Celebrity Nursery Designer, Sherri Blum of Jack and Jill Interiors

New Furniture Line

2012-01-26T09:49:00.000-05:00

We are excited to announce that we've just added the complete line of Lea Furniture for kids! Lea provides great quality kids' furniture at an affordable price. They cover every color and style imaginable to suit any decor style or theme your child might want.
Lea Furniture is a La-Z-Boy Incorporated company with headquarters in High Point, NC, and they consider themselves the Youth Specialist in furniture. According to Lea, "We have over 50 years of experience specializing in youth furnishings, and we continuously focus on innovative new product ideas and design trends to grow our assortment and offerings."
Lea Furniture for Kids has a wide array of kids beds, bunk beds, kids' dressers, TV storage, entertainment and media units, desks, desk chairs, and nightstands. Pair it with our beautiful kids' bedding and Jack and Jill Boutique can be your one stop shopping source for any kids' decor products!
Check out a few of our favorite collections here and for a limited time, you can purchase the Lea Kids Furniture from our Jack and Jill Boutique and save 5% by using coupon code "lea5" at checkout!

Jessica McClintock Romance

Hannah Collection by Lea

Elite Collection by Lea

Jessica McClintock Heirloom

Hometown Collection by Lea

Emma's Treasures Furniture

Covington Furniture by Lea

Retreat Antique Black

Retreat Antique White Furniture

Deer Run

Midtown by Lea

Wild Child Book!

2012-01-04T19:40:00.000-05:00

I had previously shared the magical photography of Lorna Freytag and wanted to take a moment to update you on her latest venture.

"Wild Child" is Lorna's first illustrated picture book and is being released on January 5th. It is for sale on Amazon uk or at all good bookshops in the UK only, at this time.
ISBN: 9781406323085, written by Jeanne Willis.

I for one, can not wait until I can get my hands on this book and to get lost in the beautiful photography and the story told! It's one to be enjoyed by young and old alike.

Here is a brief description of the book:

Meet Wild Child! She’s spirited and curious. She’s fearless and free. She lives alone in a mystical, prehistoric world – the last child in a dramatic landscape, where anything could happen. Follow her through her day as she explores her world from the foot of the mountain to the heart of the wood; while she runs with the rabbits and swims with the fish – but beware of the grown-ups and sensible shoes! Join the magic and unleash the wild child in YOU!

Congratulations, Lorna!

$10K Military Nursery Give Away- Reveal!

2012-01-03T21:59:00.005-05:00

This past spring, Mary Bauer of Bratt Decor and I decided to team up to show our love and support for our troops by giving away a $10K dream nursery makeover to a deserving service man or woman. Just in time for Memorial Day, we put out a call for nominations and received some wonderful video clips featuring men and women who sacrifice for our freedom daily.

We chose Carlos and Marlene Altamirano as our winners. Their friends put together such a beautiful video clip describing this wonderful couple and we couldn't wait to begin working on their nursery!

We were also touched by the generous donations of nursery products from our friends in the children's industry.
Doodlefish Kids donated the ivory rug, Charn and Company donated the nursery chandelier, Stacie Dale donated a beautiful memory keepsake box, Dish and Spoon Productions donated the Prince Wall Hanging Art, Olena Boyko designed and donated the nursery curtains, moses basket and sweet bunny, Dimples and Dandelions designed and donated the plush nursery glider rocker by Angel Song and Bratt Decor donated the beautiful iron crib, changing table and bedding. Jack and Jill Interiors interviewed the couple to determine their design style and helped to select and coordinate the nursery products and paints. We then provided floor plans and storyboards for the couple so they could see their nursery come to life while they awaited the arrival of their furnishings. Thank you so much to our generous donors!
We are very pleased with the way this nursery came together to create a warm and serene environment for their baby boy, Carlos Altamirano who was born on September 3rd.

Check out the finished nursery! Kelly Orr, of Shutterbug Portrait Studio was so kind as to take these great photos for us! Thanks, Kelly!

Photo collage by Kelly Orr of Shutterbug Portrait Studio

Celebrity Nursery Design and a Baby Boutique is Born...What a Year!

2011-12-28T19:21:00.000-05:00

As we look back upon 2011, I can't help but think about all of the exciting new things that have happened within my companies and for me personally.

We started the year with the excitement of filming our nursery design process for Lisa and Buddy Valastro of the hugely popular reality show, The Cake Boss. Not only did I have the pleasure of designing a celebrity nursery, but they loved their baby's nursery so much that they hired me to design kids' rooms for their other three children as well. It was truly a highlight of my career to enjoy working with this delightful client as well as to have an inside peek at the filming and production of a reality TV show.
Once we were finished with designing and filming for The Cake Boss, we moved on to doing some philanthropic design work for Make a Wish Foundation. We pulled together various manufacturers and designers from the children's decor industry and created a magical fairyland playroom for a sweet little girl with brain cancer. It was a humbling, rewarding and heartbreaking experience. I will never forget Avery and her family and I pray daily for a miracle for them.

Just before the 4th of July, my dear friend and fellow nursery designer, Mary Bauer of Bratt Decor and I decided to give back to our country's brave military men and women by offering a $10,000 Military Family Dream Nursery Give Away. We had some great entries and selected Carlos and Marlene Altamirano as our very deserving winners. We're still awaiting final photos back from the photographer, but we promise this beautiful nursery is worth the wait!

About mid summer I finally bit the bullet and began designing my online baby boutique, Jack and Jill Boutique. It's something that I should have done years ago, but just didn't seem to ever find the right time or have the resources to begin. I'm thrilled with how the baby boutique has grown and have some great plans for its growth and success in the coming years. I have worked with so many great kids' product designers through my interior design firm, Jack and Jill Interiors for the past twelve years, that it only made sense to begin this online kids' store to enhance my design services and round out my offerings to my clients and customers.

This summer, I began talking with friend and colleague, Aaron Christensen of Embellishments about a new business venture. It's funny how much our careers have paralleled over the years. We are both nursery and kids' room designers and we each have our own line of children's wall art. Our respect for one another in this industry led to a great friendship and we finally decided that it would be more fun to work together with another like-minded creative person than to always be going it alone. We've created a new company, The Princess and The Prop Maker. Through this new entity, we will design nurseries and kids' rooms together and create some great new products along the way. We recognize that we each have a unique set of strengths to contribute to this new venture and look forward to pulling them together to design magical kids' rooms and products that are sure to please. Be sure to follow our blog and our Facebook page where we'll share our adventures and provide tips on design and introduce you to the latest and greatest baby and kids' products on the market today.

And finally, I've been contracted by a television producer who has created and is pitching a few different reality and design shows for which I would be the host and designer. I've been contacted by five or six production companies over the past few years, but this company is really working day and night to get us a show. As much as I'd love to design kids' rooms and baby nurseries every day for television, I don't count my chickens before they hatch. I've been down this road before and realize that in order for a show to really take off, all the stars must be in perfect alignment. If I get a show, great...it will be fun and I promise to entertain and provide great design. If I don't get a show- still great...because I love my life and am blessed to have the opportunity to wake up each day to a loving family and to have a career that I absolutely love and feel passionate about each and every day.
So...what's in store for us in 2012? I have no idea! Each day as a nursery designer, artist, boutique owner, wife and mother is a new adventure and full of surprises. All I can say is stay tuned...I promise it will be an exciting year!
Happy New Year to each of you and may you all be blessed with good health, happiness and prosperity in 2012!

Holiday Gift Giving

2011-12-19T08:39:00.000-05:00

Stumped on what to get someone on your holiday gift list? Why not give him or her a gift certificate from Jack and Jill Interiors? Our gift certificates are available in denominations from $25 on up and come sweetly wrapped with a pretty bow. Jack and Jill Interiors gift certificates can be used towards any of our numerous nursery design packages, for a kid's room makeover or towards the purchase of any of the designer quality items found in our baby and kids boutique, Jack and Jill Boutique! We offer kids decor and baby nursery furniture including art for kids, baby cribs, baby bedding, kids' furniture, kids bedding, children's lighting, kids' rugs, diaper bags, burp cloths, baby blankets, baby bibs and more!
Today through Thursday, December 22, save 10% on gift certificates over $100 by using coupon code "certif10" at check out.
Your gift recipient will love the versatility of choices with a gift certificate from Jack and Jill Interiors!

CYBER MONDAY SALE!

2011-11-24T08:52:00.000-05:00

Jack and Jill Boutique is having a sale! Take 10% off your entire purchase over $300- that includes furniture, bedding, lighting, rugs, art...you name it! Sale runs today through Monday! Use coupon code "cyber10" at checkout.

Happy Thanksgiving!
Sherri

The Princess and The Prop Maker

2011-11-17T11:50:00.001-05:00

It is with great excitement that I announce a brand new collaboration with my unbelievably creative and witty colleague, Aaron Christensen of Embellishments Studio. Aaron is not only a talented kid space designer who creates elaborate and theatrical props and furniture, but his best selling art can be found in hundreds of boutiques and retail giants like Target, Restoration Hardware and Pottery Barn. Through this endeavor, The Princess and The Prop Maker, we will merge talents and varied approaches to design and create an exciting array of children’s spaces and develop new products for the juvenile marketplace.
Individually, we have both carved our niche in the children’s industry, with myself being the classically trained interior decorator who has designed a few celebrity nurseries as well as my own line of children's wall art that has its timeless and endearing qualities making them high performing staples in boutiques nationwide. Aaron, a more unconventional designer and artist, in the juvenile field, has brought his design-build capabilities to the room design arena, creating some of the most fantastic and customized spaces. His line of wall art and products, addressing the more masculine spirit have captured him a spot as one of the industry’s leading artists.
Collectively, we are bringing to life our new personas as “The Princess and The Prop Maker” to harness our diverse strengths and have fun with our differences. We plan on bringing, to our clients and the industry, double the ideas, double the performance and, hopefully, double the entertainment value.
Although we have collaborated on projects remotely, we are seeking our first “together” on-site project and would appreciate your spreading the word. We are looking for projects such as Nurseries, Kid’s Rooms, Teen/Tween Spaces or Tenant improvements for child based businesses such as pediatric offices, salons and boutiques.
Be sure to visit and follow our blog, The Princess and The Prop Maker and please "LIKE" our Facebook Page.

They Don't Make 'Em Like They Used To....

2011-11-11T08:15:00.001-05:00

You know....Grandpa was right. They just don't make 'em like they used to! I won't date myself, but I will tell you that I've been on this earth long enough to know that sometimes the "old reliable" really is the ONLY reliable.
This morning I decided to bake an angel food cake. Now, if you know me, you know that I hate cooking, but I don't mind baking. After all, baking usually involves the comfort foods like breads and desserts...the items that receive all of the oohs and aahs. Who doesn't love dessert?! Another fact you will know about me if you've followed my blog for a while, is that I've recently remarried. If you know anything about second marriages, you'll note that when you blend your households, you'll find there are some things that neither of you have and still need, and yet you'll inevitably end up with double of some appliances and utensils. (We still don't have a complete set of matching ANYTHING....you would laugh at our collection of cups and glasses...but we did end up with two mixers, two coffee pots, two toasters and two refrigerators).
So when I set out to bake my cake this morning, I grabbed the mixer that I deemed the most reliable...Eric's. His is only about 5 years old, shiny silver and white and looks as if it's got a turbo boosted engine within. Mine, on the other hand, is a hand-me-down mixer from my ex-husband's grandmother and is a circa 1950 General Electric. That's right, that dinosaur is 61 years old! It's plug isn't even polarized.
As I started mixing my cake, the new mixer petered out on me three times. So I grabbed the beat up old mixer that had been used by three generations (four if you count my kids who use it now, too) and that baby mixed up my cake batter like nobody's business!
Prior to writing this post, I wanted to be sure I had correctly dated Grandma's mixer and did a quick search online. To my delight, I came across one for sale....and they're asking $40 for it! It seems I'm not the only person who has a deep respect for this appliance! ( Check it out here and scarf it up if you're in need of a good mixer!) For these past few years since my divorce, I've been feeling just a bit resentful - upset that my ex got the grandfather clock, Italian leather sofa and other valuable decorative goodies- while I opted more for the practical things like mixers and lawn mowers. But in hindsight, I'm thinking I might have actually made out pretty well in the deal, after all!
So Grandpa, it seems you were right. They don't make 'em like they used to. Lesson learned? If you're unfortunate enough to have to endure a divorce, make sure to select the oldest, most sorry looking appliances when you're dividing up your goodies. Yes, initially your ex will think his theory that you're crazy is validated- but in the end, you'll have ol' reliable and you'll have the last laugh. You'd better believe I'm sending a link to this little revelation to my ex, today! ;)

Corduroy Appreciation Day! 11/11/11

2011-11-10T12:41:00.000-05:00

There are many sights, sounds and smells that bring back nostalgic feelings from childhood and while the triggers of childhood memories will vary for each of us, there are several that are common across the board- like the sound of Friday Night Football games, the smell of freshly baked cookies, the sight of an old metal swing set or see saw, corn dogs and cotton candy…and for many of us slipping into the softest, comfiest Corduroy pants, will even conjure up some nostalgia as well.

For many generations folks have been enjoying this low maintenance fabric. I remember wearing a red corduroy jumper dress as a child, I dressed both of my sons in corduroy pants all winter long as they were toddlers and young boys, and my youngest son's favorite stuffed animal was his Corduroy Bear from the popular children's book. We still have him sitting on a shelf today!

Corduroy is one of those fabrics that you can dress up or dress down, depending on whether you pair it with a denim shirt and boots, or a sweater and nice shoes. Its wash and wear maintenance makes it a favorite among most.

Corduroy has found it's way into home design trends over the years as well. It's easy to maintain on chairs, bedding, and pillows.

Some believe that the word "corduroy" comes from a French origin and is derived from "corde du roi" which would translate as cloth of the king. Others say that it's origin is English. Regardless, people have been enjoying this fabric for centuries and tomorrow, 11/11/11 has been declared Corduroy Appreciation Day. This date wasn't chosen because of any particular affinity for the number, but because when you view the date, it looks like rows of waled corduroy fabric!

I'll share a few favorite corduroy items here with you today. And you'd better believe, I'll be sporting my favorite corduroy pants or jacket tomorrow. Will you?

Girls' Red Corduroy Jumper Dress from Dillards

The Book can be found at Amazon or any local bookstore.

Explorer Bedding

Typical CASUAL boy's corduroy outfit

Typical DRESSIER boy's corduroy outfit

Military inspired corduroy hat...great for men or women!

My favorite Eddie Bauer Corduroy Jacket...yes, I've got it in 3 colors!

And this girl's bedding has sweet corduroy trim and pillows!

You didn't think I'd forget the men, did you? Well they can't go wrong with anything from J. Crew!

TELEVISION SHOW CASTING CALL!

2011-11-09T19:06:00.001-05:00

If you're pregnant, in your second or third trimester and live in the PA, NJ, NY, CT, MD area, are full of life, outgoing and desiring a high style nursery to go with your high style life, contact us!
info@jackandjillinteriors.com

Pixie Dust Decor Fabrics for Carousel Designs- a Match Made in Heaven

2011-11-07T19:33:00.000-05:00

I meet some extremely talented and friendly people in my line of work. Not only am I thrilled to offer their beautiful products to my clients and now through my store, but I thoroughly enjoy getting to know these designers on a more personal level as well. We share our trials and triumphs and are genuinely happy for one another's successes. Yes, this industry is full of good people and I feel blessed to work with such inspirational creatives on a daily basis.

Today I want to introduce you to one of those friends who has supported me over the years, Stacy McCallum. She is the founder and designer of a beautiful line of fabrics, Pixie Dust Decor. I'm so excited for her, as she's recently partnered up with a leader in the baby bedding, industry, Carousel Designs who will now produce bedding featuring her beautiful fabrics. I simply CAN'T WAIT to design a nursery around one of these beautiful sets. Read on for details on how this partnership came to be...

Pixie Dust Décor is a textile and children’s décor design studio dedicated to bringing style minded parents enchanting décor options for their child’s special space.
For the last four years Pixie Dust has enjoyed a tremendous response to its fresh classic textile designs and fun, functional made goods. Beautiful boutiques and wonderful websites carry Pixie Dust textiles and product all over the country as well as a handful international destinations.
Building on that momentum, Pixie Dust Decor's founder and designer, Stacy McCallum decided to expand her textile offerings by reaching out to select manufacturers of fine children's goods allowing Pixie Dust to collaborate on nursery essentials such as bedding and artwork.

Earlier this spring, a well timed conversation brought her right to the doorstep of Carousel Designs. One week before Carousel's design team was headed to the international textile markets, Stacy was able to connect her designs with their new bedding offerings. Today their are five different textile offerings on the Carousel website (www.babybedding.com) ready to be created into custom baby bedding, twin and cradle bedding as well as some beautifully made accessories manufactured exclusively in the USA.

Stacy feels lucky to have such a fabulous partnership with Carousel Designs! While other partnerships are in the works, Pixie Dust will continue to create enchanting new designs and limited production gift items that their customers have grown to love.

Armoires

2011-11-03T11:57:00.001-04:00

I have an affinity for traditional decor and I also love repurposing and recycling products when designing nurseries and kids' rooms as well as throughout my own home. By stylishly reusing items that many might see as old fashioned, outdated or passé, I gain a great sense of accomplishment. I believe we should all do our part to be environmentally responsible and repurposing furniture is a great way to do so.
Armoires have served many purposes throughout history. Initially these large cabinets were necessary for clothing storage. Many older homes did not have closets in bedrooms. An armoire was a great way to hang the few articles of clothing the average person possessed in the day. But as new homes were built, closets were added and armoires became less important. As time went on, we began seeing them used to hold our televisions in the 1980's and 90's. They were a great way to hide away those large, bulky and ugly black boxes when not in use. But as televisions became thinner, we were able to hang them neatly on our walls, making the armoire obsolete for yet another purpose.
I think armoires are one of the most versatile pieces one can use when decorating a child's room. I really love the look of a nursery armoire and often recommend these beauties to my clients. A nursery armoire can be used as a changing station for the baby, blanket storage or for hanging delicate little dresses. As your child grows, it can become toy storage, a computer station, a gaming station or can be used to stack favorite sweaters and sweatshirts. It's a piece of kids' furniture that can serve it's purpose for many years.
I've gathered some great images here for you. Hopefully they'll inspire you to repurpose that old armoire you might have in the basement gathering dust!

Armoire BEFORE

Armoire AFTER.

I love chalkboard paint. What a great idea for a kids' room or kitchen! Family messages can be jotted here, sweet nothings written, reminders to clean up your room...the possibilities are endless! (courtesy of http://www.junkinthetrunktrio.com)

Nursery Armoire I used when designing the Cake Boss Nursery

Why not remove the doors and use your armoire as a shelving unit? Photo courtesy of http://www.paintmewhite.com

Don't you just love the power of PAINT?! Photo courtesy of Apartment Therapy.

Computer armoire used by a pre-teen girl.

I know this is cheating...it's closet doors painted to look like an armoire! How cute is this?! Image courtesy of Meredith.com

Believe it or not, this is only 7" high...it's for a doll house. What I wouldn't do for a big version of this for my studio! Image courtesy of http://earthntree.com/

Want to see some great armoires for kids? Check out my selection of Newport Cottages Furniture and Bratt Decor Furniture in my Jack and Jill Boutique.

New Jack and Jill Boutique!

2011-10-25T14:26:00.002-04:00

I know, I know...I've talked about it for years. I've often been told and said that I should open up an online baby boutique to offer the many wonderful products I use in my designer nurseries and kids' rooms to my site visitors and fans of our work. After putting that daunting task off for the past decade, I've finally taken the leap!
I am the type of person who won't do something unless I can do it right and do it big. I didn't want my boutique to be just any ordinary boutique offering ordinary kids' decor and nursery furniture. I wanted my boutique to be different and stand out from the rest.
My Jack and Jill Boutique goes hand-in-hand with my nursery design company, Jack and Jill Interiors. In fact you will see links on every page of Jack and Jill Interiors taking you to "products" for sale. I am often asked where people can find the beautiful products I use in my designs so I'm starting off with loading up products from those tried and true designers and manufacturers. If I wouldn't use the product in my own home or the homes of my clients, you won't find it offered in my boutique. I've hand selected only the best designers in the children's industry to be featured on my site.
What else is unique about our kids' decor store? Well when you buy your furniture or bedding from us, you get the added benefit of free design advice from me. Yes, that's worth something...in fact if you look at my hourly rates, it's worth ALOT! But we want our customers to be completely certain that their investment is a good one. We will help you select your baby furniture, baby bedding, kids' furniture, kids' bedding, kids wall art and accessories and will even select wall colors for you once your bedding is purchased.
We've loaded our first six vendors to the site so far (we have about 30 to go!). We currently feature: Bratt Decor, Newport Cottages, Dish and Spoon Productions, Doodlefish Kids, Olena Boyko and Caden Lane.
Visit our site if you're looking for high quality, affordable kids furniture and bedding and if you purchase furniture by December 1, you can save 5% by using coupon code "furniture5" at checkout!
Be sure to check back often to see what great new products we're loading and PLEASE spread the word to your family and friends!

French Flair Collection Released!

2011-10-23T16:51:00.001-04:00

I'm finally able to share my brand new collection with you! I'm so excited about this chic collection of wall art including a chandelier, street light, dress form with tutu, Eiffel Tower, Louis Chair with Yorkshire puppy and ottoman with Yorkie puppy! The puppy is even so enthusiastic about her inclusion, she has donned her best tutu and bow for the occasion!

And let's not forget the coordinating French Flair Wall Hanging as seen here.

Palm Beach Tots has a beautiful window display (which Jack and Jill Interiors helped to design, by the way!) featuring the entire set.

This collection is brand new and not yet found online for sale, so feel free to contact our studio info@jackandjillinteriors.com to buy direct and be on the lookout for these to appear in your favorite kids' boutiques soon! 16"x20" stretched canvases are $119 and the 36"x24" wall hanging is $158.

Free shipping!

My Favorite Designers Series- Mary Bauer of Bratt Decor

2011-10-06T21:59:00.001-04:00

Sherri and Mary's $10K Military Nursery Give-away Contest

As a nursery designer I have the pleasure of meeting some of the world's most talented designers. Not only do I recommend their furniture and bedding to my nursery design clients, but I have the opportunity to exhibit my products along side of them at trade shows as well. I've met some outstanding people who have, over the years become more than just my colleagues- they've become my friends. Mary Bauer of Bratt Decor is not only one of the most talented women in the children's industry, but she's also one of the most grounded, kind-hearted and thoughtful people I know. Her generous spirit is unmatched and as time goes on, I find myself more in awe of her in her many roles as a designer, a wife and mother. After working and playing together over the years, I now count her as one of my most trusted and valued friends.

Many consumers don't really stop to think about they story behind the products they purchase and enjoy. It' a shame, really. Because as far as I'm concerned, the story of the designer, about how the design or product came to be, and what inspired its creation- makes that particular item all the more priceless in my eyes. Mary's story of how Bratt Decor came to be is one of the most inspiring yet. So sit back and enjoy this little interview and peek at the woman behind that fabulous nursery furniture line, Bratt Decor!

Mary with celebrity clients, Mario Lopez and Courtney Mazza

Where is home? Baltimore, MD

When did you first realize you wanted to be a designer and how did you prepare yourself for this career?

I don’t know that I ever “realized” it, it’s just always been a part of who I am. Even as a kid, I was always creating and designing everything around me to fit my version of beauty.

How did you get into this business/start the company?

I began when I got pregnant with my first child, and couldn’t find a crib that I loved. So, together with my ridiculously talented husband, I designed one.

What do you adore about your job?

I love seeing something in my mind appear before me in a tangible way.

What do you like the least?

The paperwork.

When you need inspiration for your designs, where do you most often turn?

Nature. The patterns and colors in just about anything God created are so perfect and inspiring. What I love about what I find in nature, is the deeper you look, the more time you take, the more beauty is revealed.

How might your clients describe your "signature look"?

Glamorous and timeless.

Famous clients? Tell us a little about working with each.

I’ve worked with some, and what I can tell you about all of them, is they worry about all the same things any expectant parent worry about. They want a safe, beautiful space where their love story can unfold.

What's the most exciting thing on the horizon for you?

Our newest crib, J’adore. It’s a crib/cradle combination, in an oval shape, made of all hand bent wrought iron, and I’m so loving it right now.

What do you know now that you wish someone had told you when you were first starting out?

That I was, for sure, going to make it. That little nugget of wisdom would have saved me so much worry and sleepless nights.

You've learned your design studio will self-destruct in 60 seconds, what three things will you grab?

My husband, computer, and dog, all of which are generally found lying around somewhere in there.

Mary and Stephen Bauer and the new J'adore Crib/Cradle

Not Your Grandma's Wallpaper!

2011-09-11T19:18:00.003-04:00

Wall paper is coming back into our homes after a bit of a hiatus. To be honest, I’ve never really been a big fan of wallpaper. I guess it’s because I like to change my wall colors so often, that I never really wanted the bother of having to strip the paper each time. But I’m heavily considering a change in tune. With this renewed interest, the manufacturers have stepped things up a notch with some fun, elegant, textural, metallic and fresh new patterns that have really caught my eye.

I’m also noticing that quite a few brands are now offering some great new kids’ patterns that I find very impressive. I’m going to list a few of my favorites here for you. I’m also eager to begin proposing these great designs to my clients. Any takers?

Wallpaper Collective offers some very cool teen patterns. How about this for a music lover who wants a cool retro “lounge”? By Aimee Wilder

I like this paper By Piet Hein Eek for a boy’s room but it would also go well in other areas of the home, especially if you like a farm-house look. Rustic, rough-hewn wood is very current in décor today.

I would want to camp out all day and night with this wall paper depicting hand shadows! As a mother of boys, this is a favorite of mine! This is from Paper Boy of London.

And for the girls, I love this super cool butterfly pattern from Mod Green Pod. This is perfect for a pre-teen or teen with its hip colors! And best yet, their papers are all environmentally friendly! They are vinyl-free and they use water-based inks on FSC certified paper as well as a water-based glaze. No PVC!

And for your nursery or toddler’s room, check out this fresh monkey pattern in a variety of colors. By Bholu.

Princes and Crows offers some beautiful designs for the younger kids. I love these forest animals. Again, another popular theme in nurseries today!

Funky Little Darlings offers some very unique papers. Look at the soldier ants here. Fun for your adventuresome little guy!

I’m dying to do a nursery in this sweet tree patterned paper!

And they also offer Mural Wall Coverings! I think this would be cool as a backdrop behind a pre-teen’s headboard!

And of course, I can’t forget my favorite designer, Candice Olson! She has a kids’ line of wall papers, too available through York WallCoverings. Each one seen here is available in multiple color ways.

I especially like the Dinosaur Fossils seen here.

And how cute is her camo style pink butterfly paper?!

I’m really digging this Bamboo Curtain paper for a teen’s room, whether boy or girl! Again, how cool would this be on an accent wall?

Candice Olson has this Rocker Silhouette paper that will be sure to impress any teen!

Have you ever tried painting harlequins on a wall? Well I have…and I’m here to tell you that it’s not fun! That’s a job I’d recommend leaving up to the pros, folks! Thank God Candice now has this sweet Harlequin Princess paper available to take away that stress for the do-it-yourselfer!

After seeing all of these great new options for kids’ rooms, I’m convinced that wall papers can be pretty cool. And from what I’ve read, they’re much easier to remove today than in years past. So don’t be surprised if you start seeing it in my future designs. I’ve already begun gathering swatches!

Have you considered wallpaper for your kids’ room or baby’s nursery? Share your thoughts with us.

Make a Wish- Fairy Garden Playroom

2011-08-11T19:12:00.000-04:00

Three year old Avery was diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer at age two. Her wish through Make a Wish Foundation was to receive a Fairy Garden Playroom for her sister, Maddy and herself. Avery has gone through so very much in her young life and is such a strong, brave little girl. When Make a Wish coordinator, Jenny Hauser contacted me to design this very special room for Avery, we jumped on it. My extremely well organized and talented assistant designer, Lisa O'Brien and I worked for months meticulously planning the space which included a life-like tree, a custom designed reading nook that we now refer to as the "Fairy Fountain", a dress up corner, play house, tea table complete with tea set, an art station (not seen in the images, as it was back ordered) and a spot for movie viewing. We solicited the hugely talented Patrice Hoban to paint our fairy mural and she really knocked our socks off with the details! She added glitter and gems and the room really came to life with her vision! We thank Cheryl of Sweet Lullaby for designing and donating the sweet curtains and valances, Chris Jones of http://www.kidtropolisbuild.com/ for designing the Fairy Fountain reading perch, Levels of Discovery for their donation of the tea table and toybox, New Arrivals, Inc for donating the peg hook, and Creative Carpet Design for donating the cute-as -a-button monogrammed rug. Avery and her family have a long road ahead of them. They will continue treatments at St. Jude Children's Hospital (to whom Jack and Jill Interiors has donated monthly for about 7 years now) and we will continue to love and pray for this wonderful and inspiring family. Please consider donating by following the link above. Thank you!

Chesapeake Home and Living Magazine

2011-06-11T08:39:00.000-04:00

If you live in the Chesapeake Bay area, be sure to pick up the June issue of Chesapeake Home and Living Magazine. Not only do they have an overabundance of beautiful home images, they have also interviewed me (Jack and Jill Interiors) for an article on designing children's rooms and nurseries.

$10K DESIGNER NURSERY GIVE-AWAY TO MILITARY FAMILY!

2011-05-29T23:03:00.000-04:00

We love our troops and want to show our appreciation. Please help spread the word abut our $10,000 designer nursery giveaway by my own, Jack and Jill Interiors and my dear friend, Mary of Bratt Decor. View the video and share it on Facebook, tweet about it on Twitter and call all your friends! Entries must be done by video and loaded onto Youtube. Then place a link on each of our facebook fan pages to enter. It's as simple as that!
Tell the story of why you or a loved one deserves this designer nursery. The entrant must be pregnant at the time of the contest and stationed here in the contiguous US.
Thank you to all who serve and protect our freedoms!

Huge SALE of Sherri Blum Art on Zulily!

2011-05-23T12:36:00.000-04:00

Today and tomorrow only...find Sherri Blum Designs canvas art and wooden signs GREATLY REDUCED! These items are overstock inventory from my pre-licensing days. Once they're gone, they're gone forever.
Check it out at Zulily! (See just a few below...many more available!)

Virtual Nursery Design by Carousel Designs

2011-05-20T10:28:00.002-04:00

As a designer, I’m always working with clients to help develop the perfect space in their home, coordinating rooms using various colors, fabric, and furniture. I recently came across a tool that makes this process easy and fun. It’s from a company named Carousel Designs, and the tool is called the interactive Nursery Designer®.

I enjoy using the Nursery Designer® because it allows me to create a virtual nursery by choosing from a selection of fabrics, patterns and colors for the bedding. Instead of imaging what a combination of the options might look like, I can visually create this on my computer. This helps me explore new design possibilities, and visually express them to the parents I work with. I even encourage my clients to get in on the fun with different design combinations and come up with their perfect custom crib bedding set to match whatever inspiration – color scheme, theme, sentimental pieces – they can imagine.

A child’s nursery should be a very unique, personal, and special place for both the child and the parents, and can provide the foundation for wonderful memories for years to come. Try this tool, and see how easy it can be to create a perfect crib bedding to match your child’s nursery!

What I love about Carousel Designs is not only their unique online design capability and amazing quality baby bedding, it’s also the tradition and spirit of the company. Carousel Designs was started more than 23 years ago and the company made a name for itself by manufacturing great quality products, all right here in the USA. The new owners have sustained that tradition of excellence; all of their bedding continues to be made right in their Douglasville, Georgia plant!

Another thing that makes Carousel Designs unique to the industry is the owners’ backgrounds– they happen to be West Point classmates and former Army officers. I mean, who knew?! The company is a big supporter of U.S. military service members and their families … you can read more about their personal commitment to supporting military families here.

Whether it’s for the beautiful baby bedding designs, the fun-to-play-with interactive Nursery Designer® tool, or to learn more about the company story, be sure to check Carousel Designs out at www.babybedding.com!

Readers Favorites Awards 2011, Baby and Children's Product News!

2011-05-16T13:24:00.000-04:00

Dish and Spoon Productions (my licensee) and Sherri Blum Designs, wish to announce that we have been given the Readers' Favorites Award in FOUR categories at Baby and Children's Product News!

Artwork: 1st Place
Growth Charts: 1st Place
Personalized Products: 1st Place
Wall Hangings: 2nd Place

We've worked hard to offer the best quality and customer service and couldn't be happier to see that hard work pay off.
Stay tuned to our websites for more winners in the near future...we've been working hard on some great new designs to be released this fall!

2011-05-05T21:19:00.001-04:00

Artists view the details of their surroundings differently from others. Where some might just see a vase of flowers, artists will appreciate the composition of the arrangement. An artist will notice the slight changes in wall color when the sun goes down, or the way in which shadows and lighting will soften or harden a subject. People with an eye for such things can use that gift in various artistic ways to create beauty for the rest of us. I've always known I was an artist, but dabbled for a while in photography, pottery, cake decorating, sculpture and more before finding the way in which I was going to use my artistic gifts. I've often wished I'd taken lessons in photography, but never have. Anyone can take a picture, but a true artist's photograph will tell a story worth a thousand words.

I've had the pleasure of working with a pair of very talented photographers twice now...first for my wedding and more recently for a photo shoot in the Valastro home to showcase the design work I've completed for TLC's Cake Boss stars, Buddy and Lisa. This wonderful husband and wife team have made me look good TWICE now, and so I thought it only fitting to share their talents and background with you. I highly recommend them for any upcoming occasions you might have!

Sandy and Kevin Gardner, Gardner Photography

Please share your background experience.

Sandy, from Colorado, has been involved in photography both in front of and behind the camera since 1998. Her interest in photography was sparked during a class in which she used a Pentax 35mm camera to learn the basics of film, composition, and darkroom techniques. After shooting her younger brother's senior pictures, she went on to increase her knowledge of photography by taking another photography class, taught by her now husband, Kevin.

Kevin from Pennsylvania, began his photography career shooting crime scenes during investigations as a police officer in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Later, after relocating out west as an outdoor writer in Colorado, Kevin began supporting his articles with photography to enhance his offering to the magazines he was associated with. He later went into business as a freelance photographer in Loveland, Colorado.

With formal photography training through the New York Institute of Photography, Kevin focused on modeling portfolios and scenic and wildlife stock photography as his primary business model. He began teaching photography by conducting private lesson at his studio in Loveland and has continued to teach since relocating back home to Pennsylvania at Allegany College of Maryland’s Somerset and Bedford campuses. Aside from teaching, his photography work in Rocky Mountain National Park, Yellowstone, Mesa Verde and Moab are some of his life-work highlights.

How did you meet and decide to work together?

We met while working together in 2002. Sandy took private lessons from me and a year or so later when we got together at a party celebrating a new modeling portfolio release my business partner Nickle and I threw, she challenged me to a game of pool. I let her have every shot that was easy and she changed from stripes to solids about a dozen times. She called it "easy ball", most guys don't have the ability to let a girl win like that but it paid off in a very big way!

Later, after relocating back to Pennsylvania we had several friends who insisted that we do their wedding photography for them, so we bit the bullet and started buying the equipment for wedding shoots and retiring most of the wildlife and modeling gear. Sandy really wanted to do the business, so I agreed to be her support, and it has really been fun.

What is your favorite subject to photograph?

For Sandy it is details. She really likes the small details, the things that matter later when a person has the time to breathe and take it all in, the things they saw during their special event but didn't really "see".

For Kevin it has always been modeling portfolios. Making a subject look like they came straight out of a Cosmopolitan magazine is a rush. "I love making a woman look beautiful. It is the hardest part of the wedding process, getting time alone with her to relax her and make her look beautiful". "But the shots I get during those moments alone are the shots that really matter". Wildlife was probably the staple "favorite", but they never pay their sitting fee invoices where the models do.

What is the strangest request or job you've had?

For Sandy it was a photo project for her class when she was taking private lessons from Kevin. She was assigned to shoot an image capturing motion. Usually a student shoots some moving object like water or a friend running, but Sandy chose a toilet flushing and spent hours in her college aprtment bathroom with camera equipment flushing repeatedly to get it right. She called the shot "John Falls". Her roomate thought she had lost it.

For Kevin it was pregnancy photos for a woman who was about to pop right there in the middle of the public park where the shoot was conducted.

As a couple though, the Cake Boss baby room shoot was certainly the most novel.

What does your future hold?

We are just working to grow our wedding business. We have been fortunate to have such great clients and would like to be in a position that we can always have the "right client/right terms" approach. We think that makes the work fun. Pennsylvania is not a hot bed for modeling and modeling portfolios, but we get to do a little of that through the senior portraits, engagement and wedding shoots. "I just miss the half day sessions really working with a subject one on one and seeing the result".

Organic Crib Mattress

2011-04-22T14:32:00.000-04:00

As a nursery designer, it is not only my job to create beautiful nurseries for my clients, but I also feel that it is my duty to share the latest and greatest nursery products with them. When I had babies, I didn't think twice about the fact that the crib mattresses they slept on were made completely of synthetic materials, including plastic- that now is linked to some long-term health issues such as asthma and more. With the growing awareness of such dangers, as well as our increased awareness of our carbon footprint on the environment, I'm excited to share with you this great company that provides a crib mattress that is both safe for our babies and friendly to our environment!

ORGANIC MATTRESSES MADE BY HAND IN DEVON

Natural, organic and green-Naturalmat is the only global natural mattress maker and has been making fiber mattresses for babies and children since 2001. Naturalmat’s handmade mattresses are lovingly handcrafted in Devon from organic and sustainable sources of raw materials, all of which are biodegradable and comply with fair trade policies. Even Naturalmat packaging is eco friendly, made from potato starch and a mixture of recyclable and renewable paper sources from the Forestry Stewardship Council.

Naturalmat has three styles of organic mattresses to choose from:

COCO MAT-The most breathable and organic crib mattress

Coco Mat is the most breathable of all Naturalmat mattresses which makes it ideal for small babies. The gentle spring of the coir is surrounded by organic lambswool with Naturalmat’s anti-dust mite protection. This helps with insulation and provides a soft tufting to the top of the mattress.

What Makes It Great?

-Only Naturalmat uses coir from the only certified organic coconut plantation

-Coir ensures unbeatable airflow, superior spring and excellent support, promoting healthy natural sleep

-Organic lambswool washed in water from the river Dart

-Essential oils of lavender, lemon and eucalyptus make Naturalmat’s organic lambswool anti-dust mite

-No polyethylene or synthetics for optimum breathability

-Excellent ventilation and insulation

-Naturally springy and supportive

-Mattress covers are 100 percent pure unbleached cotton, and are removable and machine washable

Recommended Retail: $399.00

Size: 28” x 52”

LATEX MAT-The most allergy safe mattress offering medium support

Made from Latex that is completely natural and tapped straight from the rubber tree. The latex forms a springy core and is sandwiched between layers of organic coir for extra support, which is then wrapped in Naturalmat’s anti-dust mite organic lambswool. Latex Mat is Naturalmat’s most hypoallergenic mattress, to keep dusts mites and allergens at bay. Latex Mat is offered in both a crib mattress and twin mattress sizing.

What Makes It Great?

-Made from natural latex

-Hypoallergenic and anti-bacterial

-Essential oils of lavender, lemon and Eucalyptus make Naturalmat lambswool anti-dust mite

-Anti-microbial-perfect for asthma and eczema sufferers

-Organic lambswool washed in water from the river Dart

-Extremely breathable

-Excellent ventilation and insulation

-Long lasting superior orthopaedic support promoting good spinal development

-Mattress covers are 100 percent pure unbleached cotton, and are removable and machine washable

Recommended Retail: $525.00

Size: 28” x 52”

Latex Mat is also offered in a twin mattress size.

Recommended Retail: $999.00

MOHAIR MAT-The most luxurious firm and supportive organic mattress

Mohair Mat is Naturalmat’s most luxurious, firm and supportive baby mattress made with soft mohair from the Angora goat. It has superior spring due to the layer of long horsetail fibers, which sits between two layers of organic coir. As the longest natural fiber known, horse tail hair gives the most superior and supple springs. The coir is wrapped in lustrous soft mohair which acts as a superior thermal insulator.

What Makes it Great?

-Made with luxurious soft mohair from the Angora goat

-Mohair is naturally flame resistant, durable and resilient

-Naturally anti-dust mite

-Extremely breathable

-Excellent ventilation and thermal insulation

-Firm, springy and supportive

-Mattress covers are 100 percent pure unbleached cotton and are removable and machine washable

Recommended Retail: $625.00

Size: 28” x 52”

For those of you who already have a crib mattress, or feel the full organic mattress is out of your price range, the Top Mat should be the perfect way to protect your sleeping baby from direct contact with the synthetic mattress you have!

TOP MAT-A brilliant economical organic make over for baby’s current mattress and portable organic mattress solution

Naturalmat’s new organic Top Mat mattress is an economical way of turning baby’s crib mattress into an organic one. This lightweight quilted mattress can be packed away and used on vacation or when visiting family.

Two layers of organic lambswool are contained within this overlay to your child’s crib. The natural and breathable materials contained within the top mat regulate your baby’s temperature and help them to sleep soundly.

What Makes it Great?
- Contains two layers of organic lambswool

-Breathable overlay for better ventilation

-Lambswool treated with essential oils including lavender, lemon and eucalyptus, which offer protection against bed bugs and dust mites

-Machine Washable
-Complies with all standards

-Completely chemical free
Recommended retail: $129

Make the Top Mat even more portable by ordering the travel mat cotton drawstring bag, recommended retail: $14.99

Selecting your baby's mattress is a matter of personal choice. I recall worrying about SIDS and other things when selecting my youngest son's mattress. (I was too young and naive to worry about such, six years earlier with my first born!) I know there is an overabundance of concerns and choices. By sharing this information with you, I'm not saying that this is the only and best choice in mattresses. It is my goal to share options with you and trust that you, as the parent will make the choice that is best for you and your family. I had my youngest child sleeping on a mesh "mattress" that allowed complete air flow around him. In hindsight, it must have been very uncomfortable at times and might not have been the choice others would have made. But given my worrisome nature as a mom, it was the choice that made me most comfortable at the time. Shop around, check out your options and be comfortable with the choice you make. You won't go wrong!

For more information about Naturalmat, visit: Kastel International.
Want to view a video about Naturalmat? Click here: Naturalmat

Assistant Designer

2011-04-20T11:37:00.000-04:00

With the new year and some great recent press, I’ve been fortunate enough to experience an increase in design jobs. As you’ve read my blog over the years, you know how much I love being a nursery designer. and product designer. I count my blessings each day as I have the opportunity to create beautiful spaces and whimsical products for sweet little babies and imaginative children. Who wouldn’t smile having such fun at “work” each day?!

Another thing you might have observed about me over the years, is that I am a “do it all yourself” kind of gal. I don’t delegate well and I have always handled every aspect of my job all by myself. As a perfectionist, I’ve found it easier to just do it all, rather than train someone new to handle any aspect. I’d rather do it myself and know it’s done correctly, than to risk my reputation on another person making mistakes within my company. So I’ve been the customer service representative, accountant, web master, photographer, purchasing agent, creative director, designer, shipping agent and basically have operated and managed my interior design companies (yes, I have two of them!) and my product line….all by myself! I’ve hired an accountant or two, have had occasional “helpers”, but usually just ended up going back to doing it all myself within a short period of time.

It’s not that I haven’t had plenty of decent resumes sent my way (I receive unsolicited resumes and offers to be a free intern on a weekly basis). But I just haven’t felt that any of these designers have been someone who had the same vision as I, someone who compliments my style… and I definitely haven’t found someone local who was as detail oriented or more so- than myself. I would also want my assistant to enhance the services I provide…to bring something new to the table and make my company even better. I just hadn’t found the correct match. That is, until now!

Yes, I now have an Assistant Designer. Not only is she an extremely talented designer, but she is every bit as meticulous and organized as I! I actually find myself wondering if we were separated at birth.

I’ve asked my new assistant to share some details about her education and experience below, hoping to give you a little background on my new right hand woman, Lisa O’Brien. Lisa will be attending some client consultations with me and handling the elevation sketches, floor plans, and more as she steps into her new role within my design companies. I’ll remain the lead designer on all projects…I don’t want you to think that I’m planning on becoming invisible on any jobs. Lisa will be there to add some additional creative insights and to handle many behind the scene details that will also afford us the opportunity to take on more clients. I have often turned potential clients away when things were too busy. I won’t take on a new client if I don’t feel I can dedicate 100% to the job. With an assistant, I’ll be able to take on all of the wonderful new projects that come our way!

So without further ado, meet Lisa O’Brien.

“Personally, I have loved interior designing since I was a kid sharing a room with my younger sister. I always had a flair for organizing and putting things together that would make the space look new, warm, welcoming and inviting. I still have this motivation today in my own home; sometimes to the point where I have been accused of obsessing that every detail is covered and perfect. After experiencing the building and designing of our new family home; I knew this was my passion and calling and soon after moving in I began my journey to obtaining a degree in this field and making my dreams a reality.”

Educational Background:

Graduated from The Art Institute of York, Pennsylvania, June 2009 with an Associate Degree in Specialized Technology in Interior Design.

Perfect Attendance Awards in 2009 for exceptional attendance through education at The Art Institute of York Pennsylvania. (See, told you she was a perfectionist!)

Professional Allied Member of the ASID.

Professional Member of the NKBA (Susquehanna Chapter)

Experience:

Internships at Mary K. Interiors and Interior Dimensions after graduation.

Projects:

My Home: Moving into a new home with my fiance and our families; I contributed to the design aspects of the construction process. My involvement ranged from selecting appliances, floors, paint colors and cabinetry to overseeing the construction process. Since moving in, I have completed some additional home projects. I completely renovated our family room, added walls to include a water feature, designed a custom, elevated fireplace and a made to order back lit entertainment unit all to create the modern contemporary style that we love.

1^st Professional Job out of school was a Bed & Breakfast 30’ addition in Bloserville, PA. This space would be added to an existing home for use as personal space from the B&B. It included a great room area, a master bedroom, master bath and home office.

I’ve also completed a professional office space in Camp Hill, PA, a sustainable home in Pittsburgh, PA and several residential spaces ranging from kitchens to master bedrooms throughout PA.

Some of Lisa's Projects:

Perfect Gift for the Person Who Has Everything

2011-04-12T10:56:00.001-04:00

With Mother's Day, Father's Day, and the wedding season fast approaching, we're all finding ourselves searching the net for the perfect gift for many different occasions. So to save you all some time, I'm going to share with you one of my best kept secrets and what I truly believe to be the very best gift for anyone on your gift-giving list! (At least all the grown-ups!)

Crystal Imagery is a glass sand-carving company that has been providing high quality sand-carved glasses to such esteemed clients as The House of Representatives, The Senate, The CIA, ATT, Wells Fargo and many branches of the military - for over a decade. They have recently created a complete line of glassware and barware products that will thrill gift-recipients with the most discriminating taste! Not only are their products beautiful, but they will endure hundreds of rounds in the dishwasher. Unlike the hand painted wine glasses, screen printed whiskey glasses and lightly etched beer mugs you might find elsewhere, Crystal Imagery's products are hand-made by highly skilled artisans who deeply carve your monogram, logo or one of their stock designs - right into the glass. The beautiful designs will never wash off or fade.

In the images, the "white" area is actually where the background is carved away from the glass. The lettering and scrolling are untouched glass that is then left raised above the carved background, providing a 3D design that will never wash off or fade away.

Check out the site at Crystal Imagery and be sure to click on the various links to see the entire collection. They have humorous gifts for women such as the Diva Set, Goddess Set, Not Tonight...Collection, Mommy's Sippy Cup Set and more. These designs, deeply carved into wine glass sets are a really fun way to keep tabs on your own wine glass at a party and much classier than those cheap wine glass dangles!

Searching for the perfect gift for a man in your life? Crystal Imagery has a Name Your Poison Set, Skull and Crossbones Set, Pick Up Lines Set, and more which can be carved onto whiskey glasses, wine glasses, beer mugs, coffee mugs and just about anything glass or ceramic of your choosing.

Do you want to give the wedding gift that will be the favorite and most talked about? Then check out the Monogrammed Glass page or consider giving a Bridal Party Wine Glass Set for use on the actual wedding day.

I know that many of my readers are designers. Why not give a set of monogrammed glasses to your best clients as a gift? Or better yet, encourage clients to stock their home bar with these unique and beautiful products.

I'll let you in on another little secret. This wonderful company is owned by my husband's family. Since marrying him, I give Crystal Imagery glasses for just about every occasion now. With their vast selection, it's easy to find something for any gift recipient. And I can personally vouch for their attention to detail and fantastic customer service!
Now I've just saved you hours of running from department store to department store. Not to mention the additional time you would have spent scouring the internet for that perfect gift! What on earth are you going to do now with all that spare time on your hands?! Maybe you should buy yourself a set of glasses and kick up your feet to enjoy your favorite wine or bourbon, eh?
So tell me, which set is your favorite? Do you have suggestions for additional designs?

Cowgirl Boot Fetish?

2011-04-06T10:08:00.001-04:00

Hubby thinks I've got a problem...he thinks I'm developing a boot fetish. I recently added a new pair of boots to my fleet and he gave me "that look". You all know the look I'm talking about...puzzled, slightly concerned and definitely amused at the fact that you've bought yet another of whatever it is you happen to enjoy collecting.
Now what my dear new hubby of only 17 months doesn't understand is that buying a new pair of boots isn't something I just do on a whim. He is also a bit naive (as many men are) about what makes us women tick. Don't worry...I intend to train him well over the course of the next few years and enlighten him to the fact that shoes and clothing aren't something we women take lightly. We express ourselves- our personalities, our goals, and our style by carefully selecting each item we place on our bodies each day. And my style just happens to be heavily defined by my western boots. I pair them with a nice pair of jeans, pretty shirt and a smart jacket each day and step out feeling good about the image I'm presenting. Classic, yet approachable -and just a tiny bit eccentric.
While I'm aware that western boots have made a style comeback in the past couple of years, "cowgirl" boots are not a new interest for me. In fact, I've been raised wearing my boots.

My family was in the horse business all my life and I spent the majority of my days and nights wearing manure covered boots. They were normal to me and even into adulthood, I just feel better wearing them. They define my style and personality very well. And if you get a good pair, they're arguably as comfy as a pair of sneakers! (The image below was a new pair I received for my 13th birthday. Pardon my dorky brother in the background!)

Two pair of boots in the top image are actually over 20 years old- and yes, I've worn them through a barn or two in my life. In college, my roommate teased me about my western boots...until one day shortly after graduation I arrived at her home to find a pair of boots in her closet. So I'll take credit for converting her, too.(You know who you are, Linda!) And I've even dressed my boys in boots over the years. While they are now "big boys" of 17 and 12 years, when they were toddlers, they often wore boots. I've kept their "baby boots" and even have them nicely displayed in my log home. Where other moms keep their baby's shoes, I've kept my babies' boots!

And what I hope my dear new hubby will realize after he reads this post, is that purchasing a new pair of boots is not something I do without deliberation. They've been a very important part of my life and my style since I was a toddler. And most importantly, he should also feel very honored. Because what would I buy for the man I love most in this world to show him that he's my one and only soul mate? A pair of his very own BOOTS, of course!

What is the one item that you feel helps define your style? Take a look in your closet...do you see a pattern or a theme? Share your story!

Mod Owl Buddies

2011-04-01T22:33:00.003-04:00

Here are two sets of several new canvas art designs I'm created this year. Check back over the next few days for a sneak peek at more!
Available in three sizes, these Mod Owl Buddies will work well in a boy's nursery or gender neutral nursery. Custom color matching is always available...just send us a swatch!

Last chance! Enter to win one of three amazing Feather Your Nest Giveaways!

2011-03-31T12:56:00.001-04:00

Little Birdie, your go-to resource for insider tips on local, kid-friendly deals in your zip code, will be landing in NYC and Atlanta soon. Parents (expecting or with children 12 years or younger) in those cities will be the first to experience little birdie deals, with savings of up to 90% on family restaurants, activities and so much more!
To celebrate, little birdie is holding three amazing Feather Your Nest Giveaways*: One Atlanta- area parent and one NYC-metro parent could each win the $4,500 Baby/Kid’s Dream Room Giveaway with celebrity decorator Sherri Blum of Jack and Jill Interiors. Sherri's creations can be seen in People Magazine and on Entertainment Tonight and most recently on the Cake Boss Baby Special.
Anyone else can enter to win a $1,000 decorating gift card! One lucky winner will be chosen. Hurry, these giveaways end tonight: Enter now

* No purchase necessary. Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S. states & D.C., 18 or older, who are expecting a child (pregnant or in the process of adopting or surrogacy) and/or have a child or children ages 12 or younger. Sweepstake ends 11:59 p.m. ET 3/31/11. Void where prohibited. For complete details, see Official Rules, which govern.

**This a sponsored post.

Project Nursery Features Jack and Jill Interiors

2011-03-17T21:25:00.000-04:00

I was so honored when Project Nursery asked if they could write a blog post about the celebrity nursery I designed for Lisa and Buddy Valastro of TLC's The Cake Boss. Project Nursery is an interactive engaging site full of information and eye candy for all new moms and moms-to-be, covering topics from DIY projects, birthday parties, family activities and nursery design.
Check them out and register with the site for daily tips and updates. And be sure to check out the designer portfolios and vote for your favorite nursery designs while you're there!

New Designs on the Way!

2011-03-14T23:04:00.000-04:00

We're releasing some great new (as well as resurrecting some old favorites) Sherri Blum Designs Wall Art this week! Here's a peek at one. Be sure to check back at the Sherri Blum Designs website to see them all. Contact the studio for purchasing!

Cake Boss Baby Nursery

2011-03-06T23:14:00.001-05:00

Well, the day has arrived when I can finally show you this beautiful little nursery I created for Lisa and Buddy Valastro of The Cake Boss. Congratulations to the Valastro family on the birth of baby Carlo. He's such a cutie pie!

I had a blast filming scenes for tonight's Baby Special of the Cake Boss and was honored to be selected to design this special celebrity nursery. The best part for me...seeing the look on Buddy's and Lisa's faces when I revealed the completed nursery to them. I love my job!

Enjoy these photos for now. We're having professional images taken soon. And thanks to the following companies (listed below) for their wonderful products and customer service. You all made my job easier and made me look GOOD!

And if anyone wishes to purchase an element of this nursery, contact my studio at info@jackandjillinteriors.com or shop my boutique: Jack and Jill Boutique for all of these and other designer quality baby nursery products!

Bratt Decor: Venetian Crib, Chelsea Armoire, Chelsea Changer. They also provided the shelf which was pink. I painted it to match the furniture. Olena Boyko Designs: Silk bedding, toss pillows, window treatments. Charn and Company: Pendant light fixture, lamp. Stacie Dale Designs: Custom painted memory box and book caddy. Dish and Spoon Productions: Custom Giraffe Family Wall Hanging by Sherri Blum Designs. Marie Ricci: Sweet Dreams Ceiling Medallion. Angel Song: Custom Rocker Glider and Ottoman in Monaco Vanilla fabric. Charm Company: Rocking Giraffe. New Arrivals: Clock on nightstand. Rug: by Surya ordered through Rosenberry Rooms. Lori Mitchell: Cow Jumped Over the Moon figurine on shelf. Little Worm and Company: Custom Tile (hanging on shelf peg). Cloud B: Sleep Sheep, Mimicking Monkey, Gentle Giraffe.

Sherri on The Cake Boss!

2011-03-01T21:28:00.000-05:00

Tune in to the one hour Cake Boss Baby Special, Sunday, March 6 at 9:00 PM on TLC as Sherri Blum, owner of Jack and Jill Interiors helps Buddy and Lisa design their baby nursery! Check the Jack and Jill Interiors website on Monday for images of the completed nursery.

New Service! Skype Consultation

2011-02-24T11:11:00.000-05:00

Go from this...


to this!

Simply want an hour to pick the brain of a designer? Sherri can now be hired to do a Skype Consultation. Show her your room and design dilemma via camera or iPhone and she will advise you in how to redesign and rearrange your room from her studio. Wall color suggestions, furniture rearrangements, accessorizing can all be done by you, with Sherri's expert guidance. Simply email the studio at info@jackandjillinteriors.com to set up a time that is convenient to you! $80/hour

Revamped Website

2011-02-23T11:38:00.001-05:00

I have to admit...I'm pretty proud of myself right now. I've been putting off tackling the makeover that my Jack and Jill Interiors website so desperately needed! You see, as a "starving artist" / designer ten years ago, I simply could not afford to hire someone to design my websites for Jack and Jill Interiors and Sherri Blum Designs. So I figured I had better learn how to design a site on my own. I solicited my friend, Wendy who had taken a few classes in web design at the local college and she spent two afternoons teaching me the ropes of website programs. I took extensive notes and dove right in with Jack and Jill Interiors.
Over the course of the past ten years, I've made many changes, shed countless tears, and I've royally messed up my site at times. I always knew that it looked a bit confused and at times even deranged, but it was the best I could do with my limited knowledge and budget. But over time, I taught myself more and even took on an entirely new software package and started over. However, with my divorce a few years ago and two moves, remarriage and two new step-children, licensing agreements and distant design clients- I wondered if I'd ever find the time to really figure out how to make my site look more professional.
With the upcoming publicity my company will be receiving (stay tuned for an announcement...not allowed to divulge details until the TV network powers say so!) my dear friend Joanne began prodding me to give my site some attention and ensure it properly reflects my attention to detail and professionalism! So I've spent the past week making drastic changes to the site and have even updated my logo. I would love it if you would check it out and feel free to make critical suggestions as well. The "press" page is not yet cleaned up, but that will be a project for another week, as I've got other projects to tackle for now. But I feel that the site has a great start and will provide the clean and professional look I wanted.
I know that most of my readers are either artists or interior designers like myself and are probably just as afraid as I was, to tackle something so technical and daunting. So for those of you who think that "artsy fartsy" types (aka "right-brained" people) are not capable of such "left-brained" projects, think again! This artsy-lefty was able to do it all by herself. I think I might open a bottle of wine tonight to celebrate my "impossible" accomplishment!
I'll leave you with a few images of my logos over the years.
Happy Decorating!
Sherri

My original logo from 2001 until about 2008

Logo from 2008 until 2011

Grand Prize... a Nursery or Kid's Room Designed By Sherri Blum

2011-02-17T16:10:00.003-05:00

	Little Birdie.com offers insider tips on daily deals for parents in your zip. Landing soon in New York City and Atlanta with other cities to follow soon after! Sign up with Little Birdie today and enter to win one of three amazing FEATHER YOUR NEST GIVEAWAYS! Two winners, one in NYC and one in Atlanta will each win a $4500 nursery or kid's DREAM ROOM designed by none other than myself! I will travel to your home to design a custom room just for your special little one. Parents everywhere else could win a $1,000 gift card, perfect for decorating a kid's room or nursery. One lucky winner will be chosen. Follow this link to enter for your chance to win: http://bit.ly/fysCz0 Good luck!

Little Birdie.com offers insider tips on daily deals for parents in your zip. Landing soon in New York City and Atlanta with other cities to follow soon after!

Sign up with Little Birdie today and enter to win one of three amazing FEATHER YOUR NEST GIVEAWAYS! Two winners, one in NYC and one in Atlanta will each win a $4500 nursery or kid's DREAM ROOM designed by none other than myself! I will travel to your home to design a custom room just for your special little one.

Parents everywhere else could win a $1,000 gift card, perfect for decorating a kid's room or nursery. One lucky winner will be chosen. Follow this link to enter for your chance to win: http://bit.ly/fysCz0

Good luck!

DIY Project for You and Your Kids

2011-02-09T12:02:00.001-05:00

When I am hired to design a kid's room, I really enjoy the interaction with the child. I love asking questions about their dreams, their hobbies and passions....and I love working with them to reflect those passions in the design of the room. While much of my focus is in discovering what makes the child happy, I am being paid by the PARENTS. Their opinion on the outcome must be considered, as well. And in most cases, the parents' biggest concern beyond budget, is that the child's room become better organized.
When I was asked recently by Home Workshop to demonstrate a DIY project, I naturally wanted to come up with one that will help the parents with the organizational issues, as well as something that will seem very cool to the kids. And as I always strive to do- I wanted to find a project that would be great for parent and child to work on TOGETHER. I love bringing the family together, giving them a little "homework" assignment and incorporating that family project into the finished room. By the end of the design process, it is my goal for the family to have spent some quality time together and my hope that the parent and child might have also learned something new about the other. It's not just about the room, folks...it's about growing and learning, too! (Can you tell that I'm a former teacher?!)
So check out my DIY Project on the Home Workshop Blog for a great and easy project for you and your kids. And please do send me photos of your completed projects. I'll post them all in a future blog.
Happy Decorating!
Sherri

Children's Portrait Artist

2011-01-31T12:03:00.002-05:00

I am absolutely in awe of the images of Lorna Freytag! Lorna has beautifully captured the essence of childhood with storybook like images.

Lorna creates her portraits by fusing together her love for photography, illustration and children's stories. She uses her many ideas, scribbled sketchbooks, digital camera and self taught post-production techniques to bring her ideas to life.

Inspired by old fairytales and magical landscapes, each image is created entirely by Lorna from the first rough sketch to the final detailed retouching. You can pick an existing background from her collections or have her create something bespoke.

Originally from Scotland, Lorna has worked as a photographer in New York, Dubai, Sydney and London. She is now living in Edinburgh and applies her unique and quirky style to editorial and commercial projects contributing to publications such Junior, Collezioni and Studio Bambini. She has also completed projects for Harrods and several exclusive children’s boutiques. Besides her editorial assignments she accepts portrait commissions in London and abroad and has just illustrated her first childrens book “Wild Child” (due out early 2012).

What I would give to have known Lorna when my own children were small! Lorna is willing to travel to the US for exclusive group bookings. Check out her images below and her website at: www.lornas-portraits.com

Nursery and Decor Trend Predictions for 2011

2011-01-07T22:37:00.001-05:00

Bratt Decor Casablanca Iron Crib

Two years in a row I've been asked by iVillage.com to make my predictions for nursery and kids' color trends for the new year. I follow the fashion and design scene closely throughout the year and try my best to keep on top of the current and upcoming trends. So I've decided that this year, I'll not only forecast color trends for the nursery, but popular patterns, furniture and other trends that I believe will be strong in 2011.

Visit Home Workshop now to read the predictions and to share any thoughts you might have on the current trends!

Newport Cottages

Wishing each of you a happy, healthy and prosperous new year!

Another Give-Away!

2010-12-27T10:54:00.000-05:00

Want to win a piece of Sherri Blum Designs artwork? Let's see how many fans we can get for Jack and Jill Interiors' Facebook fan page! I will draw a name on January 4 from all Jack and Jill fans to win this piece of wall art personalized for you or a friend! (This is the same design owned by "The Office" actress, Angela Kinsley.) You have to be a Jack and Jill Interiors fan to win. Tell your friends! Post about it, Tweet, Share on Facebook and anything you're able to do to help us out. (This is a limited edition presented as a 12" square giclee canvas- perfect gift for a baby shower, birthday or Mother's Day! Only 15 canvases were created in this special size.)
Visit the fan page for Jack and Jill Interiors and click "like" to join.
Thanks!

Wendy Bellissimo!

2010-12-21T14:29:00.000-05:00

When I started Jack and Jill Interiors back in 2001, there were very few other designers who were specializing in nursery and/or kids' room design. I had been busily designing dining rooms, living rooms, kitchens and more for a few years with my original company, Bare Walls Design Co. But as time went on and I was given the opportunity to decorate a few nurseries, I found that this was my true calling and decided to start a second company that focused only on nurseries and children's spaces.
I did some research online at the time and only found one person with a strong web presence...Wendy Bellissimo. Anyone who had decorated their baby's nursery, knew who she was and I was about to follow in her footsteps.
Wendy has met with huge success over the years and fortunately, my company has grown by leaps and bounds, also. I've always admired Wendy's strong sense of family and her impeccable taste in design, so when I was contacted by her company several weeks ago to be her Nursery Decor Expert for Nesting, I was thrilled and so very honored!

Please visit Nesting.com and consider joining. It's a fantastic forum for mothers and allows you to link up with similar women, discuss child-rearing issues and make lasting friendships. And while you're there, stop by my new page as one of Wendy's Knowledge Nest Experts and read the articles I've written there.

Happy Decorating,
Sherri

Think PINK for 2011!

2010-12-15T12:15:00.004-05:00

I think I've always loved every shade of pink. As a teen in the 80's, I wouldn't walk out the door without wearing at least one pink item. In fact, in my junior year, a friend bet me that I couldn't go a week without wearing pink and yes, he won. I was caught with little pink bows on my socks. My nickname to many was even "Pinky"! (If I can find a photo of the pink satin prom gown I had, I'll insert it later.)
When I "grew up" (yes, the jury is still out on if/when that has happened since I play with crayons, scissors and markers all day!), I even painted my first studio a very sweet, pale pink. The color just makes me happy and it also works well with my skin and hair tones. If I had my druthers, I'd have some pink in every room of my home...but living in "testosterone zone" doesn't allow me to do so!
So it's no surprise that when I heard recently that the Pantone Color of 2011 is Honeysuckle, I was tickled pink!
Last year's big color was Turquoise and I'm sure we'll continue to see many shades of this used in decor, especially for the boys. But bright and happy pink will be popping up in everything now from fashion to bedding and furniture. I guess it's time to break out my big pink purses and baubles again!
Enjoy some pink images from my designs, personal life and other collections below!

Yes, my computer, and many items on my desk are pink. My company pens that I give out at conventions are pink, too!

I love my pink tool belt, and matching protective pink goggles.

Much of my wall art reflects my favorite color.

Many of the nurseries and rooms I've decorated were a sweet shade of pink!

Sneak peek at a recent girl's room I've completed for a television celebrity. Many shades of yummy pink here!

A favorite UGG purse I carry throughout the winter.

These boots are fun and really turn some heads! I wear them when feeling especially spunky and want to create a stir!

My favorite new cardigan available at White House Black Market.

I also love wearing my pink flower ring. I purchased mine at a little beach gift shop in Maryland, but you can find similar rings online easily.

I don't leave the house without my pink Ravens mug full of coffee. (Yep, Eric...you can take the girl out of Baltimore, but you can't take Baltimore out of the girl!)

And I always sport my pink Coach sunglasses. Notice my favorite fall jacket from Eddie Bauer, too! Lots and lots of pink in my wardrobe. And for the record...I've got more. But I'm keeping this a G rated post! ;)

Coach

Eddie Bauer

My first, and so far- only venture into crib bedding design was this pink Bird's Nest set.

"I'd like to take a moment to thank...."

2010-11-18T09:34:00.001-05:00

As you know, I've been working non-stop to design four rooms for a very special client. And as every good interior designer knows, you must have the very best resources on hand to help you pull together the most stunning rooms. For this particular client, I had to really call in the troops and depend heavily on my friends in the industry to ensure that the very best products were offered.
While I can't share photos of the completed rooms with you quite yet, I do want to take a moment to express how thrilled I am with the quality of products and the top-notch customer service of the companies who are helping to make these rooms jaw-dropping! You've got the check out their sites and consider them for your next big design project...I assure you- you will be thrilled!
Olena Boyko: Olena creates the most exquisite silk bedding sets for babies and children alike. Her attention to detail and pride in her creations is unmatched! The little cherub in the image above is sitting on the only peek into this project that I'm going to be giving you for a while!
Doodlefish Kids: These wonderful ladies produce top quality children's bedding that beautifully captures the spirit of childhood and will last a lifetime!
Charn and Company: Charn is an old friend of mine and she creates unparalleled custom lighting. She has come through for me with some stunning custom creations on several occasions!
Bratt Decor: The highly creative Mary Bauer (a dear friend and class act mother, friend, wife, designer and business woman) and her unbelievably talented husband Stephen have designed the world's most stunning baby furniture. Their creations adorn the nurseries of countless celebrities and their customer service is top-notch!
Marie Ricci: Marie hand-crafts the most beautiful ceiling medallions, clocks and plaques and her products will add that special touch to your child's room!
Stacie Dale: Stacie is such a talented artist! She has captured the hearts of moms and grandmothers everywhere by creating sweet hand-painted memory boxes that hold all of your cherished treasures for posterity.
Angel Song: This company's nursery gliders and rockers combine the most beautiful fabrics and trims and the comfort can not be beat! If you're going to be comforting your baby in the middle of the night, I highly recommend doing so on their super comfy chair. You'll not only rock your baby back to sleep, but you will likely catch some zzz's here, too!
I Lite 4 U: Is another lighting company who creates the most unique and high quality lamps and chandelier's for children. Joyce is a joy to work with and her products will bring a smile to the faces of everyone who sees them!
Little Worm: Kathleen Virtue creates the sweetest plaques, plates and more for children's rooms. Her product quality is unmatched and the artwork and sentiments on her plaques will tug at your heart-strings each and every time! On top of that, she is a joy to know and is a class-act designer and business woman!
Colonial Mills: Creates beautiful custom area rugs and has very short lead times! Best of all, their products are made in the USA! Their customer service is fantastic!
Dish and Spoon Productions: Now you didn't think for one minute that I wouldn't use my own line of children's artwork in these rooms, did you?! I've even created a few new canvas designs for this client that will debut in the coming months. Dish and Spoon is my licensing partner and it is their job to make me look good! And man, do they do so! This company is owned by my friend, Joanne Wiberg who not only represents her stable of very talented artists superbly, but she goes above and beyond to ensure that her customers are given the very best product available in the industry and that they receive the ultimate in customer service! If you're in the market for children's art, look no further. We can even custom color match each and every canvas to ensure it matches your bedding, wall color or anything you desire! On top of that, our products are made in the USA and are eco-friendly as well! (A new website is coming soon...so if it's not up when you visit, check back to see all of the stunning wall art we offer. Your jaw will drop!)
There are more companies that will be mentioned in a future post- but these links ought to keep you busy and drooling for the time being!
Visit these fine companies and know that you'll be working with companies who care about their customers, provide unmatched customer service and top-quality products! And tell them I sent you! ;)
Happy Decorating,
Sherri

Celebrity Client

2010-10-27T11:24:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to drop a line to tell you that I've been hired by a celebrity client recently and I'm having a BLAST designing four kids' rooms for this special client. I wish I could share more, but I'm not permitted to do so until after the television special airs shortly after the holidays. What I can say is that this client has been absolutely wonderful to work with and that I can't wait to share all of the great photos with you after the show airs.

I've also received a call from my own production company recently stating that there is renewed interest from a major network in the television show the producers created based upon my company. Please keep your fingers crossed for good news in the months to come.

Hugs,

Sherri

Designing a Gender Neutral Nursery

2010-10-14T15:57:00.000-04:00

I'm just returning from a quick but EXTREMELY FUN trip to the ABC Kids Expo in Las Vegas. Once I recover from the jet lag and get a few minutes away from working on my super-cool client's nursery and kids' rooms- I promise I'll fill you in on all I experienced!

Modern Berries by Oilo

As for now, I'd like to share my latest blog post for Home Workshop about Designing a Gender Neutral Nursery. I find more and more people (celebrities included!) waiting to find out the sex of their babies. This makes the job of a nursery designer a bit tricky, in that I really have to be careful to select furnishings and accessories that don't bend too far toward girl or boy.
Luckily, there are some EXQUISITE nursery furnishings and accessories available today, including wall art - that are perfect for a gender neutral nursery.
See the entire article here: Designing a Gender Neutral Nursery
Enjoy!
Sherri

Celebrity Nursery!

2010-09-10T13:14:00.006-04:00

Watch my dear friend, Mary Bauer, President of Bratt Decor as she showcases the stunning nursery she designed for Mario Lopez on EXTRA today! And guess whose 4'x5' wall hanging will be seen front and center on the wall?!
See a sneak peek on the EXTRA website today. Mario, Courtney and Mary shopped for all furnishings (and my wall hanging) at Jenny Bec's in Los Angeles, CA. Stop in to see a duplicate sample of the Always Kiss Me Goodnight wall hanging at Jenny Bec's or contact our studio if you wish to order.

My Favorite Designers Series- Katy Mimari of Caden Lane

2010-09-01T08:40:00.003-04:00

As a nursery decorator and kids' product designer, I have the pleasure of meeting some of the world's most inspirational and talented women in the children's industry. Not only do I exhibit my Sherri Blum Designs products beside them at industry trade shows such as the upcoming ABC Kids Expo in Las Vegas or the New York International Gift Fair, but I also source their products to my interior design clients through Jack and Jill Interiors and now offer her beautiful products in my own boutique, Jack and Jill Boutique. While I've met many good people during my ten years in the industry, there are a handful who have stood out among the crowd, not only as fantastic designers, but as women of integrity and substance.These women have not only put out a beautiful product of top-notch quality, but they've found a way to keep themselves firmly grounded in their values and have always put their families first even in the midst of their "fame and good fortune". I'll be introducing you to each of my favorites over the next few months in candid interviews that will hopefully give you some insights into the creative minds of these wonderful designers!

My first interview is with Katy Mimari of Caden Lane. I met Katy in 2008 at the ABC Kids Expo in Las Vegas. I had always admired her stunning bedding collection, and about two seconds into my first conversation with her, I knew that the woman behind the company was extraordinary, too. You'll have to visit Home Workshop to read the entire interview. Enjoy!

To buy Caden Lane products, visit our boutique: Jack and Jill Boutique for all the latest and greatest offerings!

Crazy Summer

2010-08-17T19:22:00.000-04:00

I realize I've been very sporadic with my posts this summer. I have to admit it's been a whirlwind summer and I've simply had to prioritize everything and something had to give. It's been a great summer though...I've had my wedding reception, we've honeymooned in St. Lucia, I've taken my oldest son to visit three universities and have vacationed with my mother. I've spent lazy days at the pool with our four children and have worked on some great new business ventures.

I apologize for the lack of communication this summer, but promise to be more diligent once the kiddos are back in school and I have from 9-2 each day to work without interruption. I'll fill you in then on the wedding reception details and the honeymoon and all the other great things going on in my business world, as well.

In the meantime, I'll leave you with a couple of my favorite pics from the wedding. I only have a couple of them available today, as the photographer will be sending me more finished photos in the coming weeks.

Enjoy the rest of your summer!

My brothers, Jay and Tod.

Luke gave his Momma away.

Clocks are back!

2010-07-21T20:13:00.000-04:00

Our popular Sherri Blum Designs clocks are back in circulation! We're re-releasing our Princess Clock and have created a Prince Clock as well. Our other best selling designs will follow soon. In the meanwhile, our friends at Rosenberry Rooms already have the first four listed for sale so get them while they're hot!

I'll be out of commission for a week or so while on my long-anticipated honeymoon in St. Lucia, so check back in August for some fun pics and the skinny on the trip!

Outdoor Playspaces

2010-07-14T09:57:00.000-04:00

I'm really enjoying my "job" as a contributor to the popular blog, Home Workshop. This hot, summer month of July, I decided that it would be appropriate to write about outdoor spaces for children. While my career is focused on "interior design" and decor for children, I constantly encourage my kids and their friends to play outside in the fresh air whenever possible.
I loved some of the wonderful and unique spaces I found in my research and want to be sure to share the article with you.
Check it out at: Kids Playhouses and be sure to write in and tell us about your own memories of outdoor playtime as a child and what you do now to encourage outdoor play for your own kids!

Find Your Kids Room Design Style

2010-06-27T10:58:00.001-04:00

I was recently interviewed for a new HGTV.com feature called "Discover Your Child's Style" and had a great time helping Melissa Macron determine the characteristics of four main decorating styles for children's rooms. We decided upon the following four styles: Classic, Romantic, Eclectic and Modern. I defined the characteristics of each style, while Melissa came up with a clever quiz to help you determine your child's decorating style.
So take a moment and check it out here: Discover Your Child's Style and be sure to come back here to the blog and add your comments to share your child's style with us!
Once you do so, visit my Jack and Jill Interiors site to get some ideas as to how you can pull together a room for each of the four styles. I have room design samples for each posted in my Cyber Design section. If you wish to receive the shopping list for one of the rooms, contact me for further information. Happy Decorating!

Pink Toolbelt

2010-06-01T13:38:00.001-04:00

A few weeks ago I posted about my love of all things pink and listed a few pink tools and accessories that I've had my eye on. Well the kind ladies at Girlgear Industries read my blog and were so generous as to send me their own version of the pink toolbelt! This belt is very sturdy, well planned, and has a pocket for anything and everything a stylish Tomboy would need to complete her projects in style! As you can see in the image, I've loaded it up with my tools and am ready to dig into this week's project...adding the stone around the garage doors and all of the exposed foundation around our log home. This belt is going to get a good workout, for sure!
Thanks, Girlgear Industries!

Candice Olson!

2010-05-28T10:12:00.000-04:00

My heart is still racing from my fabulous time with Candice Olson yesterday! She was so very personable and TALL! (She wears a size 11 shoe, by the way and played volleyball for the Canadian Women's Team!) I had the chance to ask her a few questions about her philosophy on designing for children as well as about show biz for designers. She had some great insights and was full of wonderful advice! I received an autograph as well, written on a sample of one of her newest wall paper designs, of course! I will be blogging in more detail about this wonderful designer and my experience with her, on Home Workshop blog. Stay tuned there for the post. It will likely go up in the next week. I have much to share!

Meeting My Favorite Designer!

2010-05-25T13:24:00.000-04:00

Just a quick note this time...the wedding reception went off without a hitch on Saturday and was so beautiful with all of our family and friends present! I'm awaiting some photos to share with you, so in the meanwhile, you'll just get a peek at this shot Ethan (my youngest and our best man) snapped before the wedding.

I also wanted to share some exciting news- I will have the opportunity to meet my favorite interior designer, Candice Olson on Thursday! I'm going to try to get some images and will post all about it on Friday. Candice is an inspiring woman, designer and mother...I'm honored to have been invited to this little meeting!

Anyone know a "sun dance"???

2010-05-18T12:14:00.000-04:00

Well our wedding reception is finally upon us. You may recall we were officially married by a JP in our home on October 1, but we couldn't have our families and friends there easily on short notice and on a weekday morning. So we promised our brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews, along with our very closest friends- that we would have an outdoor reception for them in the spring, at Eric's family lodge in the mountains.
When I was dating Eric, he talked often about the "cabin" in Breezewood, PA that his father and he had built themselves on a 300 acre parcel tucked away in the mountains. He spoke of it as if it were a magical place and his eyes twinkled when he told me how excited he would be to take me there soon. Now, I've seen plenty of cabins and "get away" spots before, so I smiled nicely and told him how excited I was to see it. Well I have to say, that when he finally drove me up the picturesque mile-long driveway, this "cabin" took my breath away! It is so beautiful and really is a magical place. Every detail was attended to when this family built their vacation spot. Much love went into creating a special place for special family gatherings. Once there, I could see why this place meant so much to my new fiance. So I looked at him and said, "this is where we should be married!" You should have seen the smile on his face and later, the same smile on his father's face when we told him of our decision! This "cabin" as they call it (it's truly more of a 6 bedroom lodge!) was built with the sole purpose to bring family together. What better place could there be, to celebrate our love and family than this! So, while we were officially married in our home last October, we will renew our vows this time in front of all of our loved ones. This will be a perfect opportunity for us to thank those closest to us, for their support and love over the years. The people in attendance are those who have seen us through the rough times and have helped us get to this new, happy and loving place we are today. We have much to be grateful for and have the perfect location in which to celebrate.
So, final preparations are being made. The only concern we have now is the weather. We have a tent for the tables and caterer, but really want the ceremony to be outside on the lawn. We would also love for our 21 children in attendance to be able to play outside at this wonderful mountain retreat. So, if you happen to know a "sun dance", now would be a great time to do it! The Breezewood weather report is calling for rain!

Regardless, rain or shine, our day will be magical. With such a unique and true love, wonderful people and a magical location, we can't help but have a memorable day.

Royal Chic Crown Collection is finally here!

2010-05-08T23:34:00.001-04:00

Our Royal Chic Crown wall hanging is back by popular demand! As seen previously on Access Hollywood and in People Magazine, Sherri Blum's popular black and white nursery wall hanging is now available once again for purchasing. Take notice of the adorable new version of our Chic Royal Oval Crown, too! Contact the studio for purchasing information and be on the lookout for more new releases coming soon!

This Tomboy Loves Pink!

2010-05-04T10:45:00.000-04:00

While I might look like a girly girl on the surface, I'm a total Tomboy to the core! I grew up with a family owned horseback riding stable business that was a concession to the world famous Bedford Springs Resort. We had about 20-30 horses who needed to be groomed, fed, wormed, saddled, brought in and left out to pasture- each and every day. The barn needed cleaned, saddles repaired and oiled and fences mended. My two brothers and I had morning and evening responsibilities to the family business. We were hard-working and dirty by the time our day was done. I often joked that the horses ate before we could. Now, while I might have complained as a teen, you won't find me complaining today. I learned great work ethic during those formative years and learned how to wield and hammer and drill like no other girl I knew! And I absolutely LOVED my time with my Daddy! I enjoyed following him into the woods on a hunting adventure or by horseback to clear out a new riding trail, much more than I enjoyed learning how to cook in the kitchen with Mom. No offense to Mom, but I just always loved the guy toys and adventures more. (My poor hubby suffers to this day since I never did find my way around a kitchen!) And with two brothers always at my side, I had little choice in activities, anyway! Afterall, they hated when I broke out the barbie dolls and would put a bow and arrow in my hands instead!

Despite the tomboy childhood, pink was always my favorite color. I know this is a huge contradiction, but I do look good in pink and do enjoy feminine clothing and decor. I enjoy all that glitters and all the little things that make me feel pretty. Today, my husband owns every tool under the sun. Afterall, he did build our home himself! But given that I still enjoy having my very own tool box in my car, I find myself looking for quality tools with some girly bling to boot!
Allow me to introduce you to some of the wonderful new friends I currently call my own, or hope to shortly!

Charm and Hammer Eva Safety Glasses have a pink ribbon on the side in support of breast cancer awareness.

And any true tomboy knows how important a good drill is, and how much wear and tear it saves on the wrist!

Pink Tools for Tomboys has the perfect drill for you!

Find this screwdriver set at Amazon

Hammer away with this 13 oz hammer from Tomboy Tools.

Ladies Tools Online has this cute suede tool belt to keep all the necessities within reach. Now, I've searched for quality pink tool belts for a couple of years (while I'd love a Gucci tool belt like Nicole Sassaman, they're just not readily available to the public!) and in reading reviews about this one in particular, some have complained about the pink dye rubbing off onto the jeans, so I've held off on purchasing this and will just wear the plain tan belt in the interim. My dad does saddle repair work and works with leather like a true artisan. I've hinted as subtly as I can, but he still hasn't gotten around to making me a pink tool belt yet! I might need to be less subtle!

This one made my tomboy heart race! I am soooo getting myself one of these pink rolling tool carts when my new studio/design center is built! Every true tomboy will need one of these, for sure!

Amazon

What are your favorite tools? They don't need to be pink, but I'd love to hear what you find you just can't live without.

Earth Friendly Nursery Design

2010-04-22T19:48:00.004-04:00

Catch my latest post about eco-friendly nursery design options by visiting Home Workshop!
(Organic bedding by Serena and Lily )

Log Home Kitchens

2010-04-16T15:13:00.002-04:00

I'm getting so excited about spending my first full summer in my beautiful new log home! I'm settling into this new area and making some new friends. I'm here to tell you that it's not easy being 40ish and starting over in a new town, with a new husband, and trying to make new friends. But I'm getting there and have connected with some very cool local moms. Life is good!
I'm very excited about hosting some summer parties and inviting new and old friends alike to my home. The contractors are putting in our backyard patio as we speak and Eric and I will be plugging away on those kitchen cabinets throughout the weekend.
I've gathered some inspiration photos of some log home kitchens to share with you. While my kitchen will be somewhat different, these are some pretty pics that you might enjoy. Our island will eventually have a stone facing like the one shown here:

Photo courtesy of Kootenai Log Homes

It looks like I'm not the only designer who felt that pine colored walls were ENOUGH pine, and wanted some color in the cabinets...look at these green kitchens.

Photo courtesy of Log Home

Photo courtesy of B Lavish

I love every kitchen featured on this blog post...check them out for your own inspiration!

Alkemie

This kitchen is also found on Alkemie. And while it's not a log home kitchen, I wanted to show it because my kitchen island will have a cookbook shelf similar to this, on the end by my stove. Hoping it might inspire me to cook! While I love a pretty kitchen, I have to admit that I dislike cooking and I'm a terrible cook to boot. And for those of you wondering, YES, I did warn my new hubby that I couldn't cook BEFORE we said "I do"!

Have a lovely weekend, folks and keep your fingers crossed that we make great headway on those darned cabinets! ;)

Give Away!

2010-04-13T15:41:00.000-04:00

Spring is in the air and so I thought I'd celebrate with another giveaway!
Win one of my canvases seen here. Simply leave a comment for one chance to win, become a follower for a second chance to win, and add my blog button to your blog for a third. If you post about the giveaway on your own blog, along with the three requirements listed above, you will get an additional three chances! Be certain to write and tell me when you've added the button or posted about the giveaway.
Happy Spring!
Sherri

Cabinet Update!

2010-04-02T09:59:00.000-04:00

We are making progress! Here is a photo of the work completed last weekend. Now...back to work to make more cabinet doors today! Keep your fingers crossed for us!

Tackling the Kitchen Cabinets...Finally!

2010-03-26T11:05:00.000-04:00

You might recall months ago that I posted about our home...that beautiful log home that Eric, my ruggedly handsome hubby- built by himself. You might also recall the photos in that post that featured my yet unfinished kitchen. (See that post here.)
Well we are finally getting around to making those kitchen cabinet doors! Eric has worked hard each evening this week to make eleven of the twenty five cabinet doors we will be needing in the end, and I'm now busily painting them. I thought you might enjoy seeing the progress today.
We are hoping to get these eleven cabinet doors hung this weekend, put on some of our pretty bronze knobs, finish the remaining doors and drawer fronts over the next few weeks- and have a completed kitchen to share with you soon! Imagine how much less-cluttered my kitchen will apppear with all of that junk concealed! Keep your fingers crossed for quick success, please!

A New Hat for Me!

2010-03-18T08:34:00.000-04:00

I was recently asked by Kathy Barlow, a self-proclaimed "design junkie" to become a contributor to her wonderful blog, Home Workshop. Kathy has aligned several top notch interior design specialists to contribute monthly articles about topics within their area of expertise, including interior redesign, furniture refurbishing, kitchen design, decorative paint finishes, and more. She has quite a stable of experts aligned and so when I was asked to be her nursery and kids' room design specialist, I certainly couldn't resist!
Today, my first article was published on the site. Check it out and be sure to leave your comments there, and check in again often...you'll find some great tips and images to inspire your next home design project!

New Wall Art Collections!

2010-03-16T21:15:00.000-04:00

I've mentioned recently that we've been very busy creating some new wall art for the Sherri Blum Designs line. I'm still up to my elbows in paint completing the Sports Collection, but have some images ready to show for some of the other lines. Click here to see our newly updated Transportation Wall Art Collection.

Meet our Sweet Treats Collection:

Help the Children

2010-03-12T15:38:00.002-05:00

I stated recently how much I absolutely love my career. I don't do this for the steady income (anyone in the design field knows that it's feast or famine in our business!), but because I love the opportunity to be creative. There are many ways to express creativity, however, but I have chosen to express my creativity by designing children's decor. I've chosen this specialized field because I love the magic and whimsy of childhood. I really enjoy interacting with children to understand better what is going on in their wonderful little minds! I also love working with parents who are so full of love for and anticipation of the birth of their baby. It's all so wonderful and certainly gives you those warm and fuzzy feelings just reading about it, I'm sure!
And because I'm blessed to work in such a happy environment, I believe fully that it is my responsibility to give back to the community. I remind myself how fortunate I am to have healthy children and to be blessed with a job where I can work with children every day. So each month, I donate to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. I would love it if you would consider visiting their site and even if you can't donate to their cause, at least take a moment and send a few prayers their way. This is a reputable organization and worth your time and attention.
That being said, I also take on a few "free" jobs each year to help children as well. I donate Sherri Blum Designs products to auctions and more recently, when asked by a former college sorority sister- I took on the task of redecorating the foyer of her childrens' preschool. This little school had a small budget within which to work and the director needed some help figuring out how to get the best bang for her buck. So I visited the site, took my "before" pictures and came home to begin the planning.
As we all know, the foyer isn't always necessarily the place to invest big bucks, however it does give your guests their first impression of who you are, what your tastes are and how you live your daily life. So it's definitely a space that deserves some attention! And in the case of a child care center, it even sets the mood for the young children as they arrive to school each day. It's very important that this space present a warm, cheerful and comforting atmosphere.

This is the main entrance into the center before we began.

The cinderblock walls were a drab gray blue color and the carpet, while a bit outdated- needed to stay. So our first task was to select fresh, welcoming wall colors that would work with the existing carpeting. I offered two color schemes from which the director and parents could select. They chose the more conservative of the two, and were very happy with their choices.
See the before photos here, as well as some photos of the space after the paint had been added.
I'll post more images once we get the finishing touches completed!
In the meanwhile, please share with us what you do to "give back" to the community. I'd love to hear from you!

This is the area just past that entry door...a little alcove with a small kneewall and stairs going to another section of the building.

Here is a little hallway going back to the classrooms. The drywall on the right is the only drywall in this space. I want to make it a focal point since everyone walks past it each day to come and go.
The deeper blue area below the glass is bulletin board. The director and teachers don't like to use it as such, however, because all of the little hands grab and touch everything as they walk past. We will be removing those unnecessary boards and giving it a clean, fresh coat of paint!

Sherwin Williams has this great computer program in which you can login and upload your own image to select paint colors for use in your room BEFORE you invest in a paint color you might not like! I used it to show the director and parents the various color schemes I was recommending for the room. It was very helpful to them! The colors vary slightly between computer screens, but it gives a good idea.

This artwork was donated to the school back in the 1970's if I'm not mistaken. Regardless, it has great sentimental value and is adorable and colorful! We will place it on that drywalled area to make it a focal point for all to appreciate!

Parent volunteers painted the area...looking good so far! Now we are working on the furnishings and accessories to warm it all up! Check back for more to come!

We're setting up a parent sign-in area.

Hallway, minus those unused bulletin boards!

Loading New Designs on the Site!

2010-03-08T10:54:00.000-05:00

Well it's been a long and cold winter and spring is finally on it's way...and with spring comes freshness, newness, and renewal of life and hope. So it's only appropriate that I bring that freshness to my business and finally get my websites updated!
I've got a long way to go and MANY more new designs to add to the site over the next few weeks, but I've got a great start and would love to share some of our new kids' wall art and nursery wall hangings with you. I've taken the time to add new and current details to some old favorites, as well as to create some great new designs to add to the already expansive collection.
So visit the Sherri Blum Designs website and keep checking back, as we will be adding many more images over the next couple of weeks.
Happy Monday!

Happy Customers Make My World Go Round!

2010-03-02T09:51:00.002-05:00

I love both of my "jobs"...in fact I love what I do so much that it feels awkward calling it a "job"! I absolutely love having a blank canvas in front of me -whether it be a new nursery to decorate or a canvas for one of my wall hanging designs. I love creating and hope that my designs will bring smiles to the faces of all who see them and enjoy them in their homes each day.
So you can only imagine how rewarding it is to receive feedback from my happy clients and customers! And when they send photos of my nursery wall art hung proudly in their nurseries, I get that warm and fuzzy feeling all over! Yes, my "jobs" are fun, no matter how you slice it!
I just received a new image of my Tea Party Wall Hanging as used in a new nursery and thought I'd share some of these great customer photos with you today. If you have a Sherri Blum Designs canvas in your home, I'd love to see it and receive your feedback. If you have any suggestions for a new design, I also welcome that. Some of my best selling products have been suggested by customers and my retailers.
In the meanwhile, enjoy these happy customer photos while I put my brush to four new canvases! Yes...I have some great new designs I'm working on this week and I promise I'll share as soon as I'm able!

Room by muralist Debbie Viola

I want to nibble on his little cheeks!

My Storybook Wall Hanging is well loved.

Full House star, Jodie Sweetin loved her Sherri Blum canvases. I enjoyed working on her nursery with her. She called me up to help her finish the room for this People Magazine photo shoot and an Access Hollywood taping, which was to take place within two weeks! We pulled it off!

Custom made for Tori Spelling's daughter, Stella and son, Liam. Her publicist wrote to me and said that Tori loved them both!

Yes, even Octomom is a fan...this hangs on the wall right outside of her nursery.

Custom made for Marcia Cross's twin daughters.

Angela Kinsey, (Angela Martin from "The Office") even wrote a thank you note! She is a class act! I love her card!