April Decor Picks: Inspired Room Styles and Favorites

img 155148 1

Last year we launched an Instagram account called Inspired Room Style to share affordable, timeless decorating ideas. Each week we highlight classic and current pieces to help followers style their homes with ease. It’s been a joy to curate and share these finds. Many readers of The Inspired Room asked us to share our Inspired … Read more

Cozy Gatherings: Tips for Intimate Home Entertaining

featured 106714

Click here for Simple Gatherings on Amazon Greetings, friends! I’m delighted to share some exciting news. On October 3, my newest book will arrive — and I hope it finds a place in your home. Friends, meet Simple Gatherings. Simple Gatherings is a guide to hosting warm, memorable moments with friends and family. It’s not … Read more

5 Must-Have Items for Small Bedrooms to Maximize Space

featured 76585

HHello — I’m Courtney (Melissa’s daughter). I recently moved into a small room in my sister and brother-in-law’s new townhouse, and living in a compact space has taught me a lot about what works when decorating and organizing a small bedroom. Below are five essential elements that make a tiny bedroom functional, comfortable, and attractive. … Read more

Blue Coffee Table Makeover: Style Ideas and Buying Guide

featured 11040

  I’ve had this charming little table for many years. Lately it had been relegated to the garage, waiting for a new purpose. Don’t worry, table — I never stopped appreciating you; you simply hadn’t fit where I needed you. You deserved a special place. I actually bought the table about 15 years ago right … Read more

Decorating Tips for a Front Door That Opens Into the Living Room

featured 138371

Sources: Cabinets (color options) // Gray Lamp // Sofa (similar as no longer sold) // Side table (similar) // Pillows (similar) Hi friends, it’s Kylee here. As I mentioned in my last post, I wanted to share more about how we created an entry area in a home that opens directly into the living room. … Read more

Adirondack Chair Ideas: Stylish Outdoor Seating Inspiration

featured 118462

Country Living A Adirondack chairs and summer just go together. I have one chair in my yard now — we used to have another, but the wood eventually rotted after years of Seattle winters. Still, I’ve always pictured a pair on a front porch or a circle of them surrounding a fire pit. We don’t … Read more

In Real Life: How Online Behavior Shapes Everyday Relationships

img 27080 1

I love receiving comments and emails from women who relate to and appreciate what I share on The Inspired Room. It’s wonderful to be part of a community that supports me and connects with one another through thoughtful comments and shared ideas. Many of us search for “our people” — those who understand our style, … Read more

How to Prepare a Comfortable Guest Room for Overnight Visitors

featured 52903

We enjoy hosting friends and family at our home. To reduce the stress that comes with preparing for guests, we keep a short, practical checklist. Opening your home is mostly about spending time together, but a few thoughtful touches make guests feel welcome and comfortable. Seven simple steps to prepare for guests – Vacuum the … Read more

The Toxic Secret Hiding in Your Clean Home — What to Watch For

featured 103062

TThis time of year I start craving a thorough spring cleaning. I want everything to sparkle, shine and smell fresh. When the sun streams in, suddenly windows look cloudy, surfaces appear dusty, and every countertop begs to be wiped down. In my pursuit of that fresh, clean feeling I uncovered some upsetting and even dangerous … Read more

20 Small Ways to Practice Gratitude Every Day

img 1894 1

“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more.” Melodie Beatty Now that the holiday season is approaching, it’s easy to rush past Thanksgiving and head straight into Christmas. Before the full burst of holiday preparations begins, I like to pause and focus on the spirit of gratitude that … Read more