We've all seen the shows on television and stared at the pictures in magazines, admiring professionally decorated rooms. You like the look… but how do you get interesting rooms without spending a lot of money?
That's where I was 22 years ago, newly married with both Jay and I in straight commission careers. The hunt began. Searching for flea market finds or hidden treasure in antique malls throughout central Illinois. We didn't have much money for home decor, but I could find something cheap and turn it into something special. A couple of successful makeovers later I was hooked.
After college and an advertising/marketing degree, I found my first job. My "real" job found me. I found myself in many unexpected places. Some women are nesters – I'm definitely a hunter. Always looking for fabulous finds. I didn't invent the verb "repurpose," turning items into things other than their intended purpose, but I loved the creative challenge.
Reuse, recycle, re-create -a lot of "R" words translated into a way of life and unique decorating style . I've been recycling on a certain level before it became popular and the responsible thing to do. Who knew it would be so fun?
As owner of Flea Market to Fabulous, my goal is to inspire people. Inspire them to try something new, get out of a decorating category and embrace the charm and character of antiques.
- Start one room at a time. Find that one thing that makes you go "Wow," and build upon it. The difference is in the details and rooms with personality have lots of layers.
- Furniture, wall decor, accessories, texture, color. Off center, at an angle, asymetrical, unexpected. That's what makes design so interesting…and interesting does not have to be expensive. One of a kind and costly are not mutually exclusive. Many Flea Market to Fabulous customers could shop any where they want with no concern of cost. Put that money into family vacations, saving and investing or a vacation home.
Thrifty has never been so fashionable, but it will always be fabulous.
Submitted by Jodi Cole, owner of Springfield Moms sponsor Flea Market to Fabulous on the corner of Spring & Lawrence in Springfield.
Don't miss Jodi's creative store to inspire you and your surroundings!
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