing the beauty of the outdoors inside and adding a touch of rustic charm to your celebration.

Modern Thanksgiving Decor

Thanksgiving Day Table Decor ideasWhen it comes to Thanksgiving Day decor, there are endless possibilities. From Thanksgiving centerpieces and fall wreaths to tablescapes and charcuterie boards, there are options for every area of the house. But how do you put the decorations together for a stylish look?

For starters, consider your color palette. What colors will you use for your decor? Will you stick to traditional fall colors like orange, red, and yellow? Or mix things up with a more modern palette of black, white, and gold? Once you’ve decided on your colors, it’s time to start shopping for decorations.

If you’re looking for Thanksgiving centerpieces, try using pumpkins as vases. Simply cut the top off of a small pumpkin and remove the seeds. Then fill the pumpkin with water and arrange your flowers inside. For a more modern twist on the traditional Thanksgiving centerpiece, use white pumpkins and artificial flowers.

Another great option for tablescapes is a charcuterie board. Arrange an assortment of fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats, and crackers on a large cutting board or platter. Add some sprigs of rosemary or thyme for a touch of green, and you’re all set!

Elegant Thanksgiving Decor

Looking to add a touch of sophistication to your Thanksgiving festivities? Then embrace the elegance with some jaw-dropping decor! With an elegant Thanksgiving table setting, your dining room will be the talk of the town. Think luxurious linens, sparkling china, and twinkling candlelight creating a warm and inviting ambiance.

Add some eye-catching centerpieces and a tastefully arranged Thanksgiving menu, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for a truly unforgettable turkey day. So why not sprinkle a little elegance onto your Thanksgiving table this year and let your guests dine in style?

Creative and Fun Thanksgiving Decor

It’s time to let your creativity soar and infuse some fun into your Thanksgiving decor! Break free from tradition and unleash your inner artist with unique and eye-catching decorations that will have your guests talking for years to come. Think outside the box with unconventional color schemes, whimsical centerpieces, and playful table settings.

Get the whole family involved in creating handmade decorations, making it an interactive and memorable experience for everyone. This creative and fun Thanksgiving decor will ensure that your Turkey Day celebration stands out from the rest, leaving your guests impressed and inspired.

DIY Thanksgiving Decorations

stack of pumpkinsAs the autumn leaves begin to fall, it’s time to start thinking about Thanksgiving Day decor! Whether you’re hosting a large dinner party or a quiet family gathering, there are plenty of ways to add a festive touch to your home. For the entryway, consider placing a cornucopia filled with seasonal flowers on the doorstep. You can also line the walkway with miniature pumpkins or gourds. Inside the house, drape a Fall-themed tablecloth over the dinner table and adorn it with candles, acorns, and leaves. Fall colors like orange, yellow, and red are perfect for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. For the living room or den, try adding a few Throw pillows in seasonal prints. And don’t forget the fireplaces! Decorate mantels with garlands of leaves or mini pumpkins. With a little bit of creativity, you can transform your home into a Thanksgiving Day feast for the eyes!

Table Settings for Thanksgiving Dinner

decor for Thanksgiving The dinner table is the center of any Thanksgiving feast. It’s where family and friends gather to enjoy good food and conversation. If you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner this year, you’ll want to create a festive and inviting table setting. Here are some tips to get you started:

Choose a color scheme: Fall colors like orange, yellow, and red are always popular for Thanksgiving. You can use these colors in your tablecloth, napkins, plates, and centerpiece.

Think about texture: A variety of textures can add interest to your table setting. Pair a smooth tablecloth with linen napkins, or mix and match different patterns. Add some shine with metallic accents like candlesticks or chargers.

Create a centerpiece: The centerpiece is the focal point of your table setting. A vase of beautiful fall flowers is always a good choice. You could also go for something more creative, like a miniature pumpkin patch or a display of fall leaves. Candles are another great option for adding warmth and light to your dinner table.

With these tips in mind, you’re sure to create a dinner table that will be the talk of the holiday season!

Food Ideas for Thanksgiving Celebration

pumpkin pieThanksgiving is a time to give thanks and enjoy the company of family and friends. A traditional Thanksgiving feast typically includes turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. However, there are many other delicious Thanksgiving recipes out there that are worth trying. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Green Bean Casserole: This classic Thanksgiving dish is a perennial favorite. It’s easy to make and can be easily tailored to your taste.
  • Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are a Thanksgiving tradition in many households. They can be mashed like regular potatoes, or made into fries or casserole.
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Brussels sprouts are not just for Thanksgiving anymore! Roasting them in the oven with some olive oil and garlic makes for a delicious and healthy side dish.
  • Pumpkin Soup: This creamy soup is perfect for cold fall days. It can be served as an appetizer or main course.
  • Apple Pie: What would Thanksgiving be without pie? Apple pie is a classic for a reason, but feel free to get creative with your pies and try new flavors.

Whatever dishes you choose to serve, Thanksgiving is sure to be a festive and memorable occasion!

No matter what your style, there are plenty of ways to add a festive touch to your home this Thanksgiving. With a little bit of creativity, you can easily create Thanksgiving centerpieces, tablescapes, door wreaths, and more that will make your holiday gathering one to remember.

5 Stunning Spoonflower Peel And Stick Wallpapers To Transform Your Space

5 Stunning Spoonflower Peel And Stick Wallpapers To Transform Your Space

Why Peel-and-Stick Wallpapers?

Remodeling your home or adding a fresh touch to your living space can be both exciting and challenging. One of the easiest and most versatile ways to revamp your walls is by using peel-and-stick wallpapers. Unlike traditional wallpapers or painting, peel-and-stick wallpapers offer a hassle-free, mess-free, and budget-friendly alternative. I recently stumbled upon Spoonflower Peel and Stick Wallpapers, and I have been blown away by their quality and stunningSpoonflower Peel And Stick Wallpapers designs. In this blog post, I’ll share my experience with peel-and-stick wallpapers, introduce you to Spoonflower, and showcase five of my favorite wallpapers from their collection.

5 Stunning Spoonflower Peel And Stick Wallpapers To Transform Your Space

What Is Spoonflower?

If you’re not familiar with Spoonflower, let me introduce you to this amazing company. Based in North Carolina, Spoonflower is a print-on-demand platform known for its fabric wallpaper and custom designs. They sell wallpaper, fabric, gift wrap, and other home decor items, allowing designers and customers to create unique products with their prints. One of the things that sets Spoonflower apart is their commitment to independent fabric designers and supporting the community through design challenges and competitions. Their peel-and-stick wallpapers are made from high-quality materials, featuring water-based inks and eco-friendly production methods.

Is Spoonflower Worth It?

In my opinion, Spoonflower is absolutely worth it! Their peel-and-stick wallpapers are not only stunning but also easy to install and remove. They give your space a luxurious and personalized touch, making it stand out and reflect your unique style. Whether you’re looking for a calming and serene vibe or a boldSpoonflower Peel And Stick Wallpapers review and vibrant atmosphere, Spoonflower has something for everyone.

How To Install Spoonflower Peel And Stick Wallpaper

Installing Spoonflower Peel and Stick Wallpaper is a breeze. Here are the steps to get you started:

  1. Prepare Your Wall: Make sure your wall is clean, smooth, and free of any dust or debris. If needed, patch up any holes or imperfections.
  2. Measure and Cut: Measure the height of your wall and cut the wallpaper accordingly, adding a few extra inches at the top and bottom for adjustments.
  3. Peel Off Backing: Slowly peel off the backing of the wallpaper, starting from the top, as you press the wallpaper onto the wall. Smooth out any air bubbles as you go.
  4. Align the Pattern: If your wallpaper has a repeating pattern, take extra care to align it properly. This will ensure a seamless look.
  5. Trim Excess: Once the wallpaper is applied, use a sharp utility knife to trim off the excess material from the top and bottom.

5 Spoonflower Peel And Stick Wallpapers

1. Sunlit Blooms: This wallpaper features a beautiful floral design with a soft color palette, perfect for a cozy and inviting space. The delicate blooms bring a touch of nature indoors, creating a tranquil atmosphere.

2. Geometric Illusions: For those who prefer a modern and bold look, this wallpaper is a winner. The striking geometric pattern in vibrant hues adds a pop of energy to any room.

3. Dreamy Watercolor: Embrace a dreamy ambiance with this watercolor-inspired wallpaper. The subtle blend of pastel shades creates a soothing andInstall Peel And Stick Wallpapers calming vibe.

4. Tropical Oasis: Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this wallpaper. The lush green leaves and vibrant flowers instantly infuse a sense of relaxation and holiday vibes.

5. Cosmic Adventure: Spark your imagination with this cosmic-themed wallpaper. The mesmerizing starry night sky adds a sense of wonder and magic to your space.

How To Remove Spoonflower Peel And Stick Wallpaper

When it’s time to update your space or try a new design, removing Spoonflower Peel and Stick Wallpaper is just as easy as installing it. Here are the steps:

  1. Start from a Corner: Find a corner of the wallpaper and gently peel it back. If you encounter resistance, use a hairdryer to heat the wallpaper slightly, making it easier to remove.
  2. Peel Slowly: Carefully peel the wallpaper off the wall, ensuring not to damage the underlying surface.
  3. Remove Residue: If there’s any adhesive residue left on the wall, use a mild adhesive remover or warm, soapy water to clean it off.
  4. Prepare for Reinstallation: If you plan to install new wallpaper, make sure to prepare your wall by cleaning and smoothing it before applying the newSpoonflower wallpaper designs design.

Spoonflower Peel and Stick Wallpaper: Elevate Your Space

In conclusion, using peel-and-stick wallpapers is an excellent way to remodel and add a fresh touch to your home. Spoonflower, with its vast collection of beautiful designs and commitment to sustainability, is a go-to choice for anyone looking to transform their space. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, a parent-to-be, or simply someone who wants a change in their home, Spoonflower has something for everyone.

So, don’t wait any longer. Start exploring the stunning collection of Spoonflower Peel and Stick Wallpapers, and turn your living space into a luxurious and personalized haven. Happy decorating!

5 Easy Ways to Change Your Space on a Budget to Fit a Different Vibe

5 Easy Ways to Change Your Space on a Budget to Fit a Different Vibe

Your living space reflects your personality and plays a significant role in setting the mood and atmosphere of your home. Sometimes, however, you might find yourself craving a change—a different vibe that better aligns with your current tastes and preferences. The good news is that transforming your space to suit a new aesthetic doesn’t have to break the bank. In this article, we will explore five easy and affordable ways to change your space on a budget for a fresh look and create a different vibe.

5 Easy Ways to Change Your Space on a Budget to Fit a Different Vibe

1. Change the Paint Color:Ways to Change Your Space on a Budget

One of the most effective and inexpensive ways to transform any space is by changing the paint color. Paint has the power to completely alter the ambiance of a room, making it feel vibrant, cozy, or sophisticated. When selecting a new color, consider the atmosphere you want to create. Warm tones like terracotta or mustard yellow can add a cozy and inviting feel. While cool blues or greens can provide a refreshing and calming effect. Opting for neutral shades like beige or gray allows for versatility and provides a backdrop for accentuating other elements in the room.

2. Create a Feature Wall with Paint or Wallpaper:

If you want to make a bold statement without committing to changing the entire room, creating a feature wall is an excellent option. This technique involves highlighting a single wall with a different paint color. Or using wallpaper to add texture, pattern, or even a mural. A feature wall can instantly transform the look and feel of a space, becoming a focal point that adds character and personality. Choose a wall that naturally draws attention. Such as the one behind a bed, sofa, or fireplace, and let your creativity run wild.

3. Clutter Clear the Space and Donate Decor and Things That No Longer Feel Right:

To create a new vibe, it’s important to declutter your space and let go of items that no longer align with your desired aesthetic. Start by evaluating yourWays to Change Your Space on a Budget belongings and consider donating or selling items that you no longer need or resonate with. This step not only helps you clear physical clutter but also declutters your mind, allowing you to focus on the new vibe you want to create. By letting go of unnecessary items, you’ll have more space to curate a cohesive and intentional aesthetic.

4. Move the Furniture Around or Take Out Items That No Longer Fit the Feel of the Space:

Sometimes, all it takes is a fresh arrangement of furniture to completely transform the energy of a room. Experiment with different layouts and positions to create a better flow and maximize the functionality of your space. If certain furniture pieces no longer fit the feel you’re trying to achieve, consider repurposing them in other rooms or donating them to someone who will appreciate them. Removing unnecessary items can breathe new life into a space. And make room for new additions that align with your desired vibe.

5. Incorporate Affordable Accessories and Statement Pieces:

Once you’ve made the foundational changes to your space, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Accessories and statement pieces can make a significanthome decor ideas impact on the overall vibe of a room without breaking the bank. Look for affordable options like decorative pillows, rugs, curtains, artwork, or plants that complement your desired aesthetic. These small additions can inject personality and create the desired ambiance, tying the entire room together.

Transforming your space to fit a different vibe doesn’t have to be a costly endeavor. By implementing these five easy and affordable tips, you can breathe new life into your living space without emptying your wallet. Whether you choose to change the paint color, create a feature wall, declutter, rearrange furniture, or add accessories, remember that the goal is to create an environment that aligns with your current tastes and preferences. Let your creativity flow, and enjoy the process of transforming  your space into a haven that truly reflects your unique style and personality.

8 Reasons To Shop Second Hand

8 Reasons To Shop Second Hand

As I walk into a bustling thrift store, surrounded by racks filled with unique clothing and shelves adorned with quirky knick-knacks, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement. The rise of mainstream media has undoubtedly made thrifting hip and trendy, but the truth is, buying second hand has been practiced for many years. In this blog post, I want to share my thoughts and experiences on the benefits of shopping second hand, debunking the misconception that it’s solely for those on a tight budget. Let’s delve into the reasons why buying second hand not only benefits you but also contributes positively to the environment.

8 Reasons To Shop Second Hand

1. Higher-Quality Items for a Cheaper Price:

Underneath the charm of mainstream fashion, there lies a market that thrives on high prices and fast fashion trends. When buyingReasons To Shop Second Hand secondhand, you have the opportunity to find well-crafted, high-quality items at a fraction of their original cost. Clothing and goods that have stood the test of time often possess superior durability and craftsmanship, allowing you to build a wardrobe or furnish your home with items that will last. If you prefer to shop second hand whenever, you need to get the ShopShops app: https://shopshops.info/r/yn

2. Decreasing Carbon Footprint:

The fashion industry is notorious for its impact on the environment. By embracing secondhand shopping, you actively participate in reducing carbon emissions and textile waste. The circular economy model is at play here, where unwanted clothes and goods are given a new lease of life, eliminating the need for additional production and its associated environmental consequences.

3. Saving Resources and Decreasing Environmental Pollution:

In line with reducing carbon emissions, shopping second hand also helps conserve valuable resources. When we buy pre-loved items, we diminish the demand for new production, which saves water, energy, and raw materials. Furthermore, secondhand shopping minimizes environmental pollution caused by the extraction, manufacturing, and transportation processes involved in producing new goods.

4. Encouraging Community Building:

Thrifting is not just about scoring unique finds; it also fosters a sense of community. Local charity shops, thrift stores, and consignment shops often functiongroup of women as meeting places where like-minded individuals come together, exchanging stories and tips on the best finds. Supporting these mom-and-pop establishments helps create stronger, more vibrant communities.

5. Discovering Your Style:

Shopping secondhand presents an opportunity for self-expression. With an abundance of diverse and unique items, you can experiment with different styles, mix and match, and create a wardrobe that reflects your individuality. Embracing secondhand fashion encourages creativity and allows you to cultivate a style that stands out from the mainstream.

6. Supporting Small Businesses:

While the rise of e-commerce giants has dominated the retail landscape, shopping secondhand gives you a chance to support local businesses. Many thrift stores and consignment shops are independently owned and operated, providing a platform for small businesses to thrive. By buying secondhand, you contribute to the growth and sustainability of these local enterprises.

7. Finding Unique Items:

If you’re tired of the homogeneity of mass-produced goods, secondhand shopping is your answer. From vintage clothing to one-of-a-kind home8 Reasons To Shop Second Hand decor pieces, the world of secondhand offers a treasure trove of unique finds that cannot be replicated by mass-market retailers. Unearth hidden gems and add a touch of individuality to your life.

8. Changing Your Perspective in Life:

Adopting a secondhand shopping mindset extends beyond material possessions. It encourages a shift in perspective, prompting us to reevaluate our consumption habits. By buying secondhand, we challenge the notion that constant acquisition is the path to happiness. It allows us to focus on things that truly matter, such as experiences, relationships, and personal growth.

If you are looking for authentic luxury goods to buy preloved or second hand, you must check out the ShopShops app and download to get the best prices and shop with confidence knowing they are authentic: https://shopshops.info/r/yn

When we buy secondhand, we unlock a world of benefits that go beyond financial savings. It’s a conscious choice that contributes to the environment, supports local businesses, and to embrace our unique style. From saving money to reducing carbon emissions, shopping second hand aligns with the principles of sustainability and responsible consumerism. So, the next time you embark on a shopping adventure, consider stepping into a thrift store, charity shop, or consignment shop. Explore the world of secondhand treasures and make a positive impact while finding items that bring joy and character into your life. Embrace the beauty of buying second hand and join the movement towards a more eco-friendly and mindful way of shopping.

How to Easily Create a Feature Wall

How to Easily Create a Feature Wall

Everywhere you turn, business and homes have people creating a feature wall and some make it look easy. Others make it look incredibly difficult and unattainable.

I’m here to tell you, it’s really easy to create a feature wall that will have others wanting to come take all the pictures! All it takes is a little wallpaper, a bit of patience, and a love to see something different. I will tell you ahead of time, not all wallpaper is created the same. And can cause several curse words to get the perfect look if you aren’t careful!

How to Easily Create a Feature Wall

How to Easily Create a Feature Wall

My vision and dream was to create a wall and space in our Short Term rental property which made people feel like they were in an Instagram or blogging scene every day they wake up. I wanted it to look boho and islandy, and beachy, yet still comfortable. I knew I wanted to include wallpaper, palm tree frawn, wicker, and several plants. Because it is a short-term rental and I can’t expect my guests to water the plants. So I knew fake plants were going to be the way. And honestly, when doing home decor, the most low maintenance is often the easiest focal point to create.

I had a color scheme of green, white, and copper in my mind, and even mixed in a bit of blue and brown for the wicker color. What I didn’t plan on adding but realized they worked so well were pink flowers, and a yellow polka dot pot. It’s important to have coordinating colors in small spaces to not overwhelm the rest of the room or home.

This room has another end that has completely different accent walls and is right off the living room making it important to have fun but coordinating living spaces, even if you don’t see it in these photos. If you’ve been thinking of doing the same, here’s how to add a feature wall.

Feature Wall Wallpaper

Wallpaper has come a long way since I was a kid back in the 90s when wallpaper was at an all-time high in popularity. The wallpaper feature I remember was at the top of the ceiling in a thin strip down the wall. Or above the chair rail. Not often did you see an entire wall or a single wall covered floor to ceiling in wallpaper.

Things have changed quite a bit. Many people are using wallpaper to create beautiful experiences in their homes and entire walls as I did on a few walls in our short-term rental. A good wallpaper today can feel like a real piece of art.

Peel And Stick Wallpaper

I chose to use a peel and stick paper instead of one that needed paste or something complicated. Because this was my first time working with wallpaper, I wanted something that could remove and restick if it wasn’t right the first time.

I also chose the peel and stick in case I ended up not liking it and I would be able to remove it easily. If you need to remove wallpaper and restick it, you can get the adhesive to help keep more stickiness if it’s gone. This is the best pro tip I could give you, because after all, applying wallpaper takes real practice!

My favorite brand was Scott Living by the Scott Brothers. It was super easy to work with, had good repeating patterns, and had enough stickiness if I needed to remove and fix. This is the exact one I used on this wall. My next favorite is NextWall and it was a bit harder to work with when I needed to move and manipulate it. The least favorite was the Opalhouse line by Target. It is hard to work with, not easy to pull up and reapply. But I figured it out after a while.

Feature Wall ideas

This photo shows this chair, but I’ve moved it somewhere else in the house 🙂

Feature Wall Accessories

Once you decide what wallpaper and which wall you want to create, apply the wallpaper completely. Depending on the vibe you are trying to create, choose where you want to put your accessories like plants, flowers, chairs, etc. Because I was creating a corner and space, I didn’t add anything to the feature wall other than a window cling of colored palm prints. If you want to let the light in, it’s not necessary to do the window film like I did, however, I think it pops even more. Here’s the one I used.

I then added a hanging boho chair a bit in front of the wall for people to sit and have a moment. Little side note about this chair – I actually bought it back in January of 2018 and never hung it. It sat in the box until I opened it to hang in this spot. Guess it was just meant to be here all along and I didn’t know it! If you don’t have a large beam lying around, make sure you grab this hanging set. And ensure you find a stud to hang on so it doesn’t fall down.

On the opposite side of the room, I spaced out floral rings and hung a boho print from a local artisan here in Arizona along with my fake succulents. Remember to choose accessories of all shapes, sizes, and colors to really bring the wall together and draw attention to the cool vibe.

How to Easily Create a Feature Wall

I finished the feature area off with a table I spray painted green from white. Added a few plants to the table, a little pineapple basket, a smaller basket with a throw blanket. A DIY copper spray painted palm frawn, a cute pillow from Ikea, and a white side chair and rug.

Best wallpapers for Feature Wall

Here’s a little more detail on that spray painted table.

I started with this basic white metal table I picked up from Home Goods and picked out the Rustoleum Meadow Green after looking through the various green paint colors. Then spray painted it 2 coats to ensure the color would stick and be even. Then I let it dry outside about 30 minutes. Because it doesn’t take long in the Arizona summer heat to dry and cure!

spray painted tablespray painted table for decor

 

 

 

 

 

 

I probably spent $100 total on the whole wall and got lucky to snag the palm frawns the day the tree climbers were out cutting the palm trees in the neighborhood for no more than a few prickles in my finger!

palm trees for decor

The palms started out as regular frawns off the tree. And I used scissors to shape them the way I wanted. And spray painted them with a copper spray paint to hopefully seal them and keep them like this for a long time. If you look close in the final photos, you will see another frawn behind the swinging chair. That one I used a glitter spray paint on and it just dusted the frawn with a gold glitter. And kept the green color. The exact color I used on the frawns was Pearl Champagne Pink, which makes these really pop!

More Feature Wall Ideas

  • boho feature wall
  • beachy feature wall
  • board and batten accent wall
  • modern accent wall
  • wood accent wall / wood feature wall
  • art deco accent wall
  • wall mural
  • sports-related feature wall

These are just a few accent wall ideas and architectural elements to get your brain flowing and thinking of what to do, you could also add this in an office space or dining rooms for adding wall colors to otherwise boring walls. Oh, and lastly, you don’t have to hire an interior designer, use your imagination and Pinterest to make your accent wall ideas come to life!