TIPS, TRICKS & TRENDS

Let’s face it—bathrooms are often one of the smallest rooms in the home, yet they have to work the hardest. Between toiletries, towels, cleaning supplies, and beauty products, it’s easy for this space to get cluttered fast. The good news? With a few thoughtful organizational strategies, you can make your bathroom feel larger, function better, and even bring a sense of calm to your daily routine. Here’s how organizing your bathroom can help you reclaim space—and peace of mind. 1. Clear the Clutter First Before you can create space, you have to see what you’re working with. Go through your cabinets, drawers, and shelves and toss expired products, half-used bottles you’ll never finish, and items you simply don’t use anymore. Once you pare things down to the essentials, you’ll be amazed at how much room opens up. This step alone can make your bathroom feel instantly bigger. 2. Use Smart Storage Solutions Organization is all about making every inch count. Drawer organizers keep everyday items like makeup, razors, or hair ties tidy and easy to find. Floating shelves above the toilet or door create storage without taking up floor space. Over-the-door racks or towel bars** offer quick access to linens and robes. Baskets or bins** under the sink can group cleaning products or extra toiletries neatly. The goal is to give everything a designated place, so nothing ends up scattered across the countertop. 3. Go Vertical When floor space is limited, look up! Tall cabinets, wall-mounted organizers, or tiered shelving units can take advantage of unused wall space. Even a slim vertical cabinet beside the vanity can make a huge difference for storing items like toilet paper or towels without crowding the room. 4. Keep the Countertop Clear Cluttered counters can make even a spacious bathroom feel cramped. Try keeping only the items you use daily on display—like your toothbrush, soap, and maybe one decorative piece. Everything else should be tucked neatly away. The visual simplicity will make your bathroom feel cleaner and more open. 5. Use Light and Color to Your Advantage Organization isn’t just about bins and baskets—it’s also about visual balance. Light colors, mirrors, and minimal decor help reflect light and create a sense of space. If you’ve just organized, consider taking it one step further by repainting in a soft neutral tone or swapping dark towels for lighter ones to make your space feel airy. 6. Maintain the System The biggest secret to keeping your bathroom spacious? Maintenance. Once everything has a home, take a few minutes each week to tidy up, restock essentials, and clear away anything that doesn’t belong. Staying consistent helps you preserve that fresh, open feeling long-term. Organizing your bathroom isn’t just about making it look better—it’s about making it "work" better. A well-planned layout and a few clever storage ideas can turn even the tiniest bathroom into a calm, clutter-free retreat. You’ll gain more space, more functionality, and more enjoyment out of your daily routines. After all, your bathroom should be a place to relax and refresh—not a space that stresses you out.

The holiday season is all about warmth, connection, and creating memories — and your home should reflect that. Whether you’re hosting festive dinners, welcoming overnight guests, or simply cozying up by the fire, your home’s atmosphere sets the tone for the entire season. That’s where working with a designer can make all the difference. Here’s how a designer can help you craft the perfect holiday vibe that feels *just right* for you and your lifestyle. 1. Capturing Your Unique Style The holidays mean something different to everyone — for some, it’s about glitz and glamour; for others, it’s about understated comfort. A designer takes the time to understand what *your* perfect holiday feels like. They translate that vision into colors, textures, and layouts that fit your personal taste — whether it’s a cozy rustic cabin feel, sleek modern elegance, or timeless traditional warmth. 2. Creating Spaces That Feel Welcoming Your home should be a place where people feel instantly comfortable — including you. Designers specialize in creating flow and functionality, making sure that spaces like your living room, dining area, and kitchen work together beautifully for entertaining or relaxing. From selecting the right lighting and furniture placement to adding those perfect finishing touches, a designer helps your home *feel* as inviting as it looks. 3. Blending Beauty and Practicality During the holidays, your home works overtime — more guests, more gatherings, more activity. A designer helps ensure that your home not only looks stunning but also functions effortlessly. That might mean rethinking furniture layouts for better traffic flow, adding smart storage for décor and tableware, or choosing durable materials that can handle the hustle and bustle while still looking beautiful. 4. Elevating Your Seasonal Decor Holiday décor should enhance your home’s personality — not overwhelm it. A designer can help you choose colors, themes, and accents that complement your existing style while adding that festive flair. Whether it’s updating your mantle décor, curating the perfect tablescape, or layering textures with throws and pillows, a designer ensures every detail feels cohesive and intentional. 5. Reducing Stress So You Can Enjoy the Season The holidays can be hectic, but your home shouldn’t add to the stress. When you work with a designer, you gain a partner who handles the details — sourcing materials, coordinating timelines, and managing the look and feel of your space — so you can focus on what really matters: enjoying time with friends and family. Make This Holiday Season Yours This year, let your home reflect the warmth, joy, and comfort you deserve. A designer can help transform your space into the perfect backdrop for the season — one that feels like *you* from the moment you walk in the door. If you’re ready to create the right vibe in your home for the holidays (and beyond), now’s the perfect time to start.

The holiday season is just around the corner, and while it’s one of the most joyful times of the year, it can also feel overwhelming if you’re not prepared. From hosting gatherings to decorating your home and managing busy schedules, a little planning goes a long way. Here are some practical tips to help you prepare for the holidays with less stress and more cheer. 1. Start with a Plan The holidays often come with a long to-do list—shopping, cooking, decorating, and entertaining. Begin by writing everything down in one place. A simple checklist or calendar will help you stay organized and avoid last-minute scrambling. 2. Declutter Before Decorating Before pulling out the holiday décor, take some time to clear out clutter. Donate unused items, tidy up living spaces, and create a clean canvas for your seasonal touches. Not only does this make decorating easier, but it also gives your home a fresh, welcoming feel. 3. Prioritize Home Comfort Whether you’re hosting guests or simply enjoying quiet evenings, comfort is key during the holidays. Add cozy throws, update your lighting for a warm ambiance, and consider rearranging furniture to make gathering spaces more inviting. 4. Get Ahead on Shopping Avoid the holiday rush by starting your gift shopping early. Consider online orders, local boutiques, or even handmade gifts to make things more meaningful. Having presents wrapped and ready ahead of time frees you up to enjoy the festivities. 5. Plan Your Menu in Advance If you’ll be hosting dinners or parties, decide on your menu early. Stock up on pantry essentials, prep what you can ahead of time, and don’t hesitate to simplify—holiday meals don’t have to be complicated to be memorable. 6. Add Personal Touches From personalized gift tags to handwritten cards, small details make the holidays extra special. These thoughtful touches show care and create lasting memories for friends and family. 7. Remember to Enjoy the Season It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of the holidays, but don’t forget to pause and enjoy it. Schedule downtime for yourself, watch a favorite holiday movie, or spend time on traditions that bring you joy. By planning ahead and focusing on what matters most, you can make this holiday season smoother, more meaningful, and filled with joy. Call or text us today to help you get your home holiday-ready! Designing Women of Orange County 949.371.9075

The holidays always seem to sneak up on us—one minute it’s pumpkins and falling leaves, and the next you’re pulling out stockings and setting the table for family dinners. If you’ve been dreaming of refreshing your home before the holiday season, the time to start is now. Working with a designer early means you’ll be ready to welcome your loved ones into a beautiful, functional space without the stress of last-minute rushes. Why Work with a Designer? Remodeling isn’t just about new paint colors or replacing a countertop—it’s about creating a home that truly works for you. A designer can: Bring your vision to life. Whether it’s a dream kitchen for holiday meals or a cozy living room for gatherings, a designer translates your ideas into a well-planned reality. Save you time and stress. Designers manage the details—from layout to materials—so you don’t have to juggle everything on your own. Maximize your budget. With expert knowledge, a designer can help you avoid costly mistakes and find smart solutions that keep your project on track financially. Why Start Now? Avoid the holiday rush. As the season gets closer, contractors, installers, and suppliers book up quickly. Starting early ensures you’re at the front of the line. Allow time for shipping and installations. Furniture, fixtures, and finishes often require lead times. Beginning now gives you flexibility for deliveries without panic. Enjoy your space stress-free. Instead of living through renovations during the busiest time of the year, you’ll already be relaxing in your refreshed home by the holidays. Make hosting easier. A thoughtfully designed space makes entertaining seamless—whether it’s prepping a feast in your updated kitchen or having extra seating for guests. A Gift to Yourself and Your Home The holidays are all about gathering, celebrating, and creating memories. Imagine the joy of doing all of that in a newly remodeled space designed with your lifestyle in mind. By starting your project now with a professional designer, you’ll not only beat the holiday crowds—you’ll give yourself the gift of a home you love. Is your home holiday Ready? Let’s talk about how we can transform your home into your dream space! Designing Women of Orange County 949.371.9075