Homeward Bound

This week I received the best news... I was approved for an apartment!! The dream that I had been after and had talked over with so many people in my life was finally coming true. My roommate, Helen and I would be moving into our two bedroom two bathroom apartment in Los Angeles at the beginning of February. Yikes, I thought, less than a month away! My next thought was, I don't have furniture. I needed to think of quick, cheap ways to furnish an apartment...not too much, but enough to get by with for now. I did my homework and have found some helpful sites and tips along the way. For anyone who is looking for help moving, wants to get some new pieces in their place or need a quick run through of 'what to do when moving,' this is for you.

1. Hand-me-downs*: This one should be the first place you look when you are moving. Hand-me-downs from friends, coworkers, or family members (so long as it is in good condition) is the best because many times, these people aren't using what they already have, have more in storage, or never used it to begin with and are willing to give it to you for free or at a ridiculously good deal. Seriously though, ask around. Someone always has something that they are willing to offer and it could only help you!

2. Thrifting*: Similarly to hand-me-downs, thrifting at antique stores or at second hand shops is THE GREATEST THING (in my opinion). Why? Because, like hand-me-downs, people donate their unwanted furniture to local shops. Shops like Goodwill and Salvation Army have amazing finds that can be extremely cheap. I've found some of the best items in local thrift shops for cheap. Antique shops are hit or miss because they usually specialize in amazing, antique pieces which can get costly. Check it out though, deals can be made or at least bring about ideas for alternatives. "But what if i don't like the way it looks?" CHANGE IT. Spend $20 on paint, nobs, or new fabric and repurpose it. Guaranteed it will still be cheaper than the original and it could be unique and new to your style.

*In the spirit of thrifting / hand-me-downs: try apps like Letgo, OfferUp, Facebook Marketplace, and Ebay (all great stops as well)

3. Shipping/Handling: Many times when you're finding furniture online it can be a hassle with pickup. I know for me, my car would never fit any more than a small chair or some lamps. Luckily, I found that places like Target and Ikea have flat rate shipping and handling charges on purchases. Ikea even has a service where they'll assemble the furniture themselves! (cost extra of course) These things take the hassle / frustration out of doing it yourself.

4. Creating your own space: A blank canvas can be tough when shopping for a place. Whats my style? Will this match? What am I wanting to get out of it? For me, my new place will be my safe place. I want practicality, chic-ness, and cozy feelings. For inspiration I check out other blogs (my favorite is http://newdarlings.com/), Pinterest, and ALWAYS keep photos in my phone of things I've bought so that I know what will look good together. Some easy ways to create your own space can be with personalized photos, soft accents in the colors you enjoy, and plants.

While it may be overwhelming at first, get excited! You're changing up your space and making it your own. Whether its small changes or room transformations, it gives it new meaning and new life. This next journey is all me, and I want my room to reflect that. Once finished, I hope to share my thoughts / pictures of the finale. Until then, happy shopping!