Design Expert: Paula Biggs
Every day, I try to help my children find a little sparkle and magic in the world. There is always something to celebrate, whether it’s a gold star on a school paper or finally getting both feet off the ground to jump.
I also teach my kids to use their little imaginations to see things for all their possibilities—this is something that carries into my personal style and designs as well. I frequently look for old or thrifted items I can paint, recycle or repurpose for events and even home decorating. I love making something old new again!
When I style, I lean towards making my parties whimsical and dreamy; this little step out of the everyday makes the parties feel even more magical. I like color palettes that are a little softer, and I look for special details that will really make the party experience unique. It’s very easy to get carried away in these details; you always have to remember to make the party fun for the person you are celebrating—whether that’s a child or a mom-to-be.
- Paula
Paula Loves…
1. Never take yourself or your design too seriously. A white eight-point buck head graces my wall just because it makes me smile; I like the lighthearted sense of the unique he brings. 2. Chandeliers are another weakness of mine; I own six that aren’t even hung, and I am always looking for more. I just love the sparkle and fun they can add to a room or party, especially when they’re in an unexpected color. 3. I’m a cake stand collector, so I love finding extraordinarily pretty ones. The delicate scalloping and vintage shape of this Rosanna cake stand earns it a special place on my shelves. 4. Every good hostess should have a stylish apron! I like to keep my clothes clean when making my kitchen messy or prepping right before my guests show up, and an adorable apron is the perfect way to do that. Like a hip, modern June Cleaver. 5. This is a must for cooking and baking—whipping up cookies, cakes, meringues, frosting and pies with a stand mixer is a breeze. 6. I’m a Florida girl, and flip flops are a staple of my wardrobe eight months of the year. I always make sure I have a pretty pair in my closet! 7. Paper printables that have great patterns and color can be used for so many things: parties, note cards and little gifts. My favorite from my store is the “WISH” suite made for a girl’s birthday. 8. A good beach bag is a a permanent fixture in my car most of the year to tote the kids to the beach—I love bags that are great looking but also washable and big enough to hold everything we need! And this one is waterproof to cart home all our wet suits.
