Articles » Last Minute Accessorizing

By: Debra Howard

Last Minute Accessorizing

So you’ve got a party planned.......

The menu is set, the food has been purchased, the house has been cleaned. The only problem; your living room looks tired and drab, but it’s one day before the party, what can you do?

If the party plans are under control, then let’s see what we can do to spice up your living room. Does it need to be re-arranged or is it lacking color punch? How about accessories? Are there too many or not enough? Once you’ve surveyed what needs to be done, it’s time to go to work.

Take inventory in the house. Are there any items you can move from a bedroom, den, etc., such as artwork, pillows, accent tables, accessories or area rugs?
Add plants. Maybe a potted plant from your patio or garden can be temporarily placed on a coffee table, fireplace, or in the corner of the room.
Candles are a design staple. If you already have some, how do they look? Are they dusty, or almost gone? Placing a few large candles in existing holders or grouping odd numbers in an inexpensive clay saucer or tray is a great accent. When lit, they will add a soft glow to the room and make it more inviting.
Raid the kitchen. Any interesting large serving plates, trays or chargers that can be placed in an easel for an additional accent piece?
Check your bookcase. Old books with interesting covers can be stacked with candles or a lamp on top.
Get creative with throws. If you have an interesting piece of fabric tucked away some where, pull out the stitch witch and iron and add a hem. Or if you’ve got a woven tablecloth in colors to match your décor, that too can be thrown over a chair or sofa for a splash of color. (It can also hide stains, or tears in upholstery.) The key is to make sure it can pass for a throw; you don’t want it to shout “tablecloth!”
Fresh flowers. If you don’t have a garden you can pick from, then consider a trip to the market or florist. Cut flowers in a beautiful vase can be an instant rejuvenator for any room.
Shop if you must! If there’s nothing you can recycle and you still have time, then you might need to make a trip to your favorite home furnishings store. Adding color will have the most dramatic impact, so think pillows, area rugs, artwork, etc. Make a list and be realistic; don’t try to redo everything in one day. You want to save some energy for your guests!

Debra Howard is a former Tucson Interior Designer and retail store owner. She now owns and maintains http://tucsonhomeandgardenspot.com