Please welcome my special guest today, Emily from Chatting at the Sky! We met at Blissdom this year, where Emily, her sister Nester and Sandy from Reluctant Entertainer roomed together. It was a joy to spend time with her in person — she is warm, genuine and gracious.
Emily has a beautiful home and — more importantly — a beautiful way of living. I’m delighted she’s sharing her ideas here at The Inspired Room.
Welcome Emily!
One of my favorite ways to decorate is with photos. Photographs are honest storytellers that freeze a moment and help a home feel lived in and loved. Over time I’ve learned that images don’t need to be technically perfect to convey warmth, beauty and belonging.
The hardest part for me is moving the photos from the computer into frames. Often I sort through dozens or even a hundred images to find five or ten that are worth printing. Still, the reward of seeing a cherished memory framed and sitting on a shelf in my living room makes the effort worthwhile.
Right now most of the photos I print are black and white because they are gentler on the eye. Color photos can be beautiful, but when a picture becomes part of the everyday view I prefer to notice my daughter’s expression rather than the bright shirt she happened to wear that day.
I have several walls where I’ve clustered framed photos together. Buying simple frames—sometimes for less than $8 each—was an easy, affordable way to put favorite faces on display and create a cohesive look throughout the house.
When I think about what inspires me most at home, these framed photos top the list.
Photo-printing tips to get started
1. Tell yourself you will only choose five photos to print. Keep it simple.
2. Select images that are fairly close on the faces to minimize distracting backgrounds.
3. Upload those photos to your preferred online photo printer. (There are many reputable services.)
4. Convert the images to black and white on the site if you want a timeless, cohesive look.
5. Print them all in one size—5×7 works well—or mix a couple sizes like 4×6 and 8×10 if you prefer variety. Sticking to one size keeps the display streamlined.
6. Have the prints delivered to your door so you don’t have to make a special trip.
7. Watch for frame sales at craft stores or check budget-friendly retailers; simple white frames often work beautifully.
8. Consider removing the glass from frames in bright spots to reduce glare.
9. Insert the photos, arrange the frames, and enjoy the personal touch they bring to your rooms.
All photos copyright Emily, Chatting at the Sky.
Thank you, Emily!