The La-Z-Boy Design Dash winner is...

ME!

Whoohoo! The cat is out of the bag! I've been dying to tell you all the news since I found out, but I had to keep quiet. :) 

I have to thank you all from the bottom of my heard for voting for me. I am truly, truly humbled and honored. All of the rooms were beautiful and I really didn't think I had a chance of winning -- I didn't even have in mind when I did this event. I loved my room though. I mean, LOVED. I would take every bit of it and plop it all in my house. 

I have to tell you I'm so excited to win but what makes me even happier is that the room I started with was so simple. I mentioned before that I was a little concerned when we walked up to my space because it was by far the most "plain" -- but now that's what I'm most thrilled about. Yes, I had endless La-Z-Boy items at my disposal, but this transformation shows that with a few key pieces you can create a really beautiful, comfortable room: 

You don't need amazing architecture or soaring ceilings to make a beautiful space. 

I've said it before but this one the coolest events I've done in either one of my careers -- blogging and my professional career before that. Could be the coolest. ;) They treated us like gold and it really did put me out of my comfort zone and made me challenge myself. 

I'm not sure who the lucky winner of the $15K in furniture is just yet but when I find out I'll be sure to share!

I tear up when I talk about my readers -- I'm so thankful for you all and your support over the years. I'm honored you come back to read every week and love the relationships I have created with so many of you.

If you missed my post about the whole Design Dash experience (I only had one hour to run around and find everything I wanted in the room -- without knowing what it looked like!) you can read this post. 

Again, thank you so much for your support!! 

This content is property of Thrifty Decor Chick LLC. If you are reading this on any other site other than www.thriftydecorchick.com or one of her social media platforms, please contact her immediately (thriftydecorchick at gmail dot com). Any other use of this content is strictly forbidden.

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The new bathroom: resources and project links

Hey hey! First of all, thank you from the bottom of my heart for the kind comments you all left here and on social media about the bathroom renovation! I always appreciate that you take the time to comment, it means a lot to me. (If you missed it be sure to check out that post!)

I'm back today with a recap on everything that went into this room! As I mentioned, I did most of it myself. I had help with bigger stuff, but I did a ton in here. Let's start from the beginning!

You can see how the room looked after I started knocking out the wall one day on a whim: 

I mean, not a whim...I had been planning this reno for YEARS because I've always hated that wall. But sometimes I just need to get the ball rolling so I'll just get started and that's what I did that day. I was giddy. ;) 

After that we had the tub removed so I could do a tiled shower: 

I'll cover the sources for everything and costs at the bottom of the post!

I went with a beautiful dark gray tile in a 12x24 size and shared everything you need and how I installed it here: 

I cover the pattern I used for the floor in that post as well. 

Next, one of my favorite parts! The new window in the shower!:

I waited for years for that window and the natural light it brings in the room! LOVE IT. Big puffy heart. It made a big difference in here!

The vanity was one project many of you asked about. Years ago my Dad helped me build a potting bench and we used that same plan to build this one. You can see the DIY vanity instructions here: 

I ended up adding a few finishing touches to it and then shared how I stained it in this post: 

Next up was the wall behind the sinks -- my pride and joy. I've known for years I wanted to use this tile and it did not disappoint. It's the Merola tile in Twenties Vintage from Home Depot: 

They have a black with white and a white with black -- I went with the latter. I absolutely adore it. 

I used it in the niche in the shower as well: 

The great thing about this tile is it's made to look like cement tile, but it's ceramic. So you don't need to baby it quite as much as you would cement. It is fantastic! 

I shared how I gave the shower a custom look with double shower curtains (for cheap):

One reader suggested I hang the curtains from the grommets and I tried it -- it looked great! I didn't do that at first because I was afraid I'd see the hooks for the liner in between, but I hid them behind the curtain and it works perfectly. :) 

Now when I round it all up it doesn't seem like as many projects as it FELT like. Goodness. 

We had a full nautical theme going in here for the past year and it was super cute, but this new design called the accessories to be toned down a bit. I fell in love with this sign at Hunt and Gather Goods and they graciously offered to send me one. It is SO beautifully made, I'm totally impressed and will be shopping their site in the future for sure: 

Doesn't it look so good in here? 

It came together beautifully and I am SO incredibly proud of this room. I just love it.

We did have plumbing for one more sink added as well the lights -- if you're handy with either one it's not a super difficult project but I hired out for that.

I hope I answered all of your questions about the projects -- let me know if I forgot about anything! Here's a list of everything I used in the room...

Vanity: DIY project (linked above), $300 in materials

Sinks: Amazon (I believe they were $40 each)

Faucets: Lowe's -- make sure you get tall faucets! They are hard to find at an affordable price.

Mirrors: Stockholm mirror, IKEA ($99)

Tub: Lowe's (I believe $215?)

Tile: Home Depot Merola Tile, Twenties Vintage in white ($200 for the amount I needed)

Lights: Lowe's (already had the glass covers) 

Tile: Montauk Black, Home Depot ($150 for a 50 square foot room)

Subway tile: Lowe's 

Trim kit for shower: (new handle and faucet) Lowe's ($35 total) 

Window: special order from Lowe's ($187)

Grout color for all tile: warm gray from Lowe's 

Towel holders: Home Depot ($30)

Fresh soap sign: Hunt and Gather Goods 

Shower curtains: HomeGoods (window curtains) ($25)

Baskets under sinks: Target 

Soap dispensers: Target

This content is property of Thrifty Decor Chick LLC. If you are reading this on any other site other than www.thriftydecorchick.com or one of her social media platforms, please contact her immediately (thriftydecorchick at gmail dot com). Any other use of this content is strictly forbidden.

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Top 5 Home Décor Blogs Worth Following

Compared to most blog trends making their way across the internet, home decor blogs are becoming more and more popular every day. From holiday themes to custom layouts, home decor is becoming a trendy way to promote your home through blogs and social media platforms such as Twitter and Instagram. To help you get going on your own home decor blog, or to simply get some ideas to re-do your own home, here are the top five home decor blogs you should start following. 

1. Decor8

One of the most popular home decor blogs you should be following is called Decor8. This home decor blog was founded by Holly Becker, an author and a member of the lecture circuit. However, her blog can give you some great ideas on decorating your home, from top to bottom, no matter what style you may be going for. 

2. Apartment Therapy

Apartment Therapy is blog centrally based around hipster styles, with a variety of compilations from around the world. However, because of its hundreds of collaborators and followers, there are plenty of styles that will peak your interest, and may even give you ideas of your own to re-do your current home decor. 

3. Obsessilicious

Obsessilicious is created by Griffo, who is not only a successful graphic designer but also a fan of typography and modernism styles. His blog uploads a large number of photos every Friday called the “Friday Feast,” which presents all the homes he visited the previous week. Plus, on special occasions, he also uploads photos of his Swansea house, which has integrated modern styles that your home can take advantage of. 

4. Apartment 34

Apartment 34 is a great home décor blog to follow if you are interested in travel, beauty, and interior home decor. Not only does this blog have a variety of inspiration for you to capture in your own home, but it’s founder, Erin Hiemstra, provides unique posts that can help redefine your home design. 

5. Print & Pattern

If you are a fan of patterns and prints, then, as you may have guessed, this is the blog for you. Print & Pattern focuses on exactly what the title states, patterns and prints. Whether you like bold prints, bright colors, or cute patterns, this blog will not disappoint you. No matter the type of pattern or print, the bloggers who work on this site will showcase it. Patterns appear on paper, bedding, wallpaper, and more, so there is plenty of inspiration for any home project you may be working on.

There are tons of home décor blogs on the internet these days. These blogs are not only fun to scroll through but they can also provide a ton of inspiration for new home projects. These are five of the best interior design out there. Hopefully, they could provide you with a few new ideas to redecorate your home and get the interior of your dreams.

_

Dig/s Home Goods and Housewares is a family-run business, just basically Chuck, Susan and a few helpers. It's these homegrown roots that give our company a great work ethic and a strong foundation on which to expand and develop. Our heart goes into our work, and it shows in everything we do, from the kind of products we offer to the kind of service we provide. Our customers matter to us. You matter to us, and your business is greatly appreciated.

Sending positive vibes your way,

Chuck :)

Want to lessen some of my gray hairs?

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How To Throw The Ultimate Summer BBQ (Here Is What You Need)

The summer months are ideal for relaxing with friends and family outdoors, and hosting a barbecue party is a great seasonal idea that can bring everyone together for a good time. If you have never hosted a summer barbecue party, you may be wondering what it takes to pull off an exceptional event that everyone will love. While a barbecue party is usually a casual, laid back event, it does require proper planning. You can easily plan your summer BBQ party by walking through a few easy steps.

 

Choose the Ideal Location

One of the most important first steps to take when planning a summer BBQ is to choose the right location for your event. Many of these parties will take place in the host’s front or backyard, but you can also have your party at a local park or another outdoor venue. When you choose a location for your party, think about things such as weather conditions, exposure to sun and wind, the availability of shade, lighting, insects and more. You also need to think about seating options, grilling equipment, bathroom facilities and recreational opportunities at each location you are considering. Some venues are much more well-suited for a large get-together than others. If you plan to use a public space for your event, research the need to make a reservation to ensure you have the space you need for the event. 

 

Plan the Menu

Your menu will play a major role in the success of your event as well as your budget. Some options, such as sausage wraps and hot dogs, are much more affordable than others. Burgers, steaks, chicken and brisket may be delicious, but they can be much more expensive. Remember that you need plenty of sides as well, such as coleslaw, potato salad, watermelon, chips and even a few dessert options. Sodas, water, juice and beer as well as paper plates, napkins and utensils may also be needed. If you want to keep your event costs low, you can ask each guest to bring an item or two to contribute to the party. 

 

Think About the Ambiance

You should plan ahead to control the ambiance at your summer barbecue party. For example, if you are planning an afternoon event in an area that does not have extensive shade, you may need to rent or purchase a canopy and a few outdoor fans. On the other hand, if you plan to host your event at night, outdoor lighting may be needed. Mosquito and ant repellent, music and other elements should also be planned for to ensure the comfort of all of your guests. 

 

Incorporate Fun and Games Into the Festivities

Music, food and drinks are necessary for a successful summer BBQ, but your guests can easily get bored if you do not plan a few fun activities to keep them engaged. Some great barbecue games are cornhole or a bean bag toss, horseshoes, frisbee, volleyball and more. Choose an ideal number of games or activities based on the number of guests in attendance. 

 

A summer barbecue can be a memorable, fun event for all of your friends and family, but it does take properly planning to pull off the best event possible. By focusing your attention on these points, you can more easily plan a great event that everyone will love.

 

Listen... if a guy in his 60's can start an online store YOU can too!

Thanks for reading and check out the rest of my online store!

Lots of Love :)

-Chuck

Want to help support my passion for blogging?

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Our little town in the suburbs

I have a big heart for our little town.

I grew up in a big city right next door to this place. At the time I never even gave it  a second thought. I kind of knew it was there, but, I just drove through it to get somewhere else. All I knew about it is there was a place called an arboretum there, and it full of trees and plants and stuff, that was it.

When we were first looking at homes, it wasn’t even on our radar. We looked everywhere else, and when we couldn’t find anything, this was kind of a last look. I talk more about our home here.

When we finally bought our house in our little town, I was appalled to learn that the previous graduating class only had about 100 kids in it. APPALLED. My graduating class had over 1,200. It seemed so Mayberry to me. I felt like I was waiting for Barney Fife around every corner. My husband wasn’t as shocked. He came from a smaller high school, and couldn’t believe I knew less than 1/4 of the other students in my school. Not only did he know everyone in his class, but everyone in the other classes, and, all of the siblings as well. To him, it was no biggie, but to me it was mind-boggling. I went to my 10 year reunion, and knew about 30 people out of 500.

When we first moved here,our house wasn’t known as ours. In fact, the only way people knew where we lived was if we said “Oh, it used to be the Smith’s house.” Until about 8 years ago, we were in the habit of telling people where our house was in just that way. Every time. Because if we gave them our street address, they had no clue where it was.

“Where do you live?”

“At 789 Blah blah blah street.”

“Where?”

“In the Smith’s old house.”

“Oh yeah! They moved down the street, right?”

After 17 years, it might finally be known as the Rizzo’s house now, but we aren’t so sure(Luckily, the “Smith’s” still live a few blocks away,and are good friends.).

And then there was  all the “talking” to get used to in our small town. So.Many.Words. Everyone knew everyone else, and all their business. If they didn’t know someone directly, they knew someone who did. To me,it was shocking. We had really only known our immediate neighbors where I grew up, not everyone who lived in 6 square miles.  So everywhere you went, there was sure to be conversation because you all knew each other. At the time,it dug into my personal space in an awful,uncomfortable way. Now, I can be as chatty as they come at the Walgreen’s or taco bar.To the point where the kids know every trip has 10 minutes on it, because I am going to stop and talk to someone. It’s a special kind of treat when things are going a bit rough, and someone takes 5 minutes to ask about your day while you’re in line at the grocery store, or someone gives you a quick hug in the toilet paper aisle.

This is the kind of town that when you go to a football game, and the marching band comes out, half of the kids are in football uniforms and cheerleader outfits. It’s the kind of town where our Fourth of July parade may only be three blocks long, but you know almost everyone walking in it.  It’s the kind of town where our downtown may be not as big or flashy as the city next door, but it’s not like any where else, and that’s a good thing. It’s slowly turning around, and I am so excited to be in the middle of it.

I think there aren’t many places left like our little town. After growing up in a big and sprawling city, I realize my childhood may be there, but I’m a small town girl, and my heart is here.

 

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The bathroom renovation is done! (And amazing!)

Well I'm finally DONE with the bathroom renovation!! I can't tell you how happy I am to say that! I felt like this one went on for.e.ver. You may remember when I got a wild hair back in March and started the renovation by knocking down a wall one day. 

I guess it hasn't even been four months though, not nearly as long as it felt like. ;) Today I'm sharing before and after pics and later this week I'll do a recap of all the projects and share all of the sources as well. So stay tuned for that! 

Without further ado, here is the finished bathroom -- that I'm absolutely head over heels in love with!:

Let's look at that again, shall we? Because grouting that wall about made me cry and I'm super proud of it: 

I had this vision of an open wood vanity and that tile wall all along and it turned out even better than I hoped. I adore that wall. Such a statement! 

The following before photos are how the room looked before I painted the walls last year and these make for GREAT before and afters. 😂 What a difference! (To see how it looked when I repainted last year you can go here.)

Here's the room before I knocked the wall down -- it had a separation I hated because that back room was so cramped and dark:

Here's how that view looks now -- the new window makes SUCH a big difference!: 

I ended up keeping a pony wall when I knocked the wall down -- and I'm so glad I did. It still gives a bit of privacy and breaks up the room just enough. We had a vent in that wall so we couldn't go back all the way, but again I'm glad for that now:

Here's the best pic I could get of the shower room back in the day: 

Now it's so much brighter and custom -- the subway tile is everything. I mean, look at how pretty:

Here's how the rooms were separated on this side:

And here it is now: 

You can see I didn't go with a wall treatment like I planned -- I just thought it would be too much with the tile in the room. I didn't want it to get too busy.

This room was painted and decorated for our baby ten years ago, and now that baby is a little man!:

This room suits him and our guests so much better now: 

Have I mentioned how obsessed I am with this room? I walk in, turn on the lights and just stand in here quite often: 

It is SO much bigger!

I had a niche added in the shower and it's a perfect size for his needs: 

I didn't add a whole lot to the room as far as decor. I kept these signs I made last year: 

And I'll share the resources for everything else on Friday! 

Here's one more before and after for you: 

Can you even believe the difference?? I'm so extremely proud of this room -- I did most of this renovation myself and it has to be one of my favorites. (Pretty sure I say that every single time.)

It is beautiful and I'm over the MOON it's done! 

If you'd like to know about anything in particular please let me know! I'll be sure to answer your questions in the next post. Thanks for hanging in there with me and waiting patiently for this reveal -- most of you know it takes me awhile to finish these rooms because I do so much myself and we cash flow all of it. I will NOT miss working on this one though -- all that tile wore me out! :) 

This content is property of Thrifty Decor Chick LLC. If you are reading this on any other site other than www.thriftydecorchick.com or one of her social media platforms, please contact her immediately (thriftydecorchick at gmail dot com). Any other use of this content is strictly forbidden.

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When one door closes…Our new retail store

Instead of a new retail store and makery,I swear I thought it was going to be a house.

For the last two years, as my business has grown,my husband and I have had some really deep conversations about where it was going, and what the next steps were. My dream deep-down was to have  a studio pace with a retail portion here I could teach classes, run the blog,make stuff and promote other artists as well. I had looked off and on at any available space that was open in our little,quiet downtown (In another post, I want to tell you a little more about our town.).

Every space I looked at either wasn’t right, was too expensive, or the landlord seemed crazy (and I just don’t do crazy.).

So our plan B was that we would look for a home that was big enough that I could run workshops out of it. I reasoned,why should I pay rent to something I didn’t own, when what I make can go toward a mortgage as an investment.

So again, we looked at house after house, an nothing worked. I was hitting  a place of frustration. So,in early spring,I decided to go for broke. There is a house in our area that I have been in love with for years. When it was on the market about 7 years ago, we had young kids and it was out of our price range. I asked the real estate agent we’ve been working with to approach the home owners to see if they were interested in selling, and prayed for God to make it clear if this was the path we were supposed to go down. There was a polite back and forth, then we didn’t hear anything for a while,  I had kind of given up, and then we got an answer back. They were interested, but only if we wanted to pay $250,000 above market price! My real estate agent and I wondered if they were high when they quoted that price, because the house wouldn’t even appraise for that! And really, if they quoted it that high because they really didn’t want to sell, then they should have just said “no thank you” in the first place. So, it was actually kind of rude.

I have to admit, my heart as broken, because I just haven’t found a house that measured up to it, and I knew I had to let it go. But, it was also an obvious message of  “Door closed, move on.” So, I decided, since that door was closed,to just let up, and enjoy the coming summer. I realized I was pushing too hard to make something happen that might not right now. In the mean time, I was asked to mentor at the Haven conference, and had a few other things come up to work on, so I decided I just needed to concentrate on those for now.

A few months later, I had been out to coffee with a friend in our downtown, and my eye caught for rent sign in a window that I hadn’t noticed before. I peeked in, and my heart stopped, it just looked so right.  I snapped a picture of the space, and then sat on it. It went against everything I had been thinking about a mortgage and everything else. It went against all of the plans I had in my head. But, I couldn’t stop thinking about it.

So, I did the totally rational thing,I prayed on it, felt like I needed to see it, and called on it.

We looked at it three times, and after a lot of talking, and figuring everything else,my friend and business partner, Autumn, and I decided to take that big step, and sign the lease.

And then it was real. And,I thought I was going to throw up. I was like  “Did I just sign a 3 year lease without knowing how of how the next three years is gong to go?”

And then, I felt  a wash of peace. Yes, I did, and it’s what we were supposed to do right now. We don’t know in 3 years our new retail store and makery if it’s going to succeed or fail. You can bet your bottom that we are going to work as hard as we can at making it a success. I know there are going to be things that come up too, and nothing in life is 100% risk free. But instead of feeling dread, I am feeling possibility, excitement and a calm knowing that there’s something amazing ahead in the unknown.

I am so excited to share this with you too!  So here we are! Slated for a grand opening in early September if it all goes smoothly. I hope you can come!  It’s 1500 square feet of retail space with a makery, where we are going to have lots of creative classes, visiting artists, an gatherings!

Here’s a sneak peek at the inside!

 

Tomorrow, I want to share a bit about our little town of Lisle, IL with you!

 

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