Today we continue Stagetecture’s feature ‘Olioboard Inspiration‘. Before you enjoyed – ‘Creative Grown-Up Halloween Party Ideas‘ from Nanette Reynolds. Today, I feature Cari Murphy who is a member of the Facebook Olioboard Fan Room group and she gives us inspiring ideas for planning and throwing a themed baby shower. Great ideas for mom-to-be and family and friends!

If you’re interested in being featured see details here: How to be featured on Stagetecture’s Olioboard Inspiration‘ series.

To see all the past Stagetecture’s Olioboard Inspiration members on Pinterest click here.

Olioboard Inspiration #44

‘Inspiring Themed Baby Shower Ideas’    Cari Murphy

Exciting News! Someone you know and love is going to have a baby, and you are going to host their baby shower.

Hosting a baby shower can be a little bit overwhelming at first, especially if it’s your first time. Searching the internet and various party supply stores bring no shortage of  of ideas. But if you have no idea where to begin then one of the easiest ways to throw a baby shower is to narrow it down to a theme. In doing this, it can help you to focus on all of the details and bring everything together in a way that will surely lead to a beautiful and memorable shower. Think of it as party planning organization and the glue that is going to bind it all together.

How To Choose a Baby Shower Theme

Today the themes and types of  baby showers are numerous and with ever new technology some expecting parents already know the gender of their soon to be bundle of joy, while others opt for the tradition of surprise.

If the shower you are hosting  is not going to be a surprise it would be best to get one or both of the parents involved. Sit down together and discuss how they are going to decorate the nursery. What colors have they already selected and do they already have a theme in mind. If they do this will make your choosing a theme much easier. This is also a great time to find out where they have set up gift registries and who they would like to attend. Be sure to get any information you need from them such as addresses for invitations and come up with a date for the special day. For the purposes of this article I am going with an owl themed baby shower. Woodland animals such as owls are very popular right now and are not gender specific so this is a good choice even if you do not know the sex of the little bundle of joy.

[ad#co-1]

Baby Shower Ideas – Create a Shopping List

Now you have chosen your theme it is time to get started by buying the party supplies, this will be much easier now that you have a theme to keep you focused. If you have a party supply store in your area you can start there and you can also find great deals via the internet. Here are some of the basic items required:

• Invitations
• Thank You Cards ( Make sure you write these out after the event to avoid any embarrassment of thanking someone for coming who were in fact unable to attend)
• Decorations ( Color coordinated balloons, banners, streamers, etc.)
• Paper Plates, Napkins, Cups ( a great way to save on tidying up after the event)
• Food & Beverages (Remembering to cater for both adults and children)
• Supplies for any games you have decided to play

 The Baby Shower

The special day has arrived and everyone has come to celebrate with the expectant parents, so have fun! Open the gifts, play a few games, have some refreshments and enjoy! Soon there will be someone new that will be sharing in all your lives.

I am a forty-something mother of three young men  and have a lifelong passion for interior design. I am currently studying Interior Design through the Interior Design Institute. I discovered Olioboard during this past year and spend time there daily, between the site itself and the fan room. I currently sell gift baskets here, and you can also find me on Facebook.

Today we continue Stagetecture’s feature ‘Olioboard Inspiration‘. Last week you enjoyed – ‘Creating Inspiring Vintage Interiors‘ from Nanette Reynolds and this week we enjoy making the most of your bedroom with creative storage ideas from John Nuter who is a member of the Facebook Olioboard Fan Room. I asked him to help you create valuable space in your bedroom and he gives plenty of ideas!

If you’re interested in being featured see details here: How to be featured on Stagetecture’s Olioboard Inspiration‘ series.

To see all the past Stagetecture’s Olioboard Inspiration members on Pinterest click here.

Olioboard Inspiration #30

‘Creating Valuable Space with Bedroom Storage ’ –  John Nuter

A bedroom should be a haven from life’s chaos, a place to calm down,settle in,relax and unwind.This peaceful zen state of mind is easier to achieve when you’re not stepping over piles of dirty laundry, or searching for that favorite outfit in an overstuffed,unorganized closet. Here’s a few ideas for getting back in touch with the inner chi of your den of dreams by stashing in style. There may be several square feet of potential storage hidden under your nose (and furniture) where you can find space for your clutter large and small.

Stick It Under The Bed

A king-size bed can eat up to forty-two square feet of space. Why should the dust bunnies have it all to themselves? Under the bed containers can hold the shorts and t-shirts you’re not wearing in January, as well as the wool sweaters and thermal underwear you don’t need in August. Hide away what you’re not wearing. Flipping your seasons is a great way to save space. Ikea sells sliding drawer units that fit under the bed, or you can but storage bins that slide in and out. If you’re thrifty and looking for a more inexpensive option, you can purchase Rubbermaid bins in a variety of sizes that work perfectly well also, and a stylish bed skirt hides them from view as well as adding a splash of color or interest. You can also find platform storage beds with drawers built in the bed frame, or a mattress that lifts easily for extra storage beneath. The added bonus of storing under the bed, one less place you have to vacuum! If you don’t have a lot of space you can even hide the bed away. Murphy beds are making a resurgence and range from plain and simple to high end versions.

[ad#co-1]

Maximize Your Closet

Make sure you’re getting the most out of your closet- especially when it comes to hanging space. You can always add drawer or shelf units, but it’s harder to change the rods.Before you start drawing up plans for your bedroom storage closet, decide what you plan to keep there.To figure out where to install rods for example, estimate how much space dresses and suits take up versus shirts and jackets. For longer items you need full length vertical space under the rods.

If the majority of your clothes extend less than three feet, hanging two rods,one high, and one forty inches from the floor, allows you to double the space you’ll have to hang clothes in that space. Consider what you need to get to on a daily basis. You should keep your favorite walking shoes front and center. Those strappy Manolo Blahniks can be kept in their original box on an upper shelf for special occasions. Shoe bins,tiered tie racks and slide out laundry hampers, keep things tucked away, yet easily accessible . Keep shoes off the floor where they usually end up in a mix-match pile, and keep then in individual boxes or cubbies. T shirts and sweaters should be kept on an open shelf where you can see them all the time.

If you’re looking for your favorite sweater and it’s under four others in a drawer, you’ll never find it. Drawers should be used for items that don’t fold well, socks, underwear, bras. Four to five drawers per person is the general rule and should be plenty enough. Use every inch of your closets, full length mirrors on the back of the closet doors,and hang hats scarves, and belts from hooks on the narrow side walls. If your closet isn’t large enough for adequate storage there are a variety of other options available from dressers, armoires, and full size wall units that can be customized to your needs. All of these come in many different styles, sizes and price ranges. If you are into recycling or repurposing, anything can be used to store your clothes in from china cabinets, sideboards, even an old phonograph cabinet, you’re only limited by your imagination.

About John Nuter

My name is Jonn Nuter and I live in Milwaukee,Wisconsin. I have always been interested in interior design/decorating, yet only did it in a limited capacity for friends and family. After a bout with cancer 9 years ago, I was inspired to throw convention to the wind and live the rest of my life doing something I was truly passionate about,so I went back to school and I’m proud to say,recently received my diploma in interior decorating from Penn Foster University.

I am capable of working with all styles of design, but I tend to lean towards modern/contemporary. I am currently looking to obtain a position in the design field while i work towards starting my own design service. That is where Olioboard comes in as an invaluable tool for creating your own designs whether you just like to experiment or you work in the design industry. It has not only provided me with a place to network,find advice and get support, but I’ve made some great friends.

For more bedroom & living ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

Today we continue Stagetecture’s feature ‘Olioboard Inspiration‘. Last week you enjoyed – ‘Melding Outdoor Inspiration with your Interiors‘ from Lisa Ketz and this week we enjoy creating an inspiring vintage space in your home with Nanette Reynolds who is a member of the Facebook Olioboard Fan Room. I asked her to give you ideas to create an eclectic mix of antiques, vintage finds and decorative elements in your interiors.

If you’re interested in being featured see details here: How to be featured on Stagetecture’s Olioboard Inspiration‘ series.

To see all the past Stagetecture’s Olioboard Inspiration members on Pinterest click here.

Olioboard Inspiration #29

‘Creating Inspiring Vintage Interiors ’ –  Nanette Reynolds

Incorporating vintage items into your home is an excellent opportunity to give a space character. Whether you are an avid collector, someone who has inherited the “family jewels,” or a person who just appreciates how objects with history can transform your décor, vintage style gives you the chance to reflect your personality into your surroundings. 

[ad#co-1]

Vintage details:

There are a few things to keep in mind when using vintage items. I suggest: collect only what you love and splurge solely on special one-of-a kind pieces; maintain an overall neutral palette and selectively incorporate the colors, patterns, and textures of a cherished period; create prominent display areas around your home; and think outside the box to utilize vintage items in the service of your needs and budget.

Realistically, outfitting your entire home in vintage may not always be practical, not to mention- costly. Take the kitchen pictured here inspired by a collection of Coke signs from the 50’s and 60’s. While it would be wonderful to have old-fashioned appliances and cabinetry, this kitchen utilizes energy efficient reproductions of appliances along with readily available, simple cabinetry. By using wall color and tile flooring popular of that period, and showcasing a fantastic 1950’s chrome table, the overall effect makes this kitchen special.

Defining areas of your home with vintage decor

Defining areas in your home where you can display a collection or a unique item prominently will create impact. For example, use the prime wall space of a staircase to display your collection of needlepoint by your grandmother, so it can be admired close up. Remember collections, in general, will make more of an impression when displayed together. And for those one-of-a-kind pieces, place them in locations such as an entry hall so arriving guests can marvel. Allowing your collection to be seen, in the right setting, affords a greater appreciation.

Finding creative ways to use vintage objects in ways other than for their original purpose is another fun way to incorporate them. Make shelving out of old wooden beverage crates. Use a trunk as a coffee table and store board games inside. Stack old suitcases together in a corner and always have a handy place for holiday supplies. Hide your modern electronics in an antique credenza. Use old glass jars to store dried beans. Re-purposing your vintage objects is not only green, but potential conversation pieces too.

Acquiring vintage items

You never know what you will discover when you start exploring thrift shops, attics, garage sales, church bazaars, etc. Part of the fun of acquiring vintage objects is learning about our history, and finding joy and beauty to share in your home. Collect what you love and your home will become a reflection of you.

Nanette Reynolds is an artist. For years I have primarily worked behind the scenes in theater, film, and television, as well as for special exhibitions in museums and stores. As a scenic artist, model maker, stylist, set designer, and art director – I
love a good challenge. In recent times, I have also been engaged in interior design projects and loving it. I welcome more of these endeavors to apply my talents to in the future.  You can visit Nanette on Olioboard or on Linkedin.

Today we continue Stagetecture’s feature ‘Olioboard Inspiration‘. Last week you enjoyed – ‘Celebrating Summer Late Summer Recap‘ from several of past Olioboard Fan Room members and this week we enjoy bring the outdoors into your home by Lisa Ketz who is a member of the Facebook Olioboard Fan Room. I asked her to give you ideas to meld the outdoor furniture and bring them inside for a rustic yet comfortable feel to your interiors!

If you’re interested in being featured see details here: How to be featured on Stagetecture’s Olioboard Inspiration‘ series.

Olioboard Inspiration #28

‘Melding Outdoor Inspiration with Interiors ’ –  Lisa Ketz

Bringing the outdoors in doesn’t just mean displaying plants indoors. You can furnish an entire room using furniture and décor originally designed for use outside. If outdoor furniture can withstand everything Mother Nature dishes out, it can certainly withstand the abuse of kids and pets. An added benefit is the great deals that can be had this time of year as stores mark down their outdoor inventory for summer clearance.

Get the look for your home

I was asked to design a room and show you just how it is done. Here I have used an all-weather wicker set to furnish a living space. The bright colorful fabrics will not fade in the sun and are easily cleaned when spills happen. The all-weather area rugs are both stylish and easy to maintain as well.

[ad#co-1]

Outdoor elements to bring warmth into your home

The use of outdoor pendant lights brings in some warm, rustic appeal. An old ladder has been repurposed as a plant stand. Ceramic garden stools are great for extra seating or they can be used as convenient side tables as I’ve done here.

Metal or wrought iron finishes, a long time staple of the patio, can make for stylish indoor dining surfaces as well. Plastic serving trays and picnic ware can transition indoors to add a fun pop of color to any occasion. Cement urns and wooden birdhouses make great décor items indoors or out. Here I have used cement urns as the bases for my table lamps.

You need only think outside the box to create a space uniquely your own.

I am mom to one grown son and grandma to a beautiful 4 year old little girl. I live in Binghamton, New York with my boyfriend of 12 years. I started my own Home Staging business called Added Charm Home Staging several years ago. I also hold down a full time job in the finance industry. When I am not working I am on Olioboard. It is a great creative outlet.

I love to design and shop and Olioboard allows me to enjoy my passions in its virtual environment. I also enjoy sharing design inspiration with other like-minded individuals through the Olioboard Fan Room on Facebook. If you want to learn more about me, check out my blog at www.addedcharmdecor.blogspot.com or my website . You can also follow me on Facebook. To view my design boards on Olioboard search for them under Addedcharm.

Today we continue Stagetecture’s feature ‘Olioboard Inspiration‘. Last week you enjoyed – ‘Summer Coastal Getaway Ideas‘ from Tameka Brice and this week I decided to recap some of the best summer time inspiration from various members of the Facebook Olioboard Fan Room. Soon the school bells will be ringing and summer will be coming to a close as we head into fall. Today is all about celebrating late summer home inspiration from this great summer we had!

If you’re interested in being featured see details here: How to be featured on Stagetecture’s Olioboard Inspiration‘ series.

Olioboard Inspiration #27

‘Celebrating Late Summer Recap’

[ad#co-1]

That’s just a small recap of some of the most memorable summer moments from the Olioboard Inspiration boards this summer! I love featuring all of the Facebook Olioboard Members and can’t wait to bring more to you as we continue through late summer and into fall.

Thank you all!

-Ronique