7 Decoration Ideas for Your New Year’s Party!

Mercedes Amato · December 27, 2020 · Leave a Comment

Hello Design Lovers!

As 2020 comes to an end (thank God, ammiright?), it’s time we begin to think about ringing in the New Year! Although this year we will be celebrating a little differently as far as socially distancing, masking it up, and most likely staying at home FaceTiming family and friends, it doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate saying goodbye to 2020 in style! SEE YA 👋🏼.

Let’s try to make 2021 a MUCH better year and make it as “normal” as possible. If you’re feeling crafty or would much rather support a small business, either way it’s time to start thinking about New Year’s decorations! I’ve rounded up some DIY decorations as well as some great small businesses you can support to make your small (socially distanced) party the best one yet!

1.BALLOONS

No party is complete without balloons! Balloons are an absolute MUST. They just scream celebration 🎊! I’ve found a fun DIY balloon project and also found a small business on Etsy who ships the most amazing balloon arrangement that is def insta worthy 📸. So let’s dive right into our crafty side and make some fun, easy, glitter dipped balloons. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Balloons
Various types of glitter/sequins
Mod Podge (which you can find at your local craft store)
Foam Paint Brush
A large tray from the dollar store
A few large mixing bowls

My Sister’s Suitcase came up with such a fun tutorial that anyone can do without breaking the bank. Make sure you get all of the materials you need and head over to their blog for the quick, easy steps to get your glitter dipped balloons! Just click on the image below to be directed to their blog post.

If you’re looking for the coolest, most insta worthy backdrop for your party, then you have to check out Fancy Floaters’ Etsy Shop. They have the coolest champagne balloon garland kit that requires a little bit of time to build, but is so totally worth it! Keep in mind: you will need to rent a helium tank (if you want the balloons to float) or an air pump. I wouldn’t recommend blowing up each balloon by yourself since it does take time and ya know…COVID. Tell me this is not the coolest focal point/backdrop for New Years! And for just $30!

2.BLACK & GOLD CHARGERS

Idk about you, but nothing screams New Years like a good ol’ black and gold ensemble. How about some black and gold chargers for your guests?? No one wants to bring out their fine china or their everyday chargers that don’t scream “this is a New Years party!” so why not just support a small business and buy some festive chargers?! They’re perfect for the occasion. Just grab some of those “fancy” plastic disposable plates and you’re all set!

3.GLITTER DIPPED CHAMPAGNE BOTTLES

What’s great about DIY projects, is when you have enough material to use for another project! So you’re gonna wanna bring out your Mod Podge, foam brush, and glitter again for this project. Grab a couple bottles of your favorite champagne, a large tray so the glitter can fall into it and let’s get crafty!

Credit: Kit Kraft

Consider buying a few kinds of glitter for a variety of designs and styles! Use this as an opportunity to let your creative juices flow and really impress your guests. Apply Mod Podge to your bottles using your foam brush. Make sure to apply a thin, even coat. Next, over your large tray, sprinkle the glitter onto the bottle and rotate it to get an even distribution.

Creative Tip: if you want to create layers of different sized or colored glitter, simply apply layers of Mod Podge to your bottle and sprinkle each layer as you go along. This can also be fun for a cool ombre look!

Foam Brush

For a more glittery bottle, simply wait for the first coat of glitter to dry before going back and doing the same process again. For the second coat, you might want to dab the sponge onto the bottle so that you don’t take much glitter off the first coat. For a finishing touch, add a bow around the neck of the bottle!

4.CONFETTI POPPERS

Don’t you just love when the clock strikes midnight and everyone cheers?! There’s just something about it…it’s a true celebration and we’re all eager to leave 2020 behind and never talk about it again! New Years wouldn’t be the same without a little confetti so lets’ support a small business in the meantime. EnFete’s Etsy Shop has the cutest confetti poppers for your little get together this year. Choose from custom colors for your confetti or stick with black and gold. Aren’t they just the cutest confetti poppers?

5.DIY MIRROR BALL

Nothing says NYE like having the ball drop. And although this DIY mirror ball won’t be dropping in your living room, it’s the idea behind it. For this DIY project, you will need some patience and materials of course. Here’s what you will need:

Foam Ball (go to your local craft store)
A screw eye hook (to hang from your ceiling)
Hot glue gun
Square mirror tiles

Scissors

Photo Credit: The Crafted Sparrow

If you plan on hanging your NYE ball, begin by placing the hook on top of the foam ball. Make sure it’s nice and tight in the foam so it doesn’t become loose. For an extra hold, squeeze some hot glue into the “pre-drilled” hole at the top. And by pre-drilled I mean just using the hook to manually make a hole.

Next, begin by adding the mirrored tiles to the ball. Begin at the top where you placed your hook and work your way down and around the ball. Place a small dot of hot glue onto the back of the mirror and gently press down. It’s normal to have some gaps between each of the tiles which is totally fine!

Photo Credit: Lovely Indeed

6.CAKE TOPPERS

Whether you’re baking your own cake or pie or buying one at your local bakery, every dessert table will need a glittery cake topper! There’s just something about a beautiful cake topper that really makes the cake stand out. Plus, it’s super festive and something that adds a nice NYE touch! TimeToCelebrateNow has such cute New Year’s cake toppers that you’ll want to buy one from their Etsy Shop for every occasion! Click on the image below to be redirected to their Etsy Shop.

7.NEW YEAR’S BINGO!

How fun would it be to play some bingo with your guests or even play a virtual game with your family and friends?! Well now you can! MintyPaperieShop has printable bingo cards in their Etsy Shop that are fun and easy to download so you can print them for NYE. Click on the image below to be redirected to MintyPaperieShop’s Etsy page!

Creative Tip: If you’re feeling a little crafty (especially after this blog post, I don’t blame you), you can create your own Bingo cards!

With this post, I hope I was able to get you all inspired and motivated to have a fun, socially distanced New Year’s. Even if you’re just throwing you and your family or roommates a party, enjoy your time together. I know this year we can’t celebrate how we actually want to celebrate but you can have fun in the comfort of your own home and jazz it up with some cool decorations. Let’s kiss 2020 good-bye and welcome in 2021 with open arms. I hope you all have a healthy, happy, and safe NYE!

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5 Tips on Mastering the Art of Mixing Textures

Mercedes Amato | April 1, 2023 Leave a Comment

Hello Design Lovers!

Mixing textures in interior design can add warmth and depth to a space, making it feel more inviting and visually interesting. The way different textures are combined can make or break the overall aesthetic. By combining different textures, you can create a multi-layered and visually appealing space that reflects your unique style. Here are some tips on how to mix textures effectively in your home:

1. Start with a neutral base: To mix textures effectively, it's best to start with a neutral base. This creates a cohesive foundation for the different textures that you will add to the space. A neutral base could be a neutral wall color, such as white or beige, or a neutral-colored sofa or bed frame. Starting with a neutral base allows you to experiment with different textures and colors without overwhelming the space.

2. Mix materials: Experiment with mixing different materials to add interest and variety to a room. You could mix materials such as wood, metal, leather, and fabrics. For example, a leather sofa paired with a chunky knit throw, or a metal coffee table with a soft, shaggy rug. Mixing materials will create contrast and add depth to the space.

3. Vary texture scale: Varying the scale of textures in a room is an important aspect of mixing textures in interior design. To do this, you can mix large and small textures together. For example, a large, nubby rug paired with a delicate, sheer curtain. Or, a smooth, glossy side table next to a chunky knit blanket. Varying texture scale will create visual interest and add depth to the space.

4. Mix patterns: Mixing patterns is another way to add texture to a space. To do this effectively, it's important to balance the patterns so they don't clash with each other. You could mix a bold, geometric print with a subtle, organic pattern. Or, a small-scale pattern with a large-scale pattern. Mixing patterns will create a dynamic and visually interesting space.

5. Layer textures: Layering textures is a great way to add depth and interest to a space. You could layer a faux fur rug over a jute rug, or layer a velvet throw pillow on top of a linen sofa. Layering textures creates a multi-dimensional look that adds visual interest to the space.

Mixing textures in interior design is a great way to add depth, interest, and personality to a space. By experimenting with different materials, textures, and patterns, you can create a visually dynamic and inviting environment. Remember to start with a neutral base, vary texture scale, mix patterns carefully, layer textures, and most importantly, trust your instincts and have fun! Mixing textures is an opportunity to express your unique style and create a space that feels like home.

How To Create a Functional Kitchen Using The Working Triangle

Mercedes Amato | March 1, 2023 Leave a Comment

Hello Design Lovers!

Let's talk about the functionality of a kitchen. The working triangle in a kitchen refers to the layout of the three main elements in a kitchen: the refrigerator, the sink, and the stove or cooktop. The ideal layout is one in which these three elements are arranged in a triangular shape, with the refrigerator, sink, and stove positioned at the three corners of the triangle. This design allows for easy movement and efficient use of space, making it a popular layout for kitchen designers and architects.

The dimensions between a working triangle in a kitchen can vary depending on the size and layout of the kitchen, as well as the personal preferences of the homeowner. However, a commonly recommended guideline is to have no side of the triangle longer than 9 feet or shorter than 4 feet. This allows for easy movement and efficient use of space while still allowing enough room for other kitchen features such as countertops, cabinets, and an island. Additionally, the sum of the three sides of the triangle should be between 13 and 26 feet. These guidelines ensure that the kitchen is functional and efficient.

Here are some examples of common kitchen layouts:

U-Shaped Kitchen: This layout consists of cabinets and appliances lining three walls, forming a U-shape. This layout provides ample counter space and storage, making it ideal for larger kitchens.

L-Shaped Kitchen: This layout consists of cabinets and appliances lining two adjacent walls, forming an L-shape. This layout is versatile and can be adapted to a variety of kitchen sizes and styles.

Galley Kitchen: This layout consists of two parallel walls with cabinets and appliances lining both sides. This layout is ideal for smaller kitchens as it maximizes the use of available space.

Island Kitchen: This layout includes a central island that provides additional counter space and storage. This layout is ideal for larger kitchens with ample floor space.

Peninsula Kitchen: This layout includes a connected island that is attached to one wall, providing additional counter space and storage. This layout is ideal for smaller kitchens that require additional workspace and storage.

When it comes to designing a kitchen with the working triangle in mind, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, you want to make sure that the three main elements - the refrigerator, sink, and stove - are arranged in a triangular shape. This allows for easy movement and access between the three areas.

Now that you know the importance of the working triangle, I'm sure the next time you're scrolling on Instagram or Pinterest, you'll be more mindful on the proper kitchen design layout. You might even be able to notice the different styles of kitchen designs!

Moody Blues Master Bedroom Retreat

Mercedes Amato | February 1, 2023 Leave a Comment

Hello Design Lovers!

This project was a long time coming but wow! I'm so happy with the way it came out. But more importantly, my clients are thrilled with the end result. Let me give you a little run down on this project came to be. My clients, Hillary and Josh, were in desperate need to get their master bedroom updated. They no longer felt their room was a sanctuary for them, a place where they can come to unwind, relax, and ultimately sleep (of course).

The biggest eye sore though probably had to be the carpet. They wanted to rip up the carpet and have hardwood floors throughout. They knew there was hardwood under the carpet in the hallway of their master bedroom, but they didn't know if the main bedroom space had hardwood since that part of the house was an addition. Sure enough, there was only hardwood flooring in the hallway. I brought in a contractor to add hardwood in the rest of the space, making the transition as seamless as possible.

Hillary wanted to do some sort of accent wall, but she wasn’t really sure what exactly she wanted. She had shown me several photos of inspiration on Pinterest and then I began to work out some ideas. We had spoken about possibly putting up wallpaper, but she really wanted some dimension.

It was a bit challenging to come up with a design since there are two windows on that wall which would ultimately break up the flow, but after some planning, it worked out perfectly! The windows don’t seem like such a big deal anymore.

Once the accent wall was complete, it was time to paint. We said goodbye to the outdated gold/taupe color and freshened up the space with updated colors. We went with Benjamin Moore Thousand Oceans for the accent wall and the rest of the space is Benjamin Moore November Rain. Paint makes a HUGE difference and just like that, the room was ready to be decorated!

I wanted to go with a neutral bed frame to allow the accent wall to stand out. The contrast between the white headboard and the blue wall is exactly what I was going for! We went with off-white drapery for the two back windows, making sure not to take away from the accent wall.

The windows on the side walls were a bit challenging since they are so close to the windows on the accent wall. I didn't want to add more drapery to those side windows which I felt would take away from the showstopper of a wall, so we opted for beautiful simple roman shades. Plus, my clients informed me they needed privacy from the neighbors, so roman shades did the trick!

We incorporated light wood tones for the nightstands and dresser which really makes the room feel airy and spacious. Had I selected dark wood tones, the room would've felt a lot smaller and closed in.

I brought in some color with the beautiful vintage inspired area rug (the touches of blue compliments the accent wall really well). I wanted to bring in some more color without it overpowering the space. The neutral duvet allowed for us to play with color for the rest of the bedding and that's exactly what we did with the throw pillows. There's just enough color without it all feeling too overpowering.

My clients and I are so happy with the way this room came out! Such a major transformation...it's like night and day. Now onto the next project. Stay tuned for more!

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