Hello Decor Friends— Let’s talk window treatments. They’re one of those finishing touches that quietly shape how a room feels, but when they’re outdated, they can instantly date an otherwise beautiful space. The good news? Updating your window treatments doesn’t have to mean a full overhaul. A few smart swaps can make your home feel lighter, fresher, and more current. Here are three window treatments that feel past their prime—and what to replace them with instead. 1. Heavy, Dark Drapes Once upon a time, thick, floor-to-ceiling drapes in deep colors were the gold standard for “formal” rooms. Today, they often feel too heavy and can block precious natural light. If your room feels dark or weighed down, these could be the culprit. Designer Tip Try lighter, more relaxed panels in linen or linen-blend fabrics. Soft neutrals, warm whites, or subtle textures instantly brighten a space while still providing privacy. Hang them high and wide to make your windows feel larger and your ceilings taller. The overall effect is effortless, airy, and timeless—exactly the mood many of us are craving. 2. Vertical Blinds Vertical blinds had their moment, especially in the ’90s and early 2000s, but now they tend to feel noisy (visually and literally) and a bit impersonal. They can also make a home feel more office-like than cozy. Designer Tip Woven wood shades or modern roller shades are a wonderful upgrade. Woven shades add warmth and texture—think natural fibers that bring in a touch of organic charm. Roller shades, on the other hand, are sleek and minimal, perfect for a more modern or transitional home. Both options are clean, functional, and far more inviting than their vertical predecessors. 3. Overly Fussy Valances Swags, jabots, and heavily patterned valances can overpower a window and steal attention from the rest of the room. They often feel busy and can lock you into a very specific (and dated) style. Designer Tip Consider skipping a valance altogether and letting the window breathe. If you love a finished look, opt for a tailored cornice or a simple fabric band in a solid or subtle pattern. Even a clean Roman shade can provide structure without the fuss. The goal is polish, not perfection—something that complements your space rather than competing with it. Window treatments may not be the first thing you think to update, but they truly make a difference. Swapping out dated styles for lighter, simpler, and more intentional options can transform how your home feels—often with less effort than you’d expect.  Until next time, happy decorating, friends. ~Tatum

Hello Decor Friends New Year, new beginnings! As we step into a fresh year, I have to ask: do you have any decorating goals for the year ahead? Maybe it’s finally finishing that room you’ve been “getting to,” or maybe it’s less about doing more and more about creating a home that truly feels good to live in. Either way, this is the perfect moment to pause, reflect, and reset—not just your calendar, but your spaces too. One thing I want to gently remind you of as we kick off the year: your home does not need to fit neatly into a labeled “style.” You don’t have to choose between modern, traditional, coastal, or farmhouse and stick to it forever. In fact, some of the most beautiful, soul-filled homes I’ve ever stepped into don’t follow a rulebook at all. They follow a feeling. Designer Tip  When you walk into a space in your home, how does it feel? Is it aligned with how you want your home to feel? Does it reflect you? Your story? If the answer is no, you have a starting point.  Begin filtering your design decisions through that “ feeling”. When I begin any design project, I don’t start with a style quiz or a trend report. I start with a question: How do you want this space to feel? Calm? Energizing? Cozy? Collected? Welcoming? The feeling becomes the north star, guiding every decision that follows. Think about a living room that emits a sense of calm. Soft, layered textiles. A neutral palette with warm undertones. A comfortable sofa you actually want to sink into at the end of the day. Maybe there’s gentle lighting, a worn-in rug, and a few meaningful objects that tell your story. Nothing fussy—just a space that quietly says, “You can exhale here.” Now imagine a kitchen designed to feel energizing and joyful. This might mean brighter light, a mix of materials, and a layout that encourages gathering. Open shelves with everyday items within reach. A favorite piece of art or a pop of color that makes you smile first thing in the morning. It’s less about perfection and more about movement, connection, and life happening. Bedrooms are another great example. The goal here is often rest and restoration. That feeling can come from layered bedding, muted tones, and a sense of visual calm. Clear surfaces, soft window treatments, and textures that feel good to the touch can do more for sleep than any trend ever could. Even a home office can be designed around feeling. Want to feel focused but inspired? Think about a balance of order and personality—closed storage paired with a pinboard, a comfortable chair, good lighting, and a few items that spark creativity without overwhelming the space. As you think about your decorating goals this year, I encourage you to release the pressure to “fit in” to a style and instead tune in to how you want your home to support your life. Homes are deeply personal. They should reflect your rhythms, your memories, and your everyday moments. So here’s my New Year wish for you: may your home feel like you. Warm, welcoming, layered, and lived-in—in the very best way.  Until next time, happy decorating and happy New Year. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or not quite sure where to begin, you’re not alone. Sometimes all it takes is a fresh set of eyes—and a listening ear—to help things click. An online consult is a great way to talk through your space, your goals, and your ideas, and start forming a design and decorating plan that actually feels doable. If that sounds helpful, you can sign up through the link— I’d love to help you get started.  Until next time, ~Tatum

Happy New Year! As we step into a fresh chapter, I want to take a moment to say thank you—from the bottom of my heart—for being a part of this community. Your support, creativity, and shared love of home make this space so special, and I’m truly grateful you’re here. As the year unfolds, my hope for you is that you feel inspired to stretch, to grow, and to try something new in your design journey. Whether that means experimenting with color, mixing styles, or simply trusting your instincts a little more, remember that growth often happens just outside our comfort zone. Above all, let your home always tell your story. Trends will come and go, but the most beautiful spaces are anchored in the people who live there—the memories, the meaning, and the moments that make it uniquely yours. When your story is the foundation, every design decision feels more intentional and deeply personal. Here’s to a year filled with creativity, confidence, and homes that feel warm, personal, and deeply lived in. Thank you for being here, and for allowing me to be part of your design journey. Cheers to a beautiful New Year ✨ Until next time, Tatum

Hello Decor Friends, As the holidays settle in, I always find myself craving the simple comforts that make this season feel extra special—twinkling lights, cozy corners, and a home that smells as warm and welcoming as it feels. One of my favorite ways to set the tone for joyful, peaceful, memory-making moments is with a Christmas simmer pot. It’s easy, affordable, and instantly wraps your home in the most comforting holiday scent—no candles required. If you’ve never tried one, consider this your invitation. Simmer pots are all about slowing down, savoring the season, and letting simple ingredients do something magical. How to Make a Christmas Simmer Pot (Step-by-Step) Choose your pot. Use a small to medium saucepan or a Dutch oven. Nothing fancy needed. Fill with water. Add enough water to cover your ingredients, leaving room at the top. Add your ingredients. This is where the holiday magic happens—fresh, dried, or a mix of both work beautifully. Bring to a gentle simmer. Heat on medium until it begins to simmer, then reduce to low. Let it work its magic. Simmer uncovered, checking occasionally. Add water as needed so it doesn’t run dry. That’s it. Easy, cozy, and instantly festive. Festive Christmas Simmer Pot Recipes to Try Classic Christmas Cheer This one smells like pure nostalgia. Orange slices Cinnamon sticks Whole cloves Fresh cranberries Evergreen Comfort Perfect for bringing the outdoors in Lemon or orange slices Fresh rosemary or pine sprigs Bay leaves A splash of vanilla Warm & Cozy Spice Ideal for quiet evenings and soft holiday music. Apple slices Star anise Cinnamon sticks Whole allspice or nutmeg Sweet Holiday Treat A fun option when guests are coming over. Orange peels Cinnamon sticks Vanilla extract A handful of cranberries Feel free to mix and match based on what you have on hand. There are no rules—just good smells and good vibes. As your simmer pot gently bubbles away, take a moment to breathe it in. This season is about more than decorations and to-do lists. It’s about creating spaces that feel peaceful, comforting, and full of love. These little rituals—like a pot quietly simmering on the stove—have a way of turning ordinary moments into cherished memories. May your home be filled with joy, peace, comfort, and the kind of warmth that lingers long after the holidays are over. Here’s to slow mornings, meaningful gatherings, and wonderful memory-making moments this Christmas season. Until next time – Merry Christmas, Tatum

Hello Decor Friends! Okay, let’s talk winter front porches—because even when the temps drop and the snow starts doing its thing, your entryway can still look downright magical. Cold climate? No problem. With the right pieces (and a little festive flair), your porch can feel warm, welcoming, and totally winter-ready. Here are five fun, practical ideas to help you deck out your doorway in style! 1. Build a Winter-Proof Base Before you start zhuzhing things up, make sure the basics can handle the weather. Grab an outdoor rug that won’t mind snow and slush, layer in a sturdy doormat, and lean on pieces like metal lanterns or heavy planters that won’t crack or tip over. Durable is the name of the game. Designer Tip Go for a darker-toned rug—it hides salt, snow, and muddy boots like a champ  and  still looks chic. 2. Go Big on Winter Greenery Fresh greens are basically the MVP of winter porch décor. Fill planters with cedar, pine, or fir branches, add in some pinecones or winter berries, and hang a wreath that feels full and lush. The beauty of cold climates? Your greens last longer! If you want extra volume, sneak in a few faux stems—no one will ever know. If you’ve been my social media posts, you know that I love Wilt Pruf-is helps to keep you fresh looking good all season long. A little spritz on all your outdoor and indoor greens will you give your greens longevity. 3. Light It Up (Because Winter Needs More Glow) Short days mean you get to play with twinkle-time sooner. Set out LED lanterns, line your stairs with battery-powered candles, or weave outdoor string lights through planters. It instantly makes your porch feel like a warm hug waiting at the door. Designer Tip Choose warm-white LEDs—they’re flattering, cozy, and look extra dreamy against snowy backdrops. 4. Add Height, Layers & Lots of Texture A winter porch comes alive when you mix different heights and shapes. Think tall urns stuffed with evergreens and birch logs, medium planters with textural branches, and lantern clusters near the bottom. Layering makes the whole space feel intentional and festive. 5. Give Your Front Door a Moment Your door is basically the star of the show, so dress it up! A full, wintery wreath with eucalyptus, pinecones, magnolia leaves, or frosted accents adds instant charm. Tie on a velvet ribbon in forest green or deep red for that cozy, classic holiday feel. If you’re feeling extra, drape garland around the frame—go big, you deserve it! With just a few winter-hardy pieces and a sprinkle of festive creativity, your front porch can look charming, cozy, and totally ready for the season.  Until Next Time, ~Tatum