The combination of texture and color in this room is amazing. Melissa kept it inviting and warm with the materials and by keeping the pattern to a minimum, it remains sophisticated.

~Lorrie

Again, a restrained use of pattern draws your eye into intersting details and lovely accessories.

The before shows a typical kitchen with Pecan stained cabinets and a safe wall color.

The "after" features additional storage, simple but tailored window treatments and the highlighting of the vaulted ceiling.

A Mountain Metamorphosis

I had done this client’s in-town Atlanta residence, a cozy three bedroom bungalow that we filled with an inviting mix of antiques and current finds. When she shared that she’d purchased a weekend place, I was immediately on board to master the transformation. We wanted it done quickly, 45-60 days so she could start enjoying it in early June. This limited us to cosmetic changes and bathroom and kitchen remodels, no walls were relocated. The desired look was relaxed rustic with a layering of personality and character that bespoke this well traveled client. She was very clear on her color palette a natural version of her city house loaded with warm ambers, rich crimson, and woody sage hues. We determined that we’d replace the worn oak and carpet with a dramatic Brazilian cherry wide plank, with natural cherry for all cabinets, and granite for counter tops. Since the client owned the red rooster on the mantel, we used that as a spring board for more fun with collections. I also had the privilege of knowing how much she enjoyed travel so included elements from around the globe like the cabinet in the entry. This house is designed for weekend entertaining and relaxation, she regularly entertains overnight friends and family and cooks up a storm in the process. The Arts and Crafts styling is a great fit in the mountains. And using the sage green on the walls gives the illusion of sitting in the tree tops.

A bathroom with good cabinet space but a lack of character.

By separating the shower area with custom tile and a door, the bathroom becomes more luxurious and well-defined.

3 Secrets to Adding Personality Quickly and Effectively

• Create a Personal Collection: In this case it was the rooster element and I had a lot of fun adding it in the fabric selected for the kitchen roman shades, finding a wonderful rooster canvas for display on the long kitchen wall, incorporated selected rooster objects and sculptures in the cabinet display, had a custom rooster floor cloth painted for the dining area, and even the odd rooster needlepoint toss pillow. If you have even one favorite element, adding more in that family can be fun and create a high impact feature.
• Use a Motif from the Area: Nature abounds in the mountains and I used the leaf motif in random tumbled marble backsplash tiles in the kitchen. I also emphasized it in the vined wrought iron fixtures in the bath, and we added hand hewn twig rails to the front porch. Bringing the outdoors in is a great way to maximize the retreat aspect of a weekend home. If this had been a beach house, the focus would have been on sand, shells, water, driftwood, and beach glass.
• Layer the Pattern and Color: Stick with solid textures and leather for major upholstery pieces and then layer in the warmth of color and interest in pattern with the rugs, throws, pillows and drapery. The upholstery is the most significant investment and needs to be the most timeless. Lesser textile accents and soft-goods can be swapped out seasonally to avoid boredom, and also updated easily and cost effectively to maintain a fresh look.

This bedroom had good bones but the dark color and ceiling fan closed it in.

This is a superb example of how to treat windows above a bed. The rug, with it bold border, defines the space nicely.

Having practiced interior design in Atlanta and the Southeast for the last 15 years, Melissa Galt is widely known for her inviting style and welcoming designs.  She specializes in second home design turning most projects in under 90 days. After all, as Melissa likes to say, “life is about the living, not the getting ready!”  She is inspired by her great grandfather, the American icon and architect Frank Lloyd Wright, and believes as he did “Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you.” 

Her design work is also showcased in Spectacular Homes of Georgia and her portfolio is available on the web at www.melissagaltinteriors.com.  She also mentors design professionals and speaks regularly at markets and trade events on the business of design.  The trade can find her at www.sixfiguredesigners.com and www.melissagalt.com.  In addition, she is the author of Celebrate Your Life! The Art of Celebrating Every Day, sharing 101 ways that everyone can make every day special.

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If you would like to win one of these four fabulous decorating books, then leave a comment below and tell me which book you prefer and why.  Will you use it for your own home or give it as a gift?  The person with the most creative comment will be chosen as the winner.  The winner will be announced this Friday, December 5th.  If you are receiving this post via email, click here to comment.  Replies to the email will not be accepted.

Domino magazine points out fabulous finds! And now the book gives you the "how to" on mix, matching and making it all work.

Free shipping on orders over $25 makes Amazon a frequent stop on my virtual holiday shopping trips.  I love spending time on the web, but all the images I see online cannot replace a beautifully printed design book at my fingertips for reference.  It’s fun to pour over the pages; whether you do so in admiration or if you are looking for inspiration.  This year there are some great books published by magazines and websites that are taking queues from their readers for the content.  They are solving common design dilemmas for real people who want to have extraordinary interiors.  Here are a few books that will help you start off the new year with some decorating direction.

I love the website apartmenttherapy.com. Their editors get the ball rolling with a design dilemma and everyone jumps in to help.

Candace Olson is one of the few designers on HGTV that gives you an idea of how the design process really works and the true value of choosing quality furnishings. This books gives you the details on some of her warm and modern interiors.

Selecting paint colors is the most common question I receive from my readers. In this book, House Beautiful gives you advice on how to step out of the white box and comfortably move into color. You will never turn back!

Let me know what some of your favorite design books are and if they have stood the test of time.  Good design advice is not trendy, it teaches the basics and allows you to infuse your own sense of style so your house is beautiful and a clear reflection of you.

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Selecting several complementary end tables for your living room can be a huge challenge.  You don’t want them to match but coordinating table legs, sizes and finishes can be daunting.  A simple and often overlooked solution is a skirted table.  They are a great way to provide additional table-top space while adding some softness to your room.  And the great thing is that you can change out the table skirt seasonally to give the room a fresh look. 

A sturdy table is a very important place to start.  Cock-eyed, wobbly tables are often what scares people away from skirted tables.  A good one is worth the extra money because you don’t have to worry about what you put on it and some designs also double as hidden storage.  This is where I bunk all my magazine piles when I am having company.  :-)  Here are a few models to consider.

This nice, sturdy table also features great storage.

Tables that are 24-30″ in diameter are appropriate as end tables or night tables.  Generally, you want the table to be a couple of inches higher than arm of your sofa or your mattress.  36″ Diameter tables can stand by themselves in a foyer or in the corner of your room.  They can also be used for dining tables in tight quarters.  Of course, you can use any table you already own but it may be more challenging to find a table skirt. 

Standard tables and skirt sizes:

24″ High and 24″ Diameter Table with a 72″ Tablecloth

30″ High and 30″ Diameter Table with a 90″ Tablecloth

30″ High and 36″ Diameter Table with a 90″ Tablecloth

I recently saw that Ballard Designs had a nice selection of tablecloths.  They are also featuring the Terrific Trio which includes a table, tablecloth and glass topper.  The glass gives the table a really polished look and keeps the tablecloth safe from stains and wear.  If you purchase your own glass, go with 3/8″ with a beveled edge.

I don't care for this style which tends to wobble on carpet and uneven tile floors.

This Mission Style table is solid and could be used with or without a table cloth.

Ballard’s tablecloths come in a variety of styles and patterns.  They have a great selection of fabrics that ranges from florals to solids and stripes. (Make sure to take advantage of their swatch program where you can order 10 free swatches and only pay $5.95 for shipping)  You can also send them your own fabric and they will create a custom item in 8-10 weeks.  I feel you can go two ways when selecting your fabric:

• Choose an accent fabric that you don’t use for much else in your room.  Something eye catching like a velvet, floral or animal print.
• Choose something neutral that will provide a great backdrop for anything you put on the table and will work with future fabric selections.

I prefer for the tablecloth to just graze the floor.  Go a little longer with extra fabric puddling the floor if that’s your style but never ever use a skirt that’s too short.  It looks skimpy and totally ruins the luxurious effect.

This table has ample storage and can be ordered from 24-32" high.

With style, color and storage, a skirted table may be just the thing you need to finish off your room!

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This living room featured in the December 2008 issue of Coastal Living is the perfect example of restrained but consistent use of the color red to bring in a festive mood.

I love to decorate my home with live flowers during the holidays.  They bring a warmth and beauty that is difficult to replicate with faux garland and wreaths.  From bright amaryllis to fragrant rosemary, there is a wide variety of choices at hand.  Decorate your own home or give them as a gift.  Either way, you are spreading holiday cheer!

The Single Grand Trumpet® Bordeaux Amaryllis from Jackson & Perkins is classic and the lovely container is a bonus.

Holiday Floral Tips

• Choose live plants instead of cut flowers.  They last a lot longer and require little maintenance.
• Think of the aroma as well as the visual beauty.  Smell is intricately linked to memory and scents such as pine, rosemary and cinnamon are big favorites.
• Go eco-friendly with items that can be planted in your yard once the holidays are over or that are sustainably farmed.  It’s a win-win.
• Choosing one color (red, white, pink) to use throughout the home, has a lot more design impact than a variety of colors.
• Choose some other accessories (pillows, throws, decorative objects) in the same color to tie it all in.

This eco-friendly choice from Organic Bouquet will fill your home with the aroma of a Northwest forest. Made of bay leaf and rosemary.

The gift that keeps on giving. A plant a month from Red Envelope for 6 months.

Small Rosemary bushes are one of my favorites. I have a small forest in my garden.

Nothing smells or swags like fresh garland. Just one strand strategically located (around the front door or on the mantel) adds a lovely touch.

Also, here is a little recipe for Mulling Spices that I use in my own home as well as gifting to others.  Try it today to warm your heart, lift your spirits and usher in the holiday mood. 

Happy Holidays to everyone!

~Lorrie

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Your foyer is like the introduction to a good book.  When your guests enter, it should welcome them, comfort them and entice them into finding out more.  It’s a high priority space and it’s fairly easy to decorate, so don’t be shy.  You can set it off from the rest of the house with that funky mirror that doesn’t quite jive in your powder room or that great paint color you love but think is too bold for your bedroom.  So if your foyer needs a lift, here are 6 basic steps to makes your guests feel at home in a snap.

1. Lighting - A unique overhead fixture that gives you at least 120 Watts is the goal.  If you have room for a foyer table, a lamp is a great addition.  Lighting that comes from more than one source always sheds a beautiful glow that compliments the space much better than just one. {Jonathan Adler Meurice Collection Large Brass Pendant Light from LampsPlus - $479.91}
2. Mirror - Whether you are on the way in our out, a mirror is critical to making sure you look your best.  Choose something that complements the table but avoid two pieces from the same collection. {Chinoiserie Bamboo Mirror from The Well Appointed House - $438.00}
3. Accessories - Fresh flowers on the foyer table and attractive artwork on the walls make your guests feel like you have been waiting for them.  And it’s a nice welcome home for you too! {Faux Ranunculus & Roses from Horchow - on sale for $134.90}
4. Rug - It has to allow for wet and dirty shoes, snow and dog hair. Choose a rug that you like but not one that you treasure because it’s hard to hide the pained look on your face when an umbrella drips water onto Great Aunt Sally’s Persian Rug. {Verona Garden Green Rug from Company C - $320 for 3′x5′}
5. Foyer Table - This is your chance to choose a style that you really love but are not sure how to mix in other parts of your home.  From Chinese lacquer to weathered pine, think of it as an accent piece. {Jacqui 2-Drawer Console in White Parchment from Eboniste- $1375}
6. Paint - If you are finally leaving the land of ivory, here’s your shot to try something new.  {Benjamin Moore Aura AF-625 Interior Matte from My Perfect Color- $54.99}

If you have a foyer that’s got you stumped then don’t hesitate to send me a photo and a question and I’ll help you get started!

~Lorrie

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As far as an instant makeover goes, it’s hard to beat the bathroom.  It’s small (at least mine is), the elements are moderately priced and most fixes fall into the D-I-Y territory.  All these points lead you to one of the most gratifying transformations in your home.  And we’re not talking about complicated tile replacement or a new bidet.  Don’t be silly, this is more about the instant gratification of color, fabric and accessories!

Plan  - Develop a budget, analyze what can stay and what definitely needs to be replaced.  Decide on a color palette and keep the adjoining rooms in mind. Selecting a color on impulse in the middle of the isle at Target is often not a good idea.

Shop - Hit the Internet or the stores and purchase all your furnishings.  As they arrive on your doorstep the excitement will slowly mount!

Take Action - Now that you have your supplies, pick a seperate day to put the plan into action.  It is a fantastic feeling to execute your project when you have all the necessities at hand.  It also leaves you time to deal with the unexpected twists and still finish by the end of the day. 

Top Ten Turnaround List

1. Paint - Benjamin Moore Aura Paint covers in one coat (for most light colors) and dries in about an hour.  Smaller bathrooms only require one gallon. {My Perfect Color - Benjamin Moore Aura  - AF 490 Tranquility $54.99}
2. Shower Curtain - A good one sets the tone for your bath, a bad one screams “Cheap” every time you walk into the room.  Spend a little more for a designer touch.  {Pond Lilly Interiors - Chancery Blue Damak Shower Curtain $145}
3. Window Treatment - KISS - I love you all but right now I am referring to the the old adage, Keep It Simple Stupid.  Blinds, Roman shades, woven woods.  On small windows, complicated fabric treatments looks like you are trying to hard. {West Elm - Jute Poly Roman Shade in Flax - Starting at $29}
4. Mirror - If you have a hanging mirror, then consider replacing it with something more decorative than a medicine cabinet.  If you have a built in, then try adding a frame to upgrade the look. {Crate and Barrel Sutton Round Mirror $449}
5. Lighting - A new fixture will take years off the room.  Try to find the highest wattage possible and install a dimmer.  Be daring with a style that contrasts the look of your faucet. {Bellacor - Structures Brushed Nickel Two-Light Bath Fixture $165.60}
6. Towels - Be careful, don’t overdo the scheme by buying everything the same color.  Pick a color that contrasts with the shower curtain or go with my favorite, classic white.  Quality is the most important aspect.  Egyptian cotton is a safe bet and organic is even better. {Milano Organic Luxury Egyptian Cotton Towels - $118/set}
7. Rug - Skip cookie-monsteresque polyester bath mats and choose a decorative rug.  A runner looks much better than two smaller rugs. {Overstock.com Mesa Collection Wool Runner Rug $99}
8. Hardware:  Knobs, towel bar, TP holder, hooks, etc. - These are important details that really enhance the look.  Cabinet knobs by themselves are a huge upgrade. {Machiavelli Knob in Brushed Stainless Steel from MyKnobs.com $7.74}
9. Vanity Items:  Cup, tissue holder, wastebasket, etc. - Forgo matchy themes and go basic. Pick up some tips from my post, Bold Bath Accessories {Laquered Burlwood Wastebasket from WS Home $39.99}
10. Decorative Accessories - Just a few will do.  Small framed prints, an orchid, a bowl of marbles.  Something interesting that does not take up much space. { WS Home Jacquin Botanical Print - $295 each}

So mount your attack against your boring bathroom so that you smile every time you enter.  You deserve the boost too!

~Lorrie

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Paint color dilemma? 

Fouled-up floor plan? 

Naked Windows?

Good!  Because Ask A Design Question is your chance to get Free Design Advice from a Professional Interior Designer.  So get you camera out, snap a few photos and hit me with your best shot!  I will pick a few questions to feature each week so you may also become famous in the deal!  Once I put the post up, I also welcome you, the reader, to chime in and give your opinions.  Even a world famous interior designer could use some additional input. 

Is it OK to use brushed nickel pendant over a kitchen island with a different finish on the dining room fixture? 

Ann has provided us with a photo of her kitchen and dining area.  On the right, she has an iron 5-arm chandelier that has some traditional details such as a weathered finish, carved elements and bell-shaped shades.  She is looking for a fixture to hang above her kitchen island and she is considering the fixture below.

My Design Advice:

Selecting lighting for an open floor plan is challenging.  First of all, I applaud Ann for thinking outside of the box and resisting the impulse to select a fixture that mimics the one she currently has.  That takes guts!  While I love the shape of this two-arm pendant and I am a proponent of mixing finishes, I don’t think this one is the best solution.  When you have two fixtures in an open area, it’s important to make a connection between the two.  Just like good friends, they can each have their own personality but they should have something in common.  The two most striking elements of a light fixture are its style and finish. 

Chandelier - Traditionally detailed design with a weathered finish.

Pendent - Modern/Transitional design with a cleaner finish.

In this case, since I know you like these cleaner lines, I would suggest linking the finishes.  Here are a few suggestions for you to consider:

Choice A: This first light has a very similar shape to the one Ann chose but the Bronze finish and the small details link it to the chandelier.

Choice B - This fixture has a lighter, more transitional style to it but still has the lantern look that Ann had first selected.

Choice C - This would be my first choice because it has a bit of a contemporary edge but the soft colors of the fixture and glass link it to the chandelier tones.

A few tips for installing a fixture over a kitchen island:

• The bottom of the fixture should hang about 30-36″ above the countertop.
• The width of the fixture should be at least 2′ less than the island.  This allows for head room when working at the island and will keep the elements in scale with one another.
• If you have the space, choose a pendant with an odd number of lights.  It just looks better!

Everyone please chime in and let us know which one you would pick by making a comment below.  And don’t forget to send me your questions. I am here to help you!

~Lorrie

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Off the shelf or custom made?  When it’s time for a bedroom face-lift, sometimes it hard to figure out where your money is best spent.  With lots of options for ready-made bedding and window treatments, it can be tempting to go that route because it’s quicker and cheaper.  But is that really going to give you the look you desire?  Well, yes and no.  Even high-end designers use some items off the shelf.  On the other hand, certain items are worth the additional investment of going custom made.  Here are my best tips for incorporating both options. These will help you spend your money wisely while achieving the bedroom of your dreams.

Off the Shelf = Less $$$ Out of Your Pocket

Bedspreads, coverlets, comforters and duvets 

Any type of bed cover takes a lot of fabric, so this is definitely a chance to save big. The key here is the flexibility to make affordable changes from season to season and items that can be easily laundered.

Newgrange Matelasse from Linen Source is very affordable ($89 for a queen) and machine washable.

Designer Picks

• For warm weather months or climates - A matelasse coverlet or light quilt will do.  Linen Source seems to always have a great selection of washable matelasse covers on sale.
• For cold weather - Down or Hypo-allergenic comforter with a duvet cover is your best bet.  The Company Store has a broad offering of weights and duvet covers in many colors.

Decorative Pillows

Another place where custom is totally unnecessary. There are so many great places for designer pillows at half the cost of custom.

These four pillows came from the "Blue-Turquoise-Teal-Lavender" category.

Designer Picks

• European Squares (26″x26″) are much more stylish then queen size shams. And King size shams can get super awkward.
• Beautiful Pillows and Home offers collection by color so you can find items that are complementary but not to matchy-matchy!

Custom Made = Style Where It Counts

Window Treatments

While having a designer come to your home may be too costly, custom draperies ordered online are more affordable than you may think.  And adding custom details and beautiful hardware will make them show-stoppers.  Consider choosing a neutral tone drape that will transition nicely when you are ready to make a change.  And a good quality blind will work as a seamless partner. 

These pinch-pleat draperies from The Shade Store are bone-colored suede fabric with a terracotta edging. Classic and flexible.

Designer Pick

The Shade Store offers great options for blinds and draperies.  I would go with a neutral silk for simple elegance.  Woven Wood Shades offer great textural contrast.

Bed Skirt

An off-the-shelf bed skirt often fits like old pantyhose.  No matter how many times you tug and wiggle, it just doesn’t work.  Many people don’t want to spend the money because it’s far from the main attraction but I am telling you….IT IS WORTH IT.  I will repeat my mantra ad nauseum:  Good Design is in the Details!

Smith + Noble Bedskirt - Inverted Pleat in Linen/Natural (1622)

Designer Pick

Smith + Noble makes great custom bed skirts with lots of options and they help you measure so you get it right.  Go with tailored or pleated if your style is simple, ruffled if you like a softer look.  There are over 800 different fabrics to choose from!  Again, go with a neutral tone for longer-lasting style.  These will blow an un-lined, off-the-shelf bed skirt out of the water.

I hope these tips make it much easier for you to plan where to devote your decorating dollars in your brand new bedroom.  Enjoy your investment pieces for years to come and don’t hesitate to change it up with new pillows or artwork.  You will be amazed at the difference!

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Greens on the table and a wonderful shade (Benjamin Moore Seedling AF-450) on the walls.

The upside of our ever-evolving economic saga is that we are re-learning the importance of a comfy home.  In a country chock full of things to do and see, I think some of us forgot how nice it is to spend time at home with family and friends or to wile away a pleasant afternoon alone.  You might be noticing some spots in your home that you would like to improve but a costly makeover is not in the cards right now.  So I started thinking of some super easy low-budget/high-impact projects that will give you a sense of pride and contentment and can be completed in just one day!  So check out the suggestions and take a look around.  Does a Mini-Makeover fit into your weekend plans?

There are many Aura colors to choose from plus any other Benjamin Moore paint color can be mixed as a low VOC formula.

First of all, we all know that painting is like waving a magic wand and there are few things that will give you as much bang for your buck.  So if any room in your house is tired looking, scuffed or lacking appeal, consider a painting project this weekend.  It will perk the room and your attitude right up!  I highly recommend Benjamin Moore Aura low-VOC paint.  It’s eco-friendly, does not smell up your house and dries in an hour.  And don’t fret about the higher cost per gallon because most colors only take one coat.

Room By Room Tips

The Prestige Bell Pendent from Bellacor is on clearance for $97 (from $227).

Foyer

• Install a new ceiling fixture, preferably one that hangs down a bit to make the area feel special.
• Choose a new rug that has some personality and fills the space.
• Hang some treasured family photos in matching frames.

Thai Silk Pillows from Target - $24.99-$29.99

Living Room

• Toss some new pillows on the sofa.  It’s a great way to infuse the latest color trends.
• Add a plant or some flowers to the room.  It sounds obvious but living things add life to a room.
• Install some drapery panels at the end of the windows.  Simple, stationery panels frame your windows at a reasonable price.

The produce section holds many treasures:-)

Dining Room

• If your chairs have slip-seats, consider reupholstering.  All you need is a stable gun and your new favorite print.
• Use produce as a centerpiece.  A jar or bowl filled with pomegranates, lemons or baby pumpkins will make you smile.
• If the table is usually bare, then add a table cloth.  If you always have it covered, then sport some snazzy place mats.

Winter Green Beehive Glass Cabinet Knob from Overstock.com $6.25 (down from $12.99).

Kitchen

• Change the knobs and don’t be wimpy.  Choose something fun, colorful or classic.
• Add some spice with a striking accent color in the form of a new rug, towels and oven mitts.
• Add under-counter lighting. It’s useful when you are working and looks lovely in the evening. 

Chrysanthemum 5x7 Limited Edition Art Print from Etsy - $9.

Bedroom

• Rotate artwork from other parts of the house or purchase some beautiful prints from Etsy and use ready-made frames.
• Replace your comforter with a simple white or ivory coverlet and be bold with the shams.
• Buy a colorful blanket and lay it across the foot of your bed.

Please share your own affordable yet highly decorative tips below!

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Pretty, pretty paint samples but oh, which one to choose?

Each day when I sit down to write for My Design Secrets, I try to imagine the challenges and dilemmas you all face when decorating your homes.  I pick topics and furnishings that I feel will best solve your problems and bring you one step closer to a well-designed home that truly reflects your style and personality.  Even with all this writing (183 posts so far!) I know that you still have some specific questions for your own home.  While I wish I could answer all your questions, the site has become very popular and there just are not enough hours in the day.  So we decided it was high time to launch an affordable online Interior Design Consulting Service.

Do any of these questions sound familiar?

• What color should I paint my living room?
• What type of window treatment will look great and keep out the afternoon sun?
• How do I decorate my child’s room so the style lasts more than a couple of years?
• How do I make my small bedroom look more spacious?

“Ask a Design Question” is a fee-based service that allows you to ask specific decorating questions for your home design project.  It’s very simple to use.  You provide me with background information and photos of your project and then ask me your questions.  There is nothing out there that matches us on price or convenience.  Most design consulting services demand a high hourly fee.  With our service, you only pay for what you need. 

Ask a Design Question Here!

I look forward to hearing from you!

~Lorrie