Lately I've been working with a client to add the finishing touches to her master suite. She was looking to warm up the walls with a new paint color, add extra lighting, bring in new drapery & pillow fabrics, and add colorful accessories.

Our initial step was to select a paint color to coordinate with her existing bedding. We went with a warm, creamy netural, Carrington Beige, from Benjamin Moore.

 To add more lighting we decided to bring in a pair of double-arm wall sconces. These sconces will flank a dresser to provide more adequate lighting and make a timeless decorative statement as well.

While in the process of selecting fabrics, we went to a variety of showrooms at the Design Center as well as our local JoAnn Fabrics store. We were looking for fabrics to work with the soft creme and gold color palette in her existing bedding, as well as fabrics with a soft gray-blue accent color to tie in with the blue in the master bath. We were able to find fabrics we liked at both places, but as in any design project, we had some setbacks. Our first choice fabrics were either too expensive or out of stock, so we had to do a little extra research, but ended up with a mix of fabrics from both the low and high-end vendors that really work beautifully together.

Since making all of our selections, we've placed our fabric and light fixture orders, and are now awaiting their arrival. After the walls are painted, the sconces are installed, and the drapes and pillows sewn, all that's left to do is accessorize! I'm excited to see this project come to life and to help create a beautiful, restful and timeless space for my client to enjoy.

Stay tuned for more details and photos once our project is complete!

I recently attended a seminar, hosted by Sherwin Williams and Robert Allen, to get myself prepped on the upcoming color trends for the year. Through a presentation by Jackie Jordan, director of color marketing for Sherwin Williams, I was introduced to 24 new and inspiring shades. These influential colors were grouped into 4 different palettes: Rooted, Simplified, Treasured & Refreshed. The collections cover a broad spectrum of colors to suite just about any style and taste.

Here is a more in-depth description from some of my presentation notes to get your color wheel spinning:

Rooted provides a natural palette of colors indigenous to the earth. Drawing inspiration from African, Aboriginal and Native American tribes, these pigments offer a reflection of rich elements and culture.

Simplified is a collection for the clean and sophisticated aesthetic. These ethereal shades create a mood all their own, providing a sheer palette for any modern design.

Treasured is full of muted and aged hues that give way to the new design movement, "Rough Luxe." By juxtaposing all things worn and weathered with new, contemporary pieces, a true look of originality is created. This palette of rusty and pale shades provides the base for a design full of vintage spirit.

Refreshed offers a bold splash of color for the young or young at heart. Looking to brighten up a space? Think of "Pucci" print throw pillows, patterned lamp shades, mosaic tiles and fun accessories. This palette of colors provides you with the perfect backdrop for a cheery, new space.

So if you're looking to update a room and don't know where to start, look to these collections for inspiration and find the colors that will speak to you. From the sleek and elegant to cozy and comfortable, these various palettes are a great way to get your design off to the right start.

Photos courtesy of Sherwin-Williams. Please visit their website for more information.

For my first blog I thought I'd start out by sharing with you a wonderful event that took place a week ago. Since founding TGI back in July, I decided that a goal of mine would be to have a launch party once all of my initial business proceedings had been completed. I would use it as a way to celebrate the start of my new company as well an opportunity to spread the word. So finally after weeks of preparation, the day finally arrived last weekend and it turned out to be a wonderful occasion with family and friends.

The party also ended up being a great way to show off some of my latest finds from the Michigan Design Center. I had fabrics and wall coverings on display to illustrate the trends for the upcoming season, and it was so much fun to share these new samples with the guests. I have to say the wallpapers were the biggest hit, as most people weren't expecting to like wallpaper again. But the latest wallpapers with textured, iridescent tones and subtle prints really opened their eyes to the new finishes that are now available. I plan on devoting another whole blog to design trends as well, so stay tuned!

During the middle of the party I then gave a presentation for the guests to further explain my story and the packages I offer. I wanted to share with everyone the journey I've had since graduation and the passion I have to be in this business. I also drew a raffle for one lucky winner who won a service of her choice.

With the sun shining in, a delicious spread of brunch and design talk in the air, it was a great day and a wonderful way to celebrate the beginning of my career.