How I Found My Style Sundays- The Essence of Home

I want to thank Pamela for inviting me to participate in this series.  I have always enjoyed reading everyone else's style posts so it is a pleasure to write one of my own and a thrill to be considered! 

 However, with that being said, that means I have to really "think" about what I'm going to write about.  Hmmmm.........

For anyone out there that is new to my blog, my name is Kelly from The Essence of Home.  I am married with two boys and love to decorate!  I'm always changing things around, so what you see one day may not be what you see the next day. I had the honor of being featured in the Fall issue of Romantic Homes Magazine this year too!

1.  My decorating style is...............

This is a tricky question for me because I'm always changing things around.  But as a whole, I'd say it is cottage style.  There are many types of cottage style.  I gravitate towards a more feminine look, which includes white slipcovers, floral, striped or velvet pillows in soft hues, lots of white dishes, dressy chandeliers and simple window coverings.

2.  How did you find your decorating style?

I've enjoyed the cottage style for many years.  I've tried different styles out, but always go back to the simple cottage style.  It's so easy to live with.  I believe it was after seeing Rachel Ashwell's books and reading some Country Living/Home magazines that pushed me in that direction.  I fell in love with the softness of those interiors.  I also find that it's family friendly.

3.  What has been your most treasured find for your home?

I would have to say my huge armoire with glass doors that's in my family room.  I fell in love with it at a consignment store.  It was feminine in style and a statement maker for a room.  It originally had a dark brown finish, but after I switched over to a very light color scheme, I painted it grey.  It now holds a collection of my favorite white serving dishes.

4.  What tips do you have for creating a beautiful home?

I would recommend starting with a specific color scheme and sticking with it in each room.  Consistency is key to having your whole house flow nicely.  You can use eclectic pieces throughout, but stay within the same color scheme.  I think that will make it more professional looking too.  One other thing, for me, is to have a "cozy factor" to your home.  You don't want it to look like a furniture showroom, or a generic hotel.  It's easy to just go buy furniture and accessories at a store, but if you warm it up with things that make people want to stay in that room, then you've done it well.  Every room should be pretty AND functional.  Always keep that in mind when designing a room.  

Kelly it was a pleasure to have you stop by today! One of the reasons I enjoy your blog so much is because you always are changing things up. I think it is awesome how you and Kim share a passion for decorating your homes!