This week, we have the pleasure of hosting Mary Beth Anderson as our guest. In addition to being the accomplished producer behind several popular TV shows including HGTV’s Brother vs Brother, Restored by the Fords, My Lottery Dream Home, Design Star, and Good Bones, Mary Beth is the fearless leader behind Ballard’s new TV show, Design School, set to launch on QVC+ on March 24th hosted by our very own Caroline! Mary Beth provides an overview of what viewers can expect from Design School, and how it differs from her previous projects (we think this will be her favorite). She shares some fun behind-the-scenes information about her experience producing design TV, and some of her favorite moments from taping. Get ready for some decorating dilemmas and much more to be on a TV channel near you, very soon. 
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

 What was the genesis of the TV show? 

How can we watch it? 

Will some of my favorite podcast guests be on the TV show? 

What is the format of the show, and how is it different from the typical makeover show? 

Format of the show and how it’s different from a makeover show.

Mary Beth walks us through the process of filming and some of the logistical hurdles. 

Some of the team’s favorite moments from the show. 

How did they find the homes and designers featured in the show? 

How did the experience of shooting this project differ from other property projects?

What is the future of design TV?

What is the story behind the great “cocktail table takeaway”? 

Mentioned in This Episode:
Ballard Designs
Mary Beth Anderson 
QVC+ 

Ep. 301: Surprise! Our new TV show!

This week marks the 300th episode of our podcast, which means it's time to attempt our very first lightning round Decorating Dilemma Q&A special episode! Thank you so much for listening and support the How to Decorate podcast over the years. To honor our podcasting milestone, today's episode is all about authentically answering your home decorating questions: Caroline, Taryn, and Liz break down your Instagram-submitted questions by topic, from decorating with patterns and colors, living room layouts, outdoor styling questions, and even a few mystery wildcard questions. 
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

When will the color gray die?

What are some good color trends for traditional transitional designs?

Why the color wheel is a great tool for picking a color palette.

Decorating with patterns versus solids.

Is there a limit to the number of chairs in a room?

The power of pattern in your room.

How to create a zone in your home.

How do you style a coffee table?

How to add cozy ambiance for outdoor space lighting.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Ballard Designs

Hartwell Leather Sofa

Ep. 300: Listener Q&A Special!

Our guest this week is renowned architect Bobby McAlpine. His eponymous firm, McAlpine, is known for blending modern and traditional elements to create bold, soulful, and poetic homes meant to capture imaginations while still feeling familiar. Bobby joins the pod to talk about his new book, Romantic Modernism, out on March 21st, and discusses some of the sculptural elements he brought into the architecture, the influence theater and drama have had on his work, and the personification of his home including knowing his boy house needed a sister. Bobby also shares what life on a private island is really like and how we can include soft yet beautiful drapery in our homes to give us that romantic yet modern twist.
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How the silver and gold crayons represent classicism and modernism to Bobby.

How Bobby decides when to really go for it in some elements in the house and when to remove them.

How has the experience of living in the house in Atlanta been compared to what Bobby imagined when designing it?

What it’s really like to have a private island in the world.

How Bobby balances being in the world of both architecture and art.

What would Bobby tell a student starting their first year of school now?

The importance of choosing materials that are timeless.

Many of us build more than we want and need, and a good house is not a long real estate amenities list of things.

Mentioned in This Episode:
Ballard Designs
McAlpine
Romantic Modernism

Ep. 299: Romantic Modernism with Bobby McAlpine

Our guest this week is good friend Susanna Salk: design expert, successful YouTube creator, and author of over 14 books. Susanna talks with us about her new book, Making a House a Home, and some of the things she’s been most surprised about in the designer’s homes. She also discusses the difference between a designer’s home vs. a non-designers home and how we can bring that casual elegance into our own life, and gives insight into why spring cleaning isn’t exactly her thing including ways to edit your wardrobe and home in an easier, more consistent way.
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How does Susanna find the time and inspiration to come up with her book concepts?

Some of Susanna’s favorite tips and tricks that she has brought into her own space that she saw in a designer’s house.


Making a House a Home is for everyone, both designers and novices alike.

What are visual landscapes?

How we can tie visual landscapes together using the dinner guest analogy.

Your rooms don't have to look perfect, but they have to make you feel right.

Susanna’s motto: “live with what you love, or give it away to somebody else.”

Mentioned in This Episode:
Ballard Designs
Susanna Salk 
Making a House a Home 
Miles Redd

Decorating Dilemma
Susanna wishes she was right with you! If she was there, the first thing she would do is get you a fantastic rug to cut up some of the wood. This would be the biggest game changer, and it doesn’t even have to be an expensive rug. Check out the Ballard rugs with a big, beautiful juicy pattern on it, and put the rug under your table area. Next, you should paint those current cabinets a nice white. Then, take the spindly chandelier that's coming down low and kind of blocking the windows above that table. And I would put a more recessed light above there.
You don’t need window treatments, and the windows and the view are beautiful enough. As far as the table, Susanna recommends getting rid of the little table and replacing it with a series of flower pots down along the floor area or a fiddle fig tree along the side.
If you can replace the dining room table, a vintage table or long farmhouse wood table would highlight the rug and make it feel less matchy-matchy. Or if you do replace the black solid barstools, pick a soft fun pattern and don’t worry about it matching with the rug.
If you only have $500 to spend, have an electrician take down the chandelier and put in another ceiling light. Thanks so much for writing in and good luck!  

Ep. 298: Making a House a Home with Susanna Salk

It’s all about Trials and Triumphs this week as we talk about power outages and faulty fireplaces, beautiful drapes, a lack of hot water, Liz's recent trip to Paris, and why you should always store your warranties in a safe place. We also talk about new ventures in wallpaper and some of our favorite artist girl crushes.
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Triumphs including finally having a fence around the pool - super ready for summer!

New ventures in wallpaper, including Anna French’s Thibaut and Peter Dunham.

Liz’s trip to Paris was a definite triumph.

A trial on a bathroom tile redo. Sometimes, you just have to try and try again.

You’re not alone if you’ve ever run a bath and just had four droplets of cold water come out.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Ballard Designs

Caitlin McGauley

Gracie

Whitney McGregor

Ep. 297: Trials and Triumphs

We welcome internationally recognized interior designer Suzanne Rheinstein to talk about her third book A Welcoming Elegance and how she chose the beautifully photographed homes of the featured clients. Suzanne shares some great tips for those learning to decorate on how to transition into new spaces and re-imagine them, and how we can blend contemporary with antique.
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

The inspiration behind Suzanne’s new book, A Warming Elegance. 


How to use your home as a place to help a transition in your life.

The inspiration for the house in Montecito.

Blending contemporary with antique.

Suzanne’s love for drawings and old and new.

What are your favorite ways to make your home feel casual?

Suzanne’s zest for a party featuring all ages.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Ballard Designs

A Warming Elegance 

Suzanne Website 

Decorating Dilemma 
We are here to assist you with decorating your entryway and hallway! First, if you want to do vinyl wallpaper and find an all-over pattern that you like, we’re with you. Suzanne would cover every bulkhead and do a small pattern. Also, use the resources that large paint companies such as Benjamin Moore provide. Their people can be super helpful and knowledgeable. Suzanne is drawn to the beauty of the blue cabinets in the kitchen and the yellow door. The third color she would add is red…but a deep rose or a red with pink undertones.
We love some stripes too - more narrow lines give you a little more breathing room. You can bring in colors from other rooms.

Ep. 296: A Welcoming Elegance with Suzanne Rheinstein

We welcome Elizabeth Lawrence, Interior Designer and Partner at Bunny Williams Inc. Elizabeth is an iconic designer known for her layered approach to traditional interiors, and her work has been featured in Architectural Digest, Elle Decor House, and much more. Elizabeth talks about her journey from intern to partner with Bunny, a few of her favorite Bunny-isms that make a room feel layered and comfortable, and some current things she’s loving in 2023. Elizabeth talks about her personal jumping-off point when starting in a home and how to add more creature comforts to your home.
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Elizabeth talks about her journey from intern to partner.

How does Elizabeth’s personal style both align and dovetail with Bunny’s?

The one color both she and Bunny aren’t a fan of.

What about an unusual space that doesn’t have a natural layout? Are there different types of seating or things that one could try?

Ideas for moving around furniture in a simple way that yields powerful changes.

Mentioned in This Episode:
Ballard Designs
Elizabeth Lawrence IG 
Bunny Williams Home 
Decorating Dilemma 
First, congratulations on a beautiful house that already has some great and older details! Elizabeth sees your vision for wanting to show off the trim around the windows, and an important thing to remember is that every room doesn’t have to be the same. For curtains, something not too heavy with a thin metal rod would be read. It’s also really pretty to paint the trim color, and you can pick one of the nice colors in the wallpaper and accent both the trim and the ceiling with it. For the ceiling, Elizabeth recommends a hint of gray, blue, pink, or something light and beautiful.
We like the wallpaper and the color options that it gives you, and you are lucky to have some good choices! Keep us updated, and thanks again for writing in.

Ep. 295: Planning Multipurpose Rooms with Elizabeth Lawrence

We catch up this week with Atlanta-based designer Mallory Mathison, who blends the classical richness of the past with endless design possibilities for today. Mallory’s work has been featured in Southern Homes, Atlanta Homes, and most recently in the 2022 Flower Magazine Show House here in Atlanta. We talked with Mallory about how much we loved her room, and the steps she took to create a glowy, gilded garden room. Mallory shares what she loves about showrooms, and shares a few key pieces of wisdom to make your space classic and comfortable, and always ready for the perfect party.
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Mallory’s process of creating a character-driven showroom.

How Mallory chose warm glittery glowy lighting and the perfect pink in her Show House room.

How did Mallory hang her mirror in the show house on top of the beautiful fabric over a daybed?

How do we make our bars look amazing and what can we do to be always party ready?

The importance of staying on the good side of a contractor.

Wicker is like comfort food for the home.

How to use brackets in different ways.

Where Mallory starts with color on a project.

Tips for framing and creating a beautiful eye-catching gallery wall.


﻿Mentioned in This Episode:

Ballard Designs

Mallory Mathison: Website | IG



Decorating Dilemma 
First off, what a cute kitchen! Mallory suggests really leaning into the historic nature of your home, instead of trying to make it “modern” and making it something that it’s not. First, we can make it feel cleaner and brighter, and definitely more stylish. For the color, Mallory suggests a very light soft celery green or green that has a bit more of a yellow base than a blue base. That's going to complement the purple tones much better than something that has a blue base. Check out Benjamin Moore’s “Stolen Moments 477”.
You can also add crown molding that's appropriate to the house in the kitchen. On the walls, Mallory suggests an eggshell so you have reflectivity. In your little charming breakfast nook, we think you should use the Margo Hanging Shade Light Fixture and for flooring, check out American Restoration Tile.
If you are needing to prioritize things, first do the lighting and then paint the cabinets. Thanks for writing in, and keep us posted!  

Ep. 294: Blending Past and Present with Mallory Mathison

It’s a really exciting show this week as we hear about the 2023 Ballard Designs Trend Report from Taryn and Hillary in Product Design. In this special episode, both Product Designers break down the latest in key interior design trends including color, finishings, wallpaper, and hospitality design. From a well-traveled home to color choices to a Barbie pink renaissance, we’ve got the latest and trendiest in interior design covered to help make your home an even more beautiful sanctuary.
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What is a trend report, and why did they go through this exercise?

What’s popping in pattern and color?

Some aspects of the well-traveled home.

The indoor garden movement? Sign us up.

A Pink Renaissance! Are we really living in a Barbie dream house?

Trends for 2023 colors like Pantone, raspberry, and terracotta.

Are chrome finishes going to get even more popular this year?

Trends in fabric and wallpaper.

Mentioned in This Episode:
Ballard Designs

Ep. 293: Trend Report for 2023

It’s all about getting out of the routine and the regular this week as we welcome New York-based interior designer Stewart Manger to the show. Stewart has worked in some of the most celebrated design offices in the United States, and we talk to him about learning from David Easton, Bunny Williams, and David Kleinberg as well as his advice for new and upcoming designers. Stewart shares the inspiration behind his new book, Romancing The Home, and gives us a few expert tips on balancing both style and comfort in design.
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How the point of view comes from the voice of the house as well as the client.

Stewart’s ability to naturally blend traditional and modern while bringing in contemporary.

How working with celebrated names like David Easton, Bunny Williams, and David Kleinberg influenced him and what elements of their work and habits he draws into his own practice now.

How can we better distribute patterns around the room?

How small details can have a large impact, such as leading edges on drapery.

Ways to mix it up and get out of your own routine.

Why your upholstery should be comfortable, and the rule that you shouldn’t buy a chair if you haven’t sat in it!

Textured and tactile fabrics can make our furniture feel more comfortable.

Why Stewart is a big fan of white kitchens and that NOW is the time to buy that brown furniture.

How can we use rugs to warm up the room?

What was it like for Stewart to hop over to Scotland and design a castle?

The importance for future designers to work in a professional office for someone they admire.

Mentioned in This Episode:
Ballard Designs 
Stewart Manger 
@stewartmangerdesign 
Romancing the Home 
How to Make a Bed with Bunny Williams 
Decorating Dilemma: 
Thank you for writing in Susan! First, you have a great home and you are doing very well! Next, it is not a missed opportunity if you don’t fill the space, so don’t worry about that. Stewart agrees that you don’t want to over furnish it, and sometimes there are areas that don’t necessarily need anything at all. With that in mind, we agree that a bench can be a great method to add more storage and still put your Christmas tree there. Also, there is a 3-inch span of the wall next to the door, and you may want to consider an oversized bracket or wall-mounted table that can serve as a perch. Check out the Julian wall bracket. Here you can also add some lamps or candles to add a nice glow.

Ep. 292: Romancing the Home with Stewart Manger

Karen Mooney, our fearless leader and President of Ballard Designs, joins us to celebrate the milestone of Ballard’s 40th Anniversary. We dive into the company history, how Ballard Designs grew into what it is now, and then Karen shares a few of her favorite trends over her 22 years with the brand. Then, we talk about what’s next for Ballard as it enter 2023 and everything beyond. Thank you so much for your support for Ballard Designs: we couldn’t have helped inspire home decorators over the past 40 years without our lovely patrons, community, and listeners like you.
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Who is Helen Ballard?

The 40-year story of Ballard Designs.

The value add of upholstery and unique other special touches Ballard is proud to give their customers.

The history of architecture and design and the importance of mixing both high and low.

Okay for real, how do you sneak an ottoman into a room during a coffee break?

What really went on in the Ballard backroom?

What products do we think “what was that?”

Yes, monogrammed toilet paper is a thing.

The importance of doing your homework in the design process.

New Ballard news for 2023 and beyond.

Mentioned in This Episode:
Ballard Designs

Ep. 291: Celebrating Ballard’s 40th Anniversary

It’s a very special episode this week as we welcome Jeanine Hays and Bryan Mason, the brainchild of the husband and wife team behind AphroChic. Their latest release, AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home, is a gorgeous and impactful book that showcases the stories of numerous homes and the in-depth conversations with the residents that celebrate their unique family story. Jeanine and Bryan talk about the inspiration behind the book and how the story of home begins way before we enter the home we’re in now. They talk about the decision to create a design book that is also a history book, and the intention of storytelling in a way that is educational, expansive, and entertaining.
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:


Jeanine and Bryan talk about their journey into Aphrochic and their “why” behind the book.

The families selected were some designers, but also teachers, chef, writers, and just people with aesthetic and authentic taste. 


Aphrochic shows that design is so much more than just choosing color and a palette. It’s about creating a feeling and sharing your story. 

The feeling of safety, freedom, and visibility is extremely important in many Black family homes. 

Jeanine and Bryan talk about their own upbringings and how the feeling of a space impacted them to their adult lives. 

Jeanine and Bryan talk about working together to write the book even through health challenges. 

The stories in Aphrochic tell stories of both economic perspectives between Black and white homes and also feature beautiful portraits of resilience and joy. 

What’s a “womb room?” 

A bit about what’s next for Jeanine and Bryan, including their magazine Aphrochic Magazine and a line of products. 


Mentioned in This Episode:
AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home

Ep. 290: Aphrochic and the Legacy of Black Design

We welcome the wonderful Suzanne Tucker to the show this week, where she gives us a preview of her third book published last month, Extraordinary Interiors. Suzanne is recognized as one of the country’s leading interior designers, known for her endearing style, attention to detail, and passion for architectural and decorative arts. Suzanne talks with us about many things including the beauty of having a second set of eyes when making interior design decisions, how to put your own stamp on something, and why the bones of a room or space matters first before you start adding the extra things on top of it.
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How to put your own stamp on something in a way that gives it your personal touch.

The beauty of having a trusted friend and pair of eyes when it comes to design.

Why multi pigmented paint is such a great choice, and how it changes a room hour by hour.

How bringing in art that you love and feel connected to can tie a room together stylistically.

Why should we start with the “bones” and the framework before adding the little touches.

How lighting can completely transform a room and is a key component and the three different levels of lighting.

Suzanne’s talks about “mouse house” in Santa Barbara and how it gives her a beautiful respite for serenity and peace.

More about Suzanne’s new book, Extraordinary Interiors and a few of the special projects featured in it.

How we can make modern contemporary still feel warm and layered.

Mentioned in This Episode:
Suzanne Tucker: IG | Website 
Extraordinary Interiors

Decorating Dilemma: 
Thank you for writing, and between the slow pitch ceiling, and angled fireplaces, what a beautiful space you have. We all agree that it already has fantastic bones, so brava for that. Suzanne says that she would not worry too much about the door, and you can leave it as is instead of painting it a particularly strong color. As far as the little telephone table, the cute little bench with the navy upholstery, we suggest putting something over it. Possibly a mirror, but if you go that route, be sure to note what exactly it is you are reflecting. If it’s the kitchen, we may want to opt for something else.
If you aren’t feeling the chandelier, don’t worry about tossing it! Remember, someone’s trash is someone else's treasure.
We love the black wall, and you can paint it black or just change it to a black outlet so it disappears. In that outlet, you can plug in a pair of lamps.
Don't underestimate the power of having a piece of art in the kitchen. That's kind of fun. But, Suzanne also thinks the open shelves would be good there.
Thanks so much, and let us know how it goes!  

Ep. 289 Extraordinary Interiors with Suzanne Tucker

It’s a fun trials and triumphs episode this week! We cover everything from fancy diffusers from Target to fill your home with lovely scents, and how pressure washing a white home can make a world of a difference. Liz finally tells the “tub story”, and we discuss how a new house doesn’t mean it comes without issues and putting some TLC into it. At the end, everyone shares their holiday plans and we dream about shopping in Paris.
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:


Diffusers are great for old homes with a funky smell, or new homes with older dogs that also have a funky smell.

Some tips for hosting a book club at your home.

More on woven blinds and how they can level up a room.

Some of the first steps

What do you do with your kids when you’re having people over?

Wait, do our kids actually think we’re cool?

As Liz heads to Paris, we share some of our favorite places to shop there.

Mentioned in This Episode:
E. Dehillerin

Ep 288: Trials and Triumphs

This week we welcome New York based prop stylist Robin Zachary. After working as the Creative Director for Bridal Guide Magazine, Robin launched her prop styling career and has since founded The Prop Styling Experience: a popular prop styling workshop. Robin talks with us about how to start styling with the things you already have and love, advice for those looking to get into the field, and more about her book, Styling Beyond Instagram: Take Your Prop Styling Skills From the Square to the Street. 
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:


What exactly does a prop stylist do?

What are some of the biggest misconceptions about prop styling?

Advice for those looking to get into prop styling.

What led Robin to develop both her workshop and book?

How Instagram and Pinterest have changed the world of photography.

Robin’s great advice on how you can make things look beautiful on a daily basis.

How to find the perfect pillow cover for your sofa.

Some of the inspiration behind Styling Beyond Instagram. 


A plug for Ballard - you can order any of our 350 fabrics and a pillow cover, and we will make it for you!

Mentioned in This Episode:
Robin Zachary 
@robinzachary 
Styling Beyond Instagram 
Decorating Dilemma: 
First, you have an incredible start, and your photos already look like an “after” with all the great textures. Now let’s get into it. You absolutely can find some throw pillows that unite all the colors together, and something in the family of colors should be fine, maybe even some stripes to contrast from the patterns already in the space. The pillows on the brown leather chairs are a little overpowering in size for that really unique shape, so you may want to downsize in a roll pillow that is navy. to quiet down the busy chairs.
Take a page from Robin’s book to find something with a contrasting texture to your sofa, and maybe try to find a real nubby linen or something kind of woven. The great thing about pillow covers is that it's easy to replace them and try something new. So order some to bring them home, you can send them back if they don't work.
It would be great to decorate the mantel for the holidays, with branches, bows, candles, and other winter tidings that you can transition out after the Christmas season.
We would have items that are ready to pick up and move as you need the table but keep the table decorated, and we would have a low floral arrangement or plant with a wide bowl on the table.
You are a great stylist, and thank you for taking the time to write in!  

Ep. 287    Styling Secrets with Robin Zachary

We’ve got a great duo here this week on How to Decorate: Rachel Barrett, Editor in Chief of Country Living and acclaimed singer songwriter, serial house renovator and contributing Country Living writer Holly Williams. In the November issue of Country Living, we get to see the beautiful country house they renovated using some Ballard products. We hear the story of how they came to collaborate and the little details that turned out to be one big vision. They also talk about working in a tight timeline, along with some behind the scenes moments of a not so glamorous photo shoot. We also talk about fun ideas for ping pong rooms, how bold colors can make a big difference, and the importance of having a touchstone item.
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

How to create a cohesive vision for a project, especially when working in a tight timeline.

Maybe you should look on Craigslist for real estate?

How they incorporated an itch to use hunting lodge decor in their farmhouse.

The importance of starting with a neutral color.

Empowerment of happy accidents and being able to roll with things.

The importance of having a “touchstone” item.

Using brass lamps and skirted tables to create contrast.

The importance of window coverings in the house.

What to do if you have an eyesore in your home.

Mentioned in This Episode:
Rachel Hardage Barrett 
Holly Williams 
Country Living Magazine
Decorating Dilemma: 
Thank you for writing in! First, the fireplace already has contrast against the white wall and then the shelves are pretty high contrast, so, maybe something that's a little bit like richer, darker, and warmer color might help it feel like one unit. Next, a skirted table underneath the TV in some great fabric can be repeated in the same fabric on the windows.
And remember, bold fabric will change the world! It makes everything feel intentional and beautiful, without busting your bank. As far as curtain rods, check out luddite brass ones.
For color, Oakmoss by Sherwin Williams could work, or a Jasper or Moss Point Green.  

Ep. 286 Renovating a Country House with Country Living

This week features Veronica Solomon, Houston interior designer and CEO and Creative Director of Casa Vilora Interiors. Veronica is also a mentor and a professional coach to other interior designers looking to build their businesses in the design community. She talks about the development of her bold style, her love of the eclectic and layered looks, her inspiration for taking more risks, and how not to be afraid of a dark wall. 

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

What does it mean to be eclectic? 

Are there certain rooms where Veronica feels like it makes sense to be a little more bold? 

When is the right time to use draperies?

Veronica’s advice on taking more risks in a way that is calculated and intentional.

Low commitment but big splash items that can lend themselves to be a little more bold such as art and light fixtures. 

How to know when it’s time to just call a designer? 

Thinking about putting your favorite color everywhere on the wall? Veronica shares why you may want to think again, and how to weave it in using a more methodical way. 

How to spice up a neutral space. 

Plants are a great way to add texture to a space. 

Veronica’s love of a BIG light fixture. 



Mentioned in This Episode:
Veronica Solomon
@Casa Vilora 


Decorating Dilemma: 
First off, we love that you are bold and Veronica is certainly the right guest to answer this! She thinks you should keep it in red, match whatever trim color in the space, and do it in satin instead of high gloss for a nice sheen without too much shine. A grayer red versus an orange-red is what you want. Let us know how it turns out, we can’t wait to see! 

Ep. 285 Achieving an Eclectic Look with Veronica Solomon

We are so excited to have former host Karen Mooney back on the show! On this special holiday episode, Karen gives us an update on her life since becoming President of Ballard Designs, walks us through her new beach house design, shares her favorite holiday Ballard products, and joins Caroline, Taryn, and Liz in giving tips for entertaining, holiday decorating, gift ideas, and more. Also, be sure to check out Ballard Design's Black Friday Deals while they last!
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Karen gives us an update of what she’s been up to since becoming President of Ballard.

Karen surprises us, and herself, with how colorful she has decorated her beach house.

How the podcast has helped Karen expand and embolden her design style.

We each offer our best hosting tips.

Thanksgiving dinner in the day or the evening?

Karen gives us her secret recipe for gravy.

How to set the table so it breaks the ice for guests.

What are the main parts of the house we decorate for the holidays?

How to accent faux decorations with “real” natural elements.

Does holiday decor need to match your existing decor or have a theme?

We gush over a few of our holiday items available.

Which Ballard products make great gifts?



Mentioned in This Episode:
Holiday & Seasonal Decorations
Andros Linen Panel
Café Dinnerware Collection
Holiday Dinnerware Collection
Drinkware
Flatware
Ballroom Folding Chairs
Marseille Linen Napkins
Tree Garland
Angel Pine Garland
Essential Stocking Holder
Mercury Glass Hurricane
Belissima Flax Linen Bedding
Amelie Bath Towel Collection
Faux Fur Blanket
Petite Acrylic Easel
Personalized Coir Mats
More Personalized Products
Holiday Pillows
Book Assortment
Candles
Angel Bottle Wings
Celebratory Cocktail Napkins
Ornaments
Ep. 117: designer Janie Molster
Tom Scheerer

Ep. 284: Holiday Essentials with Karen

We conclude our special series highlighting the FLOWER Magazine Atlanta Showhouse with a recap of our in-person tour! Ballard Designs is proud to be one of the sponsors of the house. 
We share our initial thoughts and takeaways and go room by room to marvel at each designer’s work. Our biggest takeaway? The house is so awe-inspiring that we have to go again! And if you’re local, we highly recommend a visit. 
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:


We start with the breathtaking entryway which includes textures, patterns, and a plethora of wallpaper.

We dig into the wallpaper, the details, and the cohesiveness of the house.

We are hoarse from talking so much at the showhouse; everyone was so inspiring and welcoming!

The house had everything you could imagine; including LIVE birds!

Did we mention there was pink marble?

We attempt to pick our favorite room. Is it even possible?

Which room had hand-painted tiger wallpaper?

Each space, even the small ones, was designed as its own room. A reminder to maximize every space.

Our only complaint was the space-age toilets the builder put in.

Why every single space was a wow moment; you must go in person if you can! 


Mentioned in This Episode:
Visit the FLOWER Magazine Atlanta Showhouse to preview each designer’s space.
Buy tickets to the Showhouse HERE!

Ep. 283: Flower Showhouse: Recap

We are back with our special series highlighting the FLOWER magazine showhouse here in Atlanta. This episode features the celebrated Dallas-based interior designer, Cathy Kincaid. Known for her use of color and her exquisite eye for antiques, Cathy talks to us about how no detail is too small, her love of cozy bedrooms, and her tips for creating elegant yet livable designs inside your home. Cathy talks more about different ways to personalize your bedroom including getting clear on how you like your lighting, bed dressings, textiles, and furniture set up.
If you’d like to visit the house in person you can purchase tickets here, and also follow along with the podcast series whether you can see it in person or not!
What You’ll Hear on This Episode:


Cathy loves smaller bedrooms and finds them to be super cozy.

What was Cathy’s inspiration behind the color choice in the bedroom, other than it being the woman's domain?

The influence of the baby Taj on the bedroom design.

Cathy dives more into her choice of fabric and drapery in the bedroom.

What are some ways that we can create bedrooms that feel elegant, timeless, and livable?

How we can bring more comfort to ourselves in the bedroom, and also make it family-friendly for other partners, children, and of course…our pets.

Some ideas if you are like Cathy and want a desk somewhere in your bedroom.

Beautiful lighting ideas and how to make your nightstand more functional.

Cathy gives some great bed sheet recommendations and is not one to spend her morning stacking a million pillows.

What are some classic colors for a bedroom that stand the test of time?


Mentioned in This Episode:
Cathy Kincaid 
The Well Adorned Home: Making Luxury Livable

How to Decorate

How to Decorate

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