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Category: General

Five Exterior Improvements To Make To Your Home

The first thing that people will notice about your home is how the exterior looks. Whether it’s visiting your home, knocking on your door, or simply driving through the neighborhood, people tend to notice the condition of other homes. The condition and appearance of the exterior of your home can impact its curb appeal as well as its value. 

Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/beige-bungalow-house-259588/

If you have a home that looks a mess and not maintained then it is likely to be lower in value than one that is well looked after. One way you can make sure you increase the value of your and give it a good curb appearance is to improve the exterior. Yes, these can sometimes be quite costly, but the benefits definitely outweigh the costs. 

Let’s have a look at some of the upgrades you can do to your home to improve your homes curb appeal and increase its value: 

Update The Front Door 

Your front door is the entranceway into your, however, it is much more than that. Your front door sets the tone for your whole home. This means that you need to have a door that shows your home is clean and well-maintained. If your door is worn out, tatty, or dirty it can be off-putting. If your door is old you may want to think about getting an updated, stylish one. Not only will it look nice but it will help to improve the efficiency of your home. You could opt for a traditional wooden door or a modern fiberglass. If you don’t want to install a new door or you are on a budget you could choose to paint your door instead. 

Upgrade Your Windows

When it comes to making your home look presentable and energy efficient you need to look at your windows. You may find that old windows don’t seal or shut properly. This can lead to significant heat loss in the winter or enable cool air to leave your home in the summer. Neither is ideal. If you want to improve this then you need to look at Giant Siding and Windows. Updating your windows should be something that is at the top of your list. You may even want to add bay windows, additional external doors, or a window in the loft space. If your home isn’t getting enough natural light, changing your windows or increasing their size can help. 

Look At The Landscaping

The outside of your home is just as important as the inside. It’s more than just thinking about a few plant pots it’s about creating an outdoor living space that is an extension of your home. In the summer months, your home should feel larger because you have a space that you can use easily, conveniently, and stress-free. Think about the layout and create a plan for useable spaces where you can live not just be. You should include things like a seating area, somewhere to dine alfresco, and somewhere for the kids to play. You should also look at the front garden. You don’t need to make it so it’s a second living space. The front garden is all about being presentable and giving your home curb appeal. If you don’t have a lot of time to maintain your front garden try to make it simple with a few hanging baskets or flower beds. 

Add Lighting 

One way you can tell that the outside of a home is properly looked after is the fact that they have lighting. When you have a well-lit home, it is inviting and welcoming. You could add pathway lights, porch lights, and lighting for features in your garden. You could also have some feature lighting for your seating area so you can enjoy this space well into the evening. On the other hand, adding lighting to your home such as a sensor-activated one for the driveway, can act as a deterrent for any potential thieves. Added security for your home is never a bad thing. 

Look At Your Roof 

Your roof is one of the most important structural parts of your home. It protects it from the rain. If you have any leaks you should be able to spot them quite quickly and it goes without saying that you shouldn’t leave these kinds of repairs. If you do, they could end up worse. The roof is also a big visual; aspect of your home, if it is looking old and tattered it might be time to start thinking about getting it replaced

These are five important areas of the outside of your home that you need to look after. Do you think any of these would benefit your home? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Center for Family Services of Palm Beach County 25th Annual Old Bags Luncheon Silver Jubilee Brings Star Power to Raises Funds in Support of Local Needs

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Tommy Hilfiger, Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger (Photo credit: BFA / Michelle Kammerman)

The Center for Family Services Palm Beach County held its signature fundraiser, The Old Bags Luncheon at The Breakers Palm Beach yesterday.  This year honored 25 years of the beloved event that will celebrate a Silver Jubilee in grand style.  Among the honorees at this year’s luncheon was Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger with a keynote speech by Martha Stewart.

Notable attendees included: Martha Stewart, Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger, Tommy Hilfiger, Liz Quirantes (Emcee, CBS 12), Todd L’Herrou, Ellen Vaughan, Kimberly Guilfoyle, Ramona Singer, Jean Shafiroff, Fernando Wong, Robin Gillen, Tim Johnson, Robin Gillen and Tim Johnson (Event Chairs), Diane Smith and Tammy Pompea (Honorary Chairs), Alyssa D. Quinlan (CEO, Freeman’s Hindman Auction), Karen Swanson, Sonja Stevens, Arlette Gordon, Lois Pope, Kathryn Vecellio, Marie Unanue,  Allison Nicklaus, Barbara Nicklaus, Sarah Wragge, Claire Florence, Karen Rich, Michelle Russell Johnson, David Handy, Donald Dallaire.

About The Center for Family Services of Palm Beach County, Inc. 

Since 1961, The Center for Family Services of Palm Beach County, Inc. has embraced the philosophy that families should be the center of the community and the center of every family should be a healthy connection. The Center provides innovative programs that meet the changing and growing needs of individuals, families, and children in the community with their resources and social service programs. The Center for Family Services is nationally accredited by the Council on Accreditation and accredited by Nonprofits First for Excellence in Nonprofit Management. 

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Martha Stewart (Photo credit: Capehart)
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Atmosphere (Photo credit: BFA / Michelle Kammerman)
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Atmosphere (Photo credit: BFA / Michelle Kammerman)

For more information, please visit www.ctrfam.org

Thank you to I: @lawlormedia | F: LawlorMediaGroup | X / T: @LawlorMedia for including me in the coverage of this event. I hope to make it in person next year!!!

This Week’s Best Sellers

Welcome to this week’s roundup of the hottest fashion trends and must-have items! As we dive into the latest style sensations, we’re thrilled to unveil the top-selling pieces that have been flying off the shelves. From stunning dresses to classic jeans, stylish shoes and boots, and chic handbags, this week’s best sellers promise to elevate your wardrobe with flair and sophistication. Join us as we explore the fashion favorites that are capturing hearts and turning heads across the style spectrum. Click on the descriptions below for more information or to purchase items.

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Striped Sweaters: Elevate Your Wardrobe with Timeless Style

Striped sweaters are an absolute wardrobe essential, offering timeless style and versatility that effortlessly elevates any look. Their classic design adds a touch of sophistication to casual outfits while maintaining a sense of relaxed charm. Whether you opt for bold, contrasting stripes or subtle, understated ones, striped sweaters add visual interest and dimension to your wardrobe. They seamlessly transition from day to night, from work to play, making them a must-have for any fashion-conscious individual. With their ability to pair effortlessly with jeans, skirts, or trousers, owning one or two striped sweaters is not just a suggestion—it’s a fashion necessity that instantly enhances your closet’s appeal. Don’t wait any longer; invest in the versatility and style of striped sweaters to elevate your wardrobe today. Click the numbers below to purchase or for more information!

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Hearts of Stone NY: Elevating Valentine’s Day with Bespoke Fine Jewelry

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Valentine’s Day, a celebration of love and affection, is the perfect occasion to express your feelings and appreciation for your beloved. While chocolates and flowers are classic tokens of affection, they often lack the lasting impact that a carefully chosen piece of jewelry can provide. This Valentine’s Day, consider gifting something truly exceptional: Hearts of Stone NY bespoke fine jewelry, adorned with precious and semi-precious stone hearts.

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Hearts of Stone NY is not just another jewelry brand; it’s a testament to craftsmanship, elegance, and the enduring power of love. Founded on the belief that every piece of jewelry should tell a unique story, Hearts of Stone NY specializes in crafting exquisite pieces that capture the essence of romance and devotion.

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At the heart of Hearts of Stone NY’s collection are their meticulously crafted stone hearts. Each heart is selected for its quality, brilliance, and symbolism, making every piece a timeless expression of love. Whether it’s a radiant ruby symbolizing passion, a serene sapphire representing loyalty, or a vibrant aquamarine signifying happiness and hope, Hearts of Stone NY offers a diverse array of gemstones to suit every style and sentiment.

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What sets Hearts of Stone NY apart is their commitment to bespoke craftsmanship. Unlike mass-produced jewelry, each piece from Hearts of Stone NY is custom-made to reflect the individuality of its wearer. From the initial design consultation to the final polishing, every step of the process is imbued with care and attention to detail, ensuring that the finished piece exceeds expectations.

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One of the most enchanting aspects of Hearts of Stone NY’s jewelry is its versatility. Whether you’re searching for a statement necklace, an elegant bracelet, or a dazzling ring, Hearts of Stone NY offers an array of designs to suit every taste and occasion. Each piece is thoughtfully crafted to be cherished for a lifetime, serving as a tangible reminder of the love and affection it represents.

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Moreover, gifting a piece of Hearts of Stone NY jewelry goes beyond the exchange of material possessions; it’s a gesture of profound sentiment and devotion. In a world where disposable gifts abound, giving someone a piece of Hearts of Stone NY jewelry is an affirmation of the enduring bond you share.

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As Valentine’s Day approaches, consider the profound impact of a gift that transcends the ordinary. Whether you’re celebrating a new romance or commemorating years of togetherness, Hearts of Stone NY bespoke fine jewelry is the perfect expression of your affection. Let your love shine brightly this Valentine’s Day with a timeless treasure from Hearts of Stone NY.

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Hearts of Stone NY’s bespoke fine jewelry offers a unique opportunity to celebrate love in its purest form. With its exquisite craftsmanship, personalized touch, and enduring beauty, Hearts of Stone NY jewelry is the perfect gift for your Valentine. This Valentine’s Day, make a statement that will last a lifetime with a piece of Hearts of Stone NY jewelry that captures the essence of your love.

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Catching Up With Style Maven Lisa Chambers

Lisa Sher-Chambers stands as a distinguished personal style expert, revered for her insightful approach to fashion and unparalleled expertise in the realm of personal image refinement. With a profound understanding of individual preferences and an eye for timeless elegance, Lisa’s guidance transcends mere trends, offering clients a transformative journey toward sartorial confidence. Through her intuitive consultations and meticulous attention to detail, Lisa Sher-Chambers cultivates personalized wardrobes that harmonize with each client’s unique identity and aspirations. Discover more about Lisa’s approach and services at Lisa Sher-Chambers Style, where luxury and personal style converge seamlessly. We will be looking forward to hearing more from Lisa after this month’s fashion week where Lisa will be covering many shows and events!
I recently got the chance to sit down with Lisa and ask her some questions about herself, her business and of course her amazing style!

Lisa Sher Chambers Styles Sarah and Bari

Can you share some of your favorite fashion trends in the luxury industry right now, and how do you incorporate them into your styling work?

I love elegance, glamour, color, and textures. The 2024 award season has already demonstrated that everyone is ‘showing up.’ Dressing up is fun again, no matter your age, shape or style. I love adding unexpected pieces to classic looks, such as pops of bright colors, different mediums like metal, and bold prints. I also love tonal dressing, which can be tricky. Mixing varying tones of the same colors works best when you combine various textures, like wool and silk. Tweeds have been on trend for a while, make tonal dressing easier by using one of the base colors in the tweed pattern and adding shades of that one color. Regarding accessories, I love the return to oversized bags, although admittedly, I was on the micro bag trend for a bit and I tried, but it’s not for me. 

How do you stay updated on the latest fashion collections and emerging designers to ensure your clients can access the most exclusive and cutting-edge pieces?

I have very close relationships with global sources for fashion and accessories, and we talk fashion, style and what’s next in fashion. We can reserve special items, which is particularly important for special occasions and travel planning. I study what the top stylists are doing, and what publications are showing, and attend as many fashion shows as possible. I’m always thinking about which pieces may be incorporated into my client’s wardrobes, considering things like body type, lifestyle, color tones, budget…We may love the look, but not the price point. We may love the look, but the silhouette isn’t suitable for our body type. Most importantly, I want my clients to look and feel their best so they can feel confident and have fun with what they are wearing. Also, I live (half-time) in Manhattan, on 57th Street, so I can see looks in person almost immediately. I can examine the sizing, touch the fabric, and determine the quality before recommending it to a client.

Lisa Sher Chambers Styles Sarah and Bari

    When working with clients, how do you balance staying true to their personal style preferences while also introducing them to new and exciting fashion concepts? 

    My clients start by telling me their authentic style and what a day in their life looks like, and we go from there. I encourage my clients to mix things up and blend things in an unexpected way. I love to introduce accessories so that their looks can take on multiple uses and move from day to evening, beach to dinner, corporate to evening.

    Can you recall a particularly challenging styling project you’ve worked on and how you overcame any obstacles to create a stunning and cohesive look? 

    Many clients are afraid of color and/or experimenting with new looks. My goal is to encourage my clients to push their fashion boundaries and express themselves while having fun with their unique styles. 

    Lisa Sher Chambers Styles Sarah and Bari

      In the world of luxury fashion, how important is it to consider sustainability and ethical practices, and how do you integrate these aspects into your styling choices? 

      I encourage resale purchasing and sourcing for my clients from reputable sources, and my network of vintage purveyors is growing. I love how fast fashion houses like Zara and H&M offer trendy pieces and looks, but the manufacturing, shipping, and return processes significantly affect the climate and the world. I ensure that my clients mostly own pieces they will keep and love for years, even decades. It can be challenging because dry cleaning can take a toll on clothing. I have even sourced new designers focusing on washable wools, lessening the need for dry cleaning. 

      What advice do you have for someone looking to elevate their personal style and incorporate more luxury pieces into their wardrobe without completely overhauling their existing collection? 

      Keep what you absolutely love. If you are hesitant, put it in a small pile in another location in your home. Revisit every six months and hold off on big decisions. If there is a designer whose looks you admire, start by incorporating an accessory like earrings or a necklace into an outfit. See how those pieces make you feel. If you like the vibe, try a ready-to-wear piece and go from there. Start slowly with one item and ensure you like the quality, the fabric, and the silhouette before revamping your closet.

      Lisa Sher Chambers Styles Sarah and Bari

        How do you approach the process of selecting accessories to complement a luxury outfit, and what role do they play in enhancing the overall look? 

        Accessories have the power to literally transform an outfit and your outlook. Depending on the occasion, a special piece with a special memory could change your mood. You can dress an outfit up or down with accessories, creating a brand-new look with a simple change of a scarf or necklace. I personally have an affection for handbags. They not only carry everything that I need for a day or evening, but they also change my vibe. A pop of color in a bag signifies confidence and can transform the outfit. Also, accessories always fit! If you’ve gained or lost a few pounds, shoes, handbags, and jewelry won’t disappoint when looking in the mirror. Other favorite ways to change an outfit are scarves and necklaces. You can transform an old, oversized cardigan sweater with layers of necklaces or just one. If you have a sweater or t-shirt you like but may have grown tired of, try adding a luxury scarf for additional elegance. 

        As a fashionista yourself, how do you express your own personal style, and are there any key elements or signature pieces that you consistently incorporate into your wardrobe? 

        My signature style is dependent on my mood for that day, but I love sophisticated looks with a hint of edge. I personally love prints and bold colors and have been enjoying color-blocking statements. I am not a minimalist, but I work with clients who prefer monochromatic aesthetics. I am also an everyday dresser and make sure that I feel good in comfortable, quality pieces when I’m working from home. 

        Lisa Sher Chambers Styles Sarah and Bari

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