Decorating Order: What comes first?

Clients often ask me, "What do I pick first . . .the paint, the couch, the bedding, drapery, etc.?  Actually, the answer is very easy. if you are replacing a major item or items, and need to paint as well, whatever your room, start with the hardest piece or element to match first, and work towards the easiest. 

The easiest is always the paint.  There are thousands of colors of paint to choose from.  "Can you imagine picking the perfect piece of furniture, but you can't purchase it, because you just painted your room a shade off!  So, when considering where to start, think of the pieces that will go into your room and consider, Would this color be easy or hard or easy to find in this piece?"

Paint tip:  I almost always purchase a sample paint pot or larger paint chip to ensure the color is right in my home.  And, don't be afraid to ask the retail clerk to help you. Stores like Benjamine Moore are fantastic for this.