My Take on Decorating

by Amie Sexton
excerpt from "Decorating with Weeds"

This is one area of organization that actually comes easily for me. You see, I am a minimalist in decorating. Less is definitely more! Less knick-knacks, less dust-catchers, less photographs…more meaningful artwork, more conversation pieces, more classic and/or current photos.

At the risk of offending hundreds of trinket lovers out there, let me share some examples of minimalist verses hmmm…what should we call it? How about shelf-stuffer decorating?

By name, the shelf-stuffer is one who does just that –stuffs shelves. The minimalist looks at a shelf with more than 3 items on it and instantly chooses one item to eliminate. The shelf-stuffer looks at a shelf and immediately notices a three inch block of unoccupied space. Merciful heavens! She begins combing the stores for the perfect piece. With great satisfaction, she finds the world’s smallest basket. It’s absolutely adorable and completely useless. It’s too small to hold anything. Doesn’t function follow form, anyway? Well, practical or not, it fits the space. A shelf-stuffer success!

But what about my collectibles? The reader asks. I’ve pondered this question and here’s my take. In general, collectors are just shelf-stuffers with a little more class. Collectibles are fine to a degree. The problem usually arises in the area of display. Perhaps you are a collector of teddy bears. Who can resist their rustic charm and plump bellies? So, how best can you show off your collection? Grouping is key. A nicely arranged group of teddy bears says, “I collect bears.” One or two bears donning every shelf, chair, bed, or other horizontal surface in every room of the house says, “I’m still working through the emotional traumas of my childhood.” You want people to share your appreciation for cuddly teddy’s not question your mental stability.

There’s another thing to consider regarding collectibles. Ask yourself this question: Is this a collection or an obsession? Not sure how to tell the difference? Let me give you an example. Suppose you’re a big fan of snow globes. You go to a local flea market and find a snow globe not currently in your possession. What do you do? Can you walk away? Or do your palms get sweaty and your hands start to shake with the mere thought of turning your back on the orphaned snow globe? If so, you may need to reevaluate your condition. And certainly, if seeing a snow globe ever brings images of building an addition onto your house for the purpose of storing your beloved treasures… “do not pass go, do not collect $200.” Seek professional help immediately!

While I’m already in deep, let’s talk about photos. Ladies, I’ll be the first to agree that little Binky Boo was the cutest thing in kindergarten, and in first grade, and second, and third, fourth, fifth, sixth…but give me a break, the kid’s in college now. Buy a photo album or scrapbook and fill it with Binky’s first twenty years, then place it on a coffee table or bookshelf for easy access. It’s time to say good-bye to Binky’s wall of fame. Puddy in those nail holes, give the wall a fresh coat of paint, and then choose a flattering, recent portrait of Binky and hang it with pride.

Wait a minute, what about that timeless photo of Binky and Grandpa fishing off the dock with a brilliant sunrise striking the water? Okay, it’s not current but it’s a classic. By all means frame it for the world to see.

A classic photo is one that brings back a memory or tells a story. Maybe it captures an era of simpler times that onlookers can appreciate. I often place a copy of our engagement photo out for viewing. It nicely captures the age in which my husband had hair and it evokes a response from the viewer –laughter!

We cherish photos because we cherish the memories they represent. Pictures share bits of our lives and history with friends and should be glimpses of the things we value most. But we must still be careful. People can get nostalgic about strange things…remember Binky’s first chest hair? Believe me, if anyone wants to see that picture, they’ll ask.