Jul 28, 2024 | ENTERTAINMENT, MOVIES, TELEVISION
BEST MOVIES
COMEDY
- BRIDESMAIDS
- SEARCH PARTY
- PALM SPRINGS
TELEVISION
- PEACE MAKER
- I’M SORRY
- HANDMAIDS TALE
- LOVE ISLAND
- LOVE AFTER LOCKUP
- LIFE AFTER LOCKUP
- REAL HOUSEWIVES OF ORANGE COUNTY
- REAL HOUSEWIVES OF SLC
- REAL HOUSEWIVES OF NYC
- REAL HOUSEWIVES OF BEVERLY HILLS
- LOVE UNDERCOVER
- 90 DAY FIANCE
- 90 DAY FIANCE – LOVE EVER AFTER
Jul 11, 2024 | FASHION, FASHION + BEAUTY
Jul 11, 2024 | HOME + INTERIORS
When I first embarked on my journey into interior design, I never imagined it would become such a rewarding and profitable endeavor. What began as a passionate hobby evolved into a transformative skill that significantly increased the value of the properties I worked on. Over the span of three years, my amateur staging skills generated over $500,000 in sales value, a testament to the impact thoughtful design can have on real estate.
The Beginning: Passion Meets Opportunity
My interest in interior design started with a simple love for beautiful, functional spaces. Armed with creativity, a keen eye for detail, and an innate understanding of aesthetics, I began experimenting with staging my own home and those of friends. The results were immediate and encouraging—spaces felt more inviting, cohesive, and appealing.
The First Breakthrough: Transforming Spaces, Capturing Hearts
My first significant project came when a friend asked for help staging their home for sale. With a modest budget, I repurposed existing furniture, incorporated strategic decor elements, and focused on maximizing natural light. The transformation was astounding, and the home sold for a price significantly above the asking value.
This success was not a fluke. I realized that potential buyers could envision living in a well-staged home more easily. By highlighting the best features of a property and creating an inviting atmosphere, I was able to create emotional connections that drove interest and, ultimately, higher offers.
Developing a Method: Key Principles of Effective Staging
As I took on more projects, I refined my approach to staging. Some key principles emerged that consistently contributed to increased sales value:
- Decluttering and Depersonalizing: Removing personal items and excess clutter allowed buyers to imagine their own lives in the space.
- Neutral Color Palettes: Using neutral tones created a blank canvas that appealed to a broader audience.
- Strategic Furniture Placement: Arranging furniture to maximize flow and functionality made spaces feel larger and more usable.
- Highlighting Unique Features: Drawing attention to a property’s standout features, such as fireplaces, large windows, or architectural details, added perceived value.
- Quality Lighting: Good lighting made spaces feel warm and welcoming, enhancing the overall appeal.
The Financial Impact: Over $500K in Added Value
The culmination of these efforts was a remarkable financial achievement. Over three years, the properties I staged collectively garnered over $500,000 in additional sales value. This success was not limited to high-end homes; even modest properties saw significant gains when staged thoughtfully.
Real-Life Examples: Success Stories
One memorable project involved a charming but dated cottage. By modernizing the decor, emphasizing its cozy charm, and creating inviting outdoor spaces, the property attracted multiple offers and sold for $75,000 above the initial estimate.
Another notable success was a spacious suburban home that had lingered on the market for months. After a comprehensive staging overhaul, including updating furnishings, enhancing curb appeal, and creating a welcoming entryway, the home sold within weeks for $120,000 over the original asking price.
Reflection: The Art and Joy of Staging
Looking back, the journey from amateur designer to achieving over half a million dollars in added sales value has been incredibly fulfilling. It’s not just about the financial gains; it’s about the joy of transforming spaces, the satisfaction of helping sellers achieve their goals, and the thrill of knowing that my passion for design has made a tangible impact.
For anyone considering dabbling in interior design or staging, I can confidently say that it’s a journey worth taking. With creativity, a willingness to learn, and an understanding of what makes spaces feel like home, you too can unlock the hidden potential in properties and enjoy the rewards that come with it.
Jul 10, 2024 | MUSIC
When most people think of Coachella, they often envision a wild party scene full of music, dancing, and perhaps some adult behavior. However, the reality is that Coachella has evolved into a multifaceted music and arts festival that offers something for everyone—including families with children. Here’s why Coachella 2024 is not just suitable but also a fantastic experience for kids.
Coachella: More Than Just a Party
First and foremost, it’s important to debunk the myth that Coachella is all about drugs and sex. Yes, it’s a music festival, but it’s also an immersive cultural experience that celebrates art, music, and creativity. Here are some key aspects that make Coachella family-friendly:
- Diverse Music Lineup: Coachella boasts a diverse range of musical acts from various genres. This means that whether your kids are into pop, rock, hip-hop, or electronic music, there’s something for them to enjoy. Many artists perform family-friendly sets that are perfect for younger audiences.
- Art Installations: The festival is renowned for its stunning art installations that captivate visitors of all ages. These large-scale sculptures and interactive pieces provide a visually stimulating experience that children can marvel at and engage with.
- Family Zones: Coachella often includes designated family zones where parents can take their children for activities specifically designed for younger attendees. These areas provide a safe and entertaining space for kids to play and relax.
- Workshops and Activities: There are various workshops and activities throughout the festival that cater to children and families. From crafting sessions to dance workshops, there’s no shortage of engaging and educational opportunities.
Why Spend the Money?
Some might wonder why a family would spend significant money on Coachella tickets, airfare to Palm Springs, and an expensive rental property for the festival. Here’s why it’s worth the investment:
- Unique Experience: Coachella offers a unique cultural and musical experience that you can’t find anywhere else. The memories created at such an event are priceless and can be cherished for a lifetime.
- Quality Family Time: Attending Coachella as a family allows for quality bonding time. Exploring the festival together, discovering new music, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere can strengthen family connections.
- Exposure to Culture and Art: Coachella exposes children to a wide range of cultural and artistic expressions. This exposure can be incredibly enriching and inspiring for young minds.
- Safe Environment: Despite misconceptions, Coachella provides a controlled and safe environment for families. Security measures are in place, and with proper planning, parents can ensure their children have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Addressing the Misconceptions
It’s essential to address the misconception that Coachella is solely a place for illicit activities. As a parent, you have control over your children’s experience at the festival. With the right preparation and mindset, Coachella can be a wholesome and enjoyable family outing.
Music-Loving Kids
For families with music-loving children, Coachella is an absolute dream. The festival’s extensive lineup of talented artists offers an unparalleled opportunity for kids to discover new sounds and see some of their favorite musicians live. Sharing these moments with your children can be incredibly rewarding and can ignite a lifelong passion for music.
In conclusion, Coachella 2024 offers an excellent opportunity for families to enjoy music, art, and culture together. By planning ahead and taking advantage of the family-friendly aspects of the festival, you can create lasting memories and provide your children with a unique and enriching experience. So pack your bags, grab your tickets, and get ready for a family adventure like no other at Coachella!
Jul 10, 2024 | FASHION
I’ve been a dedicated customer of The RealReal (TRR) since 2017. Over the years, I’ve consigned over 500 items, and my experience has been overwhelmingly positive. Here’s why I believe TRR stands out in the luxury consignment market.
The RealReal Experience
From the start, TRR impressed me with its professionalism and customer service. One of the most convenient aspects is their free in-home pickup service. A courteous TRR representative comes directly to your home to collect the items for consignment. This level of service is unmatched, especially when compared to the hassle of listing and shipping items individually on platforms like eBay.
Convenience Over eBay
Selling luxury items on eBay can be time-consuming and cumbersome. You have to deal with taking photos, writing detailed descriptions, setting prices, and handling buyer inquiries. Not to mention the challenges of shipping, potential returns, and dealing with non-paying bidders. TRR eliminates all these hassles. You simply hand over your items, and they take care of the rest – from authentication and photography to listing and shipping.
Payouts: A Trade-off
While TRR offers incredible convenience, the payouts can sometimes be less than what you might expect to get from selling directly on platforms like eBay. However, for me, the trade-off is worth it. The time and effort saved by using TRR’s services far outweigh the potential for slightly higher earnings from other platforms. Plus, the peace of mind knowing that my items are being professionally handled and authenticated is invaluable.
Designer Deals Galore
As a customer, TRR has also been a treasure trove for finding incredible deals on my favorite designer pieces. Over the years, I’ve scored countless amazing finds from brands like Marni, Gucci, Prada, Miu Miu, Victoria Beckham, YSL, and Rick Owens. One of the highlights of my shopping experiences has been purchasing coveted “It bags” I longed for at prices as low as $200 or less. The thrill of finding these luxury items at such great prices is unmatched.
Why I Keep Using TRR
- Professionalism: Every interaction I’ve had with TRR has been smooth and professional. Their representatives are knowledgeable and respectful.
- Convenience: The in-home pickup service saves a tremendous amount of time and effort.
- Trust: TRR’s rigorous authentication process ensures that buyers are getting genuine items, which in turn maintains the value and trustworthiness of the platform.
- Ease of Use: Once the items are picked up, TRR handles everything. This hassle-free process is perfect for busy individuals who want to declutter their closets without the extra work.
- Amazing Deals: TRR offers incredible bargains on luxury designer pieces, making it possible to own high-end items at a fraction of their original cost.
Final Thoughts
For anyone looking to sell luxury items, I highly recommend giving The RealReal a try. While the payouts might not always be the highest, the convenience, professionalism, and peace of mind they offer are unparalleled. My experience with TRR has been nothing short of excellent, and I look forward to continuing my relationship with them for years to come. Whether consigning or shopping, TRR provides a reliable and enjoyable platform for luxury fashion enthusiasts like me.
Jul 4, 2024 | HOME + INTERIORS
Blooming Marvelous: How to Turn Your Cut Flowers into Floral Masterpieces
Creating flower arrangements with fresh cut flowers is both an art and a science. It’s a joyful, meditative activity that can transform any space with color, texture, and fragrance. Whether you’re a budding florist or just looking to spruce up your home, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you craft stunning flower arrangements that will have everyone saying, “Who did your flowers?”.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you start snipping away, make sure you have all the essentials:
- Freshly cut flowers (a mix of focal, filler, and greenery works best)
- A clean vase or container
- Floral shears or sharp scissors
- Flower food (usually provided with store-bought flowers)
- A small knife for trimming stems
- Optional: floral tape or foam for structure
Step 2: Select Your Flowers
Choosing the right flowers is crucial. Here’s a quick rundown of what you might want:
- Focal Flowers: These are your stars. Think roses, lilies, or peonies.
- Filler Flowers: These are the supporting cast that add volume and texture, like baby’s breath, statice, or wax flowers.
- Greenery: Eucalyptus, ferns, and ivy add depth and contrast.
Step 3: Prep Your Stems
Before arranging, it’s essential to prep your flowers to ensure they stay fresh longer:
- Trim the Stems: Cut each stem at a 45-degree angle under running water. This prevents air bubbles from forming and helps the flowers absorb water more efficiently.
- Remove Lower Leaves: Strip off any leaves that would be submerged in water to prevent bacterial growth.
- Add Flower Food: Dissolve the flower food in lukewarm water according to the packet instructions and fill your vase.
Step 4: Start Arranging
Now comes the fun part—arranging your flowers!
- Create a Base: Start with greenery to create a base structure. This provides a foundation and helps hold other flowers in place.
- Add Focal Flowers: Place your largest, most eye-catching blooms next. Space them evenly for a balanced look.
- Incorporate Filler Flowers: Add your filler flowers to fill in gaps and add texture. Think of these as the background singers to your star flowers.
- Balance and Adjust: Step back occasionally to assess your arrangement from all angles. Adjust as needed to ensure it’s balanced and visually appealing.
Step 5: Maintain Your Masterpiece
To keep your arrangement looking fresh:
- Change the water every couple of days.
- Re-trim the stems every few days.
- Keep the arrangement out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources.
Tips and Tricks
- Play with Heights: Vary the stem lengths to create visual interest and depth.
- Think Seasonally: Use flowers that are in season for the best quality and price.
- Get Creative with Containers: Don’t limit yourself to traditional vases. Mason jars, teapots, and even watering cans can make unique and charming containers.
Conclusion
With a little practice and creativity, you can create flower arrangements that rival professional designs. Not only will you have a beautiful decoration, but you’ll also enjoy the therapeutic benefits of working with flowers. So grab your shears, unleash your inner florist, and get ready to bloom marvellous!
Happy arranging!
Aug 3, 2023 | HOME + INTERIORS
I am no expert when it comes to houseplants. As a matter of fact, I only started purchasing and tending to houseplants after my mother passed in late 2016. She had a love for gardening and was often found outside tending to her rose bushes. After she passed, I felt great remorse for yelling at her every time she’d show up at my doorstep with another houseplant. Below is a list of a few of my favorite houseplants and a brief overview of each one.
Monstera (Monstera deliciosa): Also known as the Swiss cheese plant, Monstera is a popular houseplant with large, glossy, and perforated leaves. It prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Water it moderately and allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Fiddle-leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata): The fiddle-leaf fig is a stunning plant with large, leathery leaves shaped like a violin or fiddle. It needs bright, indirect light and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura): The prayer plant has beautifully patterned leaves that fold up at night, resembling hands in prayer. It prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Ferns (Various species): Ferns are a diverse group of houseplants known for their lush, feathery foliage. They generally prefer bright, indirect light and high humidity. Keep the soil evenly moist but avoid waterlogging, as many ferns are susceptible to root rot.
Calathea (Various species): Calathea plants are appreciated for their colorful, patterned leaves. They prefer medium to bright indirect light and well-draining soil. Keep the soil consistently moist and maintain higher humidity levels, as they are sensitive to dry air.
Ferns (Various species): You’ve listed ferns twice, but that’s okay! Ferns are lovely, and having more than one species can add variety to your indoor garden. Just remember to adjust their care based on the specific species you have.
It’s essential to learn the specific care needs of each plant to ensure they thrive in your home. Factors such as light, water, humidity, and temperature requirements may vary among these plants. Regularly check the moisture levels in the soil and observe the leaves for any signs of distress, such as wilting or browning, to gauge if they are getting the right care. Happy indoor gardening!
Jun 28, 2023 | MY PLAYLISTS
Jun 27, 2023 | HOME & INTERIORS
Chairish is an online marketplace that specializes in vintage and pre-owned furniture, home decor, and art. It provides a platform for individuals and businesses to buy and sell unique, high-quality items for the home. Users can browse through a wide range of products, including chairs, tables, sofas, lighting fixtures, rugs, and more.
Chairish offers a curated selection of items from various periods and styles, such as mid-century modern, antique, contemporary, and eclectic. The platform aims to connect buyers with sellers who have a passion for design and craftsmanship. Sellers on Chairish are often collectors, interior designers, and antique dealers, offering a diverse and unique inventory.
When browsing on Chairish, users can find detailed descriptions, high-resolution photos, and relevant information about each item’s condition, history, and provenance. The platform also provides tools for users to communicate with sellers, ask questions, negotiate prices, and arrange shipping or local pickup.
Chairish offers a secure payment system and facilitates shipping logistics to ensure a smooth transaction between buyers and sellers. Additionally, the platform has a return policy in place to protect buyers in case an item does not meet their expectations or is significantly different from the description.
Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind vintage piece or a unique statement item for your home, Chairish provides a convenient and trusted platform to explore and shop for curated furniture and decor.
Jun 26, 2023 | FASHION
There are several reputable online luxury fashion sites where you can find a wide range of designer clothing, accessories, and more. These online luxury fashion sites provide a seamless shopping experience, excellent customer service, and a diverse range of designer fashion. However, it’s always a good idea to review customer reviews and policies before making a purchase to ensure a smooth shopping experience.
I have been shopping at these sites for years and highly recommend the following:
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Farfetch is a global online luxury fashion retail platform that connects customers with a vast selection of high-end fashion boutiques and brands. It was founded in 2007 by Portuguese entrepreneur José Neves and has since grown into one of the leading online destinations for luxury fashion.
Farfetch operates as a marketplace, partnering with over 700 boutiques and brands worldwide to offer a wide range of designer clothing, shoes, accessories, and other luxury fashion items. Customers can browse and purchase products from renowned fashion houses, emerging designers, and unique boutiques all in one place.
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Yoox is an Italian online retailer that specializes in luxury fashion and designer brands. It was founded in 2000 and has since become one of the leading online destinations for fashion and design enthusiasts. Yoox offers a wide range of clothing, accessories, and home decor items from renowned fashion brands and emerging designers.
The company operates through its website, yoox.com, which provides a curated selection of products for men, women, and children. Customers can browse and purchase items from various categories, including clothing, shoes, bags, jewelry, and home furnishings. Yoox also collaborates with designers and brands to create exclusive collections and limited-edition pieces.
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Matchesfashion.com is an online luxury fashion retailer that offers a wide range of designer clothing, accessories, and footwear for men and women. It was founded in 1987 by Tom and Ruth Chapman and has since become a renowned destination for luxury fashion enthusiasts.
On Matchesfashion.com, you can find a curated selection of high-end fashion brands from around the world, including iconic fashion houses like Gucci, Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, and many others. The website features a user-friendly interface that allows customers to browse and shop for products easily.
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SSENSE.com is an online luxury fashion retailer that offers a carefully curated selection of designer clothing, accessories, and footwear for both men and women. It was founded in 2003 and has established itself as a leading destination for fashion-forward shoppers.
SSENSE.com features a wide range of renowned fashion brands, including high-end labels such as Givenchy, Balenciaga, Alexander McQueen, Off-White, and many others. The website showcases the latest collections from these designers, allowing customers to explore and purchase cutting-edge fashion pieces.
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Mytheresa.com is an online luxury fashion retailer that offers a wide selection of designer clothing, accessories, shoes, and bags for women. It was founded in 2006 and has since become a popular destination for fashion-forward shoppers.
Mytheresa.com features a curated collection of luxury fashion brands, including renowned designers such as Gucci, Prada, Balenciaga, Saint Laurent, and many others. The website showcases the latest collections from these brands, providing customers with access to high-quality and fashionable pieces.
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Net-a-Porter.com is a leading online luxury fashion retailer that offers a wide range of designer clothing, accessories, shoes, and beauty products for women. It was founded in 2000 and has established itself as a premier destination for luxury fashion and curated designer collections.
Net-a-Porter.com features an extensive selection of luxury fashion brands, including iconic names such as Gucci, Givenchy, Valentino, Balenciaga, and many others. The website showcases the latest fashion trends and collections, allowing customers to shop for high-quality and stylish pieces.
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TheOutnet.com is an online fashion retailer that offers discounted luxury designer clothing, shoes, accessories, and beauty products for women. It was launched in 2009 and is part of the YOOX NET-A-PORTER Group.
TheOutnet.com features a wide range of designer brands, including well-known names such as Alexander McQueen, Dolce & Gabbana, Valentino, Stella McCartney, and many others. The website provides customers with access to previous-season collections and exclusive deals, allowing them to purchase high-quality designer pieces at discounted prices.
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24S.com is an online luxury fashion retailer that offers a curated selection of designer clothing, accessories, shoes, and beauty products for both men and women. It is part of the LVMH Group, which is a renowned luxury goods conglomerate.
24S.com features a wide range of prestigious fashion brands, including iconic names such as Louis Vuitton, Dior, Gucci, Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, and many others. The website showcases the latest collections from these brands, providing customers with access to high-end and stylish pieces.
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Mytheresa.com is an online luxury fashion retailer that offers a wide range of designer clothing, accessories, shoes, and bags for women. It was founded in 2006 and has gained a reputation as a premier destination for luxury fashion.
Mytheresa.com features a curated selection of luxury fashion brands, including renowned designers such as Gucci, Prada, Balenciaga, Saint Laurent, and many others. The website showcases the latest collections from these brands, providing customers with access to high-quality and fashion-forward pieces.
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FWRD.com is an online luxury fashion retailer that offers a curated selection of designer clothing, accessories, shoes, and beauty products for both men and women. It was launched in 2012 and has become a popular destination for fashion-forward shoppers.
FWRD.com features a range of prestigious fashion brands, including well-known names such as Balenciaga, Givenchy, Saint Laurent, Gucci, and many others. The website showcases the latest collections from these designers, providing customers with access to high-quality and trendsetting pieces.
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Italist.com is an online luxury fashion marketplace that offers a wide selection of designer clothing, accessories, shoes, and bags for men, women, and kids. It was founded in 2014 and has quickly become a popular destination for luxury fashion enthusiasts.
Italist.com partners directly with boutiques and retailers in Italy to provide customers with authentic and curated luxury fashion products. The website features a vast range of renowned fashion brands, including names like Gucci, Prada, Valentino, Versace, and many others. Italist.com offers customers the opportunity to purchase these designer items at competitive prices.
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Cettire.com is an online luxury fashion retailer that offers a wide range of designer clothing, accessories, shoes, and bags for men and women. It was founded in 2017 and has gained popularity as a destination for luxury fashion shopping.
Cettire.com features a curated selection of luxury fashion brands, including renowned designers such as Gucci, Prada, Balenciaga, Saint Laurent, and many others. The website showcases the latest collections from these brands, providing customers with access to high-quality and fashionable pieces.
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Moda Operandi is an online luxury fashion retailer that offers a unique shopping experience by providing customers with access to runway collections and the ability to pre-order designer pieces straight from the runway. It was founded in 2010 and has become a prominent destination for fashion-forward individuals.
ModaOperandi.com allows customers to browse and shop collections directly from renowned fashion designers, including brands like Gucci, Balenciaga, Dior, Prada, and many others. The website offers a curated selection of clothing, accessories, shoes, and jewelry for both women and men.
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Luisaviaroma, often referred to as LVR, is a luxury fashion retailer based in Florence, Italy. It operates both as an online platform and a brick-and-mortar boutique, offering a wide selection of designer clothing, accessories, shoes, and home decor.
Luisaviaroma.com features a curated collection of luxury fashion brands, including renowned designers such as Gucci, Valentino, Balenciaga, Saint Laurent, and many others. The website showcases the latest collections from these brands, providing customers with access to high-quality and fashion-forward pieces.