Shopping Dilemma

Dear Decorating Diva how do I know when to buy?

It's a question I get from clients in a panic when shopping with out me. "Should I buy this (whatever it is)???" They run down a list of descriptions, the pro's and con's, where it could go, where it might go, where it most definitely won't go, "Do you remember this (particular object) that we got that time at that place? Well it kind of looks like that but it is totally different." I love my clients. Some will absolutely not buy a single thing with out my O.K. and some just go crazy with hopes that I will know what to do with these new purchases. When being presented with these purchases they look at me so questioningly hoping they "did good" and that I might give them the stamp of approval. Most of the time they really surprise me at the way they listened during our shopping trips, paid attention to the little tips and tricks I tried to teach them and occasionally find some item that really wows me.

On the other hand, I ask them nicely if they paid attention to the return policy, and they may want to scurry over before their time is up. Ooops!

Here are some tips for knowing when to hold them and when to fold them and when to just walk away:

-Does this item further your design theme?
-Is it unlike anything else you may already have?
-Does it have at least one of your color threads?
-It is in scale to other items in your home?
-How many are on the shelf? (Too many and everyone else will have the same thing...walk away)
-Have you not seen it elsewhere? (If you have seen it at more than one place - walk away, your neighbor may have it - well unless it is an unusually good deal, then again your neighbor may have it.)
-If you didn't purchase this item when you initially saw it, does it keep turning up in your thoughts like a bad penny? (If so, go back and hope it is still there or you will kick yourself every time you think about it. You can always return it if it doesn't fit like you thought.)
-Does it fit in your budget?

If you answered yes to most of those questions - then you may need to run back to that store and pick up this new item and bring it home.
I have become extremely picky because there are so many products in our market that if you miss one gorgeous thing, you will find another soon enough. Be patient when perusing, often when you make that impulse buy you will get it home and have the impulse to return it.

I will try to feature a store with great deals and unusual finds, so if you know of any you would like me to try email me and let me know. I am still trying to get my Dallas shopping legs in shape from my move here from Atlanta.

This week I had the opportunity to get out and do some after Christmas shopping and found a delightful little store off of Preston and Stonebrook.
You should check it out. The Interior Designer there is Vicki. It is a beautiful store full of lovely things right here in Frisco.

Imadgen
7151 Preston Road
Frisco, TX 75034
214.616.0211

Happy Shopping!!!
hollyulmer@tx.rr.com