Author: Breegan Jane

Family Photography in Elevated Interior Design

Someone once said “a photograph is the pause button of life.” I can’t think of a better way to describe the power of capturing beautiful moments. When you become a mom, the obsession with taking photos of everything your child does, every milestone and every experience, grows exponentially. I think the same happens as we age. Memories take on a new meaning and new importance. It’s tempting to plaster our sweet photos all over the home for everyone to see. But, have you ever visited someone’s house and felt like you’d just walked into a life-sized scrapbook? It doesn’t exactly scream sophistication. So, exactly how can we display our family photography and maintain elevated interior design? I’m glad you asked. Let’s talk about it!

Family Photography on a Gallery Wall

One of the best and probably most common ways to display your family photography is by creating a gallery wall. But there are right and wrong ways to do it if you’re looking to create a curated space. The first thing to determine is scale. How large is the space you’re working with? If you have a huge wall and you hang four 5×7 prints on it, the wall will appear unbalanced. Gallery walls require a “go big or go home” approach. Remember, you’re after the look of an art gallery. Think about the most effective way to exhibit your photos for viewers who aren’t you. You want guests to be able to walk by the wall and appreciate the moments you’ve highlighted. For this reason, bigger is usually better as long as your wall has the right dimensions for it.

Another thing to keep in mind is uniformity. If your goal is to create a wall with coordinating prints, using the same frame can greatly increase the beauty of the grouping. If you plan to go with a “similar but not identical” approach, ensure the frame theme is distinct. For instance, if you use all antique frames, don’t include one random modern one. Or, if you plan to use various shades of brass, adhere to that hue throughout the gallery wall. A cohesive, clean effect is what we’re going for when we use gallery walls for family photography.

Get Picky With Placement

If you’re like me, your phone, computer and other devices are full of photos you’ve taken of your loved ones. I’ve even commissioned independent artists to turn a photo into a customized painting! When we go to actually print these gorgeous shots, where do we put them? I mean, sure you could simply set them on any available surface and call it a day. But, if you want the space to feel carefully designed, you’ll need to be more intentional than that. I recommend seeking unique ways to present your photos. I love the use of floating shelves. You can mount them in an otherwise empty space, and it instantly becomes an accent wall! One of the biggest benefits of using shelving in this way, is that you can house several photos in one place without a cluttered or haphazard look. You definitely create a featured visual library with this method.

When you’re brainstorming places for your family photography, don’t be afraid to try atypical locations in your home. I love using hallways to display photographs. Stairway walls are also excellent places to position photos. Everyone has to walk through these areas; why not give them something sweet to view? 

Make it Personal

I recently shared a tour of my home on my social media, and I spoke about one of my favorite hacks for family photography. I like to hide individual photos in books so they fall out and start conversation when my guests come to visit! While that’s not a choice that would work for everyone, the sentiment can! Family photos are personal mementos. They’re meant to callback pleasant memories from years ago and tell a story. When you’re incorporating family photography in elevated design, don’t shy away from making it interactive. 

I love using entryway tables to house photos, because it turns into an artistic moment that will undoubtedly catch the eye of all who enter. Arrange photos in stunning frames around florals and other decorative elements. Your home should display bits of your personality. By configuring your photography this way, you give others a chance to notice it, go pick the frames up for a closer look, and ask questions. Isn’t that what we hope for when we capture these special moments with our cameras? 

Family photography deserves to be seen and felt. But not at the expense of your perfectly designed space. Keep your refined home looking and feeling polished with these tips. You’ll never miss an opportunity to both wow with your design and pull at heartstrings!

Parenting Hacks: Choosing Kids’ Activities

All of us parents know how active our children’s social and extracurricular lives get over the years. Between my two sons, our family participates in sports, music lessons, and so much more. Parents play such a significant role in determining what our kids try. But if you’re a new parent, how do you decide which activities to put your kids in? I have some simple parenting hacks that can help you determine what may work best for your children. Consider these tips as you work to develop well-rounded kids.

 

Parenting Hack #1: Find Influential Instructors

When I was younger, I remember having one of the coolest babysitters. Not only was she fun, but she had this edgy look that I fell in love with. It was her pierced tongue! I don’t know why it enthralled me so! I knew I was going to get one when I was old enough. And I did! Now, were my parents thrilled? Of course not. BUT, my relationship with that babysitter meant so much to me that I wanted to be just like her. Your kids are probably also extremely influenced by eccentric personalities. And when it comes to extracurricular activities, who your kids work with is just as important as what they do and learn. While it’s not a parenting hack that many think about, you definitely want to choose carefully the people that will be instructing your little ones. I consider this as I think about each of my son’s afterschool activities.

Take, for example, my kids’ singing coach. I realize my kids aren’t going to start out with perfect pitch. I also realize singing practice my be challenging to the ears. Neither of those is the point. They’re at an age when they’re trying something new, so I wanted them to have a coach that was upbeat and encouraging. I picked the perfect one! He’s a huge ray of sunshine every time he meets with the boys. The house just seems to get brighter when he comes in, and it makes such a difference in the boys’ attitudes and confidence. As such, they love their singing classes. The right teachers can definitely have a huge impact on what activities kids gravitate to.

Parenting Hack #2: Lean into Wants and Needs

This might be a “duh” parenting hack, but a simple question to your kids can help you find some interesting activities for your kids: What do YOU want to do? Of course, being an astronaut might not be something to say okay to at this stage of their lives. Generally speaking, though, they have an idea of things they want to do. I simply asked my sons about something they wanted to get better at. They picked basketball, so we came up with some goals to work on, and they were off to the races. Again, will they be Lebron and Steph? I don’t know. But again, that’s really not the point.

Along with considering their wants, I thought about things I felt like my sons needed in their personal development. An unorthodox activity I am currently trying is using character-based language learning and immersion to help one of my sons with reading issues. He loves drawing and is drawn more to words as symbols, not phonetics. So as weird as it sounds, I enrolled him in a course to learn Mandarin. My son enjoys writing the letters and characters of the language, and it helps him understand the importance of written communication.

I also feel it’s important for my boys to develop more determination and grit. I don’t want them to consider giving up on a task very easily because it’s hard or challenging. That’s where learning to play piano comes in for my crew. They’ve been at it for a while. Finally, after three years, my oldest can bang out a little tune now, and I know he will continue to get better. I’m glad he’s been able to see this activity through and see the fruit. This is a parenting hack that I know will continue to benefit your kids for years.

Parenting Hack #3: Find the FREE Stuff!

My final parenting hack should be music to your ears—and pockets. Investing in activities for kids can be a costly experiment, especially when you’re trying things they may not like after a few sessions. However, there are so many free activities that you can start with to test the waters of your kids’ interests.

 

Though they may not be as widely advertised as they should be, there are so many local and state-funded programs for kids and families that may interest your little ones. My youngest son heard about a coding center through a friend, and he’s totally into it now. And get this: the program is completely free! You can call or look into local museums, theaters, and youth centers to see if they offer any enrichment programs. Trust me: there’s so much out there. You just have to seek them out.

Another potentially free resource? Friends, family and neighbors. They may have some suggestions from their experiences trying activities with their kids. And experimenting with things can become “free” (or more cost-effective) if you can share or borrow equipment from them. We’ve been able to offer wetsuits and surfboards to friends whose kids want to try surfing. Also, many skating rinks allow you to rent skates so your kids can try that activity before purchasing their own pair. These are just a couple of examples, but chatting with your friends and family could open up some new and innovative ideas for your kid’s next hobby or passion with little to no money spent!

We all want children who enjoy a variety of pleasurable interests and diverse pastimes. Try some of these parenting hacks, and be open to something new and different that your kids may discover!

Hire an Interior Designer: Kitchen Renovation

If you haven’t heard, the housing market is kind of crazy, currently. I should know, after all I’m in the middle of staging my house to prepare for sale! Now, whether you view the fluidity of the market as a good or bad thing comes down to your position as seller or buyer at the time. But no matter your stance, one thing is for certain: the cost of housing is increasing. That fact alone makes it easy to understand why so many people are opting to renovate their existing homes instead of buying new ones. A kitchen renovation is a great way to not only add value to a home, but also to increase its functionality! If you’re ready to give your kitchen a refresh, consider hiring an interior designer to assist with your renovation! I’ll talk you through it in the blog.

The Heart of the Home

Far too often I run into people who think interior design is all about pillows and furniture. The truth is, the design of any space is so much more than that! This is particularly true when it comes to the kitchen, because this room is the heart of the home. Kitchens are among the most frequented rooms in any house, and they serve a multitude of purposes. If you want to update your home, a kitchen renovation is an excellent place to begin.

Kitchen Appliances Matter

When you’re upgrading your kitchen, never neglect the appliances. Think about how often you use your range or your refrigerator. Why shouldn’t you invest in these pieces? I love that many companies are listening to their savvy customers and realizing that appliances can marry form and function for a stylish touch. I’ve always believed that luxury home design doesn’t depend on a price tag, it rests in the details. Want to create a kitchen that feels chic and polished? Think outside of the box! I chose a panel-ready fridge that made my design feel seamless. I loved the neutral feel of my white cabinetry, and I didn’t want to call attention to a giant stainless steel box as soon as you walked in. The panel almost makes the fridge disappear, and my custom brass hardware only elevates the look!

When I started designing my new dream beach home, I knew I wanted every inch of it to feel exquisite! Kitchens have always been some of my favorite spaces to design, so I was extremely selective when it came to the appliances. I am so excited for my JennAir column fridge! JennAir has broken the mold when it comes to kitchen appliances, and once you take a look at these completely customizable refrigerators with sleek obsidian interiors, you’ll see what I mean! I will also be installing a stunning range from the Smoke & Brass line. The range is one of 50 that will ever be made! It even features gorgeous brass detailing and distressing all done by hand. These pieces are, in a word, magnificent. If you want to add sophistication to your kitchen renovation, try incorporating appliances that are designed to be both elegant and efficient. 

Make the Most of Your Materials

Perhaps one of the most important things to consider when beginning a kitchen renovation is what to do with the largest surfaces in the space. Countertops get a ton of action, thus making the material you choose an essential part of their functionality. We all know I love stone. Natural stone is so beautiful in all varieties. I love the many colors and veining patterns. But, natural stone can be quite delicate! Nobody wants to worry about staining and etching in an environment prone to spills. A solution to this is opting for man-made stone that can withstand all the inevitable kitchen happenings.

I also recommend considering a backsplash that won’t be difficult to clean. I know most people gravitate towards tile, but have you ever tried to get food and sauce splashes out of grout? It isn’t my idea of a good time! Running a stone slab all the way up the back is a stylish alternative that solves the grout problem! I’ve done this in many kitchens I’ve designed, and clients are always glad they made that choice!

Kitchen Cabinetry Options

I can’t tell you the amount of times I’ve heard a client tell me how much they hate their kitchen, only to discover they actually only hated the look of it. What I mean is, often your kitchen just needs a bit of a facelift in order to be appreciated. Stand in your kitchen and pay attention to where your eyes are drawn. Cabinets are a significant feature that can be modified in a kitchen renovation. Some clients decide to get new cabinets installed, while others simply paint their existing ones. Another thing to consider is swapping out your hardware for new styles and colors. It’s like adding new shiny jewelry as a finishing touch after you’ve decided on an outfit!

If you’re really looking to transform the look of your kitchen, you can even elect to forego traditional upper cabinetry altogether! I’m planning to do that in my new house to achieve an open and airy feel to the space. Some clients choose to do open shelving! It’s not for the weak, (or the disorganized!) as everything is visible to all who enter your kitchen. However, it lends a fresh aesthetic to the space that many love!

Work With Breegan Jane

No matter what you choose to do in your renovation, just make sure it’s a reflection of you. Kitchens are places to eat, entertain, do homework, and connect with friends. They should be full of heart and beauty. Schedule an hour virtual consultation with me to get started on creating your ideal space!                                                                                                                                      

Music Education Benefits for Kids

Music. It’s something that has always been a staple in my home, both now and during my formative years. Music has magical qualities in my opinion. It has been known to soothe crying babies, conjure memories to those affected by dementia, and even lower heart rate and ease anxiety. I learned to play the piano as a kid, and my little brother plays multiple instruments. So when my boys expressed an interest in music, I knew I wanted to make it a priority. Music education has so many benefits for children, and you might want to incorporate it in your kids’ schedules after this blog!

Music Education Classes, Oh My!

Is it just me, or do young kids have crazier social schedules than adults these days? My boys are both under ten years old, and they have all but completely monopolized any free time I have. But, as many moms will attest, I wouldn’t have it any other way! Extracurricular activities provide so much enrichment for kids. I feel extra lucky that some music education is even built into my sons’ school curriculum! Kingsley and Kensi are enrolled in several different types of music classes. They have voice lessons, song writing, DJing, piano lessons and more. My oldest also recently got a guitar he seems to be loving. In short, if it’s musical, these two are all about it! Parents.com says that learning music skills can help children cultivate social skills, develop patience and discipline, and even elevate self esteem! The benefits are many, to say the least.

Finding Strength in a Song

If I asked you who your favorite music artist is, what your favorite song is, or which concert was the most unforgettable, you’d likely immediately think of an answer. That’s because many of us form emotional bonds with the music we hear. Think about it, how many times have you played sad love songs while you were going through a break-up? Or, maybe you have a dance mix you listen to when you’re getting ready for a night out. We often turn to music to usher us through tough times and complement the very best of times. Music is our intangible companion.

When I was going through my divorce, I never lost sight of the fact that children often have very big feelings around a change as profound as that. I never wanted my children to suffocate or suppress their emotions. So, I use music education as a way to channel emotions in a healthy manner. Children don’t always have the language to express their feelings in mature ways like adults. But I have found that my boys will easily put their feelings into a song. We use music as a tool to aid in describing emotions. Years ago, when my youngest was upset and throwing a bit of a fit, I would play “Everybody Hurts” by R.E.M. and tell him to let it out and cry louder! It was an excellent way to release pent up tension! Music heals, and I’ve always embraced that in our home.

Self Discovery

One of the best parts about introducing music education to my children has been watching them learn about their own skills and gifts. Both of my boys are genuinely interested in musical arts. They’re also pretty good at it! However, I’ve never actually cared whether they become professional musicians or not. That’s not a goal of mine. Instead, I watch as my sons have gone from what sounded like aimless banging on piano keys to learning to play “Lean On Me.” I look at how well they can blend songs and count BPMs while DJing. I’m happy to see how proud they are when they present a song to me after working so hard on it. Kingsley and Kensi are learning how to persevere when they have a rough day. 

My kids are enrolled in lots of different types of music classes, and both boys have strengths in some and weaknesses in others. They get frustrated. They may even have moments when they want to quit. But their teachers and I encourage them to keep going. I can see how much more confident they are. It’s all because of their experience with music education. Of course kids will learn reading, writing, math and science. Those are all necessary skills. But if you haven’t already, consider the benefits of learning how to play an instrument or sing, or understanding music theory. Your children’s lives will be enriched as a result!

The Mekuno Project: Ending FGM For Good

If you’ve been following me for any amount of time, you know how passionate I am about philanthropy. And, you undoubtedly know what that means for my precious girls in Kenya, Africa. For years I heard about the atrocities of female genital mutilation (FGM), and I wanted to do my part to put an end to the practice. As today commemorates the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, I am happy to introduce the Mekuno Project, an effort created to further this very important effort.

Why the Mekuno Project is Needed

It is important for me to bring awareness to the practice of FGM because, sadly, many people are still unsure of what it really is. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), FGM includes all procedures that involve partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. WHO also deems FGM a violation of human rights of girls and women.

You may wonder why this practice even exists. In many cultures, FGM (also known as “cutting”) is a valued practice that symbolically marks the transition from girlhood to womanhood. Specifically in Kenya, Africa, young girls go through FGM just before or after they hit puberty. The practice is a direct precursor to child marriage. In fact, Kenyan girls are not considered eligible for marriage until they have gone through cutting. Marriage in these societies is crucial for economic survival, as families see marriage as the only way for girls to have a financially stable future. Plus, potential husbands pay the parents of the bride-to-be a dowry for the privilege of marrying her. This payment can mean a great deal for an impoverished family. You can see how the ritual can easily become normalized when considering the positive economic impact it can have.

There has to be a better way, and I believe the Mekuno Project paves the way for it.

Why FGM Needs to End

More than 200 million girls and women alive today have endured FGM throughout Africa, Asia and the Middle East. Though they are survivors, that survival may not come without its issues. FGM can have devastating physical and psychological effects on girls, some short-term and some lifelong. This makes complete sense when you consider the procedure’s result—the removal of part or the whole of the external female genitalia.

What’s more, the mutilation is typically done in extremely unhygienic places, without proper medical supervision or sanitized tools, and with no anesthesia for the girls. If one of them has an infection or disease, it becomes extremely probable that the illness could be transmitted to others because sterile instruments aren’t often used. Many of the girls can suffer severe risks from the procedure, and some actually die. For those that survive, both FGM and child marriage hold them back from an education—reducing enrollment rates and increasing dropout and illiteracy rates. This can prevent them from realizing their dreams and potential and contributing their gifts to improve their families and communities. As you can see, FGM presents dangerous implications for girls’ marriage, health, education, and future work.

The Mekuno Project Is Making a Difference 

No girl or woman should ever have to endure FGM. Ever. The Mekuno Project aims to make that a reality by creating a four-pillar approach to address the root causes of FGM. The approach includes: providing quality education to young girls; addressing gender-based violence and strengthening child protection systems at the community level; expanding the sense of self-worth and capability of men, women, girls and boys, to strengthen self-value and self-worth of all in the community; and providing opportunities for economic empowerment, to ultimately decrease dependence on dowries from child marriages.

What impresses me most about the Mekuno Project is the confidence in its strategy. Organizers know the program will work because it has already been tried, tested and proven successful! In the area of West Pokot, rates of FGM and child marriage have fallen from 95% to less than 10%. In 2021 alone, 368 girls were provided school fees to further their education. Further, 308 children went through the Alternative Rites of Passage, and over 5,000 people were trained in the Empowered Worldview program. The Mekuno Project is well on its way to accomplishing the goal of completely ending FGM by 2030.

But they need your help.

You can help us end FGM and provide hope-filled futures to deserving young women in Kenya who need your support. Your generosity, in any amount, will help spur change and impact lives. Visit the Mekuno Project and join our cause to bring freedom and promise to young African lives.

Lessons in Handling Change

Change. Everyone from Bob Dylan to Sam Cooke to Taylor Swift has written songs about the concept of change. Whether you love it or hate it, it’s the one thing we know will always…be. While change is inevitable, there are definitely certain points in our lives that seem to be brimming with it. These transitional moments can be tough on everyone, but they seem to present a challenge especially for children. Let’s talk about what handling change feels like, and why it doesn’t have to be approached like a hurdle to throw ourselves over, barely making it out alive, lol. Let’s dig deeper.

My Early Days

We’re building our dream beach home right now. But, I can’t tell you that I had a ton of experience as a young child with change as it relates to moving. I lived in one house for many years, and we only moved once after that. So I definitely benefited from having a strong core base. But every kid deals with changes and transitions in several aspects of their lives. 

We change schools, make new friends, and sometimes it’s as simple as just growing older from one phase to the next. Handling change can be challenging. Everyone feels differently about it. I’ve had conversations with people who view change as an opportunity for a fresh start and reset. Others would prefer to stick with the familiar and tried and true. We all know someone who lives by the old adage: “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Neither of these perspectives is better or worse than the other. However, handling change in a healthy way should be the goal for everyone. 

Raising Resilient Kids

I don’t dread change. I accept that it is a part of life, and instead of fighting it, I embrace it. I’ve always thought of myself as a resilient person. The outlook you adopt on life greatly impacts the ease with which you move through it. Think of it like the ocean. It’s much easier to swim with the current than to struggle against it. Regarding life in this way has helped me so much, and I knew I wanted to raise my sons to have those same traits. One of the ways I did that was by preventing them from becoming too attached to one way of doing something. Take nap time for instance. I established a sleep schedule, but not a specific “napping place.” As a result, my sons could sleep anywhere, a friend’s home, their grandparents’ house, a hotel on vacation. I was deliberate about making myself their “north star” as opposed to a physical space.

When Handling Change is Difficult

If you follow me on social media you’ve likely seen our family chronicles. We’re a close-knit bunch, and Kingsley and Kensi are almost always together. That’s not happenstance. I worked to foster a positive and loving relationship between the two of them since my youngest was born. So, when school started and they had to be in different classes, I noticed my youngest had a tough time handling change. Kingsley is the more social one of the two. He makes making friends look effortless, and Kensi, who was always right beside him, never had to navigate those waters. So the first days of independence led to Kensi coming home from school saying things like, “I don’t have any friends.”

I decided to take my youngest out of his comfort zone. When we go to have a pool day, I tell him, “you don’t get to hide behind your brother. Go say hi and make friends. They’re just as shy as you are.” He isn’t comfortable doing it, but I try to give him moments to do it with the safety of mom close. I want my boys to understand that different isn’t bad. I want them to meet change with the confidence to know that they have everything they need to be successful in new situations and environments. Handling change well isn’t always about predicting what will happen. It’s about being resilient enough to adapt and move with what’s happening. That’s a lesson that works well for children and adults alike.

Parental Advice

So, we know change is a constant in life. We know that learning to make peace with that is the first step to handling change well. But children don’t possess the life skills and mental processing that adults have. When people comment on how well-adjusted my sons are, I tell them that my advice may be a bit unconventional. My boys haven’t expressed any anxiety or negative emotions regarding our next move. I think a lot of that is because of the way I frame things. My advice? Don’t hyper-focus on the negative.

Children often take their cues from us. Have you seen those videos where a toddler falls and the first thing they do is look at the parent? Nine times out of ten, if the parent panics, so will the child. If everyone remains calm in the room, the tot is likely to get up and carry on. The same concept applies when you’re helping your children through changes. I didn’t ask my boys if they were feeling nervous about our move. I asked them what they were most excited about. We shifted the mood and switched the focus. This isn’t to say that we don’t make space for their feelings whether upbeat or sad. I just don’t make a habit of associating “new” with adversity.

Stability and Security

I think the best thing parents can do is maintain a sense of stability and security for our kids. Pay attention to the conversations you have with them. You’ll be able to detect how they’re feeling about the changes occurring. Be careful to not overwhelm them with adult emotions that they’re simply not ready for. I spent many moments giving myself time to digest my own feelings and tears privately, before having calm and collected discussions with my kiddos. I want to ensure that no matter the transition, they know and feel that they are safe and taken care of. Handling change isn’t something that comes with an instruction manual. But it doesn’t have to be an insurmountable obstacle. I’m teaching my kids that they are stronger and more resilient than they think. I hope they’ll carry that lesson with them throughout their lives.

What Homebuyers Are Looking For In A New Purchase

I’m getting ready to move into my dream home! I’m so excited about that. Moving has been a bittersweet pill because I absolutely love the home I’m leaving. Don’t get me wrong: my new home is going to be astonishing!  As I go through this process of transition, I’m always mindful of all the things I need to focus on from the paradigm of the home buyers. I look to tap into their needs and preferences. But what are those? Here are a few general ideas of what homebuyers are looking for, and how you can achieve them in your home!

Bright Lights, Big Windows

No one wants to buy a home that doesn’t accent the best lighting from the outside! When it comes to what homebuyers are looking for, look no further than windows! Windows are a hot commodity in the home market, particularly because they directly impact energy efficiency. Not only that, but they usher in direct sunlight, and that also has a direct impact on mood, emotions, etc. More light just feels right! Now, you may be one of the lucky homeowners with ceiling-to-floor windows. Most of us don’t, but that’s okay!

Here’s a design trick that is sure to give you that “big window” look: hang your curtains from the floor to the ceiling! Make sure they’re high and wide in the room. Hanging your curtains high and wide will trick the eye and make the room feel taller than it actually may be. And, this simple technique has the added benefit of making the windows feel larger. This happens because our eyes naturally move in the direction of what’s in front of us—in this case, they’ll move up. So if your eye sees a tall, wide curtain, it assumes what’s behind it is the same size (because that’s what we typically do with curtains). This will give your room the semblance of what home buyers are looking for in a home.

But you can even take that suggestion up a notch. If you’re trying to make the windows the star, refrain from hanging dark, heavy drapes at the windows. Go for white, flowy, curtains that reach the floor. You don’t have to spend a fortune on them; just make sure they look nice and are made of decent-quality material. You’ll have clients salivating at the rooms in your home!

Space Is The Place

When it comes to what homebuyers are looking for, another thing they look for is if their new home will have enough space. With the cost of homes today, everyone spending money wants the most bang for their buck. And that makes sense. So, even with a home of modest square footage, maximizing the look of the space in each room isn’t difficult. You can’t add square footage (cheaply), so how would you do it? A simple way is to reconsider the scale and ratio of decor and furniture you use.

What do I mean? When you lived in the house you’re selling, you may have loved a cozy but oversized sectional in a particular room. There’s nothing wrong with that at all! However, now that you are looking to maximize square footage, I would recommend opting for a more streamlined, smaller sofa. This would alleviate the issue of furniture overwhelming and taking up visually necessary space.

Another way to give buyers more of what they want in a home is to get rid of clutter. If you’ve followed along on my IG reels recently, you’ll know I’m all about designing for the life you live. While living in my home, I never went to great lengths to hide items that my family uses regularly, like exercise equipment or things we have on countertops. But, now that I’m selling my home, I again think about what homebuyers are looking for when it comes to space. Any extra items that can be perceived as clutter also have a tendency to dwarf the space. The more you can remove, which includes the yoga mats behind the couch and extra kitchen appliances on the countertop, the more space you can present!

Curb Appeal

As an interior designer, I focus on creating living spaces inside the home. But you want to know what homebuyers are looking for before they walk into their new home? Exterior personality. Curb appeal is extremely vital to many would-be buyers. And that makes sense, too! The first impression of any home is its landscaping and exterior appearance, so you should make it count! If your yard space is amazing, pick out the best features and accent those elements.

This is what I did with my home. I love making an impression with my design, so I had a portion of my exterior home demolished to add something dynamic. I incorporated this wooden Moroccan gate and had it custom painted to one of my favorite colors. I loved how it turned out. Others do, too, based on its popularity on Instagram. My new audience, however, is the host of potential buyers, and I want to ensure that I’m making the right impression on them…so much so that they make me an offer!

This is by no means an exhaustive list of what homebuyers are looking for. Neither is it etched in stone. What I do know from my years of experience is that people looking for homes now want to ensure they’re purchasing a home that was cared for, that is well-built, and that meets their needs in every way. If you want some help with solidifying your home as a catch for people in the market for a new home (hopefully yours!), let’s chat! I’d love to talk more specifically about how I can help make your home a buyer’s magnet!

Staging a Home: Home Selling Tips

Interior design and home buying tend to go hand in hand. That’s no surprise since everyone wants their home to look and feel beautiful and functional. But, what about when you want to sell your home? Have you ever wondered about the role interior design plays in that process? Often, the success in selling a home relies much upon the look of it. This is where staging a home comes into play. Unfamiliar? Don’t worry. I’ll tell you all about what it is and how you can use it to your advantage when selling your home in today’s blog.

Staging a Home

So, what exactly is staging anyway? Dictionary.com defines staging as, “the professional service of preparing homes for sale in such a way as to appeal to potential buyers and generate higher selling prices.” In layman’s terms, staging means beautifying a home in a way that will attract a wide audience. It’s using interior design in a thoughtful manner that goes beyond what you, the homeowner, want. The focus instead shifts to a broader perspective, thereby (hopefully) resulting in home-selling success.

The Role of Color

One of the first things to consider when you are staging is use of color. As an interior designer, I love looking at current and future design trends, and that includes color. However, when you’re attempting to sell your home, the trendiest color could potentially work against you if you aren’t careful. You might be wondering if there are specific colors you should avoid when you’re staging your home.The answer is yes!. Avoid anything that is too bold or could be considered polarizing. Maybe you love polkadots and found a super artistic way to incorporate them into the design on your walls while you were living there. Or, maybe your daughter’s favorite color is neon pink, and you decorated her room with the bright hue everywhere. Even if the motifs were done well and in a sophisticated way, they could still be distracting to buyers visiting your home.

The Case For Neutrals

On most days if you ask Breegan Jane about favorite wall colors you will likely hear some form of neutral as my answer. By now it’s no secret, I love whites, grays, blacks and the like for most large surfaces in a home. But neutrals are particularly useful when you are staging a home. This is because they go with everything and anything. If you choose white, you get the added benefit of a color that reflects light and can make a space look larger. Neutrals aren’t distracting. When you use them on your walls, prospective buyers are more easily able to envision what they would do with the space as opposed to focusing on what your choices have been prior. Ultimately, you present a blank canvas to those looking to purchase the home. That’s precisely the goal!

Furniture and Decor

Most of us spent a good deal of time decorating and designing our spaces, carefully selecting the perfect chairs, artwork, sofas and more. And while your living room might be meticulously decorated, there are a few things to keep in mind. Set your aim on a stylish and well-designed space that doesn’t take away from the wonderful features people may see when they enter. I swapped my purple sectional for a white streamlined couch. But perhaps you are unable to secure a new couch in time for showings. Or maybe you spent a lot of money on a gorgeous royal blue velvet sofa that works well in your space. There’s nothing wrong with pops of color. Just be sure you don’t overwhelm your space with bold hues everywhere.

The same advice goes for patterns or colors on pieces like rugs, art or other decor. The safest bet is to keep it simple. Incorporate art that matches the style of your home (modern, farmhouse, mid-century modern, etc). Rugs with simple patterns or bold pops of color work well against an otherwise neutral color palette in the home. All furniture should be in great condition, but this is especially important if the furniture features a vibrant color. Bold colors will inevitably draw the eye, so if you choose to keep your brightly-colored chair or funky-patterned rug, ensure these items are in good condition with no sagging cushions, rips or stains. 

Casting a Wide Net With Interior Design

While it would be wonderfully convenient to hire a staging team to come prepare your home for sale, that’s not something that’s realistic for most people. It’s also not the most realistic to tell people they need to swap everything in their homes for rented, barely used items that work together perfectly. So if you’re wondering where to begin, start by imagining frequently, highly-trafficked spaces like a hotel. Aside from the themed, boutique hotels, most of them stick to basic interior design. Neutral carpet or flooring, white bed linen and standard furniture are all characteristics we find in those spaces. Even if the furniture is in their signature branded colors, or if they incorporate patterns, there’s not a lot of clashing patterns and nothing is offensive.

It’s all designed in a way that considers the needs and tastes of a wide array of people. Commercial design excels at this, whether it’s a doctor’s waiting room or restaurant. It masters the art of designing a space that is perceived as pleasant by most. The same idea works in staging a home.

What Goes and What Stays?

So how do you know what to keep and what to toss when you’re ready to sell? A good rule of thumb is, if it is an item that is personal to you such as a photo or artwork you designed, it should go. Things with sentimental meaning are special while you live in the space, but these items should be removed when you’re doing open houses. 

This is also a great time to remove that junk we all have lying around the house. Exercise equipment, yoga mats, tools, board games and other items that obstruct the view of the space? Toss. We want buyers to see the space and dream about all the possibilities of what life could be like if they purchase the home. That’s much easier when the space is free of visual obstacles.

Have you seen my moving reels on Instagram? I’m currently in the middle of the staging and selling process now. It’s hard to let go of a space I poured my heart into. But it’s also an awesome reminder of the power of interior design. If you are getting ready to sell your house, reference these tips to impress buyers and move into the next phase of your beautiful life!

The Definition of Success

As I embark on a new year and reflect on this past year, I can’t help but think about all that I’ve accomplished. At the same time, I also consider the things I’ve yet to do. With everyone creating resolutions for their lives and making grandiose commitments, I feel very settled in my own definition of success, and how to achieve it based on my own life’s trajectory.

A Mantra For Success

We’ve all heard the saying, “fake it ‘til you make it.” Growing up in Hollywood, I’ve heard it most of my life. But it has occurred to me that it means different things to different people. For some, it’s a reference to pretending to be something you are not. To others, it’s about hope for what’s to come. I fall into an entirely different category. I’m not sure the phrase has to be about faking it at all. Maybe it’s more about overcoming imposter syndrome in order to “make it,” or reach your full potential. I share that from a very vulnerable but honest place deep within myself. Accepting people’s definition of success—or even my own definition—is an extraordinary struggle for me. Throughout my life, I knew I wasn’t given a dream that I wouldn’t be able to bring to fruition. I also knew and learned from experience that success wouldn’t come without obstacles. I simply had no idea how large the obstacles would appear.

Realization hit when I found myself alone with a six-month-old and a two-and-a-half-year-old, watching my life fall apart in front of my eyes. I felt empty, defeated and beaten down. The only thing I could do to get through the night was cry. It was only a lioness instinct within me that pushed me to figure out what to do to protect my two kids and build a world for them. Without words the world told me I was destined for a sad life as a single mom. My sons would suffer, according to the world’s projection. Imposter syndrome became very real for me. My circumstances didn’t align with the world’s definition of success. But I refused to be or bow to its definition of failure.

 A Blueprint For Preparation

I’ve always had a plan for what I thought my life would be. Getting divorced abruptly changed some significant parts of that dream. Life turned upside down very suddenly, and society didn’t exactly roll out the red carpet of encouragement and optimism for me. I was told I could no longer achieve much of what I wanted.

However, I thought about J. Lo, whose career blossomed despite her being a single mother. I remembered Oprah’s amazing life and thriving career that far superseded her past of abuse and sexual violence. Martha Stewart’s self-made journey came to mind and made me realize something about myself: if they could manifest their dreams, so could I! I didn’t have all the pieces figured out, but I knew how and where to start: at the finish line.

Beginning with the end in mind allowed me to reverse-engineer my goals, see where I wanted to be, and back up to figure out how to achieve them. I encourage everyone to do the same for their own goals. If your definition of success is to be like Lebron, study what he did to get where he is. Do you want star status like Beyonce? Use her career as a case study and find out what she did. Maybe you want to be a famous entrepreneur like Richard Branson. Research his story and glean nuggets from his experience. Then follow those footsteps, apply them to your life and work towards the end goal. Again, they did it, and you can, too, in your own way.

Leading With Purpose

Having a reverse-engineered plan was a great first step for me. Sustaining that fervor to push myself took much more than that, though. There has to be a personal investment in what you want to pursue, a passion, a cause. That will help answer the “why” that inevitably comes with the nagging imposter syndrome that rears its ugly head. I constantly found myself asking, “out of all the people who should be at this place in life, why am *I* here? How did I get here?” I experienced this so strongly when I first traveled to Kenya, Africa. The questions flooded my soul: who am I to be standing here in Kenya wanting to help these kids? What right do I have to stand here and say, ‘I’m going to help you,’ as if I have it all figured out?

Who was I?? I was the person who had a heart for giving as a little girl. The child who bought toys with her own money and traveled with her grandmother to present them to little kids in Mexico? That was me! The person who would give you the shirt off her back if you needed it, the one who took the time to learn about FGM and get involved with nonprofit philanthropy organizations. This is who Breegan was–and still is. The purpose and passion I have for giving and helping catapulted me past “imposter” thoughts and helped me realize I set myself up to be exactly where I was supposed to be. I reached the point that I worked and asked for because I led with my heart, opened myself up to my purpose and calling, and reverse-engineered my goal. I haven’t reached my mountaintop, but I know I’m on my way.

Create YOUR Definition of Success

I’m so proud of the steps I’ve taken toward my personal definition of success, and I’m happy with where I am. Yet, I know there’s still more to do, to show, and to give to the world. Am I “faking it?” I guess it depends on who you ask. I simply say I’ve decided what I want and who I ultimately want to be, and I’m working my heart out with passion and living it out every single day. You can do the same. Consider the suggested steps above, and let your heart and openness to impact the world be your guide. However that turns out, I believe, will be the ultimate and truest definition of success.

Interior Design for Entertaining During the Holidays

Well, we’ve reached the end of 2022! This year has been full of surprises, both personally and professionally. I’m so ready to embrace all that the new year has to offer in every way. If you’re gearing up to bring in the new year like most of the world, you’re probably going to celebrate with friends and family. New Year’s Eve parties are always a fun way to both reflect on all the great memories of the past year, as well as bring in all the newness that comes on January 1. But, entertaining during the holidays is no small feat. I’m your resident interior designer, here to help you stress-proof your parties and prepare your interior design for all the fun to come!

Take Advantage of Performance Fabrics

I don’t know about you, but when I think about hosting any type of event, one of the first things that comes to mind is the potential for spills and messes in the space. If you’re new here, you might not know that I love to entertain. We do a great deal of that in the Breegan Jane household. I’m lucky to have so many friends who all live in all four corners of the world. When they come to visit, I often throw small but festive soirees so that LA friends can gather with them, as well. I also have two young children who regularly host their friends in my home, so I know a thing or two about the common mishaps that can occur when many people are in one space. Hands down, one of the best things anyone can do when they’re preparing for a gathering is invest in performance fabrics.

You might be wondering what performance fabric is in the first place. These fabrics are designed to withstand all the realities of daily life. As an interior designer, my job is to ensure your space brings you joy each time you walk into the room. I want the look of the space to proverbially “knock your socks off.” That ‘wow’ factor means you love the work that was done. But that’s not the only job I have when you hire me. My goal is to provide you with functionality that makes your life easier, more productive, and more inspired than what you previously had. That means giving a great deal of attention to how the space will be used, and making that a priority. Incorporating performance fabrics in the furniture in a space is just one way of accomplishing this goal.

No Mess, No Stress – Furniture

Performance fabrics are designed to be cleaned over and over again without ruining the pattern, color or material. This is an advantage whether you are throwing a huge shindig or if you have active little ones running around each day. New Year’s Eve parties usually feature some sort of themed beverage. If red wine or any other dark-colored juice is present, stains might follow. When that happens, I easily wipe away the mess without a care in the world. That piece of mind is priceless.

Performance fabrics are also usually treated to avoid bleaching from UV rays. This is an added bonus if you live in a climate that makes entertaining outdoors possible during this time of year. Do yourself a favor and select furniture pieces with performance fabrics if you’re entertaining during the holidays. You’ll thank me when your space looks good as new January 1, and all the days after.

A Seat For Everyone

Being a gracious host when I’m entertaining during the holidays requires great thought regarding the details of how the night will go. Will there be a sit-down dinner or food stations? Can people expect to spend their time mostly seated, or will there be more dancing and mingling? These party elements are crucial in determining how your space will need to be arranged. Seating is an essential part of planning a social gathering. You’ll want every guest to feel comfortable and have a place to sit, should they so please. But let’s face it: most of our homes weren’t built with large celebrations in mind. If you’re worried about having enough chairs for everyone, don’t be afraid to think outside the box and get creative.

Maximizing the seating in your interior design is easier than you might think. Of course, you’ll have the use of your existing sofas and chairs. However, don’t negate the power of your kitchen island. Bar stools make this space a perfect gathering spot for parties, and they provide easy access to refreshments for your guests. Ottomans, oversized floor cushions and poufs are easy to incorporate in a space. Also, they lend the perfect, relaxed vibe for a fun New Year’s Eve party.

Think Outside the Box

I am all about using interior design to not only live the best lives we can, but also to live life honestly. If you’ve seen any of my reels on Instagram, you know exactly what I mean. When utility is the focus, never be afraid to “break the rules” of design. If you’re expecting a lot of people over for your gathering, consider bringing good-quality outdoor furniture inside.

While this might sound crazy to many of you, I’ve actually used a patio set as my family dining room table for several months now. With two wiggly bear boys, it made for easy clean-up after dinnertime nightly, and I haven’t regretted it since. You may not be expecting kids at your party, but using furniture you already own in a pinch is always a great idea. Entertaining during the holidays doesn’t always mean breaking the bank to buy new decor for the occasion. Take advantage of what is readily available and often right in front of your face. Besides, your friends and family are there to celebrate the New Year with you, not to critique your interior design choices, after all.

Keep It Simple

People think entertaining during the holidays has to be a lot of work. But there’s no rule that states the host can’t have as much fun as the guests! Take the stress away by tossing out your expectations of perfection. There’s no need to go buy themed plateware and cups; this is actually the perfect opportunity to break out that fancy china you never use, even if it doesn’t all match. When are you ever going to use it if not for an occasion like this, anyway?

Consider using your credenzas as stations for beverages, food or even craft stations for kids (if they’re invited). Most of us have credenzas that we use for storage or decoration. They are ideal for use at parties, as well. So by all means, do! When you’re running short on time for decorations, forget about a color palette and stick to the metallics. Silver and gold will always add all the sparkle you need and won’t clash with your design and decor.

It’s the most festive time of the year, and you deserve to enjoy it, even if you’re the party organizer. Don’t get bogged down with planning woes and difficulties. Use these tips to make your celebration a success—and your life a little easier, too! Happy New Year, everyone!