Meet our friends, The Roggeman Group

This week we are so excited to introduce you to a local business that shares our same value of excellent service and compassion for clients. Here's a little Q+A we did with Robin from the Roggeman Group

Husband and wife team: Brent and Robin Roggeman

Husband and wife team: Brent and Robin Roggeman


Q.  Who makes up the "Roggeman Group"? 
A.  We are Brent and Robin Roggeman- a husband and wife team with an affinity for people and Knoxville. Brent, is a Powell native, Realtor, and real estate appraiser, who offers over 14 years of experience in the Knoxville  and surrounding markets. I am a Realtor and Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) I have a strong background and understanding of  the senior and aging population, along with a foundation in marketing. I was previously a nurse with a focus on geriatrics and then transitioned into marketing where I spent the majority of my time in senior living communities. Brent brings much of the traditional real estate knowledge and experience, while I bring the senior focus. We live with our 2 labs and teenage daughter in North Knoxville.

Q.  What sets you apart from other realtors?
A.  We view real estate as an experience, not a transaction. We offer our clients a unique perspective. The combination of both of our backgrounds allows us to view the market in a multidimensional way. Aside from the Realtor perspective, Brent sees things with an appraiser’s eye and from that of a native Knoxvillian. I relate much back to my experience with the senior population and the transitions that come with aging. Whether downsizing, moving in with a family member, or joining a senior community, I understand the challenges that are involved. Along with sensitivity, knowledge and experience- we provide our clients with a network of trusted resources to help simplify the process every step of the way. This includes everything from movers, to organizers such as HYD, to contractors and lenders. We found that it takes a lot of the guess work out of things and allows for  peace of mind and a smooth experience- especially for those folks that are from out of town or who already have a lot on their plate. Real estate is a big deal and a big decision. We have been there and want buying or selling a home to be the easy part. From the nervous excitement of first time home buyers to the upsizing of the growing family, to investment, commercial, senior transitions and everything in between, we are committed to making it a great experience. 

 
National Association of Realtors Official designation and Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) designation. 

National Association of Realtors Official designation and Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) designation. 

 
Follow @roggemangroup on Instagram. 

Follow @roggemangroup on Instagram. 

Q.  Who are your ideal clients?
A.  We serve all of the community and try to connect with  buyers, sellers, and family members in all stages of real estate. Because of my SRES training and background, I gravitate to the senior community, while Brent serves our more traditional clients. I have a genuine love for the older population and realize that it requires a specific type of conversation, process, and level of support. I have seen the worried daughter, responsible for selling her mom’s house but lives hours away with a full time job and a family of her own, who doesn’t even know how to begin the process. I have seen the couple who celebrates their 50th anniversary in the home they bought when they first got married but recognize that it’s a lot to maintain and it is time to downsize. We also have celebrated the joy of first time home ownership with the newly engaged couple who are excited about beginning to build their lives together. It all comes back to creating an experience and serving as a resource. 

Q.  What do you love about Knoxville? 
A.  The small town feel of a big city. Everything is accessible here. There is a great culture and sense of community that is palpable. We love biking downtown, boating, exploring local restaurants, seeking out live music. There is always something fun and unique to do for families and adults alike. We love the support Knoxville offers to small and local businesses, the arts, and visitors. It is a welcoming place to live and be and we are constantly growing!

Q.  What is your favorite part of your job?
A. Meeting new people and becoming part of their experience. We are so fortunate that we are able to live and work in a place that we love and have the opportunity to introduce it to new people. We especially enjoy helping folks make their visions and dreams a reality while also helping to make the process easier when circumstances are difficult or emotional. 

Like their page on Facebook to keep up with them! 

Like their page on Facebook to keep up with them! 

Q. What is something you wish everyone knew about the population you serve?
A.  Each segment of the population that we serve has its unique characteristics. The approach we take with first time home buyers is very different than the approach we take with investors. The conversations and methods of communication differ, as well. For example because my passion lies with our senior population, I recognize that it may have been sometime since their last real estate transaction or maybe they would prefer more face to face communication rather than emails or phone calls. I also find that family members who are handling estates, often shoulder a lot of the work. There can be a lot of emotion involved and I want to do all that I can to help lighten that load for them and their loved one. The take away is that we treat each segment with the same great service and attention, but we tailor it specifically to their needs and expectations.

Q. What is a little known fact about you guys?
A.  Brent and I are very different. Our personalities are almost completely opposite as he is the quiet observer and I’m the social butterfly. He is the analyzer and I am the implementer. It truly serves as a counter balance and equalizer for us both and allows complimentary viewpoints in every situation. It works very well for us personally and professionally. It also means that we laugh a lot and have a really great time together. We take a lot of pride in being partners in every sense of the word. On a personal note it means that I love 90’s music and he loves country. 


We so enjoyed getting to know Robin and hear about her compassionate heart for her clients. We can't wait to partner together in the future to serve Knoxville with excellence. 

How to get in touch with The Roggeman Group:
Call - 865-315-7477
Email - rroggeman@kw.com

Practicing Hygge year round

Is hygge only relevant for cold weather? It's the end of February but this week it's feeling more like May so we sat down to think about the concept of Hygge and why it makes sense in every season.

We blogged about the concept last year and there has continued to be a lot of buzz about the Danish concept pronounced “hoo-gah” or “hue-gah,”. As a refresher, it's a word that refers to the feeling of coziness, comfort, and well-being. The idea of hygge is nothing new in Scandinavia, perhaps even originating in the 16th century, but the social media following it’s gaining has increased its popularity in the US . In typical Danish homes, you’ll find plentiful fur, wool, or flannel blankets and many candles in every room, but the look and vibe can vary widely, depending on the person, location, and season. Some people are coziest wrapped up in blankets on the couch with candles, others, on a sunny porch with a glass of wine, or some may prefer a yoga mat with tea. Personally, my idea of hygge is being wrapped up in a blanket, drinking coffee, and cuddling with Prints, my guinea pig.

Prints! Image by Erin Halcott

Prints! Image by Erin Halcott

Image by Katie Martin

Image by Katie Martin

But hygge is more than blankets and candles. It incorporates not only your environment but also your mental space. You can set up your room to feel truly hygge, but if your mind is cluttered and stressed, the effect won’t be the same. Our rushed society in the United States makes this part especially tricky. Hygge is a feeling; enjoying the moment, feeling truly present. Some people enjoy journaling during their time, others enjoy listening to music, some enjoy both. I enjoy listening to audio books. It allows me to relax and really settle into the present, without allowing my mind to create ever-lingering to-do lists.

Hygge is simplistic in essence... enjoying the simplest and coziest aspects of your life and being truly present for them. For a minimalist like myself, finding hygge is a great way to slow down, relax, and enjoy the moment.

A very special thanks to Dr. Adrienne Schwarte for her expertise.

For more information, check out https://www.denverpost.com/2017/01/05/what-is-hygge/

-Erin

Have you ever worked with a style consultant?

Everyone gets in a style rut from time to time. Often times it's not that you need an entirely new wardrobe, you just need a fresh pair of eyes to help you re-imagine what you have.

Once you've purged and organized your closet, it's time to call in someone who can help you find your style, rework your clothes, and think about dressing in a fun and fresh way. Enter Brianna Lamberson. Bri comes to your home, talks with you about your goals and your set backs, and takes on your wardrobe with an expert eye. Her goal is to help you "find your unique style and reclaim your space." In addition to style, Bri focuses on simple living, natural skin care products and health. 

Over the past few weeks, Bri has had a style consultation with two HYD'ers.

We would love to share our experiences and a few outfits with you! (Pardon my unwashed hair--mom of a 4 month old probs)

Caroline's style rut: I have a 4 month old and have resorted to yoga pants most days. Additionally, I feel like I'm revisiting my closet for the first time in a while since many of my favorite pieces weren't options when I was pregnant. I've found myself many times in the past few months just standing in front of my open closet with a blank look, not knowing what I like anymore.

Caroline's take: I'd never really considered using a style consultant before since I've liked my style and enjoyed putting outfits together for most of my life. When I found out about Bri's mini styling sessions though, I was curious enough to solicit her services. Bri had so many helpful tips that she shared with me about using staple pieces in a variety of different ways. She totally heard my current frustrations with my clothing and helped me think outside of the box and in new ways. I especially loved the ways that she used accessories to rework and transform outfits from basic to funky and interesting. Besides having several new outfit combinations to choose from, she left me feeling way more confident to try things that would normally be a bit out of my comfort zone. I've been rocking neck scarves and jewelry a lot more often since she came!  I would definitely recommend Bri's mini styling session for all kinds of people-- even if you are already feeling good about your fashion sense!

Outfit styled by Bri

Outfit styled by Bri

Outfit I put together after being inspired during our session

Outfit I put together after being inspired during our session

Outfit styled by Bri

Outfit styled by Bri

 

Erin's style rut: I felt like I'd been wearing the same clothes since high school.. not overly feminine, just really bland. Everything felt frumpy and I felt stuck.

Erin's take: I went into the session a little apprehensive. I was worried that none of my clothes would be suitable to keep, but I knew Bri would be very personable and not intimidating. She poked around my closet for a few minutes while we chatted about my goals, and she started to pull a few items for me to try. They were pieces that I had never put together in outfits before, and they worked! I was amazed that my wardrobe, that I had pieced together from thrift stores and hand-me-downs was actually worthwhile and could look great! After talking through several outfits, I felt much more put- together and confident in my options. She was encouraging and knowledgeable and left me feeling good about what I've got, not defeated in what I'm lacking. She even had suggestions for what pieces I should add to my wardrobe including a blazer, ankle boots, and finding a good tailor to alter a few pieces of clothing that I already have. She even offers personal shopping if you are interested!

Outfit styled by Bri

Outfit styled by Bri

Outfit styled by Bri

Outfit styled by Bri

Outfit styled by Bri

Outfit styled by Bri

Thank you so much Brianna!!

To schedule a mini styling session with Bri, check out her services or can contact her here.

 

Pros and Cons of Decanting

Image from blesserhouse.com

Image from blesserhouse.com

When it comes to pantry organization, there is wide debate about whether or not to decant your food. We always aim to find out what works best for each client and it works for some people but not for everyone. If you are on the fence or wondering whether or not decanting is a good option for you, this list of pro's and con's may be helpful in determining what's best for your home and your family.

Pro's:

  • If you shop in bulk, you can take your empty jars to the store and skip a box/bag. Often times purchasing food in bulk is cost effieciant AND you have the added bonus of being environmentally friendly by skipping the packaging.
  • Unlike a cereal box or other opaque packaging, in a jar or decanter you can more easily keep track of your supply of food. No more scrambling to the grocery store after discovering that the box you thought was full, is nearly empty.
  • Decanting makes for a prettier, more streamlined pantry. If your pantry is open to the kitchen or highly visible, this is a great option.
  • If you purchase air tight containers, they often keep food items fresh for a longer period of time than the packaging they come in.
  • Decanting often makes it easier to better utilize your space. By eliminating bulky bags and boxes, you can fit more into your pantry. By using different shapes and sizes of containers, you often have the ability to stack items and fit more on each shelf.
Image and containers from Ikea

Image and containers from Ikea

Image from Nordic Bliss containers from Ikea

Image from Nordic Bliss containers from Ikea

Cons:

  • Decanting is nice but it's not necessary. If you are trying to simplify your time, taking food out of original containers to put in matching decanters is an extra step that may not be worth it.
  • Depending on your containers, sometimes glass or large plastic decanters are heavy and harder for children to handle. If you want your little ones to have access to certain items, decanting them may make it more difficult for your kiddos to get their own snacks.
  • Remembering expiration dates becomes more difficult. If you refill a jar before it's totally empty, you will be mixing food with different "use by" dates. While some people opt to write expiration dates with dry erase markers on the outside of the container, it gets more complicated when you mix dates by refilling.
  • You no longer have easy access to ingredient lists, health facts, or directions.
  • Decanters cost money and sometimes a lot of money depending on how many containers and what types of containers you choose to purchase.

We would love to hear from you! Do you decant your food? Have you found any additional pro's or con's?

 

 

Home (away from home) Tour

This month, Katie and her husband went on a trip to Hawaii. With the wonderful convenience of Airbnb, she and her husband found a dreamy (and affordable) island escape that we are excited to share with you! Imagine natural beauty, fresh warm air, and wild frogs croaking as you fall asleep. 

The east side of the Big Island of Hawaii is lush and full of tropical vegetation. The rain forest and jungle vibes are the perfect backdrop for this Balinese Style eco-hut. It's clear that the owners and designers put so much intention and thought into the design. The name of this eco-hut: "Lemongrass". The home is minimal yet eclectic and extremely comfortable. From the materials they used to the layout of the space, you can see clearly that this was a labor of love and that they use the space efficiently. 

Enjoy these snapshots of the "Lemongrass"!

Why we love this tropical getaway? 

The Kitchen

Simple design, gas stove, water filter, french press coffee, prep area, vertical wall storage for pots and pans, local spices, just enough space for two! 

No Wasted Space

Every corner had a function, but it didn't feel cluttered. They managed to incorporate a kitchen, dining space (with an unobstructed jungle view), queen bed, and a bathroom sink & toilet in a 20x12 structure while managing to create an open and airy feel. 

Limited Wifi 

They offered wifi on a schedule of 8 am - 8 pm. This is crucial for guests as they may still need to research and plan aspects of their trip while there. But the schedule also provided unplugged time that allowed us to truly disconnect from the internet and really be present. 

Sights & Sounds

Falling asleep to the chorus of local frogs croaking and the intermittent breaking of ocean waves was like having your own custom noise machine. Birds start singing their songs as early as warm sunlight started to color the sky.

Where are your favorite vacation spots?
Have you used Airbnb for your travels?
What do you look for in vacation rentals? 

We'd love to hear about your travel experiences.

A year of monthly organizing

It's a new year and while most of us have great intentions to make a list and bring more order to our lives, the reality is, life goes on. We often stay too busy, commit to too much, and let things fall by the wayside. Here is where a year of monthly organizing comes in--we have found that things are more likely to get done when you have accountability. If simplifying your home or bringing more order to your living space is one of your hopes for 2018, we have the service for you.

Caroline on the job "Magazine edition"

Caroline on the job "Magazine edition"

Katie working on a pantry

Katie working on a pantry

Taryn organizing Holiday gift wrap for a client

Taryn organizing Holiday gift wrap for a client

Why monthly organizing will work for you...

  • You have a standing appointment each month. If you are prone to procrastinating, never following through etc, having a monthly appointment with Help You Dwell will solve your problem.
  • An HYD team member will be helping you every step of the way. We provide a new set of eyes and a different way of thinking about storage solutions. We can help you purge and prioritize the items that bring you the most joy.
  • That pile of things to donate that never quite makes it to the car will get loaded up and taken for you each month
  • Organizing your whole house gets broken down into manageable projects that we will tackle each month. We can work room by room, closet by closet, or we can work on larger projects like an attic or garage over a longer period of time. If you have a larger project in mind that you'd like to get done more quickly, we offer discounted rates for hours booked in addition to your 2 hour monthly visit. Making a list of each area in your home that you would like organized is step one!

We work with all kinds of people with all kinds of needs, budgets, and desires. Our goal is always to make your home work better for you and your family.

For more information, check out our monthly organizing page and submit an inquiry, give us a call (865)245-9080 or send us an email at info@helpyoudwell.com. We'd love to add you to our monthly rotation!

 

 

Organizing tips for cleaning off your desk

This past Monday was National Clean off your desk day! Yes, there is actually a national holiday for that! Who knew?

Getting your desk or home office space organized can often be overwhelming so we've compiled a few tips to help you get started.

After

After

Before

Before

Step 1: Sort everything! Clear the surface and empty each drawer. Make piles of office supplies, things that don't belong on your desk, and go through that paper work! A good place to start in terms of paper is to think about the broad categories--Recycle, shred, file, attend to. The attend to pile will be the most time consuming so don't get hung up here quite yet.

IMG_7182.JPG

Step 2: Find a place for each category. Using drawer organizers or a rolling cart if your desk doesn't have drawers for supplies makes it much easier to maintain order so that you aren't facing a disorganized and overwhelming desk again in 3 months.

Step 3: Allocate. Put everything in it's place-- including filing, shredding and recycling piles. Add a few simple decor items or a plant to your desk top if you'd like. I find that I'm more likely to use my desk if I've "beautified it".

IMG_7181.JPG
Rolling Cart

Rolling Cart

Step 4: Work through that pile of paperwork that needs attention or action. Pay any outstanding bills, add any appointment reminders to your calendar, flip through the magazines and purchase or discard, and start a to do list of anything that can not be attended to at the moment. Keep that to do list on top of your active pile and commit to working through it over the coming weeks. If you have a place and a plan for your desk, the maintenance piece will just be your active paper pile.

Step 5: We would love to see what you are up to! Post a before and after picture of your desk and use our hashtag #helpyoudwell  Or if you'd like to skip steps 1-3 and let us do it for you, email us at info@helpyoudwell or give us a call (865)245-9080!

 

Items Inspired by this Post:

Katelier studio tour

The entrance to The Katelier at 628 Lamar Street. Photo by Katie Roach

The entrance to The Katelier at 628 Lamar Street. Photo by Katie Roach

In 2011, after helping several friends with wedding decor and flowers, Katie Roach officially started her business The Katelier, a business name that combines both her name and the french work "atelier" which means "a workshop or studio, especially of an artist, artisan, or designer." (Dictionary.com)

k11.JPG
k6.JPG
k10.JPG

If you ask Katie how she got into floral arranging she will tell you that "Flowers found her". It's a beautiful thing when a business begins and then grows completely organically. With very little marketing aside from making arrangements for coffee shops and other local businesses to get her work in front of people, Katie has relied almost exclusively on word of mouth and it has served her well.

floral photos from @thekatelier

floral photos from @thekatelier

k17.jpg
k18.jpg
k19.jpg

Katie started out apprenticing under Allie King of Sassafras flowers and after starting her own business, worked out of her 5th Avenue apartment. She likes to say that she was subletting her apartment from the flowers.

In early 2014 Katie opted for studio space outside of her home and joined several other woman owned businesses (including HYD) in operating out of The Hive.

The Katelier at The Hive

The Katelier at The Hive

The Katelier at The Hive

The Katelier at The Hive

The Katelier at The Hive

The Katelier at The Hive

Two years later when a friend asked her for ideas about what to do with a small building he owned, Katie jumped at the chance for a little shop of her own.  After moving in 1 year ago, Katie has transformed the space and made it her own. Known for being incredibly resourceful, Katie has managed to make her studio look straight out of a magazine almost exclusively with second hand furniture and decor. Admittedly, Katie says she "buys sofas the way most women buy shoes", but this space is the perfect home for her collection. Aside from being Katie's workshop, her studio can be rented for small events, parties, and showers.

k5.JPG
k7.JPG
k4.JPG
k6.JPG
k1.JPG
k3.JPG
k2.JPG

After spending significant time this year on furthering education and investing in honing her skills, Katie says that starting The Katelier has been the best thing she has ever done for herself and has been character building and life enriching. While her favorite kind of jobs are tablescapes and center pieces, she stays very busy year round with weddings. Her favorite part of the job is seeing the brides face when she see's her flowers for the first time on her wedding day. After all, this job is all about celebrating people and making spaces beautiful. (Side note-- Katie did all of the flowers for not one but TWO HYD weddings--we highly recommend her!)

Her favorite flower? Hellebore's and Garden Roses

Katie at the studio. Photo by Erin McCall

Katie at the studio. Photo by Erin McCall

For more info on The Katelier floral services or studio rentals, check out her website, follow her on instagram @thekatelier, and like her on facebook.

A big thank you to Katie for giving us the tour!

 

Reflecting on 2017

2017: a few highlights from this past year

1 BABY BORN
Hank, to co-founder Caroline & husband Andrew

1 WEDDING CELEBRATED
Katie, Office Admin & Project Manager to Andy Martin

1 PARTNERSHIP WITH MOVING TIME
local moving company we trust and highly recommend

4 NEW TEAM MEMBERS
Erin, Bekah, Allie, Katoya

4 HOME TOURS
Tiny Home, Historic Home, Downtown Home, Parkridge Home

5 GIVEAWAYS
We collaborated with other local businesses and gave away some awesome goods

6 EVENTS HOSTED/CO-HOSTED
First Friday @ Nest, Intro to the Art of Design, Interior Design Workshop, Pottery Barn Workshop, DIY Workshop @ Fountain City United Methodist Church, Spring Flea, Fall flea

7 INTERIOR DESIGN PROJECTS COMPLETED
Cassandra worked on one of a kind design plans and installs

12 NEWSLETTERS
Sign up to receive the HYD monthly newsletter and announcements here

17 MONTHLY CLIENTS
Month by month, one project at a time we served these clients all year long

24 MOVES MANAGED
Ranging from partial/packing and unpacking to full scale move management

52 BLOG POSTS
Check out our weekly posts here 

200+ ORGANIZING PROJECTS COMPLETED
Pantries, garages, basements, closets, bathrooms, linen closets, etc.

 
 

Merry Christmas

The team at Help You Dwell wishes you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

IMG_6959.JPG

We are mixing it up this week and sharing a few of our favorite Christmas links from around the web. Enjoy!

1. A Hosting Checklist to get your ready for the Holidays

2. Paying it forward this Holiday season

3. The ultimate Holiday dinner guide

4. A fun holiday craft.

5. We know the Holidays are not easy for everyone. For when it's hard.

Holiday gift guide: Give the gift of experience rather than goods

gift guide.png

Christmas is less than two weeks away and we have a great list of gift ideas that won't clutter up the homes of the ones you love. We have compiled ideas for all age groups, budgets, and interests. We've even managed to think of ways to support local businesses without having to purchase tangible items. Whether you're shopping for "the person that already has everything", someone who is working toward a minimal lifestyle, or for someone that you wish would get rid of some clutter, we've got you covered. 

Experiences:

  • A Weekend away. Knoxville is conveniently located in driving distance from Nashville, Atlanta, Louisville, Chattanooga, and the Smokey Mountains. Try out an air bnb property rather than a hotel for a more personalized experience.
  • Dinner out. A few of our local favorites are A dopo, Knox Mason, Emelia, and J.C. Holdway
  • Manicure, pedicure, massage, spa treatment etc. Support a local salon like Wild Lavender or Pure Lux

Give the gift of classes or offer to teach someone a skill that you have:

  • Teach a loved one to knit, crochet, embroider, or sew. Loopville offers lots of classes for all levels of learning
  • Teach someone how to bake your "signature" treat or cook your favorite meal or give the gift of cooking classes at The Cutting Edge Classroom
  • Music/instrument lessons. Bill Jones Music offers many options.
  • Art or pottery classes. Check out Mighty Mud or ask a local artist if they offer private lessons.
  • Yoga membership or class package. The Glowing Body is one of our favorite locally owned studios.
  • Photography classes. Light Finds offers classes and private lessons as well!

Events:

The Mill & Mine: Image Source

The Mill & Mine: Image Source

Gift ideas for Kids:

The Basement community art studio. Image Source

The Basement community art studio. Image Source

Miscellaneous:

CSA share. Image source

CSA share. Image source

Think outside of the box this year and give those you love something that they will remember forever!

Introducing Origami Day!

I am so excited to introduce HYD's new friend, Samantha Lane, founder of Origami Day, to you. HYD is so thrilled to learn about her new company and how she's helping folks with time management and personal productivity!

Samantha came up with the idea after a health scare a few years back that led her to rethink how she was spending her own time.  Soon thereafter, she attended a time management class where the lightbulb came on and Origami Day was born.  Samantha's been applying Origami Day practices in her own life for some time now.  After walking alongside friends and colleagues assisting them with their calendars and how to use their time more wisely, she realized she had lots to offer our busy culture.  

So what is Origami Day? We'll start with the fabulous, simple, and very functional products:

The 2018 Origami Planner Notebook
This planner/notebook is so lovely and brilliant as it allows you to see the month as a whole, helping you keep track of the bigger picture with a year view as well. But that's not all, the journal has space for note taking, big ideas, and other important scribbles. These features  allow you to only grab one item instead of a planner and a journal and a notepad.  Available locally at Rala and online.

The Origami Day Planner Sheet
These sheets are designed with a unique grid that allows you to plan your week thoroughly. The next step is to fold your sheet along the provided lines allowing you to see your present day and the following day encouraging you to stay present and not be overwhelmed by the entire week. Available online.

Time Management Presentation
Samantha leads dynamic sessions that will inspire any audience to get excited about Time Management or Personal Productivity. Whether you are looking for a workshop, a conference speaker, or another special event, Origami Day is a great choice.


Origami Day is more than just the products though. It's also a new way of thinking. Samantha is dedicated to creating a culture shift, even if it's just on a small scale. She's come to realize that...

... how we spend our day is how we spend our life.
Samantha Lane, Founder

Samantha Lane, Founder

Just as HYD has seen the freedom and renewal that comes from decluttering the stuff in our homes, Samantha is now experiencing the great power that comes from decluttering one's schedule to create space and time for the things in life that truly matter.

And be on the lookout for some exciting collaborations between Origami Day and Help You Dwell this Spring!!

-- You can subscribe to Origami Day's newsletter here for Time Management tips and for upcoming events --

 

Ideas for an Organized + Meaningful Thanksgiving

Before you get overwhelmed or let another list of ideas make you feel like you aren't doing "enough"... we're sharing these tips to bring just a little additional function or fun to your Thanksgiving, but it doesn't have to be complicated. There is something very sacred and special about welcoming guests, family and friends into your home with as minimal fuss as possible. The hospitable act of opening your door, your table, your kitchen, your heart and your family is not to be taken lightly. Give yourself some grace. And if you are the one visiting someone else's home, go with gratitude. What if you chose not to get caught up in the expensive decor, fancy fixings, or newest trends this year? We challenge you to make a little commitment to yourself and whoever you are gathering with - that you will simply be grateful to gather, and the rest is all secondary. 


Our ideas to bring functionality + fun to your Thanksgiving:

Image from The Pretty Blog.

Image from The Pretty Blog.

  • Turn up the tunes. Make a family mix playlist on Spotify, so that everyone gets to hear a few of their current favorite songs. Or you can pick a genre or artist that everyone will love and have it playing in the background all day.

  • No Phone Zone. What if you and your guests all put your phones away (silenced and in another room) during your meal? Consider how this could eliminate distractions and foster togetherness at your table.

  • Take your feast outside. If the weather allows, shift your Thanksgiving meal outside - embrace the crisp fall air and a change of scenery. Ask your guests to bring camping chairs and set up a fire to enjoy after the feast. This will allow time to linger and savor the day a little longer. This blog post is an incredible inspiration for your outdoor Thanksgiving.

  • If you have help, take it. Don't try to be a superhero - let your people pitch in and give you a hand.

  • Walk it out. If you can find just 20 minutes, grab a neighbor or loved one in town and step away from the kitchen and enjoy fresh air and company for a brief break. If you enjoy your Thanksgiving meal for lunch, this is a great idea for the whole gang after the meal. Get your body moving for just a bit, you might even enjoy that pumpkin pie a little more if you do.


Links we're loving: 

Image from The Pretty Blog.

Image from The Pretty Blog.

Get the Look - Holiday Table Setting

Whether you are planning an epic Friendsgiving, or hosting your annual family Thanksgiving dinner, your table is about to take center stage and we are here to help you celebrate. Your table can create mood, reflect your personality, and provide a festive gathering space for loved ones. We have highlighted a few styles we love as well as offered some simple tips on how to achieve these looks on your own this holiday season.

RUSTIC: The design emphasizes rugged and natural beauty. It embraces nature-inspired textures and simple earthy colors. The ultimate goal is to create a feeling of unpretentious and organic warmth.

Photo via: Deer Pearl Flowers

Photo via: Deer Pearl Flowers

  • Take a few steps outside and search for natural elements you can incorporate.

  • Keep the color palette simple by using soft neutrals, browns, & greens.

  • Mason jars are always a winning element with this look.

1. / 2. / 3. / 4. / 5. / 6. / 7.

1. / 2. / 3. / 4. / 5. / 6. / 7.

CONTEMPORARY: This design features neutral elements alongside bold color. The look should focus on the basics of lines, shape and form.

Photo via: Lauren Conrad Blog

Photo via: Lauren Conrad Blog

  • Use natural materials such as marble plates or wooden chargers to create an effortless contemporary look.

  • Brass is making a come-back. Stand out with a soft palette and bold silverware.

1. / 2. / 3. / 4. / 5. / 6. / 7.

1. / 2. / 3. / 4. / 5. / 6. / 7.

TRANSITIONAL: This design envisions new takes on old classics. Mixing and matching your old items with your newer style is key.

Photo via: The Perfect Palette

Photo via: The Perfect Palette

  • Bring out your traditional silverware and mix it in with your updated tableware.

  • Spray paint some small pumpkins, pine cones, or berries to create a fun new twist.

  • As shown above, mix and match gold and silver to really make your table pop.

1. / 2. / 3. / 4. / 5. / 6. / 7.

1. / 2. / 3. / 4. / 5. / 6. / 7.

Let your table be a refection of you and your family. 
Keep it simple.
Use what you have.
Add personal touches.
Mix & match.
Add greenery, plants & flowers.
Create height with stunning center pieces.
And most of all, create a space where you and your guests feel welcome to gather.

"Get the Look" Styling Services

Behind the scenes of the HYD Flea

Tomorrow is the big day! The HYD Flea is one of our favorite events each season for so many reasons. We just thought it'd be fun to tell you a little about all the fun (and the crazy) that goes on during prep week.

Collecting for each flea starts just after the previous one ends. As we assist our clients with organizing, moving, or just rearranging their homes or offices, we carefully select items from them that they'd like to sell. This has been a great way to help folks let go of items they no longer need, allow clients to make a little money, and for us to create a shop filled with unique pieces you can't find anywhere else!

 
flea_15.jpg

The week of the sale is a little bonkers to say the least. : ) We're so very thankful for the guys at Moving Time who help us pick up the items at our client's homes and get them safely to The Hive! They are so good with our clients and careful with their home goods. Once the items are in the door, the task of inventorying and tagging begins and HYD takes great care to research values &/or information so that we get the right price for both the client and the shopper.

flea_12.jpg

Then comes the placement of all the goods. Now THIS is a job. We move stuff so many times before it gets in just the right spot. It's been such a gift to get to host the flea each season at The Hive. The space showcases the beauty of all the pieces and allows shoppers to enjoy a lovely atmosphere while they shop and visit with friends.

Spring Flea 2016

Spring Flea 2016

The day of the flea is lots of fun as well. So many old friends make their way through the door and lots of new ones as well! Music is playing, there's usually coffee to share, and lots of fun finds for your home.

Fall Flea 2016

Fall Flea 2016

adventure.png

We hope you make time to stop by Friday or Saturday between 8am & 2pm to see all the treasures. 

We'll have an HYD Tote to giveaway to one lucky winner and don't forget...
It all goes HALF PRICE on Saturday from 12pm-2pm so don't miss your chance to get a real deal!!

A friendly feature: Bespoke Naturals

Image from @bespokenaturals

Image from @bespokenaturals

This week we wanted to introduce you to a local maker: Bespoke Naturals. We love their company and we wanted to share a little Q&A we did with them. Enjoy!

Q. Where did your idea and passion for this company come from?

A. Our idea for Bespoke Naturals originated from a desire to help a family member diagnosed with a serious illness. In researching healthier, more natural options for them, we discovered how many household cleaning products are quite unhealthy and filled with dangerous chemicals. Realizing the potential negative side effects of breathing in these chemicals, we began creating cleaning products free from harsh chemicals, preservatives and artificial fragrances.

Our idea for the Dog-Gone Flea & Tick Drops for Dogs came from a lovely little terrier that is allergic to the pesticides and chemicals in traditional flea and tick repellents. So, we set out to create a formula that is comprised entirely of a blend of dog-safe essential oils mixed with fractionated coconut oil.

Our ongoing passion for our company stems from the simple desire to share with others what we have learned about healthier living for ourselves, our families, and our pets. 

 

Q.  What is your favorite product?

A. We actually have two favorite products. First, is our counter top spray. We love the light fragrance provided by essential oils and how well it works around the house. Second, is our flea & tick drops for dogs. It keeps fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes away from our dogs and, unlike traditional chemical repellents, it does not cause them any problems.

 
Image from @bespokenaturals

Image from @bespokenaturals

 


Q. What is one thing you wish everyone knew about most household products?

A. We wish everyone knew a product label that says "natural" does not necessarily mean the product is really natural. The term "natural" is unregulated. There are no guidelines that must be followed in order to use the term. Therefore, a product may be labeled "natural" and still contain harsh chemicals or preservatives that may cause issues for sensitive family members or pets in the home. When you see "natural" on a product label, be sure to take a close look at the ingredient list.

At Bespoke Naturals, we never use harsh chemicals, preservatives or artificial fragrances in any of our products. So, you can trust you are using only the best for your family. 

 

Q. Who makes up your team at Bespoke?

A. Bespoke Naturals LLC is a two-person operation started by friends, Bill and Dedra, with an appreciation for healthy homes and healthy living.

 

Q. What are some holiday gift ideas you recommend? 

A. We recommend trying one of our gift sets. Each gift set comes in a cute gift box and contains everything you need to get started using our products along with a gift card. For the pet lover in your life that has a dog, we suggest our Dog-Gone Flea & Tick Drops for Dogs. They are convenient, easy to apply, and work well.

 

Image from @bespokenaturals

Image from @bespokenaturals

Thank you Bespoke Naturals your willingness to share with our HYD family! 

Bespoke Naturals, LLC
Web- bespokenaturals.com
Email- infobespokenaturals@gmail.com

if these walls could talk...

Gallery walls are a wonderful way to display photos of your family and friends, your favorite artwork, and even objects, in a creative and personal way. With the endless lay out options and unique design patterns, it is no wonder they are gaining popularity along the walls of our homes. 

At HYD, it is our job to stay on top of hot trends that will come and go as well as highlight some tips, tricks, and designs we would designate as tried and true "classics." The gallery wall is a perfect combination of personal touch as well as moldable design and we are here to give our stamp of approval to this timeless trend. Now, we know the word "gallery" may carry some weight and cause some anxiety for some, but have no fear...HYD is here! We want to empower you with a few How To Tips to get your gallery wall started. We believe your walls can talk in beautiful, artistic and unique ways and we cannot wait to hear what they have to say! 

Tips & Tricks:

Attempting to display several photos in a cohesive and aesthetically interesting way may feel daunting. Trial and error with hammer and nails can get really ugly really fast. Before you even think about putting a hammer in your hand, here are a few ways to help save your sanity and your sheet rock...

  • Layout: When it comes to laying out your desired gallery wall design, a floor rehearsal is a must. Whether your are going for a streamlined, mix/match, or random look, it is always a great idea to lay out each individual frame, object, and item on the floor to mimic how it will look on the wall. Play around with design, layout, balance, etc.. You will want the design to be centered and balanced on the desired wall. If you don't know where to start, placing frames at-least 2-3 inches apart is a good standard measurement to follow. Nothing has to be nailed into the wall until you are happy with the layout. Play. Lay it out. Think about it. Come back to it.  
  • Command Strips: I can personally endorse this practice as I have used these to hang my own art and photos. These strips will not only save your walls from nail holes, but will also allow you to change the design as you feel lead to incorporate more or would just like to tweak the layout. 
  • Butcher Paper: This is a very low cost way to make doubly sure you are in love with your design and that your design translates beautifully from your "floor rehearsal" to the wall. You will want to measure the butcher paper to cover the desired space of your wall then lay your frames on top of the paper and trace the frames (be sure to note exactly where the hanging bracket is located as that is a main point of the exercise). Then you can transfer the paper to the desired wall and poke through very lightly with a pencil to mark where your brackets will go. Once you remove the butcher paper, you will have a little map of where to place your command hangers or nails. Just remember the rule of thumb...measure twice and nail once.
  • Tip: Playful and grounded are two words to keep in mind when thinking about your wall. Play with different sizes, shapes, textures, etc. You will want there to be at least one aspect or feeling that all of your pieces share that keep the wall grounded...i.e. color palate, frame size, subject matter etc. Again, don't be too restricted by this...have fun.
  • Trick: This is YOUR WALL. As long as it brings you joy, you can not go wrong.

Alternatives to a Gallery Wall:

Perhaps you not ready to commit to a gallery wall or maybe they are not your style, or maybe you don't currently have the wall space but you still would like to showcase the things, people and art that you love. Well, we have some options for you.

Photo ledges are a wonderful way to try out the "creative cluster" effect on a smaller scale. This small gallery shelf can allow you to create depth, play with layout, color palate and texture all without a single nail!

Placement:

Some great locations for your gallery wall or shelf are: along hallways, above a sofa, centered on a focal wall or even above a bed.

HYD loves to help you tell your story through a gallery wall. If you need a little help along the way, don't hesitate to reach out to us!        // info@helpyoudwell.com or 865.245.9080 //

These 5 Things : October 2017

1. Find out how to organize your kitchen for under $100 at Target. 

2. The Happy Envelope is collaborating with local a few local photographers for Holiday Photo Sessions

3. Knoxville is getting our very own Food Truck Park - Central Filling Station. Coming soon and it's right near our office @ The Hive. 

4. Sarah, from Our Vintage Farmhouse wrote a blog that is inspiring to say the least - read it here

5. The 2017 HGTV Urban Oasis Giveaway is right here in one of Knoxville's downtown neighborhoods - 4th & Gill. Check it out**Image credit: Tomas Espinoza

Fall Flea

9.25 fall flea insta post.png

We are so excited to announce and invite you to the Fall Flea @ The Hive. Come and shop with us! 

Our team has been curating a shop full of vintage treasures, gorgeous accents, and eclectic one-of-a-kind pieces of furniture and home decor. 

Friday // November 3
Saturday // November 4
8 am - 2 pm

Follow us on Facebook + Instagram for more sneak peeks of items for sale in the Fall Flea.