Welcoming Touches

 

Welcoming touches throughout a home tell family and friends "I am so glad you are here".  I frequently think of home decorating as a process of layering.  Decorating happens from the structure of walls, windows, and flooring, to the necessary elements like lighting and window coverings.  The next layer are the furnishings that fill the spaces of the home.  This becomes the palate for the elements that make your home uniquely you --- the finishing touches that create welcome and personalize each space.   Starting at the front door, wreaths or baskets of blooms can welcome the guest.  They don't have to be elaborate or fancy; a simple or rustic arrangement will do.  Throughout the house, pretty plants or floral bouquets can be tucked in corners or added to small tables here and there.  A chalk board in a kitchen center, a pretty tin of pencils, a gathering of objects by theme, and candles grouped by height on a pretty tray can exude "welcome" to those who enter into your home.  Look around the space where you live.   Is there a cozy throw nearby that someone can curl up with to read a book?  A board game in view that can signal old-time, slow-paced, relaxing fun. Even an ottoman can signal to guests that you would like them to stay awhile as they put up their feet and read from the interesting magazines set in a basket nearby.  Tiny touches.  Welcome!