I started my career as an interior designer when we finished remodeling our home that was built in the 1890s. I loved the space planning, choosing finishes and decorating every little inch. It was trial and error, and we made mistakes, but I learned a lot along the way. Along with being a learning process, working on our home was also a hands-on project. We did everything ourselves (actually, my husband Tom did all the building and heavy work, I did the fun stuff!). I’ve had the decorating bug ever since I was a little girl, but I wanted to know everything about design, so, as a result I returned to college (Mount Mary) for a second degree in Interior Design.
I’ve been collecting antiques and vintage furnishings forever. My favorite shopping places are flea markets, antique stores and of course, Goodwill. I love DIY projects and saving money by taking an object and re-purposing it into something beautiful and useful. I’m also an amateur photographer, love to travel and study French (J’adore tous ce qui est franҫais)!
Although I love to entertain, I’m not much of a cook. My party philosophy is "if the table looks fantastic, it doesn’t matter what you serve."
My weekly column for Amazing Goodwill and my design blog, Design Coach, are about all things design, living a stylish life and entertaining (like setting a great table). I share DIY projects, decorating and design tips, as well as ideas and secrets.
If you have a specific question for Merri, feel free to email her at askmerri@goodwillsew.com.
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Like most holidays, if you plan to entertain or celebrate, the sooner you get organized the easier the day will be. The same holds true with Valentine’s Day. It might me a couple of weeks away, but now is the time to make Valentine’s Day cards for the special people in your life.
Wedding season might be months away, but January is a great time to start making the DIY table decorations, party favors, programs, etc. for your special day. Start your shopping at Goodwill now, especially if you need dozens of similar items.
I decided to add a burst of color to my living room by covering some wicker baskets I bought at Goodwill for less than $2.00 each.
My house is always festive with all my Christmas decorations on display. But once they’re put away, the house seems so dark. To avoid the winter “blahs”, I like to transition the change of seasons. This year, my Christmas mantle turns into a winter, snowy mantle.
Decorating the mantle is a very important Christmas tradition. After all, it’s the first thing Santa sees when he comes down the chimney.
Look for a sweater with an allover design or pattern. For the back side, shop in the clothing department. Look for fabric that won’t stretch. I found a red bathrobe (lots of fabric!).
Every year I change my Christmas decorating “theme.” This year, I decided on a homespun, rustic, country tree. All the ornaments are simple to make, inexpensive and easy for kids to do, too.
The biggest meal of the year is only a week away! As you pull out Grandma’s recipe for candied yams and thaw out the turkey, don’t forget to set a memorable table.
The popularity of Duck Dynasty prompted me to create a fall display for hunting and TV fans.
Halloween season is behind us, but before we jump into full Christmas mode, take time to transform your decorating from spooky to autumn. Thanksgiving is only a few weeks away but since I’m not ready to set my table yet, I’ll concentrate on the front door.
Here’s another fast and easy Halloween decorating project. No sewing, no glue! Anyone can do it.
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