Snow Day

With snow present in 49 of the 50 States it hardly seems like many people are concerned about outdoor living.  A snow shovel, snow boots and parka are hardly inspiration for planning your personal retreat.

Or, are they? 

Now is the perfect time to start planning your outdoor space.  If you are going to choose custom fabric or change the frame colours of furniture, you're looking at between 8 and 16 weeks for delivery, depending on the manufacturer.

If you need to build structure or add a custom kitchen/fireplace, now is the time to start searching for contractors or a designer to bring your dream to reality.

Just remember references, references, references... 

If you're home and have some downtime today what a perfect day to start planning.  Take a look at your canvas, I am sure it is beautiful with a white winter blanket covering the grounds.  How perfect for looking at what you want to do when the weather warms up.

It's also a great time to start looking at vendors to see what is available in 2011.  The best part is the available technology you now have that allows you to have the pleasure of previewing collections and vendors online.  No sales people to drive you in the the direction of what they want to sell you - just you, your laptop and a nice hot cup of cocoa, coffee or tea.

Now think about what you want to achieve with your space.

Adding to existing furniture? 

Find the manufacture and see what pieces they have added to the collection since you last purchased it.

Starting from scratch?

Narrow down the materials you want, think about the location and how you will be using the furniture..

At this point, look for what you want... I know this will sound crazy but...don't worry about you're budget right now.  I guarantee that if you find something you love and the price point is on the high end, with the right negotiation it can be attainable.

Or...

Much like Haute Couture, there are manufactures that will make a similar item.  (Wednesday I will show you how to find similar products for all price points!)

Right now you're just looking for idea's.  You're forming a plan that will help you as you, confidently, move forward into the the shopping phase.

Enjoy you're snow day while you dream of the warm months ahead :)  Get you're plan together now for the day's when you're outdoor space is back to green and the weather is warm again. 

Jane