MY Services

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Your home is living space, not storage space.

-Francine Jay

Sometimes between our busy schedules and routines, we don’t stop and take stock of things that aren’t working well in our homes, even after years of living in a space. Sometimes it’s hard to see your space with fresh eyes. Rooms by Cary can help you find solutions for those areas or furnishings that just aren’t working.

I want to hear about your specific needs, but below you can read more about how I enjoy working with clients.

getting started

We start with a consultation (in person if you are vaccinated or virtual) to connect about what you are needing help with. I work with people on small areas in a room, a whole room or many rooms (but not all at once). No job is too small. I want to meet people wherever they are in their process. I promise to be patient and kind and will share my honest thoughts and feelings about your project. I may ask questions like:

  • How do you wish this space to feel?

  • What is not working for you currently?

  • What is most important to you about changing this space?

identifying choices

One of my goals while helping people redecorate is to identify any current accessories or furnishings that we can repurpose in other areas. Is that coffee table just not working for you any more? Could it move to the kids’ room and function as a place for them to create puzzles or house and play board games? I recognize that not everyone has the budget to buy all new things nor is it necessary. I will help you assess your wants and priorities and help envision a way to reuse and recycle pieces where possible helping keep the expenditures to a minimum.

Redecorating

Once we have spent a little time rethinking and seeing where we might repurpose certain pieces or accessories, we get to work! Together, we get to work moving pieces and trying things out. For those who are interested, I offer visual mock-ups as well. I also can make and organize suggestions via a Pinterest board where we can collaborate if you wish. We make a plan, we chunk it down and we work together within whatever timeline you set. It’s amazing how much we can accomplish together!

Working virtually with Mina and Emily on a bedroom transformation

Working virtually with Mina and Emily on a bedroom transformation


A simplified life means that what has to get done will get done. And when we pare down life to its simplest, most beautifully basic parts, we’re left with room to enjoy each other, to rest, and to truly savor life with all our hearts, minds, and spirits.
— Emily ley

 
 

Decluttering

Some of us simply need help working through the clutter. We have all been there (yes, including me) and it is always hard to just start! It can also be hard to stay motivated to do this not-as-fun part. That’s where Rooms by Cary can help you prioritize and learn techniques for separating, culling, tossing or repurposing paperwork or other items. I can help identify which paperwork you should save and that which you can toss. I can also recommend ways to preserve those keepsakes that you can’t throw away. Let me be your cheerleader along the way! And, after we are finished, I promise we will do a fun little dance together. Sometimes, just letting go is enough. Making space for something that brings new energy and brightness into our lives is always positive. I will help you achieve this.

organizinG

Admittedly, I am a bit of a neat freak. Therefore, don’t be surprised if while working together, I recommend some ideas for better organization where needed. When things have a home within your home, everyone is more likely to put things back in their place. And this process automatically helps free up space, creating a less cluttered and nice environment for all.

YOur own cheerleader

When we work together, please know you are also going to work with someone who wishes to make the process easier for you. Whether it is providing little reminders to help you stay on track, to keeping up a cheerful attitude as well as accountability. Let me help you make big changes!

SETting up a rental

Having set up several short-term rental properties, I know what design works well and what doesn’t. I will gladly work with you to recommend furniture, artwork and accessories and ways to stay within a budget or even help shop for you! Ask me to help you with whatever you need for setting up your rental space. I’d love to help where I can.

referrals

As a creative and a long-time resident of Charlottesville, I can also help refer you to a variety of local artists, businesses and other resources to help you realize your home transformation. If a job is too big for me, I will let you know and hopefully be able to recommend the right person for the job.

I want you to succeed!

 
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