The Decorating Voice

Announcing The Semi-Finalists in Our Annual Decorating Contest

Semi-Finalists in The Society of Decorating Professionals Third Annual Decorating Contest

Winners will be announced at our upcoming conference.

The SDP Conference provides valuable Golden Nuggets!!

¨ Fellowship

¨ Motivation

¨ Networking

¨ Bonding

¨ Recognition

¨ Ideas

¨ Inspiration

¨ SDP Special Announcements

¨ 2009 Conference Reveal

¨ Announcement of Photo Contest Winners

¨ Release of “Recipe for Success” Publication

¨ Relaxation at the Spa

     Register NOW at theSDP.com and join

     us in Arizona to find the golden nuggets

     that will help you and your business

     prosper!

I can Hardly wait To meet Mary Carol Garrity

I just read my first Mary Carol Garrity book, Stylish Weddings, and oh my, I can hardly wait to hear her speak at Conference! The photos are beautiful, the ideas, recipes, hints,tips and tricks are not just practical and inspiring but do-able. This summer we are going to be having some casual extended family outdoor meals at our home and I've been gleaning ideas from this book. Just because we'll be sitting around a fire pit roasting hot dogs, doesn't mean I can't have the lawn and patio decked out and looking lovely!

I can't wait to get my hands and nose into her other books, and I can hardly wait to hear and meet her in person!

Decorating Tips - Pattern Blending Like a Pro

Our ability to pattern blend is what separates us from the animals.  It is our God given right as the king of the animal kingdom... It is right up there with walking on two feet.

Great pattern blending will turn a good design project into something exceptional.  If blended well, the room will be a personalized, unshoppable creation.

Real People Real Houses - Design Contest

Real People Real Houses is a new web site where homeowners, architects, contractors, interior designers, and interior decorators can post their design projects for their peers and the general public to view and comment. 

Marketing Your Decorating Business - Do your printed pieces flip or flop?

What does your business collateral say about you?

We all know how important it is for your business materials to reflect you and your business. Most people design a logo and website to match their project their company’s style, but don’t necessarily follow that same look through onto their business cards, letterhead, flyers, postcards, thank you cards and ads.

What Is Your Mirror Reflecting?

Notice the mirror above the fireplace in the photo to the left?  It looks like it is reflecting a wall - because it is. There is nothing too interesting about seeing a reflection of a wall, ceiling fan, kitchen cabinets, toilet, (yep toilet) etc...  Do you have a mirror above your fireplace because it seems like the place to hang a mirror?  What is it reflecting?

In the after photo below, the mirror was replaced with a print that was found in the master bathroom, although it looked great in there, it was needed above the mantel.  We call this "for the greater good of decorating" and you will hear me say it a lot.

 

Fireplace Mantels Don't Have to be Difficult

Decorating fireplace mantels can often be a challenge, or so we think. More times than not we make it more difficult than it  has to be.  Most of us want that “WOW” factor when we enter into a room, and know this can be achieved with just the right decorative touch. What we often forget or don’t realize is sometimes it’s the simplest things that can give us the best results.

Marketing Your Decorating Business - Are You Sending Newsletters

Hi Everyone,

I'm wondering how many of you are sending out newsletters?  I have been sending newsletters for 3 years.  I collect email addresses any chance I get.  I always mention to visit my website and sign up for my newsletter.  I have over 1500 email addresses, and more sign up each week. Why would it matter?  It gives me credibility.  It keeps my clients informed. 

Over the years, I have found what works and what does not work, and I still find something new almost each month.  I also pay close attention to newsletters that are sent to me.  I thought I might mention some quick facts that have helped my newsletters be successful.

• Did you know that your sign up box needs to be visible.  The best placement is the right corner of your web page.  An email address and name is really all the information that is needed, otherwise, you will run the risk of no-one signing up.

• Did you know that different web browsers will display your newsletter differently?  So what you are seeing may not be what your readers are seeing.  Why is this important?  You could have big gaps, spaces and odd color combinations that could be a turn-off for your readers with a guaranteed opt-out.  Check your newsletter using different browsers and always send it normal and HTML.

• Did you know that some words will automatically send your newsletter into junk mail?  Always  check the Spam filter to make sure you have good words.  Some bad words are Free, buy, purchase, and sale.

• Did you know that some days are better than other days to send your newsletters?  Be wary of Holidays no-one will read it.  I was once a firm believer of sending them out on Tuesdays, but have found that Friday afternoons work for my clients.  How do I know this?  I look at the stats often for about 3 days after each newsletter is sent.

• Keep it simple.  Don't use the word "I" it gets really boring.  Keep it to 250 words per topic if at all possible, and feature articles less the 750 words.  Use bullet points and  bold lettering for the skimmers, as well as photos or clip art.

How about trading articles from other decorators?  This will help take the pressure off you and get your name more visible on the web. If anyone is interested I've got plenty.

By the way, please visit my website at www.remixedrooms.com  and be sure to sign up for my newsletter.

Marleen