If you submit an inquiry form to work with me, you can expect one of my very first questions to be that one. And I think it makes most people squirm. So, I’m going to do something about that. This is Part 1 of 2: the why behind the bonus room addition and the word no one likes: BUDGET. Part 2 will dive into the actual numbers, the selections, and what I’d do differently next time.

Discussing money can easily make anyone uncomfortable. For some, it may be due to childhood conditioning. For others, it may be fear of judgment or feelings of self-worth that begin to emerge. However, remaining silent about project costs usually ends with an unhappy client and an unhappy designer.

Many of you likely already know that it’s my personal opinion that this industry does a terrible job of educating homeowners about project costs (which is why I prefer to rip off the band-aid immediately when it comes to discussing the big bad b-word).

Sure, you can likely point to the blogger or influencer that said they renovated their whole kitchen for $15,000. I’m not saying it can’t be done, however, they may have DIY’d the entire thing, or their materials and labor may have been donated by a brand.

When we gate-keep project costs, most people are forced to pull together a budget based on edited reality TV and Instagram highlights. As a result, below are actual responses I’ve received from prospective clients, when I ask that opening question: a mix of guesswork, sticker-shock anxiety, and honest hesitation.

• “We don’t have any idea.”

• “I’d first like to see what your prices are.”

• “How far can I get with $10,000?”

• “I don’t even know what my budget is or should be…”

• “Budget range is $3k to $5k, which I’m hoping would be possible.”

• “I’m not exactly sure.”

Every one of these responses is a symptom of the same problem: no one will just tell you. But, I will. Starting with my own home.

Now, I’m not saying it’s right, but when it comes to purchasing a home, I put on my nerdy accounting and finance glasses and first think about ROI (return on investment). Yes, aesthetics are somewhat important, but those are cosmetic and can almost always be changed. For me, location, the layout, structure, and the mechanics are far more important. At the end of the day, my home provides shelter and memories, but more importantly, it’s an asset that I want to receive monetary value from.

Soooooo, back to the former attic, now bonus room.

When we toured this house, I immediately noticed the garage had an access space that led to an attic. However, the only way to access (the attic) was through the garage via a pull-down ladder. But I immediately thought to myself this: what if we could add interior stairs to access this space and build it out to make it usable? The framing was already complete, as was some insulation and electrical, so it’s not like we were starting from nothing.

Now, did I have any idea if it would work from a structural standpoint? Nope. But I thought it could.

Step 1 — The Bidding Process

We knew we wanted to use a GC for a project like this. We also knew we needed an architect to draw up plans to submit to the city, in order to apply for a permit.

There are two GCs here in the Twin Cities that I really enjoy working with, so both of them stopped by, toured the space, and asked the same question that I ask my prospective clients: what’s your budget?

Now, we had a number in our head, but honestly, I had no idea if it was realistic. And like with any project, I figured there would be scope creep.

For example, it was determined we would enter the bonus room via new stairs connected to the laundry room, which meant redoing the laundry room. And while there is a pocket door that separates the mudroom and laundry room, they both shared the same vinyl flooring, which meant this project had now crept into the mudroom.

Step 2 — The Drawings and the Budget

Once we settled on a GC, we had his architect produce drawings for us, which I’ve included below.

The first drawing is the OG one of our home, which was built in 2003. It’s hard to see but luckily the plumbing in the laundry room didn’t have to move much. Also, the red X again indicates the new entrance and the remaining red represents the new interior stairs.

The Existing Drawings

The New Drawings

The top drawing shows the change in the laundry room, as well as the new interior stairs. The bottom drawing shows the bones of the new bonus room — aka the former attic.

And I almost forgot (but not really)… $100,000. That was our budget number. Seems like more than enough, right? But was it?

Now remember, this was completed back in the spring of 2022 when material and labor costs weren’t as expensive as they are today.

Spoiler alert — that budget number and I were about to become best friends. Check back for part 2, coming to an inbox near you soon.

As always, thank you for being here. I truly can’t tell you how much it means. If you’ve enjoyed reading this post:

• Like and subscribe! Or something, right? 🙃

• Please tap the heart button or share this post with someone who might be into it.

• Check out my ShopMy Storefront, where I’m always adding vetted home finds that I personally own or I’d tell my clients to purchase.

In the meantime, choose kindness, say “hi” to strangers, be goofy, and don’t forget to hug your loved ones.

Until next time, friends. Cheers! — Alyssa

Any product mentioned, and/or linked, was chosen independently.

If you purchase through one of the affiliate links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you, so thank you!

This month, I’m switching things up and going off the record — an unfiltered recap about what’s on my mind, some personal BTS, and what y’all are loving.

While this newsletter will always celebrate approachable interior design, I also want it to be a space for something more honest. A place where we can relate to one another and foster a sense of community. So, giddy up!

01 / What’s On My Mind — AKA a mini-rant…

Accounting is not subjective; it is very much black and white. Your debits have to equal your credits; it’s the core rule of double-entry accounting. There is no way around it.

Now, design, on the other hand, is subjective. Art is subjective. Beauty is subjective. Hell, many things in this world are subjective. Materials, colors, fabrics, and patterns I like aren’t necessarily what you like. In fact, that’s what makes each of us unique. Write that down. MK?

Which brings me to my point: when in the world did we start thinking it’s totally acceptable to walk into someone else’s home and provide unsolicited design advice? Unless you paid an interior designer for that unsolicited advice, zip it.

I’m sorry but walking into a kitchen, and immediately asking why someone is installing black quartz countertops because they’re just “so outdated” is not helpful. My kitchen, my choice. Also, it’s not a good idea to say things like, “Are you sure you want to move forward with these tile selections?” Renovation stress is real, so let’s stick to positive vibes only.

Sidebar — I bring this up because it’s actually been happening in one of my current design projects. And let’s just say, it gets me riled up.

Remember, it’s YOUR HOME. Do whatever makes YOU happy because you’re the one living there. And paying the mortgage or the rent.

Everyone else, SHUSH.

02 / The Real BTS of 2026

Some of you know that last February 2025, I had surgery and was officially diagnosed with what my OBGYN had suspected for years: endometriosis. A chronic, inflammatory condition that impacts 1 in 10 women1, takes (on average) 7 to 14 years to diagnose2, and a condition that receives approximately $4 per patient in annual NIH (National Institutes of Health) research funding.3

In general, I’m a fairly open person, but I’ve waffled on whether to share the next part for some time. However, in May of this year, a good Substack friend, , bravely shared with the world her own challenging health diagnosis. So I figure, if sharing my story can help just one person, I’ll call it a win.

This past January 2026, I made the difficult decision to undergo another surgery — this time a total hysterectomy in hopes of improving my overall well-being. I went into the surgery knowing it wouldn’t cure my condition (as there is no cure for endometriosis). And also knowing there was no guarantee the surgery would improve my symptoms.

A little over a week post-surgery, I received the type of call you never want to receive from your doctor. A cyst had been found on my right fallopian tube and the pathologist was unable to determine whether it was truly benign. After a visit to the oncology department at the University of Minnesota, my alma mater, I’m so very grateful to report I’m OK. But in many ways, that cancer scare changed me.

Over the years, life has thrown a lot my way but with grit and determination, I’ve always persevered. However, as I’ve gotten older, this condition in particular has challenged me more and more. And some days, it’s hard to fight. It’s forced me to be more deliberate about where my time and energy goes, meaning fewer social commitments, fewer client projects, and learning how to pivot when I need to (even if I don’t want to).

If you’re curious about endometriosis, I’d encourage you to watch this documentary which shares the personal struggles of prominent figures like Amy Schumer, Julianne Hough, and Marilyn Monroe (yes, Marilyn Monroe).

03 / What You’re Loving

I have a confession to make — I am equal parts nosy and inspired by what ends up in everyone else's shopping carts. And because the numbers don’t lie (just like Shakira’s hips) here are your JULY TOP 5.

1. A linen duvet cover in a grey and white stripe, for $174.00. Assuming you use this cover almost every night to sleep, for just one year, the cost-per-use here is a no-brainer.

2. A freestanding toilet paper holder in black and white marble. I own this, my dad owns this, and apparently several of you now own it, as well.

3. I’m loving these cordless table lamps. I’ve had a number of clients incorporate them on their dining table for additional accent or ambient lighting. This one from West Elm is available in black (shown) or white.

4. Another toilet paper holder.😳 But this time, the highly rated Moen Align is 50% off in brushed gold. It’s also available, and on sale, in brushed nickel, black, and chrome.

5. A small woven basket with lid. I used something similar in our Bloomington powder bath project. This would be great to store Q-tips or cotton balls in. Or simply to style your shelves with!

   Secrets from an Interior Designer is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Anddddddd that’s all she wrote. As always, thank you for being here. If you’ve enjoyed reading this post and want to show support for my work:

• Consider upgrading to a paid subscription! All the cool kids are doing it.

• Please tap the heart button or share this post (or this publication) with someone who might be into it.

• Check out my ShopMy Storefront, where I’m always adding vetted home finds that I personally own or I’d tell my clients to purchase.

In the meantime, choose kindness, say “hi” to strangers, be goofy, and don’t forget to hug your loved ones.

Until next time, friends. — Alyssa

Any product mentioned and linked was chosen independently. If you purchase through one of the links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. So, thank you in advance for your support!

1. I’m an Enneagram 2—The Helper, through and through.

2. I want these post topics to be driven by you all! Otherwise this publication may turn into random thoughts, like how I just skimmed through the AI 2027 report and am now spiraling just a wee bit, wondering if I should withdraw all money from our investment accounts and kick it in Bali, before the robots take over…

OK, I digress, moving on…

Back in May, a reader requested this → home organization systems that are beautiful while still functional, as so many are plastic and terrible.

Just want the goodies and don’t want to read? Tap below!

SKIP TO THE SHOPPING

When it comes to home organization products (or storage), most of us treat it as a utility purchase, not a decor purchase, which makes sense. In other words, you end up buying solely on function and price. You probably opt for a clear plastic bin from the Container Store, which does the job it’s supposed to do. And that’s fine, if you’re tucking it behind closed doors. But meanwhile, the $30-$60 you just spent could go toward something that stores your “stuff” and looks intentional sitting out.

So here’s my recommendation…

For items tucked behind a closet or cabinet door, under a bed, or inside a drawer, always save. Don’t worry about it being pretty. But if the item (a) lives on an open shelf, a countertop, or in the middle of the room, or (b) is something you touch/use every day, allow yourself to spend.

This will be an ongoing series, with a room-by-room guide on where to spend and where to save. Plus, the home organization items I personally own, my clients have purchased, or I would tell my clients to buy.

Entryway or Mudroom — SPEND

The best advice I can give you (for these spaces) is to USE. YOUR. WALLS.

Think about what happens the moment you walk into your home: you’re likely holding mail, maybe a dog leash, car keys, a purse, coffee, and the list goes on.

Other organizational wall items that would work well are rounded up below.

1. Ceramic Wall Hooks — Pretty and practical. My client just purchased these hooks from Etsy for her own mudroom. Plus, you can customize them!

2. Shelf and Coat Rack — That same client also purchased this scalloped shelf that I’ve been drooling over since I first laid eyes on it. Available in two finishes and two sizes.

3. Wall Mirror with Tray — As shown on the website, this would be perfect for an entryway, placed over a console table. With a small tray (for keys, wallets, etc.) and a mirror for a quick check before you head out, what’s not to love? Available in multiple finishes.

4. Wall Panel — With five-star reviews, this option comes with two shelves and multiple coat racks, PLUS fluted details. Available in natural oak or smoked oak. To me, this one’s worth every penny. There’s also a bench you can pair with it.

Bedroom and Closet(s) — SAVE

Save here (although there are exceptions, see item #2).

Under-bed storage and closet bins are the one category where “hidden” is actually fine because no one’s judging what’s under your bed. Buy the plain canvas or fabric bins, and put your money toward the entryway and/or mudroom instead.

Additional home items I’ve rounded up are below.

1. Under-bed Zippered Storage — Extremely affordable, which I love. But my favorite feature? There’s a built-in label holder, so you know exactly what’s in the bag. I highly recommend it if you have limited closet space and need to store various clothing items from season to season. It’s available in multiple sizes and also in the natural color.

2. Scallop Rattan Under-bed Storage — A super cute find for the young one in your life and great for toy storage. However, it’s not cheap but I do really appreciate the scallop detail.

3. 3 Drawer Organizer — Target for the win! I can see this being used in a closet, in a variety of ways: for clothing, toys, towels, pet supplies, home cleaning supplies — it’s just so versatile. It also has 5 star reviews and is less than $100. There’s also a larger 4 drawer version here.

4. Hanging Shoe Storage — I think there’s a misconception that just because an item is sold in the dorm, teen, or kids category at a retailer, that we adults are not allowed to purchase it. But the truth is, some of the best space saving, home organizational finds can be found here! Like this vertical shoe organizer that hooks onto your closet rod.

As always, thank you for being here. Truly, thank you. It means more than you know.

If you’ve enjoyed reading this post and want to show support for me and my work, please consider the following:

• Tap the heart button, as it helps more people find this publication!

• Share this post with someone who might be interested.

• Check out my ShopMy Storefront, where I’m always adding vetted home finds to help save you time and eliminate overwhelm.

In the meantime, choose kindness, say “hi” to strangers, and hug your loved ones. Life is beautiful, but also so precious.

Cheers! — Alyssa

Any product mentioned and linked was chosen independently.

If you purchase through one of the links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you, so thank you!

A bedroom appears on your feed. Sunlight hits a flawlessly styled reading nook. A throw blanket is perfectly draped over the bed and you think to yourself, “How in the hell did they do that?”

There’s also a fireplace. One with a fluted marble surround complete with a framed family photo hung directly above. There are no clothes on the floor, no stains on the carpet, and no empty water glasses in sight. And a small, annoying voice in the back of your head goes: why doesn’t my house look like that?

You take a look at your own bedroom and spot your unpacked luggage from the trip you took over Memorial Day weekend. You see buckling carpet, sconces with dust (and maybe a spider web?! Ew, David!), drywall that needs patching, and a ceiling fan that looks like it’s from 1980.

Well, guess what? I’m an interior designer and I just described my own bedroom.

I’ve come to realize that in the interior design industry, we excel at sharing the highlight reels (quite literally). We post only the good stuff. For example, the dining room photo where furniture was rearranged simply so we could achieve the perfect editorial shot (guilty as charged — see below).

I mean, heaven forbid you get too real. The one time you show a sliver of vulnerability (you know, the BTS story that is too messy, too unfinished, too human), your views tank and everyone hits unsubscribe. And if you’re a celebrity or influencer (thank gawd I’m not), you may even get (gasp!) canceled.

Now, I’m as guilty as anyone. For every “perfect” space I share, there are multiple rooms and details in my own home that are unfinished, imperfect, or held together with good intentions but no budget, time, or energy to execute. You see the one styled corner. You don’t see the pile of empty boxes three feet to the left of it.

So here's my proposal for 2026: imperfect, unfinished homes as the trend of the year.

I'll go first.

Number 1

Welcome to my kitchen where the electrical outlet covers are taped (yes, taped) to the white subway backsplash. An easy and affordable item to tackle, but have I? Absolutely not.

Number 2

Below is our formal dining room, which has sat empty since we moved in, over five years ago. It’s also the first room you see as you enter our home, so I am consistently asked (a) what are you doing with this space?, and (b) are you moving?

We are not formal people, therefore, we don’t need a formal dining room, so I don’t know what to do with this space. However, it admittedly has loads of potential with its natural light, paneling, and coffered ceiling. But I haven’t had the time or energy. And with our disposable income, my husband and I tend to prioritize travel over any home project.

And no, we are not moving.

Number 3

The primary bedroom (aka the bedroom I previously referenced). I wasn’t lying when I said the carpet was buckling.

Number 4

Missing wall sconces, four years later (I’m sure this is a violation of code — oops). But I just haven’t decided what style of sconce I’d like, what finish to go with, and whether the sconces should match throughout the two-level stairwell or simply play off one another.

Number 5

Our deck that is rotting away as we speak. And yes, I realize this is now a safety issue so we will be addressing it soon.

Back in 2022, when we were completing our bonus room addition, we had our GC quote a new deck and stairs. Mind you, our deck is less than 200 square feet, yet the quote back then was $30k.😭😭😭

I can’t wait to see what the bids are now…

Here’s the thing. None of these are emergencies (except maybe the deck). They’re just photos of a real, normal, unfinished home. And I’d bet money most of you have a version of this, too.

Time and time again, I see people move and right away they begin to tackle every space in their home. And guess what? 99% of the time, those people come to me and say, “I wish we would have waited.”

The pressure to finish an entire home, or a room, fast is what empties wallets quickly. It also usually creates a home that lacks cohesion, functionality, and character. Feeling like you must immediately have a Pinterest-perfect home is what makes you buy the trending rattan floor lamp (that you really don’t like) simply because the corner looks empty. It causes you to select a paint color you end up despising because you didn’t have “time” to thoughtfully test it beforehand. And it causes you to purchase an expensive hand-knotted rug that is actually too small, but you had out-of-town guests arriving and how embarrassing for them to see bare floors.

An empty corner costs nothing. A wrong purchase costs you twice: once to buy it, once to replace it. The most expensive room in your house is almost always the one you rushed.

So the next time you find yourself comparing your home to someone else’s cropped photo, please reference this post. Because imperfect and unfinished homes are where it’s at.

As always, thank you for being here. Truly, thank you. It means more than you know.

If you’ve enjoyed reading this post and want to show support for me and my work, please consider the following:

• Tap the heart button, as it helps more people find this small business!

• Share this post (or this publication) with someone who might be interested.

• Check out my ShopMy Storefront, where I’m always adding vetted home finds to save you time and money.

In the meantime, choose kindness, say “hi” to strangers, be goofy, and hug your loved ones. Life is beautiful, but also so precious.

Cheers! — Alyssa

With that, thank you so much for being here. While writing and grammar aren’t my forte (no, AI does not write these posts) I am loving this platform and am incredibly grateful for each and every one of you.

In my last post, I dropped a major bomb and told you the hard truth: your area rug is almost certainly too small. Most living rooms need an 9’ x 12’ rug, not the 8’ x 10’ everyone defaults to. And judging by the views that post received, I either deeply offended you all or inspired you to pull out your tape measurer and get to work.

But when it comes to interior design and decorating, identifying the problem is only half my job. The other half? Sourcing the actual rug.

Area Rugs — should you save or splurge?

It depends (I despise saying this, I truly do, but it’s the truth).

If you were to ask the inter-webs, several designers will say to “invest” in a hand knotted or vintage area rug for a plethora of reasons.

However, my finance brains defaults to spending more (not splurging, just spending more of your budget) on a rug for your living room but saving when it comes to a dining room rug or entryway rug.

Why in the world are rugs so expensive?

If you’ve ever experienced sticker shock while rug shopping, you’re not alone. So, here’s what drives those high price tags:

• Material — Natural fibers like wool and cotton cost more, but they tend to wear better and last longer. That’s durability you’re buying, not just softness.

• Construction — Hand-knotted or hand-tufted rugs take real skill and time. And that craftsmanship is baked into the price.

• Detail — The more intricate the pattern, the more hours it takes to make, which bumps up the price.

• Rarity — One-of-a-kind and vintage pieces ride supply and demand, which is why they can get b-a-n-a-n-a-s expensive.

My favorite rug brand…

If you’re an OG subscriber, you know that I’m a bit of a fan-girl when it comes to Loloi Rugs. They’re my go-to brand because they consistently deliver on style, quality, and price. There’s a little something for everyone — truly!

Edge Jute/Leather Handwoven Area Rug — As seen in our previous home, in brown. This makes for a great entryway rug and currently we have it in our three season porch. The leather woven in with the jute is what sold me on this baby.

Chris Loves Julia x Loloi Jules Rug in Merlot — As seen in the entry of our current home. Because it’s machine made, it’s super easy to keep clean and quite durable. I chose to pair with a blue velvet bench, but you could also pair with olive or sage greens, charcoals, or creams!

Angela Rose x Loloi Aubrey — This rug is also machine made so having a plush pad underneath is key. I like how this print hides all.the.things, including the occasional spilled rosé.

Amber Lewis x Loloi Georgie Teal / Antique — Amber Lewis is incredibly talented so you can’t go wrong with this beaut. The motifs of this rug are slightly worn for an authentic vintage rug look. A great option if you’re looking for something that leans traditional.

1. Layla Printed Olive/Charcoal Area Rug — The influencer community loves this rug and honestly, I get why. I adore the subtle pops of pink and olive. I’ve used in a client’s dining room and we paired with a black wood table.

2. Amber Lewis x Loloi Zuma Blue Ivory Rug — One of the more expensive area rugs that Loloi sells but every time I see it, I fall in love all over again. It could easily pass for a $10k+ area rug. And yes, it’s soft!

3. Chris Loves Julia x Loloi Oriental Natural — This is probably the first Loloi rug I ever specified for a client! No joke. I would put it in the neutral category as it goes with almost anything.

4. Amber Lewis x Loloi Molly Ocean / Sunset — This rug is consistently backordered for good reason. It truly looks like a sunset with stunning teal/blue colors balancing out the warm hues. I recently used in a client’s living room.

Last but not least, if you run across a Loloi Rug with the CloudPile construction, that essentially means it’s extra soft yet still durable for high-traffic areas.

Still not sure which one’s right for your room?

This is the part I enjoy the most. Head to the comments, share the rug options you’re contemplating, and I’ll do my best to recommend the one you should choose. No spiraling, no 200 tabs. I'll just make the call for you!

As always, thank you for being here. Truly, thank you. It means more than you know.

If you’ve enjoyed reading this post and want to show support for my work:

• Please tap the heart button, as it helps more people find this small business!

• Share this post (or this publication) with someone who might be into it.

• Check out my ShopMy Storefront, where I’m always adding vetted home finds, in hopes to save each of you time and money.

In the meantime, choose kindness, say “hi” to strangers, be goofy, and hug your loved ones, because life is precious.

Cheers! — Alyssa

Any product mentioned and linked was chosen independently.

If you purchase through one of the links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you, so thank you!

Since I joined this platform, I’ve had a goal of writing a new post every week. Yet it’s been over a year, and I still haven’t accomplished that… Which means my annual review will have a “does not meet expectations” next to Substack. Back in my corporate days we would call that an “opportunity” — not a weakness, an opportunity (I do not miss those annual reviews — woof).

But the truth is, 2026 has been very rocky for me. I began the year with a major surgery, one that I haven’t been recovering from as well as I had hoped. So thanks for sticking around as I continue to navigate it all as I truly appreciate each one of you being here.

OK — let’s get to it, shall we?

In the last 4 plus years, I’ve seen hundreds of homes and there’s one design mistake that I see 9 out of 10 times.

Area rugs that are too small. Especially living room rugs.

Why is this? I have no idea. Maybe it’s because rugs can be are extremely expensive. But for whatever reason, it’s as if everyone has assumed that in a living room, an 8’ x 10’ area rug is the size they should use.

For example, earlier this year, a client came to me after they had been working with an in-store designer at a local home retailer. I was reviewing their selection listing which included a 174” sectional and an 8’ x 10’ area rug.

Here’s why this matters…

That 8’ x 10’ rug meant the rug’s longest side equated to 120 inches. The sectional was 174 inches. Which means the sectional outran the rug by well over 4 feet.

Yes, we axed the rug and opted for this Amber Lewis x Loloi one instead.

Why Size Matters

Area rugs should ground a space, quite literally. The size of your rug sets the foundation for how furniture is arranged and how the room feels as a whole.

When your area rug is too small, it makes the room feel disjointed, unbalanced, and the rug will often look like it’s floating in the center of the room rather than anchoring (or grounding) the furniture.

Honestly, in my opinion, the smallest size most should have in their living room is an 8’ x 10’ rug. The majority should have a 9’ x 12’ area rug, if not larger.

If you’ve been around here for a while, you know I’m not in the business of gatekeeping design secrets, so read on for some area rug tips and tricks.

Tip Number 1

Allow your furniture to fully sit on the rug, like shown in our Chaska New Build project (photo below). This is especially important if you have a swivel chair, a recliner, or a rocking chair.

Here’s why this matters…

Anything that moves needs a consistent surface underneath it.

For example, swivel chairs. A swivel chair needs its entire base on one level surface. If you have half on the rug and half off the rug, the chair will not only be uneven but the constant pivoting will grind the rug edge in one spot, so it crushes and frays fast. A rocking chair is even worse, because the whole point is repetitive motion, and that motion will slowly walk your rug across the room or fold up the edge into a tripping hazard.

If your rug can't fit all the furniture fully, the next best rule is to let the front legs of each seating piece rest on it. This is the layout most living rooms utilize and it works because those front legs are what tie each piece to the rug.

Once the front legs are on, your eye reads the sofa, the chairs, and the rug as one connected grouping, instead of furniture scattered around a mat.

Tip Number 2

If you opt to have the front legs (of your furniture) rest on the rug, be sure to let the rug run another 6-12 inches behind the legs.

Here's why this matters…

A chair, sectional, or sofa whose front legs are perched right on the lip of the rug appear like they’re about to slide off. It also looks like you knew the rug was a hair too small but you gave up and forced it to work together.

Allowing for this extra length of rug reads completely differently. It allows the furniture and rug to look intentional. The entire group (furniture, plus rug) feel and look grounded.

Tip Number 3

If you’re uncertain about size, use painter’s tape to mark out the desired rug size on the floor.

Here’s why this matters…

Because it’s an easy way to avoid an expensive mistake. A roll of tape costs a few dollars; the wrong 9’ x 12’ rug will likely cost you hundreds of dollars, once you consider restock fees and shipping costs. And don’t forget that you’ll need to schlep that sucker all the way to FedEx, too. Have fun with that.

Instead, tape off the exact dimensions of the rug you’re considering, then arrange your furniture against those lines exactly how you’d place it. Suddenly the abstract “is the 9’ x 12’ area rug big enough?” question becomes something you can actually see and walk around.

Your Mini Cart — Outdoor Rugs

All of these tips can be applied to your patio, deck, or any outdoor space you’ve got. And since it’s almost summer, I’m guessing a lot of you, myself included, are shopping for outdoor rugs right now as opposed to indoor ones.

So I did the work for you. Here’s a roundup of outdoor rugs that have attainable price points (please do not spend thousands of dollars on an outdoor rug, I’m begging you) and my stamp of approval.

TAP FOR OUTDOOR RUGS

As always, thank you for being here. Truly, thank you. It means more than you know.

If you’ve enjoyed reading this post and want to show support for my work:

• Please tap the heart button, as it helps more people find this small business!

• Share this post (or this publication) with someone who might be into it.

• Check out my ShopMy Storefront, where I’m always adding vetted home finds that I’d personally buy or tell my clients to purchase.

In the meantime, choose kindness, say “hi” to strangers, be goofy, and hug your loved ones. Cheers! — Alyssa

Any product mentioned and linked was chosen independently.

If you purchase through one of the links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Like, genuinely tight. It feels like discretionary income is nonexistent.

For example, has anyone else’s home insurance gone through the roof (no pun intended) the last two years? And the cost of gas—don’t get me started. We have a hybrid vehicle, which helps, but this year, Minnesota decided to penalize us electric (and hybrid) vehicle owners by increasing our tab renewals. Funnnn stuff.

So, when last week's reader request poll closed and, "vetted home finds under $100" was the clear winner, it made complete sense. The last thing any of us need is another "affordable home roundup" that opens with a $340 throw pillow. And no, I’ve never spent $340 on a throw pillow nor have I ever sourced one for a client, because for $340, that pillow better come with French champagne.

So what do I have for you this week? Drum-roll please.

A 3-room breakdown of home finds that are all under $100.

Now, some of these are items I personally own, some are things I've put in my clients' homes, and some are some affordable goodies I’ve been eyeing.

The Bathroom

Last year was the first year I personally spent more than $59 on one bathroom towel (the organic cotton mosaic towel from Parachute, which yes, is worth it). Despite being a grown adult who appreciates the softness and absorbency of towels, I had been reluctant to spend a significant amount of money in them.

However, if we’re doing the cost-per-use (CPU) math, it makes complete sense. If I used that $59 bathroom towel only 300 times a year, that’s less than $.20 per use. And let’s be honest, how long do we keep our bathroom and hand towels around anyway?

Shown above is the best selling Heathered Terry Organic Cotton Towel from Rejuvenation, which not one but two of my clients ended up purchasing. Displayed is the charcoal color.

But for the kids, they’re still getting towels from Target. These oversized bath towels have been great. Both my sister and I own the black striped color. Also, if you’re looking for a waffle towel that is budget friendly, check out the Waffle Bath Towels by Casaluna. I personally own them in three different colors and Wirecutter recommends them, too.

As for accessories, we already know how much I (and my clients) love this Serena & Lily stool. It’s currently in our guest bathroom giving guests somewhere to put their clothes, clean towels, etc. while showering.

I just purchased this marble soap dish and give it a 10/10. I also own this bathroom wastebasket which is GREAT because it has a lid and this rubber-coated one is a client fave.

This freestanding TP holder is in the kiddos bathroom and available in multiple finishes. Speaking of TP holders, you know how I feel about TP holders that wobble (if not, see post below) and I’ve noticed several of you have been drawn to the Wall Mount TP Holder from Etsy as well as this option that comes with a little shelf.

Also, do not sleep on H&M home. How cute is this marble soap dispenser and matching toothbrush holder?

The Kitchen

If you know me, you know I’m not big into cooking. I LOVE good food (I mean, food is love, right) but I just don’t have the patience to bake, cook, or do all the other things. Thankfully, my husband does.

I am, however, great at purchasing items for the kitchen (or so I like to think I am).

We’ve been trying to replace all of our plastic cutting boards with wood ones and I just snagged this cute pinstripe one, shown above.

We have owned the Organic Porcelain Dinnerware (pictured above) collection from West Elm since we got married in 2017. As of today, they still look brand new and yes, I’ve also influenced my sister to purchase them!

Don’t question whether you really need a 31 oz. wine glass, because you do; even if you use it to drink water. And these ribbed tumblers (pictured above) have been great so far. I own the green color.

Last but not least, I never knew I could love a marble salt cellar (pictured above) so much. I just wish there was a matching pepper grinder…

The Living Room

I recently purchased this green marble side table (shown below, on the left) and let’s just say the quality and aesthetics are a 10/10; I seriously don’t know why it’s so affordable. On the right, this smoke glass bubble dish was gifted but I would indeed buy it. Use it as a candle holder, a jewelry dish, or as a catch-all on your coffee table, like I did.

We all know I’m all about the faux flowers, plants, and greenery, and these hydrangea stems look as real as ever.

Also, who doesn’t need more storage? These modern weave rattan baskets are great and this basket from IKEA has a 4.8/5 star rating.

These gold gallery frames are incredible. Not only do they come with a mat but they also come with a glass surface, not plastic!

Need to replace the boob lights in your home? Try these flush mounts. We installed the 10” round brass option in our bonus room. Also, this IKEA ceiling light made me stop my scroll.

MORE UNDER $100 FINDS HERE

FYI — I will be continuously updating those finds.

OK friends, that’s all she wrote.

As a reminder, good design isn’t about how much money you spent. It’s about how much thought you put in. A $40 lamp, styled well, will always beat a $400 one that doesn’t belong in the room.

If you’ve enjoyed reading this post and want to show support for my work:

• Please tap the heart button, as it helps more people find this small business!

• Share this post (or this publication) with someone who might be into it.

• Check out my ShopMy Storefront, where I’m always adding vetted home finds that I’d personally buy or tell my clients to purchase.

In the meantime, choose kindness, say “hi” to strangers, be goofy, and hug your loved ones. Cheers! — Alyssa

Any product mentioned and linked was chosen independently. If you purchase through one of the links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Today’s post is a bit different. Although it’s short and sweet, I hope you’ll bear with me because it’s something that truly matters to me: something I want to bring to light that occurred last August here in Minnesota. Stick with me, there’s something important at the end (I promise), but for now, please keep reading.

Annunciation Catholic School — Minneapolis, MN

On the morning of August 27, 2025, a mass shooting occurred at the Church of Annunciation, during an all-school Mass. Two children died, and 28 others were injured.

Fast forward to today, my friend, Laura Sima, a former ICU nurse, designer, and now a realtor (impressive, right?), reached out to the Annunciation community to see if there was a way she could help. She offered her design skills by providing a “makeover” of a space, or two, of the staff’s choosing. And after months of planning, she’s close to making this project a reality.

She’ll be transforming a storage room into a play-therapy space, while simultaneously redesigning the existing therapy workspace into a serene, welcoming, and multi-functional environment. Isn’t that incredible?

I’m volunteering my time to assist in the creation of these spaces, but to bring the spaces to life, additional funds are needed, and time is of the essence. While I know many of us have our eyes on the Memorial Day sales happening this weekend, instead of purchasing that $25 throw pillow, please consider redirecting those funds to the GoFundMe that has been set up, which is linked below. And remember, even $5.00 helps.

DONATE NOW

You can learn more about Laura’s mission via her Instagram post below. What an amazing way to pay it forward, right?

The Reader Request Line

At the bottom of my last post, I asked if there were topics you wanted me to cover or specific products you’ve been hunting for.

And I’d love to say that I was amazed by how many of you responded. I was hoping to start my next post with, “Lauren in Atlanta wants a 60-inch bathroom vanity that doesn’t scream big-box” but instead, this is what I got… crickets.

So, let’s try this again because (a) I know you aren’t all shy, and (b) a couple of years ago I paid $1,000 for an online mastermind (which ended up being a waste of money, in case you were wondering), but, it did teach me that it’s important to offer solutions to problems that actually exist.

So, pretty please, I’m begging you, vote below and I’ll write about the top pick in a future issue. Nothing is off limits. I’ll even talk about home insurance, journal entries, and financial modeling if you’d like.

Anddddddd that’s all she wrote. Told you it was short and sweet!

As always, thank you for being here. If you’ve enjoyed reading this post and want to show support for my work:

• Please tap the heart button, as it helps more people find this small business!

• Share this post (or this publication) with someone who might be into it.

• Check out my ShopMy Storefront, where I’m always adding vetted home finds that I’d personally buy or tell my clients to purchase.

In the meantime, choose kindness, say “hi” to strangers, be goofy, and don’t forget to hug your loved ones.

Until next time, friends. — Alyssa

Any product mentioned and linked was chosen independently. If you purchase through one of the links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. So, thank you in advance for your support!

Spoiler alert — I’m not a writer so expect some grammatical errors.

Though I no longer work in finance, I still like to keep a pulse on what's happening in the economy, trying to understand the why behind it. And I don't know about you, but lately my budget is being stretched thin. Since 2024, our home insurance premium has doubled. Our monthly grocery bill has increased 25% year over year, despite there being only three of us at home instead of four. And I keep seeing headlines like "Money Stress is America's #1 Worry" and "Why Everyone Feels Broke, Even When They're Making More Money Than Ever."

And yet, I'm also seeing people promoting Doen lace shorts for $300 (BTW, what even is a Doen, and no thank you). I start wondering who these people are, shelling out $300 for a pair of shorts. But then I remind myself: maybe they value those shorts more than saving for a vacation or installing new light fixtures.

Then just last week, I came across an Instagram reel I really appreciated. Lori Paranjape, owner of a Nashville-based interior design firm, shared a breakdown of what it actually costs to fully furnish a 6,000 sq. ft. home. And bless her for being transparent about it, because nobody on HGTV ever is. The answer? Mid-to-high six figures, and sometimes into the seven figures.

Sidebar — Keep in mind her clients are likely celebrities, athletes, and your friendly neighborhood crypto bros.

Needless to say, I am not Lori's client. But I am someone who still wants a beautiful home and has gotten pretty good at finding it for less. So in the spirit of tight budgets and still wanting nice things, here are some of my current favorite budget finds.

Budget Home Finds I’ve Vetted

No truly, I have.

Gold Accordion Hook — Recently purchased for my stepdaughter’s closet and it’s a 10/10 (and based on the reviews, the people concur).

Green Marble & Brass Side Table — My mind is still boggled that this beautiful green marble table is available for less than $65. FYI — I have it on our carpet and it doesn’t wobble, which I was quite pleased about!

Lockable Deck Box — Sexy? No. Practical? Yes. I store blankets in here, as shown in our 3-season porch. It’s also currently on sale!

Floor Lamp in Brass — Recently sourced for a friend’s office. She real cute, isn’t she?

The Ceni Lounge Chair — An accent chair that is comfortable, stylish, and won’t break the bank. However, if you have cats, this may not be the best option for you. Available in other colors, too!

Three Striped Doormat — I purchased the 18” x 30” size in honey/parchment, as shown above.

Other recent purchases I’ve made include this white marble soap dish and these hydrangea stems (they look so real!).

Money Saving Tips

With a bit of planning, flexibility, and compromise, here’s how I try to never pay full price for anything.

• Most credit cards have built-in offers that are easy to overlook. Right now my American Express has offers for Rugs USA, Kohler, At Home, and Kirkland's Home. #themoreyouknow

• Sign up for a retailer's email list. First-time subscribers usually receive 10–15% off, which adds up fast.

• Be flexible and compromise. Wait for a sale before pulling the trigger, or lean into what you already have. For example, if you've got a Pottery Barn gift card and need new bath towels, start there.

To date, I haven’t purchased anything “open-box” but I’m going to pull the trigger, soon. If you have experience, with open-box deals, I’d love to know the good, the bad, and the ugly.

That’s it, my friends! As always, thank you for being here. But one last thing before I officially say byeeeee.

Going forward, I’d love this to be less of a one-way conversation and more of an ongoing exchange. So if there's something specific you'd love for me to cover, a product you’ve been hunting for, or a topic you want me to dig into, just hit reply to this email or comment below.

And remember, choose kindness, say “hi” to strangers, be goofy, and hug your loved ones. Cheers! — Alyssa

Any product mentioned and linked was chosen independently. If you purchase through one of the links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. So, thank you in advance for your support!

While my design portfolio will likely never be featured in Domino Magazine or Architectural Digest, after 100+ projects, I’ve definitely learned a thing or two. I also know exactly what it’s like to be in that state of overwhelm and decision fatigue.

So today I’ve compiled answers to the real-world design dilemmas ya’ll are facing. Your questions, my answers. From the “perfect” beige paint (spoiler alert, there isn’t one) to the home retailer I plan to never purchase from again.

Shall we begin?!

Where do you start?! I get so overwhelmed with making any design decisions. Even the smallest.

Begin by addressing the space that you either use the most or that is causing you the most headaches, from a functional perspective. Then, start big and gradually narrow it down. For instance, in a living room, consider how you want, or need, the space to function, rather than focusing on its current state. Next, shift your efforts to selecting your big ticket items, such as a sofa or sectional, your armchairs, coffee table, area rug and so on. Last but not least, tackle the smaller items, including accent tables, lighting, wall art, textiles, and so forth.

What’s a part of your work that surprised you?

How little money is spoken about. More often than not, I see prospective clients, and current clients, experience sticker shock. In my opinion, this industry does a poor job of sharing how much those swoon-worthy rooms on social media actually cost. Especially in today’s world, as this industry (in particular) has been rocked by tariffs.

Favorite white paint color?

I love a clean, crisp white and because of that, Chantilly Lace (OC-65) by Benjamin Moore is my personal favorite.

TAP TO SHOP MY HOME

Perfect light beige cabinet color?

I would say there is no such thing as a perfect paint color. Just because some TikTok influencer said XYZ looked horrible in their home doesn’t mean it will in yours. However, if I had to select one, I would say Accessible Beige (SW 7036) by Sherwin-Williams.

What’s the best countertop to pair with accessible beige cabinets?

Select something that has a tad of warmth to it. It’s hard to see, but this countertop (Calacatta Venato by HanStone Quartz) has subtle umber and charcoal veining, which pairs nicely with the accessible beige paint color, also shown.

How do you pick Persian/Oriental rugs that coordinate for an open floor plan?

Great question! Usually, I suggest you choose one Persian or Oriental rug and then pair with a simpler option like a rug with a border or a jute or sisal rug. This way, the rugs won’t compete with each other in an open floor plan. However, if you’re set on having two Persian rugs—which is perfectly fine since it’s your home and you should incorporate things you love—I recommend you find a common thread.

For example, if one rug has a primary color of terracotta and secondary colors of indigo and sage, select a second rug that has primary colors of indigo or sage. This creates cohesion and a visual bridge between the two.

AREA RUGS I RECOMMEND

Match or mismatch bedroom furniture?

1,000% mismatch here. Please, please avoid purchasing the matching bedroom set. However, I have one exception to this rule: I prefer matching nightstands because I love symmetry.

I’m struggling to find a picture now that I wallpapered my bathroom. Any tips?

With wallpaper, I usually recommend art with a neutral color palette and a minimalist print, or forgoing it altogether. You usually want the wallpaper to be the showstopper, and what your eye is immediately drawn to. So in theory, the art should just be the cherry 🍒 on top.

What piece of furniture or brand have you bought and personally regretted?

I’m going with brand here: RH, the retailer formerly known as Restoration Hardware. In our first home, we purchased numerous items from them, including our dining room table, chairs, kitchen counter stools, coffee table, and a C-table (don’t ask me why, probably because I didn’t know better). However, considering the cost of these items, they haven’t held up as well as I would expect them to. Additionally, based on my personal experience, their customer service has significantly deteriorated over the years. And if I’m paying that much money for something, I expect a certain level of customer service.

P.S.—This is purely speculative, and the finance geek in me talking, but their recent earnings reports suggest that their financial situation is not great. I wouldn’t be surprised if they face a Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the future.

About to start a bathroom renovation. Any advice?

Bring that shower tile all the way to the ceiling. It won’t significantly increase your material and labor costs, and it truly enhances the aesthetic appeal. Plus, it protects the drywall!

Additionally, if you opt for a pre-fabricated vanity with drawers, be mindful that the plumbing (p-trap) frequently conflicts with the drawer space, which means you may need to make modifications to the vanity itself. I personally encountered this issue during my own bathroom renovation.

Whether you are choosing a paint color or finalizing the tile selection for your bathroom renovation, remember, the goal should be intentionality. Design doesn’t have to be exclusive or custom to be beautiful; it just needs to be approachable and functional for your life.

Because at the end of the day, your home should be a reflection of the inhabitants that live there and representative of what brings you joy.

Cheers! — Alyssa

The pastries (obviously), the vibrant colors, the picturesque canals, and the architecture (which I’ll write more about later) were all captivating. I may have started looking for jobs abroad upon my return.

Also, why Copenhagen? Because…

1. Since my husband and I started dating back in 2013, we’ve made it a top priority to explore a new destination every year. And I’m delighted to share that we’ve successfully achieved this goal! In our opinion, experiences hold far greater value than material possessions; something we’ve tried to instill in the kids as well.

2. When we weighed the options, Europe emerged as the significantly more affordable choice compared to flights (and accommodations) in Mexico, the Caribbean, Hawaii, Arizona, and Florida. Given my budget-conscious nature, we couldn’t resist booking it!

Now that we’re back, the vacation blues have hit me hard, along with the jet lag. And while I’m trying my best to avoid the news, I’m failing miserably. So, the obvious thing to do is talk about toilet paper holders instead.

Back in 2024, I completed a no-demo reno on our power bath for less than $2,000. And yes, I wrote all about it in the article below.

I wanted the bathroom hardware to match the existing chrome faucet, so I opted to purchase this towel ring holder and toilet paper holder, both in the chrome finish, from West Elm. While I appreciate their modern profile, I now have a toilet paper holder that looks like a sad, wilted branch.

Also, riddle me this: how is it possible that we have self-driving cars, yet we still struggle to manufacture a single-arm TP holder that remains horizontal? I understand that I could use physics to my advantage by installing it vertically, but I’m still worried about the slight wobble effect it might cause.

To my clients, I promise to never, ever, spec a single-arm TP holder again UNLESS it has an exposed mounting plate. To myself, I’m making that promise as well.

The Anti-Sag Shortlist

If you’re ready to break up with the sag, I’ve hunted down some alternatives for you, and for me. All appear to either have fantastic reviews and/or are quality-made.

1. Wall-Mounted TP Holder — Very budget-friendly ($26!) and multiple finishes available.

2. Curvature TP Holder — So unique, which I love. Also available in brass!

3. Align Wall-Mounted TP Holder — With 4.8 stars and almost 2,000 reviews, the people have spoken.

4. Scalloped Feather Peacock TP Holder — She’s a beaut, Clark. And she makes a fun statement.

5. Minimalist TP Holder — Affordable ($22) and pretty! Available in brushed brass or matte black, and it also has a matching towel bar.

6. TP Stand in Black & Marble — If this one looks familiar, it’s because I personally own it. I even had my dad purchase it, too! Other finishes are available, and it’s currently on sale.

7. West Slope TP Holder — From Rejuvenation, a fave retailer of mine, albeit their offerings aren’t cheap. Shown is the Brushed Nickel, which is currently on sale.

8. Leather TP Holder — Etsy for the win! Plus, you can customize the leather color and the dowel finish.

9. Riley TP Holder — A pivoting arm available in six different finishes.

10. Dora Shelf TP Holder — Every man needs this. It’s a TP holder with a VIP parking spot for their cell phone.

11. Boule Wall-Mounted TP Holder — A nod to classic French design. Also available in polished nickel and black.

12. Wall Mount TP Holder — Etsy for the win, again. Honestly, I need to source from Etsy more!

13. Acrylic TP Storage Tower — Storage and function, all in one. Sign me up.

14. Tissue Roll Holder — How freaking cute is this? Would be perfect for a kid’s bathroom. Multiple colors available, but honestly, it’s the brass ball for me.

Once again, that’s all she wrote, my friends. But before you leave, I have one small plea…

While I know I’m not a “writer” or necessarily eloquent, I genuinely hope you find these posts helpful. And more importantly, I sincerely hope they save you time! With that, I would:

• Greatly appreciate it if you could share this post (or publication) with a friend.

• I would also be thrilled if you would consider joining the paid design community, where, beginning this month (and every month), I’ll be doing an “ask me anything” for design community members only. As someone once said, it’s like having a designer on speed dial.

In the meantime, choose kindness, say “hi” to strangers, be goofy, and hug your loved ones.

Cheers! — Alyssa

Before I was an interior designer, I held various finance and accounting roles in the good ol’ world of corporate America. Because of my background, I look at home decor and furniture through a different lens than most interior designers do.

You won’t ever hear me call a new sofa or a rug an “investment”. As a finance nerd, I know that furniture is a depreciating asset. It’s not going to grow in value or pad your investment portfolio. So, when it comes to furnishing and decorating, my goal isn't to help you "invest," but to help you allocate your funds wisely so you get the most value out of every dollar you spend. And lately, that’s been getting a lot more challenging.

We’re living in an economy where it feels like prices are rising by the day. Yet our incomes aren’t following the same trajectory. It’s challenging to keep up, and I want you to know that I personally feel it, too.

I wrote about my Raphael Wallpaper by Scalamandre back in September 2025. Out of curiosity, I just checked the price, and that same wallpaper now retails for $276/roll.

That’s an over 4% increase in 6 months. Yet, many American workers are receiving an annual raise of just 2% to 3%. It’s no wonder many of us feel the strain.

Usually, when a new client reaches out, one of the first things I ask is: “What’s your overall budget for this project, including design fees?”

Sometimes people have a firm number in mind, and other times they’re totally unsure. But more often than not, once we start looking at the real-world costs of furnishing a room today, there is some serious sticker shock.

I get it—the gap between what we think things should cost and what they actually cost has never been wider. To pull back the curtain, I’m doing a "budget audit" on my own home to show you exactly what it costs to furnish my living room today.

However, before we look at the numbers, here are the data points I used for this list:

• Pricing — None of the prices listed include sale (or trade) discounts, shipping, or taxes.

• Purchase Timeline — Most of these items have been with me since 2015/2016. Since moving into our current home in 2021, I’ve only added two new items: the faux plant and the sectional.

• Current Market Value — I am listing what these items cost today. For example, my RH coffee table and Pottery Barn chairs were much cheaper when I originally bought them, but I’m using their current retail prices to give you an accurate picture of what it would cost to recreate this room right now.

The SABR Reno Living Room

For those of you who don’t know, I’ve lovingly dubbed our current home SABR Reno. I’m not going to list every single tiny decor item, but I am going to highlight the big-ticket purchases. I’m hoping this transparency helps you see how quickly costs can add up! I’ll also let you know whether I’d buy the item again or if I’d pass on it today.

For my own home, I usually do a mix of "high and low." A majority of my furniture comes from mid-range retailers like West Elm, Pottery Barn, or Crate & Barrel. While I don’t have photos of the entire finished space just yet, the design plan below should give you a general idea of the look.

1. The Fenne Side Table — $298.00 → BUY

   1. A solid price point for a coastal/boho accent piece.

2. Artificial Ficus Tree — $150.00 → BUY

   1. I’ve spent over $400 on faux floor plants before, like this one from Crate & Barrel, but this Target one takes the cake.

3. Gold Tripod Floor Lamp (no longer sold, but similar option here) — $164.00

4. Grand Armchair with Nailheads in Pebble Sunbrella® Performance Slub Tweed — $2,249/chair → PASS

   1. High cost, low performance. Despite the "performance" fabric label, it shows every spill. Not worth the expenditure, but yes, they are comfortable to curl up in.

5. 1930’s Martini Round Drink Table — $710 → PASS

   1. I love a C-table’s utility, but $710 is steep for this piece. I’d go with this “look for less” option instead.

6. Sloan Chaise Sectional — $4,150 → BUY

   1. If you’re still hesitant about Interior Define, don't be. The quality and comfort of this sectional justify the cost.

7. Mahogany Woven Rope Stool — $279/stool → BUY

   1. Great versatility. These double as extra seating, which increases their overall utility in the room.

8. Oslo Open Rectangular Coffee Table (not exact but similar) — $2,990 → PASS

   1. While RH used to be my go-to, I rarely source from them now. The price point no longer aligns with the value for me.

9. Clara Block Print Pillow Cover — $94.00 → BUY

   1. High quality, versatile, and currently on sale. A smaller expense that makes a high visual impact.

10. Henderson Pillow Cover — $84.00 → BUY

    1. Like the Clara, this is a smart way to layer texture without overspending. And it’s also on sale!

The Grand Total — $13,696.00

Final Thoughts

Seeing that almost $14k total might feel like a lot, or it might feel like less than you expected. Now, can it be done for less? Absolutely! But a majority of your items will likely come from discount and mid-range retailers. The reality is that the number represents how much it costs to furnish a single room at today’s prices.

My finance background has taught me that “value” isn’t about finding the cheapest item; it’s about making sure your money is working as hard as you do.

When I look at my “Pass” list, it’s usually because the quality didn’t meet the price point. When I look at my “Buy” list, it’s because those pieces actually serve my family’s lifestyle. Whether you’re working with $5,000 or $50,000, the goal is the same: spending your money with intention.

As always, thank you for being here. Spoiler alert: I’m not a writer, so crafting these posts takes a significant amount of time. If you’ve enjoyed reading this post and would like to show your support for my work:

• Please tap the heart button, as it helps more people find this small business!

• Share this post (or this publication) with someone who might be into it.

• Check out my ShopMy Storefront, where I’m always adding vetted home finds that I’d personally buy or tell my clients to purchase.

In the meantime, choose kindness, say “hi” to strangers, be goofy, and hug your loved ones. Also, NO KINGS.

Cheers! — Alyssa

ICYMI, for the past month, we've been dealing with a faucet issue at home, so I decided to write a post about the most common mistakes I see homeowners make when purchasing faucets. Those mistakes are outlined in Part 1, linked below. So if you haven’t yet read that post, please start there.

But good news, friends! After several more uses of my favorite “F” word, we officially have a new working kitchen faucet and matching beverage faucet, thanks to my husband.

Brizo Odin Full-Down Faucet with Arc Spout in Polished Gold — $817

Brizo Beverage Faucet with Arc Spout in Polished Gold — $376

Sidebar — This is EXACTLY how scope creep happens, as now my countertops really need to go, as does the backsplash, etc.

If you caught Part 1 of this series, you know the “old me” scoffed at the idea of spending more than $500 on a kitchen faucet. Especially since my idea of cooking is assembling a charcuterie board. But after doing the Cost-Per-Use (CPU) math, I’ve officially seen the light.

But here is where I still draw the line… I refuse to blow my budget on a luxury faucet for a kid’s bathroom or a guest bathroom! Why? Because the CPU math works both ways. Unless Uncle Jef is treating your spare room like an Airbnb every weekend, that guest sink hardly sees a drop of water. And I know my step-kiddos will not appreciate knurled detailing on a faucet like I do.

But, with thousands of faucets on the market, where do you even start? The market is flooded (pun intended) with options, so I’ve narrowed it down to the heavy hitters I trust time and time again.

My Two Favorite Brands — Delta and Kohler

These are the two brands I’m most familiar with and specify the most. While I’m certain most of you are familiar with them as well, you may not realize that each of these brands also offers a luxury or premium line.

For Delta, that is Brizo. For Kohler, that is Kallista. Think of it like a fashion house: while the main brand focuses on reliability for the masses, the luxury lines are where the designers get to play with exotic finishes, hand-forged details, and architectural shapes.

Delta and Brizo

The kitchen faucet I most often recommend is the Trinsic Pull-Down Sprayer Kitchen Sink Faucet from Delta. It’s reliable, the price point is great, and it looks good in almost any kitchen. However, this Spring, a new Delta kitchen collection called the Cordova is being released, and there’s quite a bit of excitement surrounding it.

In a recent powder bath renovation (photo below), I specified the Nicoli Widespread Bathroom Faucet. In this project, we opted to mix metals, so I liked the idea of incorporating this detail into the faucet as well.

In my own kids’ bathroom renovation (photo below), I went with the Trinsic Single Hole Bathroom Faucet in polished chrome. Almost four years later, and I’m quite happy with it, and I’m assuming they are, too — ha!

But if I were currently in the market for a new bathroom faucet, I would purchase one with a pull-out sprayer. I mean, brilliant, right? Wash down all that toothpaste, hair, makeup, etc. I can’t believe there aren’t more of these on the market!

1. The Cassidy — on sale!

2. The Stryke — subtle contours, with five-star ratings.

3. The Arvo — very budget-friendly!

Now, Brizo. As mentioned above, this is the brand that my husband and I just installed. While we went with the Odin Kitchen Faucet, I’ve had my eye on the Litze collection for a long time, as I adore the knurled detail. While I know function is extremely important here, it’s those small design details that really elevate a product’s look.

Another Brizo kitchen faucet I’ve happily specified (which also happens to be a top seller) is the Artesso. It leans a bit more traditional and is also available with an articulating arm if you’re into that sort of thing!

Kohler and Kallista

I adore Kohler and would love to visit their HQ one day. I also wouldn’t mind staying at the American Club, either (throwing that out there in case someone from Kohler is reading this).

Honestly, my clients tend to prefer Delta or Brizo fixtures over Kohler, and I’m not entirely sure why. Therefore, I don’t have as much personal experience with Kohler products, and I have no experience with their Kallista line (although it appears to be quite impressive).

In my own laundry room renovation (photo below), I wanted a reliable, yet affordable, faucet with a pull-out sprayer (which, BTW, was not easy to find). I ended up selecting the Simplice faucet from Kohler and have been thrilled with it.

In our Palm Springs project, we installed the Kohler Crue Touchless kitchen faucet, and I have to say, it pairs beautifully with that granite waterfall countertop. And yes, they have a matching prep sink/wet bar faucet that we selected as well.

Now, from my understanding (aka Google research and chatter amongst other design professionals), when it comes to the Kohler family of plumbing fixtures, their two best-selling collections are:

1. The Purist Collection — This line is a designer favorite. It’s a “less is more” approach with a minimalist look.

2. The Artifacts Collection — A line that leans quite traditional with some English influence. In fact, you may have seen Martha Stewart in an advertisement for their freestanding bathtub. That woman keeps reinventing herself, doesn’t she?

SHOP ALL FAUCETS HERE

Finishes and That One Faucet…

In the subtitle of this post, I mentioned that there’s still one faucet I’m not convinced about. Regardless of the brand or the line, it’s the touchless, as well as the voice-activated, faucet. While the concept is fantastic, the technology still seems to be lacking. I know several friends (and clients) who purchased these faucets and chose to disable the touchless feature because it’s not very reliable. However, if you’re reading this and have had a great experience with this technology, please let us all know in the comments!

Now, last but not least, finishes.

Both family of brands offer a plethora of finishes, and while I have many of their samples, I don’t have them all. However, two quick notes of advice:

1. If you have little ones with sticky hands, opt for a brushed finish. Trust me on that one.

2. A brass finish is not universal amongst brands. For example, Kohler’s brass does not equate to Delta's or Brizo’s brass, as evidenced below.

And once again, that’s all she wrote. If you’ve enjoyed reading this post and want to show your support for my work…

• Please tap the heart button, as it helps more people find this small business!

• Share this post (or this publication) with someone who might be into it.

• Check out my ShopMy Storefront, where I’m always adding vetted home finds that I’d personally buy or tell my clients to purchase.

In the meantime, choose kindness, say “hi” to strangers, be goofy, and hug your loved ones.

Cheers! — Alyssa

Frankly, it’s hard to wrap my head around it, and at times, I wonder if I should have stayed with finance and accounting. But I’ve never wanted to look back on my life with regret, either.

So honestly, I’m proud of myself for leaping and for building what I have. Go me!

When I pivoted to interior design, I realized early on that there was a massive gap in the market. That gap of consumers didn’t care about bespoke, one-of-a-kind items that were manufactured in Italy. And they didn't want to purchase furniture sight unseen. They were looking for the “in between”—a design service that provided more character than a generic online platform, but less fuss than a traditional firm. So, I decided to target this gap. Focusing mainly on direct-to-consumer (DTC) products without requiring a dollar project minimum to work with me. All built on a foundation of transparency and trust. Meaning I would provide my clients with unfiltered, subjective feedback on why a piece of art won’t work in a stairwell (which, coincidentally, just happened yesterday) or why your budget of $10,000 won’t get you the bathroom of your dreams.

So when a major retailer landed in my inbox last week, my ‘finance brain’ and my ‘designer heart’ had a bit of a standoff.

I was offered an exciting opportunity: a free 8’ x 10’ rug from a specific designer collection in exchange for a suite of content—an Instagram reel, several stories, and the usual promotional checklist. Initially, I was flattered. Who doesn't want a free rug from a collection with a designer you utterly admire? But as the initial excitement faded, my commitment to transparency kicked in. I realized I was being asked to put my stamp of approval on a product I had never touched, felt, or seen in person.

So, I did what I always advise my clients to do: I asked for a sample to ensure the quality met my standards before I recommended it to you all.

And that ask was met with silence.

So, I declined the offer.

That experience was a stark reminder of the 'guesswork' that powers so much of the content we consume. In the world of influencer marketing, 'sponsored' doesn't always mean 'vetted.' Many creators (and sometimes, designers) are endorsing products they’ve never touched, let alone lived with. After all, influencer marketing is in business to make money. And while I am too, I refuse to compromise on the foundation I’ve built this business on. Simply put, I’d rather lose out on a free rug than lose your trust.

When I share a home find, I want you to know that the item is thoroughly researched and vetted. The items I share are either ones that I’ve personally lived with or that I’ve specifically selected for clients.

If I lack firsthand experience with a product, trust that I’ve filtered through the reviews, analyzed the specs, and scrutinized the materials so you don’t have to. At the end of the day, my goal isn’t just to share a link, it’s to help you build a home you’re genuinely proud of.

So, thank you for listening to my TED talk, and here are some home items that are either on major sale or that I thought you may find useful.

I’ve owned this faux leather bench for close to 10 years. And while it mainly serves as a landing place for random clothes, I had another set of clients purchase it to use as an ottoman-style coffee table. I also linked the Geo white duvet cover, which happens to be on sale! I adore the texture on it, but if you run hot (like my hubby does), this may not be for you.

Mia’s bed frame is currently on sale for less than $125.00. I love it and so does she. Her nightstand is also on sale, and while it was the scalloped detail that sold me, it is made of MDF, so the texture feels a bit plastic-like, which is a bummer. Her comforter is here, and her quilt is linked here. I haven’t yet purchased the ceiling fan shown, but it’s linked here, in case you’re interested.

If you follow along on Instagram, you may have already seen me yap about this stunning area rug. Case in point, my client still loves it, and I personally have been eyeing it, too. And why yes, it’s from my favorite rug brand!

I’ve been known to go a bit overboard with throw pillows (oopsies). But when it comes to a bed, I’ve come to realize that the best pairing is two euro pillows with a lumbar in front.

This lumbar is by Jean Stoffer x Loloi and is currently less than $50.00. While the euro shams are from Quince, in charcoal.

I frequently receive requests for my recommendations on counter stools suitable for children. When you have little ones, you usually want stools that are easy to clean, don’t swivel, have a back, and are affordable.

Enter the Poly & Bark faux-leather stools, available in multiple colors. You can currently purchase a set of 3 for less than $300. Additionally, these stools also appear to be a great option.

I’ve yapped about this Serena & Lily stool 1,000 times because I love it so much. Honestly, this stool might be the most frequently purchased client item ever. And it’s currently on sale!

That, my friends, is all she wrote for this week.

Please check back soon for Part II of Faucets (sounds boring, but I pinky promise it won’t be!).

If you’ve enjoyed reading this post and want to show your support for my work:

• Please tap the heart button, as it helps more people find this small business!

• Share this post (or this publication) with someone who might be into it.

• Check out my ShopMy Storefront, where I’m always adding new home finds.

In the meantime, choose kindness, say “hi” to strangers, be goofy, and hug your loved ones.

Cheers! — Alyssa

We, Dave (my husband), attempted quite a bit of troubleshooting, but we couldn’t fix it, so we are now the proud owners of a new kitchen faucet and a new beverage faucet, since the beverage faucet was leaking as well.

In the past, I thought it was ridiculous to spend more than $500 on a kitchen faucet, but after calculating the cost-per-use (CPU), I’ve changed my tune.

Let’s pretend you just purchased a new sofa for your living room, and the price tag was $5,000. Let’s then assume you sit on it once a day, every day (you’re a homebody and never, ever leave your house), and you intend to own it for 5 years. The CPU is $2.74.

Let’s also pretend you just purchased a kitchen faucet for $1,000. Between washing hands, rinsing berries, and filling pots, let’s assume you use it 5 times a day. That means over a 5-year lifespan, the CPU is $0.11. But a cheap faucet? It may cost you your sanity (and likely a plumber’s bill) within two years.

Obviously, you want to love how your faucet looks (at least I do), but you also need to love how it functions (especially if you like to cook). Before we delve into my favorite brands and specific faucet recommendations (which will be covered in Part 2!), I’d like to share some common mistakes that homeowners often make and how to avoid them in the future.

The Common Mistakes

Mistakes — aka the gap between how things look in a showroom (or online) versus how they function in your home. Let’s get to it and also, please remember, I’m an interior designer and not a licensed plumber.

The “Splash Zone” Mistake (Spout Reach)

• The Mistake — Homeowners often look at the height of the faucet but forget the reach (the horizontal distance from the base of the faucet to the water outlet or spout). If the reach is too short, you wash your hands against the back of the sink, splashing water all over the counter.

• Do This — Remember that when possible, the water stream should hit directly over the drain. Which also means it’s imperative you take into consideration the specs of your sink.

The “Hole Count” Mismatch

• The Mistake — Buying a widespread (3 separate pieces) bathroom faucet when your vanity top is pre-drilled for a center-set faucet. Or buying a single hole kitchen faucet when your countertop is drilled for a widespread faucet.

• Do This — If you’re able, return the faucet and re-order the correct one. If it’s too late, use the extra holes for a soap dispenser, glass rinser, purchase a faucet hole cover, or try to sell it on Facebook Marketplace.

The “Valve Vanity” (Plastic vs. Ceramic)

• The Mistake — Buying a $50 big-box store faucet that looks identical to the $300 showroom version. In this instance, your sole focus is on the exterior material and you completely ignore the inside material.

• Do This — Always check the specs for Ceramic Disc Cartridges. A ceramic disc cartridge will usually have the longest life and the best leak resistance.

Taller is Always Better

• The Mistake — Purchasing a high-arc faucet to achieve a dramatic look but forgetting that your sink is shallow. Which means significantly more splash when the water hits the sink.

• Do This — Always take into consideration the type of sink you have or the type of sink you plan on purchasing.

The Finish Trap

• The Mistake — The latest and greatest design trends say that brushed brass is the way to go. You’re not an interior designer so you purchase what’s trending and you also forget to take into consideration the existing finishes found throughout your kitchen.

• Do This — Always, always, always account for the existing metal finishes present in your kitchen (or bathroom, pantry, whatever room). This includes the finishes found on your cabinet hardware, your appliances, your lights, etc. If you don’t already have a brushed brass finish present, don’t purchase a faucet in this finish unless you plan to replace at least one of the other existing finishes. Why? Because the faucet will look like an afterthought and the space will likely look unbalanced.

As always, thank you for being here. Be sure to check back soon for Part 2 of this series!

If you’ve enjoyed reading this post and want to show your support for my work:

• Please tap the heart button, as it helps more people find this small business!

• Share this post (or this publication) with someone who might be into it.

• Check out my ShopMy Storefront where I’m always adding vetted home finds that I’d personally buy or tell my clients to purchase.

In the meantime, choose kindness, say “hi” to strangers, be goofy, and hug your loved ones.

Cheers! — Alyssa

While the primary focus of this newsletter is interior design, I’ve always tried to share the reality of what happens when you’re just living. The online world does a great job of displaying highlight reels, but it often fails to acknowledge the hard things that are thrown our way in the thick of it.

Today, that feels especially true as I balance my love for design while recovering from a major surgery and witnessing the current events unfolding here in my Minnesota community.

With that, if you’re just interested in the links, below is my updated list of what’s actually worth buying. You can browse A to Z home finds, interior design trends, and even shop my own home.

TAP HERE

Endometriosis

When I mention this condition to a man, most look at me quizzically. When I mention this condition to a woman, most nod but still don’t fully understand what I’m referring to.

The reason I’ve been MIA is that a little over two weeks ago, I underwent my second surgery in less than a year to address this condition, which I was diagnosed with last year. While I won’t bore you with the details, I do want to highlight a few facts in hopes of bringing awareness.

Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women, yet it takes an average of 8 years to get diagnosed. Despite groundbreaking medical advances (like the recent news of a successful eye transplant), the only way to confirm whether you have endometriosis is through surgery. Yes, surgery. Additionally, the exact cause remains unknown, and there is no cure.

For me personally, this condition has caused me debilitating fatigue, persistent brain fog, gaslighting from former friends and colleagues, and numerous social events that I’ve missed. On one hand, I am so grateful to have a doctor who has always advocated for me and has never dismissed my symptoms. On the other hand, it’s maddening to learn how little is known about this condition, considering the lack of funding available.

If you’d like to learn more or even donate, please check out the Endometriosis Foundation of America. And if you, or someone you know, is struggling with this condition, please have them reach out to me, as endometriosis can be extremely isolating.

Minnesota

Some of you will see this and immediately unsubscribe because you feel like I’m being “political.”

But for me, this isn’t about politics or who you voted for. For me, this is about humanity in its truest and most essential state.

By now, most of you know about Operation Metro Surge and have heard about the tragic losses of Alex Pretti and Renee Good. Or maybe you saw the photo of Liam Ramos, the 5-year-old boy wearing a blue bunny-eared hat, who was detained by ICE along with his father.

FYI — Liam and his father have now been released and are back in Minnesota.

I can no longer remain quiet, especially given the privilege I have.

The events here in Minnesota are hitting us all differently, but the impact is inescapable. Two weeks ago, one of my closest friends was sprayed with tear gas, hurt, and traumatized, simply for being a legal observer. My husband is now working from home, as his company has instructed all employees to do so until they feel safe enough to return to the office. Outside my own home, I hear helicopters throughout the day. And several small businesses are facing the grim fact that they may have to shutter their doors for good.

While I am horrified, devastated, and frustrated, I’ve never been more proud to call Minnesota home. Our weather may not always be ideal, and yes, we may have funny accents, but when it comes to standing up for one another, we show up. And that, my friends, is community.

If you’re looking for ways to support Minnesota, please check out this link.

If you’re still with me and haven’t unsubscribed, thank you.

Next week I’ll be back to design, rambling about kitchen and bathroom faucets. I’ll cover the most common mistakes and forgotten factors, as well as a roundup of my favorite faucets to date.

As always, thank you for being here. If you’ve enjoyed reading this post and want to show your support for my work:

• Please tap the heart button, as it helps more people find this small business!

• Share this post (or this publication) with someone who might be into it.

In the meantime, choose kindness, say “hi” to strangers, be goofy, and hug your loved ones.

Until next time, friends. Cheers! — Alyssa

Most living rooms or family rooms don’t need more chairs or sofas. Nor do they have space for them. But they do need a piece or two that is multi-functional, without making the room feel cramped.

Enter… the ottoman (and stool!).

It’s extra seating, a footrest, and in some cases, a secret storage unit for the stuff you swear you’ll “put away later.” And it’s a piece of furniture I spec for most client projects.

The Designer Secret — Why Ottomans Work

Work smarter, not harder — that’s the goal, right? Well, ottomans are the lowest-footprint way to increase a room's functionality.

While a chair, sofa, or sectional is a single-purpose object that demands permanent floor space, an ottoman is flexible and versatile.

• It can tuck under a console table (which, BTW, I love for an entryway as it provides guests a place to sit, while taking off or putting on their shoes).

• It can slide to the right, to the left, to the front, or to the back.

• It can live at the edge of the rug as “backup seating” that doesn’t announce itself.

Translation — Ottomans add function without adding visual noise. That’s the essence of the game in smaller (and real-life) living rooms.

Splurge or Save and Cost Per Use

When you buy any piece of furniture without a job, it becomes décor. When you buy it with a job, it becomes a solution. So ask yourself, do you need it for additional seating? For clutter control? Or simply for lounging purposes?

• For additional seating, ensure the ottoman is easy to move yet also sturdy. In this scenario, you may want to focus your efforts on stools, as I did.

• If you need one for clutter control, look for options that have storage components.

• If the ottoman is for lounging, look for one that is soft to the touch.

Design Tip → If you intend to tuck the ottomans under a console table, ensure they will fit from a height, depth, and width perspective.

Now, do you splurge or save when it comes to purchasing ottomans (or stools)?

If you need extra seating, function wins, so I would suggest you “splurge”, but reasonably, of course. You’ll want to look for stools (over ottomans) and for something durable, with a strong frame, and in a size that anchors the room.

For clutter control and lounging, it’s completely up to you! But to help you decide, I’ve compiled a simple, spreadsheet-style table that outlines the cost-per-use.

Last but not least, to save you time, I’ve rounded up 20+ ottomans at various price points. From colorful to neutral, to patterns or prints, they’re all there.

OTTOMAN ROUNDUP

Now I want to know, was this post helpful? And what burning ottoman and stool questions do you have? Regardless, I’m here to help, so please don’t be shy and ask away in the comments!

In the meantime, choose kindness, say “hi” to strangers, be goofy, and hug your loved ones. Until next time, friends.

Cheers! — Alyssa

To me, it sometimes seems like the word “budget” comes with an oddly negative vibe. But depending on who you are—and what you value—your budget might be big, small, or somewhere in between. Either way, “budget” isn’t a dirty word or something to be ashamed of, mk?

Now, according to FRED data from 2024,1 the average household spends $2,414/year on household furnishings and equipment. And in 2025, I (OK, we) spent approximately $1,500 on these same items.

Back in 2018, my husband suggested we start using a budgeting app, and I took it personally. I’ve always prided myself on having a solid handle on my finances (and then our finances), so it didn’t feel like a suggestion; it felt like a negative performance review.

Fast forward to today, and I don’t just use it for our household; I use it for my business, too.

And honestly, it has been a total game-changer. Between leaving my corporate career and the significant income drop that came with it, plus the milestone of supporting a child through college, our financial life has looked very different lately.

The app is called YNAB: You Need A Budget. And no, this isn’t sponsored; it’s just a tool I absolutely adore. It lets me categorize every transaction so I have total visibility into our spending. I never have to wonder where the money went because the data is right there. And as a numbers nerd, I totally geek out about it.

Ok—back to every home item purchase I made in 2025. While you didn’t ask what they were, I’m sharing them with you anyway. Read on for the details or tap the below button to shop them immediately.

2025 SPEND DIARY

1. A tempered glass chair mat to protect the wool carpet in my husband’s office.

2. 31 oz (yes, you read that right) large red wine glasses. And they’re currently on sale!

3. Organic cotton mosaic towels from Parachute. This is the most I’ve ever spent on bathroom towels (fact!) but they’ve been worth it.

4. A Blackstone Grill which I can’t personally speak to, but my husband gives it a thumbs up.

5. I can’t believe I went almost 40 years of my life without a sink caddy. The exact one I purchased is no longer available, but this option is quite similar!

6. Striped hand towels from the Target x Parachute collaboration.

7. Organic shaped porcelain cereal bowls. We registered for the dinner plates back in 2017 and they still look brand new, so I continue to add to the collection.

8. For my stepson’s apartment, I snagged the gray version of this plaid wool rug on major sale. While the gray is no longer available, the blue color is.

9. Just because you’re not a teen, or a kid, doesn’t mean you can’t shop at their stores. This no nails dorm pinboard has been great for my home office. I own the gray stripe color.

10. By now I think everyone knows I am obsessed with this marble salt cellar.

11. My teen stepdaughter wanted a super soft comforter for her bed. Enter the affordable box-stitch puffer comforter from Target.

12. This glass measuring cup is a basic b*tch but it gets the job done.

13. Performance bath towels for the kiddos (I opted for the oversized option, since they both are tall). While I will happily splurge on towels for myself, I will not for them. Sorry!

14. Ribbed glass tumblers. Despite the reviews, I’ve been quite pleased with mine!

15. Reference #11. My stepson needed one as well.

16. Design Secret — I like to mix and match my sheets. These slate blue pillow cases pair nicely with our white patterned sheets.

17. I finally realized I was being a poor hostess by not providing my guests with adequate bed pillows. Enter the cool-touch bed pillows that are easy on your pocketbook!

18. While we already own the Moccamaster coffee maker (and yes, it is indeed worth it. Don’t get me started on the cost-per-use), I broke our glass carafe last year so needed a replacement.

As always, thank you so much for being here—truly, thank you. If you’ve enjoyed reading this post and want to show your support for my work, I would so appreciate you doing the following:

• Tap the heart button as it helps more people find me!

• Share this post (or this publication) with someone who might be into it.

• Consider becoming a paid subscriber where I can help with sourcing requests, you can ask me anything, and you can join a community of like-minded individuals.

In the meantime, choose kindness, say “hi” to strangers, be goofy, and hug your loved ones. And please, can we stop normalizing fear and lethal force?

Until next time, friends. Cheers! — Alyssa

For example, yesterday I may have had (OK, I did have) a mini meltdown simply because my home is still decorated for fall, and I have yet to put up any Christmas decor. Contrary to popular belief, yes, I am an interior designer, but I do not have a home that is perfectly pulled together.

Most of you are aware that I’m a self-taught interior designer meaning I’ve acquired my knowledge through listening to numerous podcasts, reading all the things, and through making mistakes (yes, you read that correctly).

From all of this, I’ve come to understand that while there are technically “design rules,” I view them more or less as guidelines, because of how frequently I witness these “rules” being broken.

Nonetheless, some of these aforementioned “rules” are indeed useful, and not adhering to them leads to design faux pas that I encounter repeatedly.

#1 — Media Consoles That Aren’t Long Enough

TV’s are getting bigger and bigger these days and your media console can’t keep up.

Pro Tip — Your media console should ground the TV, otherwise the TV + media unit combo will look unbalanced and create a top-heavy effect, which you do not want.

In general, if space allows, I recommend a media console that extends at least 6 inches (and ideally more) on either side of your TV.

This 90” dark solid wood option is a bit of a splurge but has fantastic reviews and is a definite statement piece. Otherwise this white oak media unit is 79” and is reasonably priced.

MORE MEDIA CONSOLES HERE

#2 — Area Rugs That Are Too Small

This, my friends, is probably the most common mistake I see, especially in living rooms, so please keep reading.

Area rugs set the foundation of rooms, defining zones in open concept spaces and also visually connecting furniture. When a rug is too small, it often looks like it’s floating in the center of the room, rather than anchoring down your furniture.

Pro Tip — A general rule of thumb is to ensure that your larger furniture pieces, like sofas and chairs, have at least their front legs resting on the rug. This creates a cohesive look and contributes to a balanced room feel.

Also, the smallest size rug that most should have (in their living room specifically) is an 8’ x 10’ area rug (write that down). Honestly, most of the time I’m sourcing 9’ x 12’ or 10’ x 14’ area rugs, and for rooms that aren’t gigantic.

If you need help finding an area rug that is beautiful and affordable, you best read the below post. Or you can shop my current faves at the click of the button.

AREA RUG ROUNDUP

#3 — Wall Art Hung Too High

I hate to break it to you but we are not giraffes. I know, I know, it’s hard to hear. But too often I find myself in homes where I immediately assume that all of the occupants must be 7 feet tall simply because the wall art is hung so high.

All that to say, you shouldn’t have to strain your neck so much that it hurts to look at your art or your family photos.

Pro Tip — Hang your wall art at eye level. In general, the center-point of your art should be approximately 60 inches from the floor. And while I recognize this design “mistake” is a bit more nuanced, if you have any hesitations here’s what I recommend:

1. Use painters tape to tape out the art size, providing you with a visual reference. Then step back and adjust as needed.

2. Use cardboard or even a paper bag to cut out a shape that matches the size of your artwork. Then, use painter’s tape to attach it to the wall.

Need help finding some wall art for your space? Shop my current favorites below.

ROUNDUP OF WALL ART

That’s it! Easy, peasy, right?

As always, thank you so much for being here—truly, thank you. If you’ve enjoyed reading this post and want to show your support for my work, I would so appreciate you doing the following:

• Tap the heart button as it helps more people find me!

• Share this post (or this publication) with someone who might be into it.

• Consider becoming a paid subscriber so you can join our design community or simply support a female owned small business.

In the meantime, choose kindness, say “hi” to strangers, be goofy, and hug your loved ones. Until next time, friends.

Cheers! — Alyssa

In some ways, it kind of feels like the forgotten middle child. It’s not sexy, loud, or in your face like Black Friday and Cyber Monday are. And it certainly doesn’t have that powerhouse, main character energy.

But here’s the funny thing we too often forget: every giant brand we rushed to buy from these past few days experienced its small business era at some point. They were the underdogs once. There was a moment when someone was making labels at midnight, googling “how to ship fragile items,” and wondering if this whole small business thing was really a good idea (trust me, I’ve personally thought that about 5,000 times).

Enter ETSY.

In the spirit of giving the underdog their main character moment, I’m rounding up some of my favorite small businesses on Etsy, where your order doesn’t vanish into a massive system. It lands in the hands of a real person who notices your name, carefully packs your piece, and maybe does a tiny happy dance in their living room.

1. Olde Brick Lighting — Those scalloped pendants would be stunning in a powder bath.

2. MidTwenty Studio — I absolutely need one of their tissue box covers.

3. Hooks & Knobs Hardware — Swapping out hardware is an easy and affordable way to elevate your cabinetry.

4. One Affirmation — You’ll fall in love with these pillow covers! They even offer pillow combos, taking out any guesswork.

5. Monica Saxton Home — These hand-carved, checkered catchalls would make a great jewelry dish.

6. Sofia & Nils — Handmade picture frames with scalloped details. Yes, please!

   

7. Fellow Flag Co. — Vintage-style pendants that you can customize.

8. Whale Creek Co. — A solid wool stool that you can use for plants or for extra seating. Multiple colors available.

9. Luxe B Co. — You know I love me a marble accent.

10. Willow & Olive — This mid-century modern blanket is calling your name.

11. Granite Press — Love yourself a National Park? These colorful, abstract prints are for you!

12. Keyaiira — This shop uses plant-based materials, so you can feel good about this hanging storage unit.

SHOP MORE ETSY FINDS HERE

As always, thank you so much for being here—truly, thank you. If you’ve enjoy reading this post and want to show your support for my work:

• Please tap the heart button as it helps more people find this small business!

• Share this post (or this publication) with someone who might be into it.

In the meantime, choose kindness, say “hi” to strangers, be goofy, and hug your loved ones. Until next time, friends.

Cheers! — Alyssa