When I moved into my apartment two years ago, I had to purchase all new everything with the exception of some smaller items that I had stored in my best friends attic.  IKEA was one of my best friends because I could get everything reasonably priced.  However, everything needed to be put together.  I purchased my dining room table from FaceBook Marketplace, which was a really great find.  Then, I just had to have an electric fireplace, which I purchased through QVC (monthly installments, sweet!).  Prior to moving in, I came up with this grand idea that I wanted my kitchen appliances, Keurig, and table ornaments red and purchased red table mats, red balls to go into my silver tray, and red chair mats.  However, I later decided to have a theme each month, which has been quite a bit of fun.  For me, it’s nothing like walking into my dining area, and seeing a different setting from month to month.

I have various colored chair cushions, plates, mugs, glasses, napkins silverware, vases, flowers, bows, etc.  I bought items from Amazon, AC Moore, and even the dollar store.  I learned to mix and match the items after accumulating enough.  Sometimes, I would have two different colored chair cushions or I’d use the different vases with flowers or stones.  Believe it or not, my Dollar Store finds weren’t bad and, unless you looked really closely, you would never know.  AC Moore is notorious for their coupons, and I would wait until I had a pretty decent one to shop.  I even got a few items from the thrift store at my place of employment.  My point is, everything doesn’t have to be expensive.  You just have to know how and where to shop for the best deals.

I love seat cushions because I think they add flare and a pop of color to my wooden chocolate colored chairs.  However, I refuse to pay an exorbitant amount of money; therefore, I do some comparative pricing before making my purchase.  You can get some good prices on Amazon, but I also saw seat cushions at Walmart for $5.00 each although they are limited in their selection of colors (this was in the store, not sure about online).  I have also gotten chair cushions from the Dollar Store but they were primarily just for decoration as they were extremely thin, but what do you expect to get for $1.00 anyway?

Since we are in the Christmas season, I thought I’d share some of ways that I decorated my dining table — all on a budget…

As you can see, I’ve paired my decorations with different things for each year with the exception of the red chair cushions.  To get the most out of your decorations, try mixing and matching.  Not only will you feel like you’ve gotten your money’s worth, but also like your “old stuff” is “new.“

I’m sharing this short video clip of the rocking Santa because it’s my granddaughters absolute favorite.  According to her, this is what I sound like when I’m sleeping.  I certainly hope not.  LOL!

Always remember, #GurlYouGotItGoinOn

Why break the bank when you can decorate on a budget?

Start with an idea, and build from there.

Remember, always shop around for the best prices.

Love ya,

Grace

P.S.:  I now have a podcast that is featured on Spotify as well as Apple Podcasts and a few others, which you may find under Grace Deveraux or “Take A Leap With Grace.”  Also, you may find me on Instagram @Gracedeveraux.  Please stop by and check out what I’ve been up to. 😊