Thursday Thoughts: Job Update: Not the Answer I Was Hoping For

Well I guess it's time that I update you on the job situation.

I originally had a long post written to share with you about how I'm feeling and the things going through my head, but I knew it would only lead to everyone under the sun putting in their two cents.  I'm simply not in the mood for any of that.

All you need to know is that I'm 98% sure I was not chosen for the Schumacher position.  They took the job posts down and are no longer answering or returning any of my calls.  In my experience, that means I was not chosen.

People keep asking what my plan is now, and every time I get that question my heart sinks into my stomach.  I don't have a plan anymore.  I can't find any design positions that I haven't already applied for. Literally, all of the job search links are purple now because I have applied to every. single. one.  I've exhausted my resources, and have decided that design is simply not where I'm meant to be right now, maybe ever.  I'll have to find something part-time working minimum wage, and as much as I absolutely hate that idea, I'm out of options.

I'm disappointed, frustrated, and feeling pretty defeated.

Thank you to everyone who has prayed for me and this whole job situation.  I really do appreciate it, I guess this just wasn't where I was meant to be.

Thursday Thoughts

I had a second interview at Schumacher Homes today.  To say I was a little excited and anxious last night would be an understatement.  It took me forever to fall asleep!  I kept twisting, turning, and anxiously dreaming about getting the position.  If I get the job, I would be the New Home Coordinator for the Greensboro office. That means, I will get to help clients design their custom homes.  I'd get to help with everything from designing the floor plan, budgeting, picking out their materials/finishes, etc.  This would be an absolute dream job for me!

Both of my interviews went really well, and I'm hopeful that I'll get the position.  I'm not sure how many other people are in the running, but I've done the best I could to stand out and show how great I'd be for the position.  They hope to have a decision by tomorrow afternoon.

I'm so nervous.  

I want this position SO badly! The opportunity to work for such a well-known and successful company doing what I love is just incredible.  I keep praying over and over and over that I'll get the position.  I know God will put me right where He wants me.  I'm just REALLY hoping this is it!

For now, I'll continue the waiting game and hope/pray (with all my fingers and toes crossed) that I'll get a call tomorrow saying I got the job!

I have a feeling there won't be much sleeping tonight either.

I want this so bad, I can taste it!  I could really use your prayers!

Quick Tip Tuesday

Don't be afraid to mix and match prints when choosing fabrics for your upholstered pieces. As long as the colors coordinate and one print does not over power the others, mixing prints works beautifully!  I heard a trick once to help make your job easier if you don't fully trust your fabric-mixing/picking abilities (yes I made that up).

It's called the "squint test".  Lay out all of the fabrics you're considering and squint your eyes.  If one pattern stands out a lot more than the rest, then discard that fabric and pick another.  If they seem to all blend together then you've got a winning selection.

When I performed my design test at Ethan Allen, he praised my ability to mix patterns and fabrics.  I didn't use the squint test, but hey not everyone has gone through design school!

Here are some samples:

Quick Tip Tuesday

Painting a small room, like a half bath, in a rich/warm color will create a more intimate and cozy space.  Dark colors can be overpowering in large spaces, but are great in small doses.  Your first instinct may be to paint small areas in lighter colors, but try switching it up.  Trust me it's beautiful!  Here take a look..

 Don't understand the angle of this one (guess they were trying to show off the ceiling) but it's beautiful!

 We all know how much I love grey. 

Ignore the rose kleenex box and soap dish, the brown is beautiful!

The Waiting Game

That is about all that has been happening around these parts lately.  I'm still waiting to hear from both Ethan Allen and Drexel Herritage.  Both positions would be incredible. Both jobs are great places to start my career; and both would be an incredible opportunity for me to grow and learn in.  But I've done my part, and all I can do now is wait.

I know, I know, not the update you were hoping for.  Me either, but it's all I've got for ya right now.

I just have to wait it out and keep praying.  I'm still looking for new positions to apply to, and will actively keep myself out there in the job hunt until I hear something.  When the time is right, I know I will get into the job that God wants me to have.  Until then, I am going to have to patiently and confidently wait on God's timing, not my own.

I did apply for a opening with a new firm in Durham today, so that was kind of exciting.  I'm actually excited about the position and really hoping they will contact me for an interview!  But like I said, I'm just waiting for now.

Other than, that I have been trying to soak up all the free time I've got right now.  There are days I think I will go absolutely bonkers if I have to watch another TV show, or sit on the couch for another minute,  but it has been nice to relax. I've had a lot of time to reflect on the past four years, and what I want to do with my life.  I've had the chance to enjoy time with my friends, hang out with my sister, and soak up the sun while the warm afternoons are still here. I've spent way too much time snuggling with my puppy and watching TV, but hey you gotta do what ya gotta do! It's a tough life, I know!

There are days where being unemployed and waiting is difficult, frustrating, and even a little depressing at times, but I'm trying my best to enjoy this time I have, and to trust that God is in the middle of it all.  A good friend of ours the other day said I should be excited during this time, because I'm in the middle of God's plan, and I can be eagerly anticipating what He has in store. It's so easy to forget sometimes that this life is not ours.  It's easy to forget that this world, our fears, and our doubts, do not own us, God does; and He will always take care of His children.

So for now I wait.  And I'm ok with that.  But, I would love to have your prayers as I continue this journey!

"If we look forward to something we don't yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently." -Romans 8:25

"For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord.  Plans to prosper you and not harm you.  Plans to give you hope and a future."  -Jeremiah 29:11

Master Bedroom Makeover

A couple of weeks ago my sister's friend, Janice, contacted me for design help on her master bedroom.  She and her husband recently moved into a new home and wanted to update their bedroom from a traditional frumpy purple, to a cleaner more transitional space.  She and her husband had already purchased a set of furniture but wanted to change up the paint and decor.  After consulting on a paint color and getting the furniture in place, Janice and I set out shopping for bedding, window treatments, and accessories for the room.  She wanted something clean, with texture, and in the blue/grey/green family.  We found some beautiful selections from West Elm (a new favored store of mine that just opened at Southpoint, you should check it out!) and got the room all set up.  I really enjoyed working with Janice.  She was very pleased with how the room turned out, as was I, and I believe it will be a great bedroom ensemble for them to enjoy for years to come.  Here are some before, during, and after shots.  Enjoy!

 This is how the previous owner had the bedroom set up and displayed when Janice and her husband bought the house.

 How I first saw the room. (Sorry for the terrible quality I forgot my camera and had to use my phone)

 The master bedroom connected to their private bath which was painted in a beautiful green they wanted to keep.  We chose a blueish/green gray for the bedroom to tie in with the bathroom.

The finished product.  She has a beautiful wedding picture that will be going above the bed soon.

If you, or someone you know, would like design help on their next project let me know.  I am always looking for ways to expand my portfolio and get more design experience.  

Send me an email for more information on the services I offer, pricing information, and ways I can assist in your remodeling projects. 

allysonhemric@gmail.com

Oh You Know...

Nothing too exciting happening around here the past few days.  I've just been working away at camp, anxiously awaiting Wednesday afternoon when I get to be reunited with three of my best friends!  I'll be driving up to Maryland Wednesday afternoon to have dinner with my roommates from last year.

 I just realized this is the most recent roommate picture we have which was from last year.  

I'll have to fix that this weekend!!

Then I'll be heading to the beach for the weekend with Jessica Rose.  For those of you who do not know, I have a huge dream to see a blue whale, in person, in the wild before I die, and because Jessica is SUCH a great friend, she jumped at the opportunity to snag a GroupOn deal for whale watching in Maryland! To say I was excited at the news would be an understatement!  While they cannot guarantee that we'll see a whale, I'm REALLY hoping we will!  I cannot wait!  Plus, not only do I get to go whale watching with one of my best friends, I get to spend a wonderful 4 days at the beach with her and her family.  I'm so excited! What's not to love?!

On another note, I've got even more exciting news to share with you!

Wait for it......

I'm going to Haiti again!!!!!!!!!!!!

That's right folks, I have been blessed with the opportunity to take my third trip to Haiti this year.  Cassie, and Jessica will be joining me again, along with Amanda Cutts, my mom, and about 15 other people from our church!  We'll be joining Jim & Debbie Hambrick at their new compound, assisting them with various projects, spending time at Dorothy's, and working on a bunch of other little things!  I am so excited to travel with a team again.  As much as I love going ourselves and the freedom it creates, I also love the unity and spirit that comes when you're a part of a team.  I'm excited to share my love for Haiti with my mom first hand, as she'll get to see everything I love about the Country.  I'm excited to share the experience again with Cassie and Jessica, because who wouldn't love to share such an amazing trip with their two best friends!  I cannot wait for the new opportunities God will open up for me and the team while we are there and I cannot wait to see what exactly He has in store!  Last time I got back from Haiti I was still very confused about where/if I was supposed to move down there.  I'm hoping working with some other organizations will open more doors and lead me down the path I'm supposed to go on. December 29th I get to step back into one of my favorite Countries and spend another 7 days loving on the people there!  It's going to be amazing!

The job search, unfortunately, is still going...going...and well...going.  I feel like I have applied for every possible opening I can find, and have heard next to nothing.  God is truly pushing me to grow in my Faith and patience.  To say I'm having to depend on Him completely is an understatement.  In three two & 1/2 weeks I will not have a job unless something comes through here pretty soon.  To say I'm stressed would put it lightly.  I have no idea what I'm going to do after August 17th.

Absolutely. No. Clue.

How is it that I'm not moving back into college in a few weeks?  It's weird I tell ya.  Just weird.

So yeah... that's about all happening in my life at the moment.

Gender Neutral Bedroom

Are you trying to find a style for your bedroom that will mesh your feminine flair with your spouse's...well...not so feminine style?  This can be a difficult task for any couple to achieve.  Trying to find that perfect blend of masculine mixed with feminine, while still remaining gender neutral can be a daunting task.  Not to worry however, the best way to find some neutral ground is through compromise!!  Ladies say goodbye to your over the top floral and lace items, and gentlemen put your sports memorabilia else where.  Neither of these items will find a home in a gender neutral space.  Save the lace for your personal office ladies, and guys save the sports items for your man cave.  The bedroom is a place where two become one and must equally feel at home.  Some easy ways to do this are:

1.  Pick a color you can both agree on.  Pink and bright blue probably aren't going to cut it.  Some great neutral colors are:  beige, grey, light blues, greens, and yellows.  My personal favorite color when combining styles is to choose beige or grey. They are timeless and will transition flawlessly as your design aesthetic evolves. They both can have a masculine or feminine quality depending upon the furnishings you place in the room.  If you or your husband are dead set on have a particular color the other can't imagine, try putting it in small areas as an accent rather than on the walls.  After all, pillows, curtains, and lamps are a quick, easy, and cheap fix for a new look!  If you get tired of that bright red or duke blue accent lamp a quick coat of spray paint can do wonders!

This floral curtains and tea set add a feminine touch, but when set against a masculine bed, comforter, neutral pillows, and sleek hardwood furniture the space becomes neutral.  Both genders are equally represented without overpowering the other one.

If you take the bed skirt, sofa, and side table out, this room would scream masculinity. However there are equal touches of both sexes here making the space appropriate for anyone!

2. Make sure you balance the masculine and feminine touches in the room. If you choose a very straight lined, masculine, wood bed, then soften it with a more feminine duvet.  This also goes the other way. If you purchase a hand carved, ornate, and luxurious bed frame, then tone it down with a masculine comforter.  This works the same for every other piece in the room as well.  Maybe all of the furniture and bedding has a distinct masculine flair.  You can easily add a soft touch through a crystal chandelier or lace throw pillow on the bed.  Making sure that you and your husband both feel represented throughout the space is key!  If every piece only represents one person, you will never create a cohesive design.  Some other great ways to balance the two: Add a rustic bedside table with a feminine lamp on top.  Also try a sleek leather chair he loves with a soft pillow on it.  There are many easy ways to mix the various styles into every area of a bedroom.  Remember that you must compromise!  For every feminine accent you add, he gets to add his own masculine touch somewhere in the space and vice versa. You'll be happily surprised how well everything will blend when you make  decisions together with the other person in mind!

This is a great example of how to balance the two perfectly.  The masculine leather tufted headboard propped against a soft and luxurious mound of pillows positioned beside a feminine antique chair is a combination to die for.  Both genders are equally represented through color, texture, furniture, and accessories.

This bedroom hands down wins my favorite gender neutral space of the night.  The architecture of the exposed wood beam ceilings above the dark gorgeous hardwood floors makes this a space any man would feel comfortable in.  Then you add a beautiful chandelier, a sofa, and side chair and it's a room fit for a queen as well.  The best part is that not only is each gender represented uniquely in some pieces, there are also key pieces that flawlessly represent them both.  Take the side table for example.  Its rustic exposed wood screams masculinity, but the curvilinear shape adds a feminine touch. Then you have the bed; clean sleek lines both genders can enjoy topped with a neutral bedding and pillows.  Simply breathtaking!

3. Choose neutral patterns. That Duke comforter he had in college, and your Hawaiian bedding are simply not going to cut it in this space.  Go for patterns such as stripes, plaid, houndstooth, or chevrons.  While plaid may sound very masculine and chevrons may scream feminine to you, both can be a very beautiful neutral choice if done in the right scale and colors.  Stripes are a pretty safe choice, but search around for other options you can both fall in love with.  Patterns are a great way to add interest to a bedroom without going over the top.

 A beautiful example of a neutral chevron.  This feminine pattern when paired down to masculine colors becomes a neutral palette both can enjoy! 

Great example of how to make plaid gender neutral.  Add a rustic vibe to your bedroom with this bedding but soften the look with a one-of-a-kind headboard and monogrammed throw pillow.

4. Add personal touches to your bedroom. My favorite tip for when designing a couple's bedroom is to include personal items you both made, bought, or found together.  Things like pictures of the two of you, souvenirs from recent trips, furniture you bought together, or decorative pieces you found scouring the flea market.  Whatever it is that you and your husband enjoy the most together, add something from it to your space.  Maybe you both love collecting old records; then create artwork out of some of your recent finds.  Maybe you're both photographers; frame a few of the pictures you took together.  Or perhaps you both love antiques; add your favorite find to the bedroom whether that be a side chair, table, or even the bed itself.  Adding reminders of all the things you love to do together in such an intimate space will bring you closer together and create a cohesive feel you can both fall in love with!

Creating a gender neutral space is not difficult, it just takes some patience.  Remember to keep each other's wants and needs in mind when designing your bedroom and it will turn out perfectly!


Do you have a favorite tip when it comes to decorating for both sexes?


*Disclaimer: All pictures found through Google images. I do not claim these as my personal work, simply my inspiration!*

Afraid of Color?

Don't be!

Color is a great way to add a little interest to a space and freshen it up.  Over the last few months I have challenged myself to experiment with bold colors both in design  and in my wardrobe.  As a design student I always believed that a designer's clothes were a direct reflection of their design ability.  If a designer can't match colors, textures, and patterns in their outfits then there is no way they can do it in a space. I also know from my personal experience, how I dress is a direct reflection of my design style.  I typically go for classic pieces with unique accents.  As I challenge myself in design with bolder colors, I have tried to reflect that challenge in my wardrobe.  I've added some great bold jewelry pieces, shoes, and colorful items to my closet.  I try to push myself to try new styles, patterns, and colors each day.  Right now these are some of my favorite color trends in design and style.

Turquoise & Yellow:

Outfit from J's Everyday Fashion (it's a great blog if you aren't following it yet!)

Kelly Green & Yellow:

Orange & Turquoise:

What are your thoughts on color?  Are you afraid to try bold colors?  What's your favorite color combination?

Fourth of July

Happy 4th of July everyone!!!  

While I'm a little bummed out that the fourth fell on a Wednesday this year, I was very excited to have a day off in the middle of the week.  I love day camp, and I love the kids, but this break has been lovely!!  I got to sleep in this morning, enjoy some TV time with a Criminal Minds marathon (my favorite show ever if you did not know that), did some grocery shopping, and went swimming with mom.  I'm really sore today, from swimming and doing strengthening exercises this week, but I still managed to get 45 minutes of swimming in.  I'm up to swimming 18 laps now in 45 minutes which is half a mile.  This is the furthest I've ever swam and it's a great feeling!! I'd love to get to where I can swim a mile in 45 minutes, but for now I'll take 1/2 a mile!  I haven't seen many pounds falling off these last few weeks, but I think it's because I'm gaining muscle weight. That can easily be discouraging, which is why I keep track of my inches. I haven't measured for this week yet, but I'll let you know once I do!

The job search is still going.  I haven't heard from the Charlotte position yet, and I've applied to about seven other places since.  I'm getting antsy and really struggling with my patience while waiting for the right job.  Right now I'd just love to get an interview and get the process rolling.  I'm dying to have a full time job, get an apartment, and get the next stage of life moving.  Unfortunately right now I'm stuck waiting.  This is not my strong suit.  Nonetheless, I still must wait it out and trust God has a place for me.  Please keep me in your prayers!

Well I'm off to enjoy the rest of my night! Hope your 4th has been fun!

Job & Finances

So far things are going smoothly with the job searching process.  One of the positions I applied for in Charlotte contacted me asking to see my portfolio, and informed me that after reviewing applications they would give me a call to either request an interview or to let me know the position has been filled.  I am still very hopeful for this job, and am praying that God will have it work out as He sees fit.  This would be a great opportunity, and I would love to take the position if it were offered, and if that is where God wants me.  For now, I am just waiting to hear back from them and praying every minute until I do.  I haven't heard back about the other position yet, but I am also hopeful for it as well.  I really need to find a job because come August 17th when camp ends, I have nothing lined up.  Please keep this in your prayers!

Also,  I started reading the Dave Ramsey Total Money Makeover book a few days ago.  After hearing about Erin's experiences using it, and some of the practices she and Stephen have put into place financially because of this program, I really wanted to read about it and give it a try.  I'm just graduating from college and this is truly the time to get my finances on track so that I can pave a smooth road for the rest of my life.  Saving has never been one of my strongest abilities, but I really want to get my school loans paid off and start saving up as much as I can.  After watching my parents and learning how quickly a job can be taken away, and what financial strains that can cause, I want to make sure that I have a safety net in place if that ever happens to me.  Everyone is going to encounter some type of large financial difficulty in their lifetime, and I want to make sure I am prepared when that day comes.  I also really want to get rid of my debt as quickly as possible and stay debt free.  I'm just into the first baby step of his book, and I'm really excited about the practices and tools he recommends to use for success.  My goal is to get all of my college loans paid off over the next five years.  If I can find a good job and manage my finances well I believe this is an attainable goal. All the more reason to keep praying for a job!!

For now, I am working away at day camp and saving every penny I possibly can.  We have a few more days before camp starts, and while there are still quite a few small things to do, I think we are just about ready!  It's going to be a great summer and I'm excited about the changes we are making.  I'm also ready to get these tedious administrative things behind us and begin investing in the kids lives!  After all, that's the whole point of camp!

Too Random for a Good Title

Whew.  It's been a whirlwind of a weekend!  These last few days, while they didn't seem to busy in the moment have worn me out.  After getting back from Haiti on Thursday, I spent most of my day Friday cleaning, doing laundry, and getting my life back in order here in the states.  I washed more clothes than I ever wanted to, did some cleaning around the house, and organized everything back where it goes.  Saturday I spent the majority of my day on the computer downloading, editing, and uploading pictures from Haiti.  I didn't think I took nearly as many pictures this time, but I ended up with over 200!  It's crazy how quickly pictures add up on these trips.  Erin made me dinner last night at their place, which was delicious, and we did a little catch me up on what needs to be done for camp this week.  Since I've been gone for almost two weeks, camp has arrived quickly and there is still a lot that needs to get done.  Most of it is small tedious administrative things, but they are all very important nonetheless.  Today was graduation Sunday at church so I walked for that, did some grocery shopping after church, made lunch, and cleaned the kitchen here at home.  I also cut up a watermelon because I have been dying to have some!  I'm so glad summer is here and all my favorite home grown items will be here soon!

Tomorrow it's back into camp full force.  We've got parent orientation night on Thursday, counselor training Friday and Saturday, and then camp starts next Monday!  I can't believe how quickly it's gotten here.  I am very excited to step into my new roll as assistant director and get to work with a different side of camp.  I love the kids and working with them, but I also love the administrative side of things as well.  I'll get the best of both worlds as the assistant director.  It's going to be a great summer and I can't wait for everything to get started!

On another note, I have decided for now that I am not going to move to Haiti, but instead keep doing short term trips.  I did a lot of soul searching these last two weeks, and have decided it is not my time to move there right now. While I still believe I will do long term missions there one day, I don't think that time is now.  When Dorothy challenged me with understanding the difference between a calling and having a heart for the need, I really began to realize that what I'm feeling is more of a heart for the need than a calling at the moment.  I absolutely love Haiti, I love the kids, the country, and the way of life there which is why Haiti will always play a large role in my life.  For now however, that role is going to be short term trips so that I can truly explore God's calling for my life and determine exactly where and when he wants me there.  I hope to visit different organizations over the next few years to truly get a wide sense of what options are available to me and where I will fit best.  Please keep me in your prayers as I begin this long journey.

Because I have decided to put off moving to Haiti for a while, I am now having to start looking for jobs again.  I searched a bunch of different listings this weekend and applied for four positions.  Two of them are in Raleigh working for furniture companies, and two are in Charlotte as design assistant positions.  I kind of have my heart set on the two in Charlotte right now, as I believe they would both be perfect starting places for my career.  They were the first listings I've seen in North Carolina for entry-level designer positions, so my fingers are crossed that they are still available and I'll hear from them soon!  Please keep my job searching in your prayers!  I need to find a full time position soon!

Also on my last random note for the day, I weighed myself today and I have lost 12 pounds!!  While I did not successfully complete my graduation challenge on time, I am still pushing myself to lose the weight.  It is a difficult and long process, but I am up for the challenge!  Cassie and I are going to be work out buddies this summer and we will be getting a gym membership soon.  For now, I'll have to stick to my walks around the neighborhood and the last two guest visits I can make to the YMCA pool.

Study Break aka Procrastination

I should be studying for my final exam that I have to take tomorrow afternoon, but I can't seem to focus.  I presented my Senior Seminar project today and I am SOOOO very excited that I can't get my brain to understand that I still have one more exam to take before college is truly over.

Did I just say over?   Weird.

I felt such a great sense of pride today as I walked out of the presentation room.  That is the last project I'll have to present here at HPU.  Today is the last time I have to walk into Norton Hall to do any type of work.  Today I finished my interior design degree.  Can you say crazy/the most exciting day ever?!?

I honestly didn't think this day would come.  But I made it, and I can officially say I survived design school!   And since I am so eagerly looking for another procrastination method, I'll post some pictures from my senior seminar project for you to enjoy!

This is the building I was asked to design for my Senior Seminar project.  It sits downtown in High Point, NC in the center of the furniture market area.  It is 8 stories high with a basement below.  I was asked to propose a design that would allow this building to become the New School of Art & Design for High Point University.

 This is a view looking into the space that I made into a gallery for the New School of Art & Design (see below).  It had floor to ceiling windows, lots of natural light, but very little display space to begin.

This is a view of one of the floors higher up in the building that was unfinished.

My proposed design for the 2nd floor of this building.  This floor houses security offices, gaming studios, and graphic design studios.  There are also multi-use classrooms as well as a large locker room for students.

 My proposed design for the 3rd floor.  This is where you'll find the student lounge (see below) and photography classrooms.  There is one large darkroom as well as 6 individual darkrooms for students to use independently.

 My proposed design for the 5th floor.  This is where the Interior Design studios will be located, as well as two large critique rooms and two material resource rooms for students.

 Above is a rendering of what I would propose the lobby to look like for the New School of Art & Design.  I designed a custom fountain that sits under a large and beautiful crystal chandelier.  On either side there are large glass doors leading you into the gallery and retail space.

 A rendering of what I would propose the gallery look like.  Those are curved moveable wall systems that will allow for various art displays to be in the space.  They are covered in bold beautiful fabrics by Knoll that I am absolutely in love with!

A rendering of the student lounge.  All of the seating is moveable to allow students to work collaboratively and have a space to come to relax.  There is a large kitchen area in the back equipped with snacks, coffee machines, and a refrigerator for all of the late nights! The furniture is also covered in the same fabrics as seen in my gallery space to add a pop of color.

 Perspective of what the retail store would look like.  I chose to put in a 24-hour access store for students to buy and have access to all of their daily project needs.  No more late night Hobby Lobby runs!

And then lastly, this is an axonometric view (aka looking down into the space) of the first floor.  This allows you to see how the lobby, retail area, and gallery are laid out in the space.

While I am very glad that this project is over, I also really enjoyed getting to work on this type of space.  What you see above is only a small portion of my project, but I think they give the best insight into my design.  I can't believe my last project here at HPU is done.  Hope you enjoyed it!

As Promised...Picture Overload

Earlier this week I showed you the before pictures of the showroom I helped setup this market.  Well, as promised, here are the after pictures.  I can't take credit for the furniture selection, placement, or fabric applications in the showroom, but I did help unwrap, position, accessorize, and light all of the areas.  Take a look:

 First view when you walk into the showroom.

 Around the corner from the main door.

 One of my favorite areas in the showroom. The Gemini sectional with some great new fabrics and bold colors.  Oh, and did I mention how much I LOVE the little round chairs called Le Pouf.  They are so fun and oh so comfortable!

 The first area in the showroom I helped setup.  Funny thing is I was just telling my aunt Missy that I wasn't sure denim was in right now.....clearly I was wrong.  Ha!

Lounge and bar setup in the front of the showroom. I love all of the colors used this market!

The Ava sofa.  My absolute favorite piece this market.  I love the clean lines and shape of this piece.  I've always wanted a beige sofa and I've fallen in love with this one!  There was another sectional in the back that was more plush and comfortable, but I just love the shape of this piece!

Debra did a great job selecting pieces and fabrics for this market.  I'm so blessed to have had the opportunity to work with such a great lady and get some hands-on experience with design.  It challenged and inspired me to push my abilities and not just go for the ordinary.  I love getting these opportunities and truly enjoyed this market more than any before.  I'm a little sad that it's the last market I'll work as a student, but I look forward to coming back hopefully as a buyer next year!

Thanks again to Debra Venti for allowing me to have the opportunity to work with her this market!  You are an incredible designer and woman!  Thanks for all you've done for me these last few markets!

Life Update

It is 6:40pm on April 19,2012.  I am currently in Norton, doing nothing other than waiting for our Steakhouse reservation at 7.  I have completed, PDFed (yes I made that up), and submitted the last phase of my Senior Seminar project.  Aka I'm basically DONE!!!!!!!!!!! Ha!  And it's an entire day early (I think that's a first!)

While this day has been nothing short of chaotic, it has turned out to be a pretty great day.  I got some training in for Market, took a final exam, presented my portfolio, and submitted my project.  I'd call that a successful day!  Not only that but I also realized this morning that this is my last day of class.  Ever. 

Try to wrap your head around that for a moment......I know I can't either! It's absolutely insane! I never in a million years thought this day would come.  I still have a few minor things to do for my portfolio class, I have to present my Senior Seminar project, and take my sociology final exam, but basically I'm done with college.  Insane.

On another note, I have spent the last week working very busily in the Lazar Showroom helping set up for market. As you may know from past posts, I've worked in the Lazar showroom for the past three markets assisting the Florida sales rep with his clients.  This time, I contacted Debra Venti who is in charge of all of the fabric selections, applications, and setup for market, and asked to be a part of the premarket.  It has been an incredibly long week, but I have absolutely loved getting to see this side of market!! This is one of the first times I have actually gotten to have hands-on experience with design.  I was a bit hesitant and unsure of my abilities at first, but once we got into it I got really comfortable with things.  I learned floral arranging is not my strong suit, but I love to accessorize. Design is definitely not a glamorous job, but it is so rewarding! I learned a lot and took a lot of inspiration from Debra and how she set things up.  It's true, only 10% of design is taught in the classroom, the rest you learn in the field!

When we started the showroom basically looked like this, except it was completely empty minus a few tables and lamps:

As we worked and unwrapped all of the furniture that slowly came in, the showroom began to look a little more like this:

With a lot of this:

Sadly, that's only the wrappings from about 20 of the 240 pieces of furniture we unwrapped this week.  I told you, it's not glamorous!

For a while there, Debra was worried the showroom would not get done, but we did the entire space in 5 days! Kind of crazy, but so rewarding to see!  You'll have to wait to see the after pictures until later this week :)!

On a completely other random note, I figured I should update about my graduation challenge....or lack there of.  With the last phase of my project being due today, finals right around the corner, and market starting I have had very little time to workout.  Plus when there was time, I was so tired from running around High Point all day that I was just plain to tired and lazy to go workout. Does helping unwrap and move 200 pieces of furniture count at all?? I know, I know, those are just excuses.  I'm letting myself fall back into my lazy ways, but I'll get back on track after market!  I had hit the 10 pound mark, but unfortunately I'm back to more like 8 pounds lost now.  That's still progress, but not nearly where I wanted to be at this point. I just need to make the time to go workout and not let tiredness be an excuse anymore.  This summer Cassie and I will be workout buddies, so I'm hoping that will keep me motivated.  I can do this, I just have to put in the effort!

Speaking of tired, I think I will head to bed now.  Seeing as how I started this blog post at 6:40 and it is now after 11pm.  My first day of real market begins tomorrow!  Time to bring in the money!!

Goodnight!

Thursday Thoughts: One Month

In exactly one month from right this minute, I will be an official college graduate.  I will probably be packing up the final things in my room, eating lunch with my family, and heading home.  It doesn't seem possible.  As I worked in Norton last night finishing up the phase 4 part of my Senior Seminar project I just sat in disbelief.  This is the last project I will ever work on in Norton.  The last rendering i'll do at the drafting tables, the last all nighters I'll pull in the CAD lab, the last nights of craziness with the design girls. The last everything.  It's such a bittersweet thing to take in.  As much as I hate working late in Norton and the stress surrounding it, I love all the times I've had in there.  I've loved all of our 2am Diner runs, laughing until we cry, the breakdowns, the dancing, the singing, the joy of turning in projects, and everything else that has taken place in that building.  I've met all of my best friends here at HPU in that building.  I'm living with my roommates now because of design.  It ties us together and unites us all in a way that cannot be understood without experiencing it first hand.  While I will not miss the stress I am going to miss HPU and Norton.

It just does not seem possible that I'm graduating college.  I feel like I'm still the sophomore sitting at the drafting tables thinking there is absolutely no possible way I'm going to graduate in this major.  I remember watching the seniors over the last two years work on their senior seminar and now here I stand.  The senior working on my own final project.  It just doesn't seem real.  Meredith and I keep asking what do we do next?  How do we go about life with no more school?  I've been in school for practically my whole life, what's next?  Are we really ready to be out in the real world and take it on ourselves?  I'm not sure.

I have absolutely no clue what's going to happen next.  All of the plans I came up with in my mind have been rearranged and flipped upside down.  It's no longer up to me where I want to go next, I have to trust God will put me where He wants me.  Right now I believe that's in Haiti.  As I've said before I have no clue how to go about that, but I'm following God's call and going where He leads.  I know it will all come together.  I know He has a plan that will blow my wildest expectations. I know He knows my future and will piece it together perfectly.  I may be scared, but I know He will take care of me.  So for now, while I may not know what happens after May 5th, I know right now my job is to finish this project and graduate strong.  Even though I'm a little terrified.


For now, this is my job:

The last hand renderings I'll do in Norton....crazy.

"For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."   Jeremiah 29:11

Design Inspiration: Make your Bed

The other day, my roommates pointed out that they can tell how my morning goes by how my bed looks after I leave.  If things went smoothly my bed will be perfectly made.  If I'm rushing out, or late to class my bed will be left unmade.  I found this quite entertaining because lately I've gotten into the habit of making my bed every day. It has come to the point that it drives me crazy to not have my bed made.  I'm not quite sure what started it, but I have to make my bed every day.  If it doesn't happen first thing when I wake up, it will be done as soon as I return from class.  I've realized that having your bed made makes the room look crisp and clean.  You can have a spotless room but if the bed is unmade it still looks messy.  So needless to say, I think it's important to make your bed each day.  It adds the finishing touch to your space, and for me it keeps life organized.  

Here take a look, which do you think looks better?

These:

Or these:

Come on, you have to agree the rooms with made beds look 1000x better!

On another note, I also think it is very important to accessorize your bed with the appropriate bed pillows.  Two basic pillows simply do not finish the look.  Throw some decorative pillows into the mix. Add some color, texture, and interest with such a simple change.

 Of course I love this one for the colors, but the patterns are amazing!  Don't be afraid to mix patterns as long as the colors coordinate. Try different size pillows in varying shapes for added interest.

 Here are four options of how to arrange pillows.  While I don't particularly love the top left one, it may work for you.  I would recommend the other three!

 Coordinate your colors with solid and printed fabrics.

 This one has a ton of pillows but I love it! If your fabrics coordinate and you vary the shapes you can pull the look off.  If you're new to accent pillows this may be a bit much or too advanced, stick with a more simple set up.

I love love LOVE a bolster pillow!  Throw one in with your solid fabrics for a pop of color and added interest!

You can even pull this look off in your kid's rooms!  Don't be afraid to accessorize their room too.  Kids love colors and prints.  Stick with smaller prints that can grow into new rooms with them.  It's also never too early to teach them to make their beds!