How did that Chicago song go again? But seriously, today’s blog is all about my inspiration for home improvement, interior design, art, décor, and DIY. There are some seriously talented people, business owners, artists, and social media accounts out there that inspire me daily. So today I want to spotlight those people that spark my creative side. I should also put a disclaimer out there that none of the businesses, artists, people, social media accounts, etc. have asked to be mentioned for this blog; I simply just want to share all that inspires me with you.
Home Improvement – Carmana Home Improvements
These guys are my go-to for anything that is beyond my DIY capabilities. We (my husband and I) have contracted them for our flooring, painting (interior and exterior), work in our kitchen, and our shiplap fireplace detail (see picture).
I am inspired by Carmana home improvement as their work is absolute quality and they exude professionalism. They are also very clean when they work which is a huge deal when you’re living through a reno (or have any kind of project going on).
While they mainly work on the island now, they still take on some projects here on the mainland. Check them out on Facebook at @carmanahomes or on Instagram @paul.porter.carmanagroup or on their website at www.carmanahomeimprovements.ca
DIY – Homeworks etc.
To all my loyal blog readers….remember in my “Front Porch Refresh” blog (if you don’t remember you can read it here), when I mentioned the vinyl decal I got for my front door?
I got it from a store local to me (Cloverdale, BC) called Homeworks Etc. Not only does the store owner sell the cutest home décor (and some sweet clothing and baby products) she also runs various DIY workshops from her storefront. You can sign up for various workshops, including sign making, pillow making, blanket ladder making, and so much more (she does kid birthday parties and professional development events too)! My mum, sister, and I did the pillow making workshop a few weeks ago and it was so much fun. I follow Homeworks Etc. on Facebook and Instagram (@homeworksetc.shop for both accounts). If you’re local, pop by the shop (located on 60th ave just West of 168th) – you won’t be disappointed.
Art & Design – A Whimsy Affair
A Whimsy Affair is owned by my dear friend Brianne (or Bri for short). Bri has an absolute heart of gold and puts so much love into the work she does and it shows. She is truly an artist! One of the things that inspires me about the work she does is her ability to take something old and worn and to breathe new life into it (see picture). In addition to creating beautiful, custom furniture, Bri also creates amazing art, signs, pillows, and other décor (dream catchers, growth charts), as well as the sweetest handmade dolls.
Bri is also starting to offer a series of workshops and classes. In her next workshop she will be showing how to restore kitchen cabinets using paint! Paint can go such a long way in terms of giving a home a new life and look and I know she will instill her knowledge and skills on her lucky workshop participants. Bri, and A Whimsy Affair, is located in Vernon, BC; although she has family in the Lower Mainland, so can ship or bring pieces here. She is also offering select workshops in the Lower Mainland at specific times. A Whimsy Affair is on Facebook and Instagram (@awhimsyaffair for both accounts) and is definitely worth checking out!
Insta-Inspiration
I also want to take a moment to highlight all the amazing Instagram accounts that I follow and am inspired by. I use Pinterest a lot for inspiration but Instagram is right up there with Pinterest. On my personal account I would say probably close to half of the accounts I follow are interior-design, architecture, décor based accounts. Here is a breakdown of some of my favourites:
- @thewelldressedhouse
- @flippinwendy
- @kristywicks
- @jossandmain
- @homebunch
- @fionawhiteatsutton
- @liketoknow.it.home
- @joannagaines
- @glucksteinhome
- @the_real_houses_of_ig
- @sarahrichardsondesign
- @bcliving
- @styleathome
- @jillian.harris
- @theperschauproject
- @studiomcgee
- @decor_for_kids
- @thetiffanypratt
Did you catch that? Check out #6, it’s my absolute favourite 😊.
I hope you will find some inspiration amongst all this talent and if there are any social media accounts, business owners, bloggers, artists, etc. that you love, please do share!
Written by:
Fiona White – REALTOR® with Sutton Group – West Coast Realty
Phone: 778-552-6246
Email: fwhite@sutton.com
Website: http://www.fiona-white.com
Facebook/Instagram: @fionawhiteatsutton
fiona-white.com 
So happy that I can inspire you to create a beautiful home.
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Fiona, I am so impressed by your talent in all things! You will go far ❤️
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