I just wanted to share with you something that I try to do occasionally at my house. I go outside and enter through the front door, pretending that I am there visiting for the first time. I want the first impression to be welcoming. Don’t you?
I recently purchased this wreath and matching swag. I had never tried a swag over the front door. You can even see it hanging in the door frame slightly when you open the door and look outside. I love how it turned out!
This candelabrum sits just inside, and was given to me by my parents. It graced their home for years. I enjoy the way it fits easily in a variety of places and for my purposes it is much more about form rather than function, art rather than light.
Finally, I take in the total view and ask myself if it is warm and inviting. I must admit that my quirky little dog would not normally be posing calmly. She would however be jumping and barking totally ruining the mood. LOL
As you prepare to begin your Spring and Summer entertaining, keep this in mind. We all tend to come in through the garage or the back of our homes, and rarely stop to notice the first impression our visitors get when they enter through the front door. Who knows . . . you may take a moment to go, “Wow, I like it here, maybe I’ll stay.”
1. Nice ideas, love the piece from your parents — unique; you’re dog is absolutely adorable.
by CMS — 3/21/08 at 12:50 pm #
2. Thanks CMS,
Fortunately, my dog is cute because she is really quirky. I do love her anyway! The candelabrum has been around since I went to High School. It has been in several different homes of my parents, and now mine. It always seems to find a prominent place. I don’t light it often, but iit is beautiful when lit.
Thank you so much for your words of encouragement.
Deb
by Deb — 3/21/08 at 4:41 pm #
3. Great Dog of course, but also a nice entry. I have the old 1946 house where you enter the living right away. I added a nook in the small separating wall, painting the inside red. Notice the bottles? I picked up my ‘Paris’ candle holders at Home Goods. In the Kitchen I have a large Clock I found discontinued there too, I added the words Grand Paris Holtel in letters from a craft store to continue the Paris theme.
by Chris — 3/21/08 at 9:41 pm #
4. Chris,
What fabulous ideas! Our first home was like the one you discribe. By having a separating wall and decorating it, you have given the feel of an entry way. Also, carrying a bit of your theme throughout your home, gives continuity and order. Have you ever been to Paris? Thanks for the kind comments.
by Deb — 3/22/08 at 4:43 pm #
5. What Homegoods can I buy that wreath in?? I love it!
by Monica — 3/26/08 at 2:16 pm #
6. Dear Monica,
I did find this wreath and swag at my HomeGoods in StL. I don’t know what area you are in, but I would suggest just checking out your local stores. Not all HomeGoods stores receive the same merchandise, so keep checking . . . I do know they don’t mind taking calls and checking on merchandise in each individual store. This wreath has little bird houses and the bumble bees are painted bells, if you need a way to describe it. I hope you are able to find one. It just tickled me when I saw it.
Thanks and enjoy the hunt. Deb
by deb — 3/26/08 at 11:28 pm #