Design • January 21, 2023

Wallpaper Made a Major Comeback—Can the Wallpaper Border Do the Same?

by Stephanie K. Chan

The past few years have seen a resurgence in ’70s-, ’80s-, and ’90s-inspired home decor trends that homeowners and interior designers alike were nearly certain were left in the past. Out of all of them, one of the most impressive and surprising comebacks has been the renewed obsession with wallpaper. Available in a plethora of modern and stylish designs and patterns, wallpaper is now easier to apply (and remove) than ever, making it popular among both interior designers and home decor DIYers.

Wallpaper has quite literally made the comeback of the century in home decor, and along with it comes another related trend—wallpaper borders. While wallpaper has seen an increase in popularity over the past few years, we’re only just starting to see people experimenting with wallpaper borders again. So are wallpaper borders set to be the next big thing in interior design? We talked to a few interior design experts to get their take on this ’80s-inspired trend.

What Is a Wallpaper Border?

A wallpaper border is a thin strip of wallpaper that is used to edge a room or define a space or pattern on the wall, for those who weren’t around when wallpaper borders were previously in style in the 1980s and early ’90s. Traditionally, wallpaper borders were applied around the tops of walls or used break up two different types of wall coverings (like paint and wallpaper) as a technique to hide imperfections in the wallpapering application.

Today, wallpaper borders can be used and applied in a multitude of unique and creative ways, from accentuating doorways and windows to dressing up your staircase risers.

Are Wallpaper Borders Really Making a Comeback?

As it turns out, wallpaper borders are a bit of a polarizing topic among interior design experts. For those who enjoy minimalism and clean design, the trend can feel overpowering and outdated. However, for those who enjoy maximalism and playing with colors and layers in design, wallpaper borders present an exciting opportunity to try something new.

For Laura Aguilar, owner and principal interior designer at Aguilar Design Studio, it’s a yes to wallpaper borders. “We are thrilled that wallpaper is having such a huge moment lately, and if wallpaper is popular, you can believe that borders are too!” she says.

For other designers, though, wallpaper borders are a trend they are happy to leave in the past. Erika Twohig and Julie Sanfilippo, co-founders of interior design firm Cedar House Design Collective, aren’t excited about the possibility. “As interior designers and adults with vivid memories of our mother’s wallpaper borders, we hope they do not make a comeback,” they say.

So what’s the final consensus? While it looks like this wall covering is truly making a bit of a comeback, most experts agree that it is probably set to be a short-lived trend that may not make it to the mainstream decorating world. For that reason, many experts recommended using peel and stick wallpaper borders for easy application and even easier removal (plus, peel and stick is renter-friendly!).

While we may not see wallpaper borders totally taking over the design world anytime soon, for those who love all things maximalism or are simply looking for a fun way to add some character to their space, wallpaper borders are definitely a trend worth trying.

How to Implement Wallpaper Borders in Your Home

While wallpaper borders were traditionally used to border an existing wallpaper application, there are lots of creative ways you can integrate wallpaper borders into your home. For example, try using a wallpaper border to accentuate the windows and doors in a room, or on the ceiling for an unexpected pop of color. Aguilar recommends using wallpaper borders to outline a focal point in the room to really make it pop: “Like a gorgeous fireplace mantle, beautiful artwork or dress up a chair rail,” she says. She also recommends using wallpaper borders in place of crown molding or wall trim, or as a way to break up two pieces of wallpaper for some added contrast.

Home Fun • Home Improvement • January 19, 2023

The Case for Repurposing Your Space

by Stephanie K. Chan

It’s almost criminal — leaving rooms in your home underutilized. While navigating the obstacle course of life, there are a host of reasonable factors that lead to this common home-functionality transgression. Now is the ideal moment to repurpose what you have and reinvent such spaces.

A desirable feature of yesteryear, the formal dining room is now often deemed obsolete by many homeowners, who allow it to morph into an underused or wasted space. A contributing factor is the evolution of the kitchen into a multi-functional communal area. Fortunately, the size and central location of this former principal gathering room typically allow for plenty of practical new purposes.

Similarly, extra bedrooms are always useful – until they aren’t. These rooms typically boast prime real estate within a dwelling, yet unless you frequently host overnight guests, they easily befall the sin of neglect. If it’s become rare for you to have stayover visitors, the space is well worth repurposing to revive and add value to your floor plan. It’s your oyster for all sorts of possibilities!

Any of the following suggestions could inspire these rooms’ next roles. Here is a curated collection of the most actionable and relevant ways to inspire an uplifting transformation in your dwelling’s neglected spaces.

Serious Business

Particularly with recent shifts to a work-from-home situation, savvy homeowners have taken to the idea of repurposing their dining room into a home office. Adding a desk, shelves and a few chairs – perhaps from the dining table set – will easily convert an outdated area into a place dedicated to work or remote learning. Get creative with this project and give the room a true makeover with a bold new paint color, wallpaper and artwork throughout the reimagined space.

Child’s Play

If you have young children, consider creating a designated play area. You can maintain organization in the room by adding a colorful chest of drawers, whimsical hutch or handy bins for toys and game storage. Be sure to incorporate plenty of comfortable seating, and perhaps even a television to enhance the capabilities and fun factor.

Hobbyist Lair

Bibliophiles and audiophiles, rejoice! A dining room or spare bedroom could be reinvented into a library or combo listening studio. Any treasured books or magazines hidden away in boxes or spread among various coffee tables throughout the house can be placed on stylish display on dramatic floor-to-ceiling shelving. An essential here is at least one ultra-cozy chair. Vinyl lovers can add a turntable and settle in for undisturbed contemplation. Further elevate this converted space by introducing an elegant bar cart or armoire bar cabinet.

Mindful Movement

Fitness-focused households might find another use for an underutilized space – and pounce on the opportunity to build out a home gym. Relocate or sell any unneeded furniture, and as a first step for those with wood flooring, try laying foam mat overtop. Double down on the quality of this transition by installing a full-length mirror. Then comes the fun part: Decide which machines, weights or other equipment would optimize the revitalized room.

Every square inch of your residence matters, so if you discover any areas that have become abandoned, focus on the primary needs and functions that best serve you and your family – and reference these tips to get the most out of your space.

Selling • January 18, 2023

Staging Tips to Sell Your Home This Spring

by Stephanie K. Chan

Whether on television, at an open house or on the pages of a magazine, we’ve all seen stunningly outfitted estates that deliver a true wow factor – and listing price – that properties without staging just cannot match. Buyers quickly fall in love with homes that have a strong character while wordlessly conveying the lifestyle they would enjoy if they lived there. Before listing your property, consider that proper staging is one of the most important factors in enhancing your home’s appeal and most flattering features.

First Things First

In order to entice potential buyers, you must think outside the box – but to start, examine what needs to be done to get your home in showplace shape. Check under older carpets for lovely hardwood, survey the ceiling for cracks or leaks to seal, consider having the pool or tennis court resurfaced and focus on boosting your curb appeal. Once your home is a clean slate, you are ready to begin.

Neutral Rules

When using achromatic tones on painted walls and furniture, ensure that the staging pieces do not distract from the form of the home. When staging for luxury, color psychology can signal buyers that they’re working with a discerning seller who has elevated the home to its full, indulgent potential.

In the world of interior design, fashion and luxury vehicles, neutral colors have always made a recognizable statement of power, sophistication and confidence. Once you’re prepared to stage your home, you’ll want to highlight those qualities with the crème de la crème of design – blacks, grays and whites.

While buyers will always notice houses with splashy displays, that doesn’t necessarily mean they will find them appropriate for their tastes. Staging experts often use furniture, rugs and paint in neutral hues (also consider beige and pale, cool colors) to help buyers overlay their own creations onto the scene and more easily discover the home could be the perfect fit.

Character Is King

Often, a seamless introduction to the home involves pairing décor with architectural personality. Envision how Old-World pillars and stonework are beautifully complemented by gold-framed art and Turkish rugs, and contemporary interiors effortlessly show off leather, wool or velvet furnishings and unique accents as statement pieces. When hiring an interior designer to get the job done, seek out a professional with not only expertise, but also an imaginative mindset.

Now to address spatial issues. For smaller sitting rooms, offices or charming nooks, instead of cluttering the area to make it appear as if much can be done with the layout, take a more minimalist approach to ensue that each individual piece has room to breathe and directs attention to the space itself.

On the other hand, if you have a cavernous room, think about creative ways to section it off and separate it into more manageable areas with rugs or furniture in unique arrangements. The same approach can be applied to unusually shaped rooms.

Attractive Accents

While a visually busy room is an easily avoided faux pas, keep in mind that going completely neutral is not the answer either. In order to strike that oh-so-delicate balance between sensible furnishings and handsome décor, decorate with stylish accents that lend a perfect finish to any lifestyle.

Any artwork on display should be minimal and tasteful, so buyers can easily picture how they will customize the space on their own, and personal items like family pictures, sports memorabilia and other personal items should be stored.

When a buyer enters your front door and explores the home room by room, they’ll be thinking about how they will personalize it with their own touches, and how much of a transformation might be needed to get it suited for them. With beautiful furnishings in place and just the right level of flair, they won’t have to work very hard to visualize their new life – and that gets them one step closer to making your house their new home.

Selling • January 17, 2023

Why You Should Use a Real Estate Agent to Sell Your Home

by Stephanie K. Chan

For many people, owning a home is one of the largest financial transactions they’ll make, which is why 87% of sellers rely on an agent to be their guide¹. It’s estimated that real estate agents play more than 150 roles during an average home transaction, so it’s best to leave it to the pros.

Real estate agents know how to sell your home quickly and for the best price. Successful sales balance four components: the market, price, condition of the house and exposure. Because agents know about market trends and the other houses in your neighborhood, they’re well equipped to play up your home’s advantages and downplay disadvantages.

In addition, a skilled agent will:

Help determine an asking price that will make your home competitive
Offer recommendations on how to prepare your home to attract attention, from staging and curb appeal to small home repairs that can make a big difference
Market your home to people who are most likely to buy your home
List your property on the Multiple Listing Service, so buyers can easily find it online
Represent your needs and negotiate the best deal possible
Help you navigate the many services you may need during the process, such as appraisals, inspections, home repairs, title, mortgage, home warranty and insurance
Be readily available to take your calls and answer any questions

There is also a financial advantage to using an agent:

Homes that are offered for sale by the owner (FSBO) typically sell for less than the selling price of other homes. FSBO homes sold at a median of $225,000 in 2021, which is significantly lower than the median of agent-assisted homes at $345,000².
The average Coldwell Banker® listed property sells for 20.7% higher than the National Association of REALTORS® average price³.

If you are selling your property and plan to purchase another home, your real estate agent will be a valuable partner to help ensure everything goes smoothly. In fact, 53% of sellers nationwide use the same agent to purchase their next home³.

Design • January 7, 2023

The Non-Aesthetic Home Mindset Celebrates the Flaws in Our Spaces

by Stephanie K. Chan

Looking at #designtok, you’d think that every standard home in the United States was equipped with granite countertops, top-of-the-line appliances, and custom cabinets. The reality? That’s just not the case. While social media and professionally styled and photographed home tours can provide fantastic inspiration for how you want your home to look, they can also set some near-impossible standards.

For a long time, people have aspired to achieve these unrealistic expectations for their very real family homes, but now the pendulum is swinging the other way. More people have started sharing their authentic homes, or, in internet-speak, their non-aesthetic homes, with videos using the hashtag #nonaesthetichome attracting 7 million views and counting on TikTok. Many of the videos of non-aesthetic homes focus on the idea of normalizing homes that don’t have all the latest or most high-end design upgrades and feature homes that look like people actually cook, raise families, and, well, live in them.

These posts shine a positive light on typical homes to help remove the stigma of the so-called imperfections found in many homes and address the pressure of trying to maintain that perfect facade. But where are these posts coming from, and how can they actually help us appreciate our own non-aesthetic spaces?

Why are we seeing a backlash to overly curated spaces now?

The pandemic gave us a lot of time to ponder our own homes while scrolling through endless Instagram feeds of perfectly curated images and TikToks that made it look like everyone else had their lives together.

But then Zoom gave us an unfiltered look into the homes of our coworkers, and many of their houses looked very much like ours. On the laminate countertop was the clutter that never graced a #cleanroom post. Behind them were the family pictures hung on plain white walls with not-quite-level molding. And now and then, there was even a stack of dishes that needed to be done. If we didn’t think less of our friends and family for having a non-aesthetic home, why were we placing that judgment on ourselves?

Many people realized that these imperfect houses were not only normal, but they were also pretty wonderful just the way they were.

How to Embrace the Non-Aesthetic Details in Your Space

There is no such thing as the perfect house. Instead of chasing that perfect space—either by house-hunting or constant redecorating—you just need to find the space with the idiosyncrasies that work for you. Every home has its quirks and imperfections; some of them you can improve on, some of them you can live with, and some you should embrace!

We fully stand by any upgrades you want to do to your home because they make you happy. Trends can be great to try if they reflect your point of view, and experimenting with something new can be a lot of fun. You shouldn’t feel pressured to make your home look like an exact replica of what someone else tells you is the “right” way for your home to look, though. So, consider this your reminder that there’s nothing wrong with the features below. Some of them can be minimized if they bother you, and some of them are actually opportunities in disguise to flex your design muscles.

Here are common non-aesthetic details found in normal homes, as well as ways that you can work with them to add a little flair and show off your style.

Linen White + Sunny Yellow + Dove Gray bright clean bedroom — KIM CORNELISON

White Walls

There are times you can’t make a lot of changes to a space, like when you’re renting. While white walls—a signature choice in many rentals—might not be to your taste, you can use them as an opportunity to let your personality shine. Consider them a blank canvas for your creativity! Design a gallery wall of art you love—it doesn’t have to be anything fancy—with framed family photos or images you’ve taken when traveling for a custom curation.

If you prefer patterns, look into temporary wallpaper that you can use to make a statement without a long-term commitment or the risk of damaging your walls.

Builder-Grade Basics

Perhaps your finances don’t allow you to renovate your kitchen. The truth is, you don’t need granite countertops, and there’s nothing wrong with builder-grade cabinets; they will store all your kitchen tools just fine!

If you want to add a little extra pizzazz, you can make some simple alterations, like swapping out the standard issue handles on your cabinets for something trendy that will pop perfectly against the simple style. Additionally, accessories such as trivets or pottery collections can break up long stretches of countertop if you don’t like the material, and a few decorative dishtowels can add much-needed color.

Mismatched Furniture

Maybe you’ve lived in your home for a while, and you still don’t have everything perfectly designed. You might have a hodgepodge of furnishings you’ve acquired from big box stores and hand-me-downs from relatives and old roommates instead of a complete living room set.

But that can be more interesting than having everything match, and pieces from family bring beautiful memories with them. To make mismatched furniture look intentional, make sure they have a common theme, which you can easily create by adding pillows or throw blankets to chairs that tie in the colors found in your couch. You can also purchase a rug with the colors of the different furniture pieces to ground the room and give it a cohesive feeling.

Older Home Oddities

Sometimes things are just slightly off. Older homes are rife with uneven floors and small wall cracks (though some of the flaws that drive you batty in your own house, like that one tile that doesn’t quite match, go completely unnoticed by your friends and family), but that’s what gives homes like this character.

Assuming these are superficial flaws and not structural issues, most non-aesthetic things that bother you can be covered with a few decorations. You can use a large potted plant to obscure a warped wall and large paintings to cover cracks from the house settling. If you’re a perfectionist, try to avoid creating gallery walls or collections where things need to be neatly aligned, as it will only emphasize irregularities.

Wall-to-Wall Carpeting

Some people prefer wall-to-wall carpeting, especially in colder climates where it can keep a home cozier. But if you moved into a space where you have dated or drab carpeting and you’d prefer to minimize it, that’s absolutely possible. You can use area rugs to break up the space and designate different living and dining areas the same way you would if you had hardwood floors. It will not only help give purpose to your room but will add some color and personality.

While there are ways you can minimize the appearance of the non-aesthetic elements in your space, you can also just choose to accept and even celebrate them, whether they’re parts of your forever home or just details in the place you live in before you get to your dream home. Here’s to loving our houses just the way they are, because imperfect or not, there’s no place like home.

Home Improvement • Homeowner Tips • January 5, 2023

Home Design Trends for 2023

by Stephanie K. Chan

In recent months, the world has re-energized, and hope has bloomed in ways that many had not experienced since before this decade began. In contrast, shifting economic and global conditions have awakened and heightened certain sensitivities. This age of extremes has given way to a curious range of design ideas. From eclectic and new to natural and nostalgic, here are some of the most notable home design features and themes we expect to see in the year ahead:

Bring the vacation to you. After nearly two years of limited travel, a sense of wanderlust has arisen for many. Yet, rather than actually traveling to fulfill this urge, savvy decorators have opted instead to create an escape within the residence. With a continued desire to revel in the comforts of home, many have embraced the idea that venturing out truly isn’t necessary to achieve that breezy, revitalizing experience. Using warm wood tones, bright light and airy linen curtains and furnishings, abodes will have rooms – both indoors and out – transformed in the style of beachy resort destinations and dreamy European villas.

Connect to nature and the present. People are recognizing the need to be more present and peaceful in the moment and are erring toward pragmatic sensibilities in lifestyle and functionality. Fostering security and balance continue to be key, but with an emphasis on the senses – which translates into the use of natural textiles and rare materials in home décor such as crude clay, terra-cotta, handcrafted finishings and glazed tiles made from organic materials. Color schemes are inspired by nature and the desert theme has gained in appeal, incorporating gentle colors such as beiges and greys. The trend additionally translates to comforting, tactile interior designs that blend organic shapes, arches and irregular forms to create a cozy, warm aesthetic. Such biophilic design will continue as a trend. In fact, you may even consider adding a full-sized tree to the kitchen – olive trees are favored – to add an impressive fixture and create a Mediterranean or rustic vibe.

Embrace opulence and idiosyncrasy. In a distinctly disparate tone, an “anti-neutral renaissance” has simultaneously gained traction, influencing home interiors. For those on this opposite end of the spectrum, minimalist fatigue has set in, driving the desire for extravagance and affecting a mood for glamour. A major theme for the new year is celebrating individuality, so unique touches, unconventional decorative fabrics and elements will reign. Think luxe jewel tones, whimsical details and embellishments galore. Expect striking visual effects in homes such as curvy and geometric shapes, fanciful rugs, monochromatic rooms in vivid shades like baby pink – as well as two-toned cabinets in contrasting colors. Emerald green, cobalt and rust are expected to be top interior colors in the coming year. Hellenism and antiquity will also see a surge in popularity, so Corinthian-style furnishings, statues and wallpaper motifs will be highly sought after.

Statement stone. Combining aspects of the two aforementioned trends, another desirable style in 2023 will be the use of unexpected stones in surprising ways. Anticipate colorful marble in creative reds, corals, deep blues and jewel tones. Exotic types of porcelain, soapstone and granite will be used throughout the home in a variety of ways: Subtly – as serving platters, side tables or nightstands – and dramatically – as accent walls, tables, bathtubs or countertops that transition into bold backsplashes – to incorporate as standalone art or a stunning focal point.

Whether you feel like a daredevil or crave simplicity, the coming year boasts a menu of delights to fulfill the moods and needs of many appetites. We hope you’re inspired to customize and love your residence more than ever in 2023.

Health • January 4, 2023

5 Tips for a Healthy Work-From-Home Routine

by Stephanie K. Chan

Higher productivity, less stress, more free time – working from home offers plenty of benefits. It also comes with the challenge of rethinking your daily habits while prioritizing your mental and physical health. If you’re looking for ways to improve your 9-to-5 routine, try these five simple ideas.

Bring the Outdoors in

We all have an innate need to connect with nature, and organic materials, shapes and colors have been proven to positively affect our mood. If possible, set up your office near a window and incorporate biophilic design elements into the space. A rug made of natural fibers would be perfect to put your desk and chair on. You could hang up artwork or a wall calendar that features outdoor scenes. Plants also help create a calming vibe with the added benefit of improving air quality.

Get Comfortable

Sitting for long periods of time can lead to serious aches and pains, so you want to carefully consider your office setup. Invest in a comfortable chair that offers lower back and arm support and pair it with a desk that can be adjusted for standing or sitting. You also want to maintain good posture, so position your keyboard at or just below elbow height and parallel with your forearms. Using a mouse pad with wrist support is another easy way to lessen muscle strain.

Keep Moving

Although your job may require you to be in front of a computer for most of the day, you don’t have to remain totally sedentary. Try swapping your chair for a yoga ball. A balance board allows you to strengthen your core muscles while standing, and an under-the-desk elliptical machine is a great option for light cardio. You could also walk around while you’re on the phone and do some simple stretches during breaks to help shake off stiffness.

Stay Hydrated

To keep your energy up through the afternoon, you should avoid high-caffeine beverages that temporarily perk you up but make you crash later. Opt instead for mineral water, which comes in a variety of flavors, herbal tea or organic energy drinks. You could also invest in a smoothie blender and create your own delicious combination of fruits, grains and yogurt to enjoy as a late-day treat.

Relax When the Day is Done

Allowing yourself time to wind down from a busy schedule is very important. When you’ve logged off for the day, go for a bike ride, head to the gym or take your dog to the park. Half an hour of low-impact yoga in a designated “relaxation zone” is another healthy way to destress and mentally prepare yourself for tomorrow’s challenges.

As you continue to improve your work regimen, always keep your mental and physical wellbeing in mind. Establishing good habits ensures a happy and sustainable professional life.

Home Improvement • Homeowner Tips • Selling • January 2, 2023

Savvy Ways to Increase Your Home’s Value

by Stephanie K. Chan

Whether you plan to be in your home for just a few more months or many more years, there are plenty of efficient ways to maximize your space and increase its value. This type of investment needn’t require a loan, nor does it have to span any great length of time. From green living to greenery in your yard, here are a few impactful and straightforward means of boosting your home’s value and appeal over the short or long term.

A Smart Move

Green is the new black. Any form of energy efficiencies and conservation in your home will inevitably be a fiscal gain. Whether you install energy-saving window treatments or solar panels, both options can reduce utility expenses for you and any future inhabitants. When it comes time to replace appliances, a prudent decision would be to select a “smart” model of said item, which can significantly lower long-term energy costs.

While on the topic of efficiency, a wise investment would be installing “smart” devices throughout your property. Think digital features such as automated blinds or shades, security cameras, door locks, security lighting and thermostats. When you’re ready to sell, the smart tech will appeal to buyers with a penchant for the added value of convenience and connectivity.

Wide Open Spaces

Create visual space in rooms by keeping them clutter-free and organized, which can be solved by simply installing a stylish shelving unit to keep extraneous items out of sight. Seek the help of a professional organizer who will be bursting with innovative ideas to optimize the storage areas in your dwelling.

Another way to increase square footage without a renovation is to let the sunshine in! Avoid heavy drapes and instead, use modern window treatments that add height such as roller, Roman or cellular shades. Similarly, you can position a decorative floor-to-ceiling mirror in any room to visually double your space.

From the Bottom Up

Explore the possibility of replacing the flooring in a few key spaces. A unique, beautiful and buzzworthy material is cork, which is also known to have antibacterial properties. If you opt for new surfaces under your feet, consider installing radiant heating simultaneously. These systems not only add optimum comfort, but are also aesthetically pleasing and energy efficient.

Make an impact through your lighting choices. Utilize contemporary or dramatic fixtures to complement each room. Whether you choose minimal or eye-catching designs – the right piece in the optimal locale can add intrigue and substance to your residence.

Kick It Up a Notch

Significant updates to your kitchen and bathroom are sure to boost value. Modern appliances and updated décor increase appeal to buyers, so consider a new backsplash or that roomy farmhouse-style sink you’ve been eyeing. Think one step further and install a water filtration system to add practicality and luxury to your dwelling. Additional elements like stylish sconces, a new vanity or a vintage mirror can elevate functionality and increase allure.

It’s Only Natural

Consider your front and backyard. If there is an area that would benefit from some striking landscaping or creative plantings, explore your options or consult with a professional landscape architect or designer. Executed well, a garden or other natural elements in your yard can become lovely extensions of your home’s indoor atmosphere.

When you look around, there are many ways to enhance the comfort and appeal of your property that will serve you well as a resident – and add value one day when you’re ready to sell.

Home Improvement • Homeowner Tips • December 30, 2022

Clear the Clutter & Make an Impact

by Stephanie K. Chan

‘Tis the season of giving. Here’s a simple way of spreading holiday love and cheer to fill your heart and empty your home.

It’s easy to give and make the holidays a little brighter for those in need. Just look around your home. Perhaps, you have clothing, furniture, kitchen items, or even food that’s been cluttering up your home and fridge? Follow this guide of what and where to give and you’re sure to make Santa proud. It is the ideal time to give your household items a new home and make someone else’s holiday brighter.

THE WHAT & WHERE TO GIVE GUIDE

NON-PERISHABLE FOOD

Clear your kitchen of food items you don’t plan to consume and make room for all of the yummy holiday goodies!

What to Donate:

Wondering if your food bank wants your three pound bottle of mustard? Here are the top items that they need:

Canned Vegetables & Fruits
Canned Stews & Soups
Canned Beans
Canned Tuna
Pasta & Sauce
Baby Food
Dry Beans
Flour
Cereal & Oatmeal
Juice
Rice
Peanut/Nut Butters & Jelly/Jams

Where to Donate:

Your local Food Bank. You can find your local food bank here
Check with your local fire department, churches, synagogues, schools and grocery stores to see if they are hosting food pantry donations drop offs
Moving soon? Find a mover who will volunteer to deliver your non-perishable food to your local food bank at no additional cost. Visit Move for Hunger to find a local participating moving company
Willing to roll-up your sleeves? Start your own food drive. Simply ask local businesses, schools and libraries to put out your colorfully decorated food drive donation boxes and use your social networks to get the word out. It only takes 1.2 lbs of food to provide a meal to an individual in need, so it doesn’t matter how big your food drive is, every little bit helps

CLOTHING

Make room for your holiday sweaters! Sort through your closets and ask: When was the last time I wore or used this? If you can’t remember, donate it.

What to Donate:

Baby, kids and adult clothing
Coats (Kids and families are in great need of coats this time of year.)
Suits
Belts
Scarves
Ties
Pocketbooks
Boots
Shoes

Where to Donate:

Bring gently used clothing to the following charities, go online or call them to see if they will come to your door to pick up your donations.

Goodwill
Salvation Army
Epilepsy Foundation
Veteran organizations
Big Brothers Big Sisters of America
Red Cross
Check with your local fire department, churches, synagogues and schools, to see if they are hosting clothing donation drop offs

TOYS

Make room for what Santa brings! Sort through old toy boxes in your home. Get your kids involved in sorting through their things so they get to learn the ultimate gift – the gift of giving!

What to Donate:

Gently used, unbroken toys or new toys that are unwrapped (it depends on the charity if a new toy is required so contact them first.)
Stuffed animals
Coloring books & crayons
School supplies and stationery
Hand held games
Children’s books
No toy guns or other violent toys

Where to Donate:

Toys for Tots. Find your local Toys for Tots drop off locations here
Local children’s hospitals & hospitals
Local Boys & Girls Club
Many local shelters or children’s charities accept toy donations. Use this Homeless Shelter Directoryto find shelters in your area
Organizations like My Stuff Bagsand Stuffed Animals for Emergencies offer children a familiar object in times of crisis
Check with your local fire department, churches, synagogues, and schools, to see if they are hosting toy donation drives
Other places to check includechildren’s social services offices and often stores have a donation bin at the front entrance

HOUSEHOLD GOODS & FURNITURE

Not only are your old things finding a new life, you’re making room for the new and clearing space for holiday entertaining.

What to Donate:

Gently used furniture
Antiques, collectibles
Appliances (small)
Artwork
Bedspreads, blankets, curtains, tablecloths, decorative pillows
Bicycles
Books, records, tapes, CDs, DVDs
Cookware, dishes, pots and pans
Housewares and decorative items
Jewelry
Sporting goods

Where to Donate:

Habitat for Humanity ReStore
Goodwill
Salvation Army
Epilepsy Foundation
Veteran organizations
Big Brothers Big Sisters of America
Red Cross

CELL PHONES

Clean out the old gadget drawer!

What to Donate:

Old smart phones & tablets (Make sure to clear your data from it first!)

Where to Donate:

Visit sites like com and CellPhoneBank.org where you can donate your old smartphone to someone that needs it

GIFT CARDS

Keep your drawers clutter free!

What to Donate:

Re-gift the gift cards you are given by turning them into charitable donations.

Where to Donate:

Visit sites like org where you can exchange your retail gift cards for a charity donation. You will receive a tax receipt for the entire full value or residual balance of your card

VEHICLES

Open up a parking space for Santa’s sleigh!

What to Donate:

Car
Truck
RV
Boat
Motorcycle
Trailer

Where to Donate:

Habitat for Humanity Cars for Homes
Salvation Army
Kars 4 Kids
Wheels for Wishes
Cars Helping Veterans.org
Goodwill

Don’t forget it’s the end of the year!

Tidy up those 2022 taxes by making a tax-deductible donation to a favorite local charity or these deserving nonprofit organizations:

Claire’s Place Foundation: Founded by thirteen-year-old Claire Wineland who was born with cystic fibrosis, the foundation provides financial assistance to families so they can afford to sit bedside while their family member is in the hospital
Hands and Hearts of Hope: Supports homeless college students, most of whom were emancipated from the foster system and left without resources
Miry’s List: Provides essential household needs to families who have recently resettled in the United States as vetted refugees from war torn countries such as Syria, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq and the Ukraine
My Stuff Bags Foundation: Fills overnight bags with new belongings to provide comfort and hope to children who were rescued from abandonment, abuse, domestic violence, homelessness or neglect

Once you have cleared the clutter and given to those who will actually use and need your unwanted items, your heart and home will be filled with love & joy. Afterall, giving with love is the true meaning of the holidays!

Moving • December 18, 2022

Two-Month Moving Checklist

by Stephanie K. Chan

The pandemic stay-at-home protocols forced us to reevaluate our homes and where we live. Questions about our home size, needing a home office long term and thoughts of relocation to more affordable cities or closer to family were on the minds of many during the last year. Whether due to a life change or a change brought about by the pandemic, millions of people are moving and creating the “Great Reshuffling.”

This record rise in Americans moving, coupled with the typical busy moving season in the summer and a shortage of workers, has created the perfect storm. Moving companies are incredibly busy and are working hard to hire the qualified help they need. Moving is challenging enough without scrambling to find a reputable moving company.

So what does this mean for those planning to move this summer? Plan ahead! Make your moving reservations as early as possible to beat the surge and put your organizational skills in overdrive.

If possible, give yourself eight weeks to handle the moving to-dos in an orderly, low-stress manner. Use the steps below in this two-month moving calendar to keep you calm and prepared. Simply follow these steps and check them off one-by-one:

EIGHT WEEKS TO GO:

Start the process of selecting a mover

Check a mover’s record with the Better Business Bureau in your state and social review sites. A great reputation is the best way to choose a mover

Book your mover
Start to inventory and divide up your belongings: Decide who gets what, which items to donate, recycle, to take and which items (if any) need to go into short-term or long-term storage

FOUR WEEKS TO GO:

Mail change of address cards or change your information online at the following:

- Post office
- Local Department of Motor Vehicles for License & Registration
- Social security
- Insurance companies
- Credit card companies

- Credit bureau and/or other creditors
- Employer (to forward W2s)
- Broker
- Mail order accounts
- Magazines

- Friends and relatives

Gather personal records (medical, dental, etc.)
Arrange to transfer children’s school records
Gather all pet’s vet records and make sure all pets are microchipped and chip corresponds to a cell number that goes with you on your move. Order new tags and licenses with new address and your cell phone number

Check homeowner’s insurance policies to see if moving is covered. Be sure your new home is protected by transferring fire, theft and other personal-property insurance
START TO PACK

THREE WEEKS TO GO:

Make arrangements to discontinue current utilities and schedule the start-up of new utilities:

- Landline telephone service
- Cable TV
- Internet
- Electricity (check for refund)
- Gas (check for refund)

- Fuel oil
- House cleaners
- Babysitters
- Dog walkers
- Gardeners

- Pool Service
- Diaper service
- Water
- Water softener
- Parking

- Other: ________________________

- Have appliances serviced for shipment

TWO WEEKS TO GO:

Arrange to transfer local bank accounts
Ask doctors, dentists and veterinarians for medical records
Cancel newspaper delivery
Refill all prescriptions. Get prescriptions transferred to a new pharmacy closer to the new home
Make arrangements to move children and pets. Do you need a babysitter for a day or two? A pet sitter?

Confirm that the mover will move houseplants; if not, make arrangements. Houseplants, usually, cannot be moved by a mover, especially on long distance or out of state moves
Start to disassemble any shelving, closet systems, etc. that you plan to take or arrange with the mover that they will be doing this on the day of the move
If you need one, hire a cleaning crew to come clean your empty place to get your deposit back. Will your new place need a cleaning crew before you move in too?

ONE WEEK TO GO:

Pack in separate boxes the items necessary for first days in the new home: Label “LOAD LAST.” And label where to put each of those boxes in your new home:

- Medicine (always keep prescriptions on you)
- Comfortable clothes
- Linens and towels
- Toothbrushes and toiletries

- Paper goods
- Disposable plates and silverware
- Foil and wax paper
- Plastic containers
- Microwave

- Vacuum cleaner
- Garbage bags
- Tool kit
- Step ladder
- Extension cords

- Light bulbs
- Cleaning items (mop and pail, broom and dust pan, etc.)

- Each member of the family should also pack a suitcase with what they need for a few days while you’re getting settled into your new place. Don’t forget cell phone chargers, medications and favorite teddy bears
If the movers are packing all or part of your belongings, call to schedule and confirm the details. Make sure your mover knows how much packing you expect to do yourself and how much you expect them to do
Plan to use up most food items before the move. If you have any leftover food on moving day, donate it to Move For Hunger

TWO DAYS TO GO:

Defrost and dry refrigerators/freezers to be moved
Gather valuables and important documents from jewelry cases, safe deposit box, etc. to take with you in the car. Do not pack these items with your other belongings

MOVING DAY! YOU MADE IT!

Congratulations, you conquered “The Great Reshuffling!” Not only did you move during a very unique time, you stayed organized and, hopefully, the entire process was much more stress-free. As the winner of this moving marathon, you now get to slowly unpack and peacefully settle into your new and improved lifestyle.