COLUMN: Decorating plan saves time, money

DEAR GAIL: We have just moved into our very first home, are on a limited budget and a bit overwhelmed on how to start decorating. What do we do first? -- Sabrina F.

DEAR SABRINA: Moving into your first home is so exciting, and decorating it should be a fun and enjoyable process.

Just as when you first started looking for your home, you probably had some idea of what you wanted, how much you wanted to spend, and where you wanted to live -- you had a plan. You'll also want a plan before you start decorating. Proper planning will save time, money, and make decorating easier, less frustrating and more fun.

Here are three simple steps to get you started:

First, decide which room you are going to start in. Write down what you want this room to feel like, how you want it to function, if it will be used for more than one purpose, how often you'll be in the room, and who will be using it. For your home to be functional and enjoyable, it is important that the needs and wants of everyone in the family are considered. These considerations will be the basis for the room's design.

Next, take inventory of what you own that you'll be using in the room. It is amazing how quickly we forget what we have. Plus, many pieces can have multiple uses, some of which you may not have thought of before. Take those pieces and arrange them in the room.

If you lack pieces to use, borrow from other rooms in the meantime so that you can visualize how the room will be arranged. Now, write down any new furniture, artwork or accessories that you need or want, and what their measurements will be. By taking inventory and arranging the room, you have a completed shopping list for your decorating plan.

Finally, think about how much you want to spend on each new item. When preparing a decorating budget, it is not what you can afford, but what you are willing to spend. You may be able to afford a $3,000 sofa, but you are only willing to spend $1,000. It is important to prepare a written budget and shopping list before you start decorating, otherwise you will overspend. Plus, when working on a limited budget, you may spend too much on one piece and then may not be able to complete your decorating when you wanted.

Putting together a decorating plan does take time in the beginning, but the planning will save you untold hours and money when you are shopping. You will also have confidence in making your purchases, and be able to take advantage of any sales.

It is best to shop for something when you do not need it because you'll save money and time and have fun.

Gail Mayhugh, owner of GMJ Interiors, is a professional interior designer and author of a book on the subject. Questions may be sent by e-mail to: gail@gmjinteriors.com. Or, mail to: 8170 S. Eastern Ave, Box 4-275, Las Vegas, NV 89123. Her Web address is: www.GMJinteriors.com.

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