One of the easiest Ways to enjoy Fall gardening without lifting a Finger

Just about now you're thinking about picking up some Chrysanthemums at your local garden center. But if you really want to experience Autumn like never before, take a short trip to Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, PA.

Photo courtesy of LongwoodGardens.org

Whenever Autumn arrives here in the northeast, I plan my annual trip to Longwood Gardens' Chrysanthemum Festival. This year the Festival is held from October 29 through November 20th and  features the largest Chrysanthemum display you will ever see. Besides their breathtaking grounds, you can visit their palatial Conservatory for even more gardening eye-candy.

It's not just for adults either! Longwood has events for every age and interest. For instance, I can just imagine how great it will be to have our little ones enjoy Longwood's Garden Railway Display or their great Pumpkin Playground.

Photo courtesy of LongwoodGardens.org

Have a great day!

For more information on how to make your home beautiful without adding stress to your busy day -

Call Mary Alice in the New Jersey and metro New York City area at:

732 270-2676

How to plan your interior paint Project with these important Steps

Before you head out to your favorite store for paint this month, keep in mind the following steps:

1. Make sure your walls are smooth and free of nail holes prior to painting. Sand and spackle nail holes or dents in the walls and sand nicks in mouldings. If you have old sheetrock tape that is noticeable on your walls or ceilings, do not, I repeat do not spackle over it. It will only look worse, sooner and definitely later! Check out this YouTube video to see how it should be done by you or your painter: http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to-repair-drywall-tape-is-separating-from-your-walls-064453/
2. Take time to think about the right color for your walls. Don’t be afraid to use dark colors in small rooms.  The right paint color can transform, update and energize a room – take time to make the right decision.
3. When you look at paint swatches at the paint store, pick colors that seem to be duller than the color you are planning to paint. Remember that when the color goes up on the wall, it will appear much brighter and bolder than the paint sample you chose.
4. Buy sample jars and paint a board or piece of foam core to see your new color and to see how a few colors would look at different times of the day or night.
5. Use a primer coat on walls that will have a dark color. The primer insures that the color will be true and have the depth of color it requires.
6. Don’t use a paint color you found in a magazine article. Select a color that refers to your room’s fabrics or rugs.
7. Keep a record of the paint colors used in your home. Attach a color sample for each room on the page and note what type of finish was used (flat, flat matte, satin, etc.). 

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Please write to us about any questions or concerns you are having regarding a paint color for your home.
Hope to hear from you soon!