Are you planning a decorating project and don't know where to begin? Building or remodeling a home can be a frustrating and stressful endeavor, but it doesn't have to be that way. Organizing your thoughts and materials will help simplify the process and reduce stress. Here are some tips to get you started; ultimately saving time and lowering stress.

1. Develop an inspiration folder. Dream, explore and discover with magazines, websites and newspapers. Clip pictures and articles that catch your attention. Have fun. Choose an inspirational photo that has the look or “feel” that you want to capture in your space. Working with a spouse, partner, or roommate? Encourage them to do the same and share your findings. They may have a picture of a great room with a fireplace, but you really don’t like the room. What you may discover is that they chose that particular picture because they liked the fireplace and that may be the one thing that you like!

2. Carry your inspiration photo with you. As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words and there is no better way to communicate with sales people than to show them a picture of what you like.

3. Create a floor plan and evaluate your space. Walk in the room (if possible without furniture or accessories) and start imagining the possibilities. If you are building and only have a floor plan, imagine yourself in that space. If that’s hard for you (and it is for most people) ask your builder or a designer to describe it to you. Look at each surface; floors, walls, ceiling separately and then as a whole. Research different finishes on the market for each surface and determine what works for your lifestyle. Draw a floor plan if you don’t have one. Make sure to note window measurements on your floor plan for quick reference when shopping. A floor plan is a valuable tool for determining furniture arrangements and the flow of the room.

4. Start a room file for each room you are decorating, so that you have everything in one place. A room file should include storage for fabric swatches, paint chips, flooring samples and anything else that will help determine your color palette. It should be easy to transport to the store for color coordination. Additionally, your files should provide a place for receipts, warranties and contracts along with storage for larger samples. In a few years when looking for a warranty or paint color, they will be a breeze to find.

It’s important to carry your inspiration picture, a picture of the room that you are working on, a copy of the floor plan, and color swatches to the store in your room file. All of these items can help you convey to a designer or sales clerk exactly what you want. An additional feature to add to your room file is a list of important contacts including your carpenter or builder, electrician, painter and stores you are working with. And don’t forget a budget sheet. At http://www.decoratingassistant.com  you will find budget forms that work with excel and automatically tabulate your purchases along with additional decorating tips and ideas.

5. Have the right tools on hand. Always carry a tape measure and a digital camera is also a great item to carry. How many times have you seen something when shopping and then later can’t remember exactly what it looked like? A pencil and a note pad are a must. Writing your thoughts and “to-do-lists” onto paper is a great stress reliever!

6. Use a carry bag when shopping. It should hold your room files, tools, wallet and keys; providing “hands free shopping”. Of course, it’s a bonus if is stylish as well!

7. Relax & Enjoy. Getting organized will help you to decorate confidently, work more efficiently and reduce stress. Now it’s time to have some fun. Good Luck!

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