Have you ever been shopping and come across that perfect throw pillow, pair of lamps or rug that has the perfect colors in it? I know I have, and then I wonder-"Will that rug fit? Is the pillow the right color of red?" I now keep a notebook in my purse as well as a tape measure for this reason. Yes, usually you can return things if they aren't right once you get them home, but I always dread the time, energy and not to mention the gas that it takes to return things.

So, anything that I'm thinking about for my home or client, I keep a detailed list, and often a picture or fabric or paint sample. That way, instead of having to shop specifically for that item, I can now purchase it when I come across it. I have found many of my favorite items this way! Happy shopping!

Keep a list

Do you ever get to a store and come across something that would be perfect at your home? Here's what happens to me sometimes; I'll see that perfect rug, but I won't remember the size I need. Or, I'll see some wonderful throw pillows but I won't know if they're the right size or the perfect red I need. Of course you can always purchase it and return it, but I prefer to be more efficient, especially if you're farther away from home or on a trip. And with gas prices and time constaints, who has time to be returning things? So, I keep a small notebook in my purse, along with a small tape measure (a tape measure that attaches to a keyring are really handy). In the notebook I list everything that I might be looking for along with the sizes, colors, etc. That way, when that perfect item appears before us we can be sure to have a better fit. It still may need to be returned, but at least you're initially more likely to have it work.