GETTING BACK TO BASICS

Hi guys! I'm returning home today and I know that my house is going to be less than par since I left my hubby in charge of three boys! So it was funny when Tonia sent me her guest post talking about cleaning your home! Maybe she was hinting at something;-)

Hello there people, Tonia here from Chic Modern Vintage. I’d like to say that I’m taking an impromptu trip to some exotic locale, but that is not the case. Ms. LaKeitha is in New York and I’m filling in while she’s out. We all like to discuss how to decorate, and what to use to decorate. I like to get down to the bare basics of great decorating. 

I was speaking to a long time family friend the other day, we discussed bed bugs. Yes, bed bugs. She asked, “You remember when, your Grandmother use to take all the mattresses out, and lay them out in the sun?” Then she went on and asked, You remember when she would have everybody in the house cleaning windows?”

Here are three things to add a bit of spark to your home this Fall. Things that my Grandparents did when to keep their home in tip top shape. It will only cost you a bit of sweat.

Clean windows let tons of glorious light in. Try a good cleaning inside and out twice a year. In the Fall and then again in the Spring.

It’s a bit of a hassle and might be considered a bit weird, but laying your mattresses out in the sun, will freshen them up. We never had bed bugs either.

Fall is a great time to clear out things out, and get organized. Donate usable unwanted items. This way you’re not overwhelmed when Spring comes.

These are things we all know to do but sometimes they are overlooked or maybe not mentioned. A good clean and organized home is really the first layer of decorating.

Thanks so much LaKeitha for asking me to fill in while your off gallivanting in New York. I hope your having a fabulous time in New York City. Can I get a key chain, please?

Great tips Tonia! I laughed at the thought of me putting the mattress outside for a while! My husband would not only think I'm crazy, but he would probably check into a hospital too! Have any of you ever put your mattress out in the sun for a while? Do you have any cleaning rituals that you do with the change of the season? I'd love to hear them!

Okay, so I'll be home later today! I may be able to post tomorrow or I may wait until Friday after I've gotten some rest...I can't wait to share everything with you!

GUEST BLOGGER: CHIC MODERN VINTAGE

Hi Everyone! Okay so it's day three of my time away and I can't wait to share with you what I've been up too! But, on the other hand, I'm really starting to feel a little spoiled by my guest bloggers! Today I would like for you to meet Tonia.

Tonia is a woman after my own heart! She is constantly finding great pieces at her local thrift shops. She is here to share some of her tips to striking gold on your next thrifting excursion. Take it away Tonia!

When LaKeitha asked me to be her guest, I thought long and hard about what I would talk about. My mind went all over the place trying to think of something. Then it hit me like a ton of bricks, thrifting; it’s what I do best. So I’ve complied a few hints and tips, some you know and a few you may not.

If you have not been thrift shopping yet, then I encourage you to try it. Most people picture dingy floors, clothing piled on a table, and funny smells. In every town there are a few like that and those are the ones I like most. Thrifting is a fabulous way to stretch your dollar.

1. Have a Plan and keep an open-mind
Know ahead of time what you need. You cannot go “thrifting” without knowing exactly what you are looking for. With that said, Look-out for any other hot items. {i.e. campaign-style furniture} It’s always a hit-or-miss when it comes to thrift stores. You can sometimes hit the jackpot, but make sure what you find is actually something you need, otherwise you’re just buying clutter, and you’re not saving money at all.

Found for $40

2. Look for designer brands and consider alterations
You would be surprised at the higher end labels that are lurking on the racks. I’ve found labels such as Prada, Carolina Herrera, and Lanvin. Don't forget about handbags as well and always try things on, but don’t overlook great quality pieces because they're too big. Its worth having alterations done. If it’s a label you’re not familiar with, and it’s a great piece, it could be a European brand that you’re not familiar with. If you have one of those "smart phones" you can always Google unfamiliar labels. I know I do!

Found at Salvation Army for $9

3. Leave the kids at home
Most times than not you’re sifting through aisles that are full racks of clothing and household items. Children become bored and tired easily when you are not doing anything that they are interested in, so leave them at home or with a sitter. If you have to take them with you bring lunch with you, so you don't have to worry with finding a place to eat.

4. Know the Sale Days
Salvation Army stores have half-off all clothing on Wednesdays. Goodwill offers half off their clothing on certain color tags, each week. You would need to check with your local store for exact details.

Found at Goodwill for $12

5. Make a friend
You don’t expect them to bend over backwards but if you’re friendly each time you visit, and address them by name they’ll surely remember you over time and may give you a call when something hits the store you might have interest in.

6. Have cash and go often
If you don’t find anything one week, go the next week. Inventory changes often. When paying in cash you will be more selective on the items you purchase. Have a budget and stick to it, yes even thrifting.


7. Have your own bags and boxes
Have your own boxes, bags, tissue paper and/or bubble wrap for those delicate breakables you might be purchase. Nothing like finding a fabulous piece, get it home and it’s broken. I re-wrap things and place them in a box in the trunk of my car so they don’t get broken. Especially if I know I’m going to be out most of the day.

...and don't forget the hand sanitizer! It's a must.

I hope these tips help someone that maybe new to thrifting.
Thank you Lakeitha, for allowing me to do my very first guest post with you.
I hope you’re having a well deserved vacation with your family. See you on next week.


Thanks Tonia for the tips! I have a question; Can I have the purse and the dresser?!

So, what do you guys think? Were these tips helpful? Do you have your own to add? I want to hear it!