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Whether your budget is tight or you just want to enjoy your home to its maximum, making your living space into your dream destination is always a good idea.
It’s getting to be the end of summer, the school year is wrapping up and, believe it or not, some God-forsaken store has already put up their Christmas decorations… and you have yet to take a trip this summer!!! Fret not. Here are a few simple ideas to make your home the perfect place to unwind, unplug, and relax before school bus schedules and PTA meetings start up again.
1. Determine the Theme. Maybe you’re craving the beach, or a cabin secluded in the woods, an elegant hotel in the heart of a bustling city… Whatever the destination, there are countless ways to create your vacation without having to go through TSA or fill up the gas tank.
It’s important to be flexible with your theme as it may evolve while you create your dream space.
2. Pick One Room to Start. This may seem tricky, but it can end up starting out very organically. First, think of a part of your home that you most like to relax in. Is it the bedroom? Kitchen? Family Room? Bathroom? Wherever that space is for you, begin there. Take a moment to visualize what that space could look like if it were in your dream vacation. Use Pinterest, AirBnB, a favorite magazine, or maybe even a movie you love that depicts the type of setting you want to escape into. Utilize as much of what you already have in your new staycation. Remember, we’re trying to save money!
3. Plants are Perfect. A little goes a long way. Perhaps a small adjustment such as a plant to get started. What type of flora does your dream vacation boast? Can it live in your current climate or would an artificial plant serve better? Determine what works best for your home and go with the flow! Flowers and greenery create a beautiful, calming atmosphere that helps us unwind and remember to stop and smell the roses.
4. Work With What You Have. Shopping is so much fun, but there will be time for that soon enough! First, look at the things you already have and begin there. A basket that’s collecting dust in the basement could be perfect for placing some books on your reading list, or a cozy blanket for those impromptu naps. Perhaps you have some white string lights that are usually saved for the Holidays, but can also be wrapped around an indoor plant, curtain rod, railing, or book shelf to give a soft glow and whimsical appearance; just be sure that the wire color doesn’t clash with the space. Again, get creative and stay flexible in your approach.
5. Add the Finishing Touches. Now you’re ready to complete the look. You’ve got your goals and an image in your mind to work with. Write a list of ideas and take pictures of the room/s so you can reference them whenever you need to. This time of year is great for craft shows, farmers markets, and other opportunities to find hand-made beauties that will brighten any room. You can also find full themes at many home stores to help you along the way to a perfect vacay.
6. Sounds, Tastes and Smells to Finish. Look for foods, drinks, and scents that are indicative of your dream destination to add to your staycation. An oil diffuser, incense, or candles with scents that invoke feelings of where you want to be make a massive difference in the vibe. Eucalyptus, lavender and sandalwood are commonly used in spas; lemon and thyme make for a Mediterranean getaway. Look up the flavors of your dream destination to help choose the right foods, beverages, and smells to create the perfect mood for your home. With so many streaming options available it’s easy to find the right music to elevate your theme. If you have a favorite mode of music (for our house, it’s vinyl), use that and add to your collection!
Now you’re ready to sit back, relax, and enjoy your destination staycation! You can continue this through as many rooms as you like or even change the themes up to fit how you want to feel when in your kitchen, watching a movie, working on a hobby, or taking a relaxing bath. The options are limitless so have fun!
We’ve taken an Eclectic Coffee Shop vibe to our family room. With a large record library in the room over and plenty of books to choose from. Candles illuminate pages during darker hours and the cedar chest holds warm blankets for cold toes.
