Watch out or you could be victim of a Design Ambush! This is a great treat to experience as my boyfriend now knows. He went out of town and an idea popped in my head to surprise him with a Christmas decorated table, chairs, and rug. We had already purchased a dining table and benches the previous week, but had not found chairs for the ends. I asked my Mom if she would help and the challenge began!
We already had the bones of the dining set including the Napa dining table and benches from World Market:
We searched all over Atlanta for stores that had nicely designed furniture with an affordable pricetag. Our list of stores included, Pier One, Ballard Design Outlet, Direct Furniture, and West Elm. We had a pleasant find at West Elm grabbing a beautiful gold table runner. The table runner was sparkly, fun and had a natural type feel. I had already purchased a gold glitter garland for decoration and the table runner was going to work smashingly. The simplicity was going to be perfect with any additional table decor.
After West Elm we were feeling a little defeated having not found chairs or a rug so we decided to go to Ikea. Jack pot! We were able to find the perfect chairs at the right price. You had to buy the chair frame and then slipcovers which were easy to put together and don't have the look of a slip covered chair like you might expect. Having wood floors in the kitchen, we were looking for a rug that was a natural material. We found the perfect Tarnby jute rug.
While we were at Ikea we picked up an arrangement of pillar candles in various sizes for the table centerpiece. After we made the purchases at Ikea and enjoyed a coffee and cinnamon roll we hit the road in order to get to Scott's before he arrived home. We had impeccable timing and were able to construct the chairs, throw down the rug, and arrange the table decor in record time. It was such a success to view the completed project. It was also an enjoyable day with my Mom. He was super surprised and grateful for the effort and determination!
If you have the time, motivation, and energy you can really make good progress in a day. You need to map out a plan of attack and stay focused. We only had a small list which still took the entire day so don't overwhelm yourself with numerous details. Keep the list simple and you will be able to accomplish your task. You also need to be flexible and resourceful if you aren't finding the exact perfect piece. Never rush a buy because you will be stuck with it for a while. If it isn't the right time then wait and set out on another day. It's best to make good decisions and buy what you want in order to save money and be completed satisfied with the purchase.
Watch out for the next design ambush!
