Where to Find the Best Holiday Decor for Your Orange County Home

Hey there, folks! Can you feel it? 'That magical time of year is approaching when homes transform into glittering wonderlands, cozy and inviting. Even in sunny Orange County, California, where we're all about the beach vibes, when the holiday season rolls in, the entire region transforms into a winter wonderland adorned with festive decorations. If you're looking to elevate your own holiday decor collection, you're in the right place! Orange County's got some hidden gems, and today, we're gonna spill the cocoa (not literally, though) on the best spots to infuse your home with the spirit of the season!

1. South Coast Plaza

South Coast Plaza, located in Costa Mesa, is one of the largest shopping centers in the United States, and during the holiday season, It's like Santa's personal playground! Head over to check out the ginormous Christmas tree, twinkling lights galore, and festive window displays that will undoubtedly get you in the holiday spirit. While you're there, visit high-end stores like Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale's, and Anthropologie for a wide selection of upscale holiday decorations and unique gift ideas.

2. Roger's Gardens

Roger's Gardens, situated in Corona del Mar, is a horticultural wonderland that transforms into a winter wonderland you won't want to leave! They've got everything you need, from stunning ornaments to gorgeous wreaths and those Insta-worthy outdoor displays. And trust us, their holiday displays will inspire you to deck the halls of your entire house!

3. Laguna Beach Sawdust festival

Looking for something truly unique? Head over to the Laguna Beach Sawdust Festival Winter Fantasy. This art festival, happening from mid-November to mid-December, is a goldmine for holiday treasures. Talented artisans create unique holiday-themed goodies, from handcrafted ornaments to festive paintings, and other holiday decor items that will add a touch of artistry to your home during the holidays.. Plus, Santa's been known to hang out there, so don't forget the kiddos!

4. Local Boutiques and Antique Shops

Don't forget to explore the charming local boutiques and antique shops scattered throughout Orange County. Places like Old Towne Orange, Fullerton, and San Juan Capistrano are chock-full of quaint shops waiting to surprise you. You might stumble upon antique decorations, vintage ornaments, and handmade gems that'll add a dash of personality to your holiday decor!

5. Online Marketplaces

If online shopping is more your jam, we've got good news! There are tons of Orange County-based artisans and businesses that sell their holiday decor items on platforms like Etsy. You can find locally made, handmade, and artisanal decorations that reflect the unique charm of our beautiful region.

holiday decor for your orange county home

Orange County's got it all when it comes to decking your halls for the holidays. Whether you're craving upscale elegance from South Coast Plaza, artisanal vibes at local festivals, or vintage finds from antique shops, the choices are endless! So this holiday season, let Orange County's festive spirit inspire your holiday decor and bring the magic of our sunny winter wonderland into your home.

5 Reasons Why You Need an Interior Designer Before Hiring a Contractor

Are you embarking on a home renovation journey? 

If you want to start off on the right foot, end with your dream home vision realized, and go through the whole process without pulling out your hair, then we highly recommend you start by considering the crucial role of an interior designer. Here are 5 compelling reasons why engaging with a designer before hiring a contractor is the smartest move you can make in order to build your dream home.

1. Accurate Cost Estimates

Without a preliminary plan in place, contractors won’t know if you want to add new decorative lighting, tile an entire focal wall instead of just the shower, or add decorative wood paneling. That means their bid will typically be lower than what is actually needed to execute your vision. An interior designer can provide detailed drawings that yield more precise estimates. Armed with a clearer understanding of the project's overall cost, you can make better-informed decisions and be prepared for any financial implications.

One example: Sally Smith came to me after she’d already hired a contractor who bid her $300k for her whole home remodel without materials. I told her the number sounded unrealistically low. While she knew the cost would increase, she was shocked when change order after change order brought the total cost closer to $800k to give her the design she had wanted from the beginning. 

2. Seamless Timing and Coordination

Good design takes time! Beginning the design process early helps ensure smooth collaboration between designers and contractors. Don't wait until after the demolition has begun to hire your interior designer! Engaging a designer first will place a reliable roadmap ahead. This approach yields multifaceted benefits: it provides valuable insight into comprehensive costs, prevents time constraints or delays and safeguards against impulsive design choices that often lead to costly change orders. At Vieve Interior’s we have a tried and true process to make sure our projects run smoothly.

Pro tip: Give yourself at least one month of design time for a single room, and up to 10 to 12 months for a full home redesign before construction begins. That way you’ll be able to get contractor bids, start the permit process, and have everything in order before you break ground.

3. Avoiding Design Mishaps

Doors & Windows and Appliances, oh my! These big ticket items have long lead times and must be ordered well in advance. Having a designer onboard from the start prevents design limitations that could compromise your space's functionality and aesthetics. 

A note: A designer will holistically consider whether windows should come all the way to the floor, or if you need wall space below for a nightstand or cabinet? They will determine if wall ovens are the most functional for you or if a range with ovens below will better create the open and airy feel you want in your new kitchen? Without knowing details like this ahead of time, you might order costly windows you don’t need or be stuck with a layout that isn’t inline with your vision.

4. Expert Design Insight & Curated Material Selection

General contractors are focused on execution and are typically NOT design experts! A good Interior designer will consider your vision, aspirations, and goals and infuse their artistic insight to turn your vision into a stunning reality. They also offer access to exclusive suppliers, high-quality materials, and unique fixtures and furnishings to elevate your home’s sophistication, ensuring it reflects your taste.

A note about Design-Build contractors: While a “design-build” company may be helpful, they are typically providing the drawings strictly to get permits and get your project going. They are not experts at curating tailored material selections or coming up with custom cabinet solutions. Most don’t do these things at all and and rely on you to select every finish, fixture. Some may offer material selection services, but limit your options to a small selection of vendors they favor for profit reasons. An interior designer will help ensure you don't get locked into subpar solutions that compromise your aesthetic or functional preferences.

One example: When I was brought into Mary Joes project I discovered her contractor was trying to push her into using man-made quartz countertops when she specifically wanted the unique glamor of Cristallo quartzite. That contractor not only didn’t know where to source such stone, he was also trying to guide the design decisions for his own profit margin. His focus was not her vision.

5. A Trustworthy Network

Experienced designers have established relationships with reliable general contractors and skilled tradespeople. Their recommendations ensure that you collaborate with professionals who can bring your vision to life seamlessly.

A note: Your designer will likely know contractors at who provide different levels of quality at various price points. They can guide you to those that are right for your preferences and project budget. 

Embarking on a home renovation is an exciting endeavor, and hiring an interior designer can be the key that unlocks its full potential. A skilled interior designer acts as your advocate, translating your dreams into tangible realities. From igniting creativity to overseeing logistics, their involvement lays the foundation for a successful transformation that speaks to your unique style and needs.

Ready to embark on your dream home renovation journey the right way? Contact us today to get started on a remodel project that promises both beauty and functionality. Your vision, our expertise – the perfect partnership for a stunning home transformation.

Interior Design Decor to Bring your Family Together for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and you know what that means – it's time for gratitude, reflection, and most importantly, gathering with loved ones! While the focus of the holiday is on the delicious food and cherished moments shared with family and friends, the ambiance created by your interior design can significantly enhance the overall experience. In this blog post, we'll share our expert designer tips to use creatively interior decor to bring your family together for Thanksgiving. As Elle Decor reminds us, Thanksgiving decor doesn’t have to be all browns, oranges, and golds. This joyful family holiday is a good opportunity to get creative so let’s spice things up a bit!

Now, we get it – you've got a lot on your plate (literally) with planning that delicious feast, coordinating travel plans, and navigating with family dynamics. So we’re here to make the decorating part as fun and easy as possible. We've thoughtfully included links to some of our favorite holiday decor items so you can craft an elevated holiday ambiance within the walls of your own home. We want you to get much more than just aesthetic inspiration from these affiliate links. When your well-appointed holiday haven warmly welcomes your family's gathering, the small commission we receive (at no additional cost to you) is a gesture of shared joy in celebrating this special season.

1. Stay Light and Bright

One of the most common home design elements that clients ask for is a “light and airy” vibe. Bring this trend into your thanksgiving decor by brightening your color pallet from a deeper orange to include peach, blush, and a heavy dose of white. It's like a breath of fresh air for your decor! Check out these subtly tinted glasses for a classy touch. This elevated look feels feminine and welcoming.

2. Make it Moody

Feeling a bit adventurous? Let's go moody this Thanksgiving! Start with a darker tablecloth like this grey linen one and layer in some dark flatware or candle sticks. We love the way light oranges, peach, or ochre are set off in contrast to the dark backdrop.

3. Bring in Floral Patterns

Granny-chic floral prints are all the rage and we’re loving this nostalgic trend! Layer your place settings with a variety of charming floral napkins (we love both these and these together as shown in the photo below) to bring the perfect cozy warmth to your fall-themed thanksgiving table. Complete the look with these sunflower napkin holders. Blooms all around!

4. Feel the Fuschia

Magenta, purple, hot pink – yes, please! In the wake of the Barbie movie, these saturated tones will give your holiday table the perfect pop this season. These khaki linen napkins with hot pink scalloped trim are the perfect addition to a fun holiday dinner table.

5. Stand out with Unique Dishware

If you’re into an eclectic look, unique dishware is the perfect way way to jazz up the setting of the main event: your dining room table. We love this Morris & Co. Cotswold Dinnerware Collection. It's all about making a statement!

6. Bring in Texture with Boucle

Pulling in warm textures is the perfect way to get your home feeling cozy for the holiday season. These boucle pumpkins add a soft neutral touch to your table or mantle decor. 

7. Soften Things Up with Velvet

Create a cozy haven by adding some velvet throw pillows to your sofa and a velvet table runner to the dinner table. Soft, snuggly, and perfect for the season!

8. Keep it Simple

Sometimes less is more. This oversized table cloth, check napkins, and a simple flower arrangement paired with white dishware would be just enough to set the stage for your family gathering if you’re going for a more minimal chic vibe.

9. Add orange and spice and everything nice

If you're feeling more of a traditional vibe this year, play up the orange with this lovely garland or orange napkins. Try keeping the palette more monochromatic for a modern look, or pull some red in with your orange decor for a look that can seamlessly transition from Thanksgiving to Christmas to save you time, money, and even storage space.

10. Weave in Natural Materials

Bringing in natural elements like woven placemats or even these woven pumpkins creates a casual vibe that feels grounded and earthy yet refined.

11. Bring in Seasonal Blooms

Whether you drape a garland of greenery, spread out small vases across the table, or opt for a dramatic large arrangement, fresh flowers are a must! We especially love bringing in seasonal blooms like dahlias, mums, or even sunflowers.  Don’t forget to decorate the buffet table, your entryway, and even guest bathrooms with floral arrangements to give greet guests wherever they turn.

12. Gather Outside

And hey, if you're in sunny southern California like us, you know the weather's usually on your side. Take the party outside! Light up the space with candle sand string lights if you can. And if the forecast looks a little chilly, consider adding blankets to each chair to keep your guest comfortable. It's a fantastic alternative, especially if you're short on indoor space!

So, there you have it – our tips for decking out your home in style this Thanksgiving! We hope you find these ideas as exciting as we do. And remember, it's not just about aesthetics; it's about creating a warm and inviting space where your loved ones can come together and make cherished memories.

If you love these holiday design tips be sure to sign up for our newsletter to get home decor and interior design tips for every season and all the days in between. Have a fantastic Thanksgiving, everyone!

How to Decorate Your Home in Urban Interior Design Style

As the vibrant heart of Southern California living, Orange County offers a unique canvas for homeowners looking to infuse their living spaces with the dynamic energy of urban interior design style. By blending sleek modernity with industrial accents, the urban style can transform your Orange County home into a captivating haven. In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential elements and practical steps to achieve a stunning urban-inspired décor that harmonizes with the county's lively atmosphere.

1. Embrace the Essence of Openness:

Urban interior design thrives on open spaces that encourage seamless flow. In your Orange County home, consider removing non-structural walls to create an airy layout. Embrace the abundance of natural light by installing large windows or glass doors, blurring the boundaries between indoors and the picturesque outdoor landscape.

2. Neutral Foundations, Bold Expressions:

Begin with a neutral color palette as your canvas to ground and tie everything together. Whites, grays, and blacks form the backdrop against which vibrant accents will shine. Don't hesitate to introduce bold pops of color through art, textiles, and accessories, reflecting the vibrancy of Orange County's culture.

3. Industrial Elements with Elegance:

Industrial design elements pay homage to the urban environment. Wood and stone flooring create the perfect foundation for an urban-inspired interior design style. Exposed brick walls, metal piping, and concrete floors can lend an authentic urban edge. Balance these raw materials with refined textiles, plush rugs, and comfortable seating for a polished juxtaposition of styles.

4. Furnish with Minimalist Flair:

Opt for furniture that boasts clean lines and simplicity. Choose pieces with multifunctional purposes to optimize space in your Orange County home. Minimalist doesn't mean sacrificing comfort; look for sofas, chairs, and beds that offer both style and coziness.

5. Urban Art and Eclectic Decor:

A simple way to create an urban interior design in your home is to incorporate urban art. Graffiti-inspired murals or modern abstract pieces are the perfect elements to enliven your walls. Create an eclectic vibe by blending antique finds, vintage signage, and urban-themed sculptures. Each piece tells a story and adds depth to your home's character.

Artwork by Sarah Finucane

6. Ingenious Storage Solutions:

An organized space is at the core of urban living. Integrate open shelving units and creative storage solutions that display your belongings while maintaining a clutter-free atmosphere. Functional design is key to achieving the urban aesthetic.

7. Illuminate with Distinction:

Thoughtfully chosen lighting fixtures “can change the look and feel of a room with a flick of a switch” and define your urban-inspired space. Opt for statement pendants, Edison bulbs, and sleek track lighting. These choices not only illuminate but also contribute to the ambiance that urban design is renowned for.

8. Nature's Tranquil Presence:

Bring the outdoors inside with a touch of greenery. Potted plants, hanging gardens, and succulent arrangements soften the industrial feel of urban design while connecting your home to Orange County's natural surroundings.

9. Seamless Integration of Technology:

Modern urban living incorporates smart technology seamlessly. Invest in automated blinds, smart thermostats, and integrated sound systems to elevate your home's functionality without compromising the design's aesthetic.

Transforming your Orange County residence with urban interior design style is an artistic endeavor that marries the cosmopolitan charm of urban living with the laid-back allure of Southern California. By embracing open spaces, blending industrial elements with elegance, and curating a collection of urban-inspired decor, you can craft a living space that resonates with the essence of Orange County's vitality. Let your home stand as a testament to your creative vision and love for the urban aesthetic, all while enjoying the comfort and style that this design approach affords.

For more interior design inspiration and tips to decorate your Orange County home, be sure to sign up for our newsletter, here.

Elevating Your Space: How Hiring an Interior Designer Can Make Your Home More Elegant

Your home is a reflection of your personality and style, and every detail matters when it comes to creating a space that truly speaks to you. While DIY home decor projects can be enjoyable, there's an art to crafting a cohesive and elegant look that goes beyond arranging furniture and picking paint colors. This is where the expertise of an interior designer comes into play. Hiring an interior designer can transform your space into an oasis of elegance, combining functionality with aesthetics in a way that captures the essence of your vision. In this blog, we'll explore how the guidance of a professional interior designer can elevate your home's elegance to a whole new level.

1. Personalized Aesthetic

Interior designers possess a unique ability to translate your personal preferences into tangible design elements. By working closely with you, they can understand your style, preferences, and the atmosphere you want to create. Whether your taste is contemporary, traditional, minimalist, or eclectic, an interior designer can curate every aspect of your home to align with your aesthetic vision.

2. Fusion of Beauty and Functionality

Elegance is not just about aesthetics; it's about creating a space that is not only visually appealing but also functional and practical for everyday living. This is where the expertise of an interior designer truly shines. By deeply understanding your aesthetic preferences and how you intend to use each space, a skilled designer ensures that every layout decision, from furniture placement to traffic flow, maximizes the potential of your space and strikes the delicate balance between aesthetics and usability. This craftsmanship culminates in spaces that not only looks stunning but also enhances your daily life.

3. Attention to Detail

Elegance often lies in the details. Interior designers have an eye for detail and pay extra attention to aspects of the home that a homeowner may not. With their keen eye for selecting the right accessories, finishes, and textures, they can enhance the overall ambiance of a room. From choosing the perfect lighting fixtures to selecting fabrics that complement each other, their attention to detail elevates your home's atmosphere from ordinary to extraordinary.

4. Customization and Uniqueness

Cookie-cutter designs can't match the exclusivity that an interior designer can bring to your home. With an interior designer, You’ll take more risks (in all the right ways). They can suggest custom-made furniture, unique decor pieces, and one-of-a-kind artwork that align with your vision. This level of customization adds an air of sophistication that is hard to achieve through mass-produced items.

5.Access to Reliable Contractors and Tradesmen

One of the often-overlooked benefits of hiring an interior designer is the network of professionals they bring to the table. From skilled contractors to experienced tradesmen, interior designers have established connections with reliable professionals in the industry. This competent craftsmen that they can recommend and oversee during the project ensures that any renovation or remodeling work is executed with precision and quality.

6. Time and Cost Efficiency

One of the biggest myths is that hiring an interior designer costs more, whereas professional help can actually help you save money. While it might seem counterintuitive, hiring an interior designer can actually save you time and money in the long run. Their industry connections and knowledge of local suppliers can lead to cost-effective solutions, preventing you from making expensive design mistakes. By streamlining the decision-making process, they can help you avoid common pitfalls that lead to wasted time and resources, particularly if you’re renovating or building a new home where you need to make some pretty permanent design decisions.

7. Stylistic Balance

Achieving a balanced look that marries different design elements is an art form. Interior designers possess a knack for mixing various styles, textures, and patterns in a way that results in a cohesive and elegant space. They can help you strike the right balance between minimalism and opulence, creating a home that feels effortlessly sophisticated.

8. Cohesive Flow Between Diverse Spaces

One of the remarkable skills of an interior designer lies in their ability to establish a cohesive flow even when transitioning between rooms with varying moods and vibes. While each room may have a distinct personality, an expert designer can introduce subtle elements that tie them together. This could be through consistent color accents, shared design motifs, or the careful placement of complementary decor. The result is a home that feels harmonious and connected, despite the diversity of its spaces.

Hiring an interior designer is an investment in not just your home's appearance, but also in the quality of your daily life. By infusing their expertise into your design journey, you can transform your living spaces into havens of elegance and refinement. The guidance of a professional interior designer allows you to focus on enjoying your home while they take care of the intricate details that make it a true masterpiece of design.

If you're ready to transform your home into a haven of elegance, we're here to help! Reach out to us today to discuss how our interior design services can bring your vision to life.

5 Must-Haves for Your Luxury Bathroom Remodel

What is luxury? A condition of abundance or great ease and comfort. When designing a luxury home, one of the key factors to keep in mind is functionality, so everything is easily accessible and your comfort comes first! The great thing is, if you’re doing a complete remodel of your bathroom, with careful planning and a little forethought, you can create a luxury bathroom for yourself. Don’t worry, we’re here to help you get that upscale spa experience in your own home! 

If you follow along on our Instagram you may have already seen these, but here’s a round up of five must-haves that we love to include in our luxury bathroom remodels. Click the link for each to see it in action. And don’t forget to write these down on your list of bathroom must-haves, or better yet, pin them to your “Luxury Bathroom Remodel” pinterest board so you can save the photos and come back for the details later.

1. Toe-Kick Lighting on a Motion Sensor

Toe-kick lighting on a motion sensor is something we always recommend. Our clients absolutely love this feature when their project is done and it comes time to live in their new space. To have that little dim light kick on as you walk in for a late-night bathroom visit is such an awesome little luxury in your bathroom remodel. All you need to do is put it on your lighting and electrical plan, or tell your electrician, and you can add this to any vanity that has that recessed toe-kick space. No more fumbling for the light switch or tripping over your own feet in the dark! 

2. A Pull-Out with Electrical Outlets for Your Hot Tools

This luxury bathroom remodel must-have is one the ladies absolutely love and, no surprise, it became one of our most liked instagram reels as a result. When we layout a custom bathroom vanity design, we love to add a drawer with electrical outlets at the back and canisters built-in for your hair-dryer, flat iron, curling iron, or whatever hot tools you may have. That way your hot tools are ready to go without having to unwind it from a messy drawer and plug it in. With safety in mind, docking drawer outlets even offer a function to turn off the power when the temperature gets too hot. 

Pro tip: make sure to consider which hand you use to blow dry your hair so you can place it on the correct side and avoid getting tangled up in chords. 

3. Good Lighting at Eye-Level

Good lighting is one of the biggest factors in designing a luxury bathroom. While downlighting is great over kitchen counters or workspaces, it’s less-than-ideal lighting for  putting on makeup or getting ready for the day. Good lighting that illuminates your face is crucial for a luxury experience. You can accomplish this by adding sconces flanking a mirror at eye level or above the mirror. Adding statement pendants is another fun option, but make sure the light is diffused and bright enough, or add an additional light source like LED back-lighting around your mirror. For a clean minimalistic look, consider a lighted mirror. 

4. Additional Hidden Electrical outlets 

These days we have so many gadgets to plug in—from electric toothbrushes and razors to skincare products and more. And while all these gadgets may mean a luxurious self-care routine, having everything plugged in and on display on your countertop does not give the feel of a luxury bathroom. Tip number four on our list of must-haves for your luxury bathroom remodel is to take stock of what you need in terms of electrical outlets and find creative ways to hide them! 

Pro tip: Inside your medicine cabinet is the perfect place to hide an outlet for an electric toothbrush. You could also tuck an outlet behind an appliance garage cabinet or add another docking drawer.

5. Hidden Laundry Hampers

To truly achieve that luxury spa experience in your newly remodeled bathroom, make sure to include a cabinet that will hide your laundry hamper full of dirty clothes. That way you can step into your new luxury bathroom, throw in the day's attire (forget about laundry until laundry day) and climb into a soothing bath to relax in your new oasis.

For more tips on how to remodel your home like a pro, download our FREE, comprehensive home remodel planning guide for remodeling success!