A Fresh Start for a Beautiful Design: RMD Luxury Client Care Success Story
Even the most beautifully crafted window treatments deserve a little care over time — especially in homes full of life, family, and (sometimes) pets.
For this recent RMD Luxury Client Care project, our client loved their custom draperies but noticed light pet stains, wrinkles, and folds that had lost their crisp shape.
Instead of replacing them, they turned to our RMD Luxury Client Care Programs — a specialized suite of services designed to restore and maintain the look and performance of existing luxury treatments.
Step 1: Evaluate and Remove
Our team began with a full in-home evaluation of each drapery panel. We carefully inspected the fabric, lining, and hardware to determine the best care method, then removed the draperies with precision — recording pleat placement and pattern alignment to ensure a perfect reinstall.
Step 2: Clean, Steam & Dress
Back in our workroom, our skilled artisans spot-treated pet stains, refreshed the fibers, and used professional steaming techniques to relax creases and restore drape structure. Each pleat was hand-formed, each lining pressed smooth, and every seam checked for strength — ensuring the treatments looked as flawless as the day they were installed.
Step 3: Reinstall & Perfect
Once refreshed, our installation team re-hung and dressed the draperies, aligning every pattern repeat and adjusting fullness for balance.
The end result? A refined, cohesive look that transformed the entire room — just in time for holiday guests.
The RMD Luxury Client Care Programs
Luxury window treatments are an investment in craftsmanship and comfort.
Our RMD Luxury Client Care Programs protect that investment with professional maintenance and seasonal care to ensure your treatments continue to look and perform beautifully for years.
Each program includes expert cleaning, dressing, adjustment, and inspection — all handled by our in-house artisans and installers.
Ready to Refresh Your Home?
If your draperies, shades, or Roman treatments need professional attention, our team can help restore them to their original beauty — without replacing a single panel.
Make an appointment to visit our showroom at 20010 Fisher Avenue, Suite A, Poolesville, MD
Learn more at www.rmdlux.com/appointment
Call 240-489-1001 to schedule your Refresh visit
Preparing for Holiday Guests
You’ve scrubbed the floors, fluffed the pillows, and maybe even hidden that one questionable throw blanket. But here’s the thing — your windows are the first to spill your secrets. They’ll tell your guests if you’ve been on top of your design game… or if you’re still rocking blinds from the Bush administration.
The Guest-Ready Glow
Nothing says “welcome home” like natural light doing a slow dance across your living room. Sheer drapery panels let sunlight in during the day while keeping your privacy intact when Aunt Susan starts peeking out to “check the weather.” Want to impress even more? Motorized shades that glide down with a tap — because who doesn’t love a little quiet luxury?
Sleepover Goals
Guest rooms deserve more than leftover linens and a single sad lamp. Give your visitors the five-star treatment with blackout drapes or layered Roman shades that turn “sleeping in” into an Olympic sport. Bonus points if your shades are lined — insulation is chic now.
First Impressions Happen Fast
The moment guests walk in, their eyes naturally go to the light. (It’s human nature — we can’t help it.) Well-dressed windows make any room feel intentional and finished. Think soft folds, elegant hardware, and colors that tie your whole design story together. Even your brother-in-law will be too busy admiring the drapes to notice the turkey’s still defrosting.
Little Luxuries That Go a Long Way
You don’t need to overhaul every room before the holidays — focus on the spaces where people actually gather. A statement treatment in the dining room or living area goes further than you’d think. And trust us, the right fabric has more power to impress than your new casserole recipe.
The Takeaway
Preparing for holiday guests isn’t just about cleaning — it’s about curating the atmosphere. Your window treatments can either whisper elegance or shout “I forgot.” Choose the whisper. The one that says…
“This home is loved, cared for, and ready for company.”
Before the guests arrive, let’s make your home shine.
Behind the Scenes: How Custom Roman Shades Are Engineered at RMD
RMD Luxury Window Treatments designs and fabricates custom Roman shades through expert teamwork, engineering, and craftsmanship.
When you see a beautiful custom Roman shade perfectly tailored to a window, it’s easy to admire the finished look. What most people don’t see is the craftsmanship, collaboration, and technical problem-solving that goes into creating it.
At RMD Luxury Window Treatments, every project begins long before fabric is ever cut. Our design, production, and installation teams come together to engineer the right solution for each window — not just to make it fit, but to make it flawless.
Step 1: From Template to Tailored Design
For this project, we started with a designer’s template and transformed it into a custom solution. Our production and installation leads sat down with the design consultant to review every detail — fabric properties, yardage requirements, pattern placement, and functional goals. This early collaboration ensures we’re not just following a drawing — we’re engineering a piece of art that performs perfectly in real life.
Step 2: Engineering the Solution
Our workroom team takes pride in thinking like engineers and artists at the same time. Before a single stitch is made, we plan how the shade will move, how the pleats will fall, and how the fabric’s weight and pattern will behave once installed. Every decision — from lift systems and lining type to fold depth and cord placement — affects the final product. That’s why our artisans and installers meet before fabrication even begins, ensuring alignment between design and execution.
Step 3: The Power of Collaboration
No detail is too small. Our production team asks:
How does this fabric behave under tension?
Where should the pattern fall visually in the window?
What are the designer’s preferences for fullness and proportion?
Are there structural needs that affect mounting or clearances?
This dialogue continues until every variable is defined. Then, and only then, do we begin fabrication — with complete confidence that the final product will look stunning and operate smoothly.
Step 4: Installation Excellence
When it’s time to install, our installers arrive prepared with a full understanding of the design intent and the engineering behind it. The result is a flawless installation that aligns perfectly with the designer’s vision — no surprises, no compromises.
The RMD Difference
Every Roman shade, drapery panel, or upholstered detail we produce is the result of this process — a perfect blend of creativity, craftsmanship, and collaboration. That’s what makes it an RMD piece: beautiful on the outside, meticulously engineered on the inside.
Layering for Luxury — Drapery & Shade Combinations Perfect for Cooler Weather
Fall is layering season — and that includes your windows. At RMD Luxury Window Treatments, we pair custom drapery and Roman shades to add warmth, texture, and timeless style. Learn how layered window treatments enhance comfort, energy efficiency, and curb appeal this fall.
Think of fall decorating as fashion week for your home — your windows, of course, being the models strutting down the runway. A single shade can be elegant, sure, but when you pair it with drapery? That’s couture.
Why Layering Works
Layering window treatments isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about versatility. The same way you’d throw on a scarf over your favorite jacket, pairing drapery with shades adds dimension, warmth, and polish. It lets you adjust light, privacy, and mood on demand — all while looking effortlessly pulled together.
The Dynamic Duo
Roman shades are the strong, silent type — structured, confident, and understated. Draperies? They’re the expressive partner with flair and movement. Together, they’re the power couple of interior design: one handles practicality, the other brings personality.
Imagine linen Roman shades in a neutral tone framed by velvet panels in a deep, moody color. It’s not just a window anymore — it’s a statement wall that actually does something.
Practical Magic
Layering also helps when the temperature dips. Shades add insulation, while drapery acts as your home’s stylish overcoat. They’re beautiful, yes, but they’re also efficient — helping keep drafts at bay while adding that snug, inviting feeling every home craves in fall.
Pro Tips from the Workroom
Start with Function: Choose the shade for what it needs to do — privacy, light control, or energy efficiency.
Then Add Drama: Pick drapery for its character — pattern, color, or texture.
Mind the Proportions: Mount your hardware high and wide so the whole setup feels tall and tailored, not cramped.
The Takeaway
When done right, layered window treatments feel both intentional and effortless — like that person who somehow looks put-together even on a “casual” day. This fall, give your windows a look that works as hard as it wows.
Perfect pairings start here — shades, drapery, and your next favorite design detail. Schedule a design visit today!
Fall Cleaning Checklist
You’ve swapped your iced lattes for pumpkin spice, packed away the beach towels, and maybe even cleaned out a closet or two. But before you start patting yourself on the back for adulting so hard, there’s one thing you’ve probably forgotten: your window treatments.
Yes, those gorgeous draperies and shades that make your home look like it belongs in a magazine? They’ve been quietly collecting dust, pollen, and pet fur like overachievers.
Why Clean Now?
Fall is the perfect season to give your window treatments some love. With holiday gatherings right around the corner, they deserve to look as fresh as your newly fluffed throw pillows. Plus, cleaner fabrics mean better air quality — a win for your lungs and your design cred.
The Gentle Touch
First rule: step away from the vacuum attachment of doom. Most drapery fabrics prefer a softer approach — a light dusting with a microfiber cloth or a once-over with the upholstery brush setting. For Roman shades or rollers, a damp cloth and mild detergent work wonders. Treat them like silk scarves, not gym towels.
The Deep Clean
If your treatments haven’t seen daylight without a layer of dust since 2020, it might be time for a professional refresh. At RMD, we offer cleaning as part of our Luxe Care Membership — meaning your drapes get the five-star spa treatment they deserve, and you don’t have to lift a finger.
Bonus Points: Maintenance Mode
While you’re at it, check your hardware, cords, and motorized systems. Nothing ruins a cozy night faster than a drape that refuses to close. A quick once-over ensures everything runs smoother than your favorite latte foam.
The Takeaway
Your draperies and shades work hard year-round — insulating, filtering light, and setting the mood. They deserve a little gratitude cleaning before the guests arrive. Because when Aunt Linda comments on how spotless your home looks, you’ll know it’s not just the floors — it’s those freshly revived, fabulous windows stealing the spotlight.
How to Transition Your Home for Fall Entertaining
Fall entertaining is a balancing act. You want the cozy warmth of pumpkin spice season but still need your home to feel elegant enough for guests who show up in cashmere. That’s where your windows come in — they’re not just background characters, they’re the hosts who set the tone before anyone even notices your charcuterie board.
The Scene-Setter
When the temperatures drop, your windows become the gatekeepers of ambiance. Rich textures like linen blends, velvets, or wool sheers instantly make a space feel warm — the kind of warmth that makes guests linger over dessert instead of checking the time.
The Light Maestro
Lighting is everything in fall. The sun dips earlier, which means your window treatments pull double duty — filtering the afternoon glow into something cinematic, then providing privacy as the evening unfolds. Layer motorized shades behind stationary panels so you can shift the mood with a button tap. Cozy dinner lighting? Click. Movie night? Another click.
The Comfort Factor
Hosting is stressful enough — your window treatments should be the calm part of the equation. Think cordless shades that move smoothly, or draperies lined to block drafts and sound. Function with flair, because nothing kills a dinner vibe faster than clunky blinds fighting for attention.
The Finishing Touch
Your windows are the backdrop for every toast, laugh, and late-night chat. When they’re dressed right, your guests might not even notice them — and that’s the secret. True luxury design whispers, it doesn’t shout.
So before the first guest walks through the door, make sure your windows are ready to host with grace, warmth, and a hint of quiet confidence. Because the best dinner parties aren’t just about the food — they’re about how the room makes everyone feel.
Hosting this season?
Make your home guest-ready in style. Reserve your consultation today
Protecting Your Investment (RMD Lux Care)
We get it — October’s already busy. Pumpkin patch photos, school events, and the inevitable moment when someone suggests “hosting this year.” But before your calendar fills up completely, there’s one smart move that will make your home sparkle all season long: scheduling your RMD Luxe Care visit.
Because Window Treatments Deserve TLC Too
You wouldn’t skip your car’s oil change or your annual facial (we see you, self-care Sunday). Your custom draperies and shades are no different. They’ve worked hard all year — blocking heat, filtering light, and looking fabulous while doing it. Luxe Care gives them the professional tune-up they deserve, extending their life and keeping them showroom perfect.
The October Advantage
October is the sweet spot. Summer dust and pollen are out, the holidays aren’t quite here yet, and our schedule hasn’t hit peak chaos. Booking now means your treatments are cleaned, adjusted, and photo-ready before guests arrive.
What We Actually Do (and Why It Matters)
Our Luxe Care service isn’t just a quick dusting. It’s a white-glove inspection of your treatments’ health — checking hems, hardware, lining, and motorization. We clean, steam, and re-dress so they hang like they just came out of the workroom. It’s basically a wellness check for your windows.
Luxury = Longevity
Think of Luxe Care as preventative design maintenance. The better you care for your treatments, the longer they’ll maintain that just-installed elegance. You protect your floors, your furniture, even your favorite handbag — your draperies deserve the same love.
The Takeaway
October’s your moment to get ahead of the rush. A simple service visit now means you’ll be sipping cider later, admiring how effortlessly polished your home looks. Schedule your Luxe Care appointment before the calendar — and the holidays — take over.
Your drapes called — they’re ready for their spa day!
Treat them to the RMD Lux Care experience and relax knowing every fold, hem, and pleat is picture-perfect for the holidays.
Fall Window Treatment Trends: Warm Tones, Cozy Layers, and Lux Textures
🍂 “This season, your windows deserve their runway moment. Out with the breezy linens of summer; in with fabrics that sip pumpkin spice and read novels by the fire.”
Set the Scene
Fall has officially RSVP’d to your living room, and your windows are ready for their autumn wardrobe change. Think of them as celebrities stepping onto the red carpet: what they wear determines the mood, the drama, and the applause.
Trend 1: Luxe Textures
Velvet drapery is your drama queen friend who refuses to whisper. When she enters a room, everyone notices. Pair her with warm metallic hardware, and suddenly your home is dressed for a gala.
Trend 2: Layering
Roman shades under panels? It’s the style equivalent of layering a cashmere sweater under a perfectly tailored coat. Alone, they’re fine. Together, they’re Vogue cover material.
Trend 3: Warm & Moody Tones
Goodbye bright whites, hello russets, plums, and deep forest greens. These shades don’t just filter light—they pour ambiance into the room like mulled wine.
Trend 4: Motorization as Magic
And let’s not forget: nothing says modern luxury like motorized shades gliding down at the touch of a button. Call it the mic-drop moment your home didn’t know it needed.
The Takeaway
Your windows set the stage for everything else. This fall, let them wear their most luxurious, layered, and conversation-starting outfits. After all, trends fade, but style that makes your home feel alive? That deserves a standing ovation.
See something that inspires you?
Let’s design your window’s next look together. Book your appointment today!
No Tricks, Only Treats — The Sweet Side of the Season
At RMD Luxury Window Treatments, we believe gratitude deserves a moment in the spotlight — not just at the end of a project, but all year long, in the quiet details that make a home feel special.
This October, we’re leaning into the “treats” of the season — not the candy kind (though we love those, too), but the moments that remind us why we love what we do:
☕ the warm light filtering through soft drapery on a crisp morning,
🕯️ the cozy glow of shades drawn just right before dinner,
🌙 and that deep exhale when your home feels perfectly in tune with the season.
Sweetness Over Spookiness
No ghosts or goblins here — just beautiful fabrics, thoughtful design, and homes that feel calm, inviting, and ready for fall.
Your windows don’t need costumes — they’re already dressed to impress.
The RMD Way
Every project we touch is a collaboration — a blend of precision, creativity, and care. Whether it’s layering textures for warmth or motorizing shades for convenience, the goal is the same: make everyday moments a little more beautiful.
This season, we’re celebrating the little luxuries — the way light moves through a room, the warmth of a well-dressed space, and the gratitude that comes from being trusted to create them.
Because at RMD, the real treat isn’t in the work itself — it’s in the people, homes, and stories we get to be part of.
Here’s to a cozy, inspired season — no tricks, only timeless design.
Curtains, Blinds, and Shades: The Stand-Up Comedy of Your Windows
Let’s face it—windows are like the introverts of your home. They sit quietly, letting all the light (and your neighbors’ questionable lawn décor) in, without saying a word. But dress them up in the right window treatments, and suddenly, your windows go from “shy background extra” to “main character energy.”
Here’s the funny truth:
1. Curtains are the drama queens.
They swoosh, they billow, they demand to be tied back with fancy tassels. Curtains are basically your windows’ way of auditioning for a Broadway show. And honestly? They usually get the part.
2. Blinds are the control freaks.
Up, down, tilted just so. Blinds are like that one friend who insists the thermostat has to stay at exactly 71 degrees. But hey—they’re practical, reliable, and they know how to set the mood (sunset glow or total blackout at the flick of a wrist).
3. Shades are the chill best friend.
They roll up, they roll down, they don’t make a big deal about it. Shades are the “jeans and T-shirt” of window treatments—effortlessly stylish without trying too hard.
The Plot Twist: Window Treatments Change Everything
Funny analogies aside, the truth is this: how you dress your windows transforms your space. The right choice can make a room cozy, sophisticated, or bold. And the wrong choice? Well, let’s just say floral valances from 1992 should stay in 1992.
Window treatments aren’t just decoration—they’re comfort, privacy, and style all rolled into one (pun absolutely intended).
The Mic Drop
So the next time you look at your windows, ask yourself: Do they deserve a standing ovation—or just a golf clap?Because your home deserves the show-stopping version.
Beat the Bird: Why Now Is the Time to Finish Your Project Before Thanksgiving
Picture it: You’re standing proudly in your perfectly dressed dining room. The table is set. The candles are lit. The turkey is resting (which is chef talk for “taking a well-deserved nap”). Your guests walk in and gasp — not just because of the aroma of roasted perfection, but because your windows look amazing.
Sounds dreamy, right? Now, let’s talk about how to actually make that happen… without turning into a frazzled, gravy-splattered version of yourself.
1. The Turkey Waits for No One
Thanksgiving comes at the exact same time every year. And yet somehow, it still manages to sneak up faster than your Uncle Bob’s “famous” Jell-O mold. The truth is, the calendar between now and November is shorter than it looks — especially when you factor in design time, production, shipping, and installation.
By the time you say, “We should really get those draperies ordered,” the pie crusts will already be thawing.
2. Your Dining Room Deserves More Than “Almost Finished”
Hosting Thanksgiving with half-finished projects is like serving mashed potatoes without gravy. Sure, it’s fine… but it could be so much better. That outdated blind, that drafty window, that curtain rod that’s been “temporary” for three years — now’s the time to finally give your home the glow-up it deserves.
Your guests might not notice your perfectly brined turkey (sorry), but they will notice the rich texture of custom draperies framing your windows.
3. Installation Calendars Fill Up Faster Than Dessert Plates
Here’s a little behind-the-scenes truth: by early fall, our installation calendar starts looking like the buffet line at 5:01 PM — full, with only small openings left in unexpected places. Waiting too long means you could end up with your install date landing after your in-laws have already come and gone.
4. The Gift of Peace (and Style)
Imagine walking into Thanksgiving week without a single “house to-do” on your list. No frantic trips to the hardware store. No quick-fix décor regrets. Just you, sipping cider, basking in compliments about your home’s warm, welcoming style.
It’s not just about window treatments — it’s about creating a space you love for the moments that matter most.
Let’s Make It Happen
The turkey may not wait for anyone, but you can get ahead of it. Book your design consultation now, and we’ll make sure your home is holiday-ready well before the first can of cranberry sauce hits the table.
📅 Appointments are limited before Thanksgiving — schedule yours today and let’s Beat the Bird together.
Curtains, Draperies, and the Great Debate
Let’s get one thing straight: in the window treatment world, we like to use the word draperies. It sounds fancy, elegant, and maybe even a little mysterious. But let’s be honest — most people call them curtains. And that’s fine… except when you come into a showroom and ask for “just some curtains” and I have to resist the urge to say, “Excuse me, these are draperies. Curtains are what you buy when you forget to pack shades for your dorm room.”
Curtains: The Sweatpants of the Window World
Curtains are like sweatpants, comfortable, easy, and fine for a Saturday morning when you’re binging a show. They get the job done. They cover the window. End of story.
Draperies: The Evening Gown Your Windows Deserve
Draperies, on the other hand, are couture for your windows. They’re tailored, lined, pleated, and designed to make your living room look like it belongs in a magazine spread. Draperies don’t just hang there — they perform. They whisper, “Yes, this homeowner has their life together,” even if your kitchen junk drawer says otherwise.
Why the Difference Matters (Even if You Don’t Care)
Here’s the truth: when you say “curtain,” you probably mean “drapery.” And that’s okay! My job isn’t to judge — it’s to make sure your windows are dressed to impress. (Think of me as your windows’ stylist. I’ll even make sure the hems don’t trip anyone.)
A Public Service Announcement
So, the next time you tell your friends you just got “new curtains,” go ahead and wink — because you’ll know the truth. They’re draperies. And your windows are now the best-dressed in the neighborhood.
Finding the Perfect Window Treatments: The 3 P's Approach
Personal, Practical,
Pretty
When it comes to enhancing your living space, window treatments play a pivotal role in creating the perfect ambiance. At Rebecca Munster Designs (RMD), we understand the importance of considering the 3 P's – Personal, Practical, and Pretty – to ensure that your window treatments not only meet your functional needs but also reflect your unique style.
1. Personal: Illuminate Your Space with Feelings
Every room has a unique personality, and your window treatments should complement and enhance that ambiance. Take a moment to consider your personal feelings about light. Do you prefer soft, diffused sunlight or are you drawn to bright, natural light flooding your space? Understanding your preferences will guide you towards treatments that not only regulate light but also resonate with your personal style.
For those cozy evenings or private moments, consider options like layered curtains or Roman shades that offer both privacy and a touch of elegance. Our custom workroom at RMD can tailor these treatments to match your unique taste and preferences.
2. Practical: Solutions Tailored for Your Home and Family
Window treatments are more than just decorative elements; they should also be practical solutions that cater to the needs of your home and family. Consider factors such as energy efficiency, maintenance, and the specific requirements of each room.
For instance, in high-traffic areas or homes with children and pets, durable and easy-to-clean options like blinds or shades might be ideal. Our experienced team at RMD can guide you through the practical aspects, ensuring that your window treatments not only look beautiful but also serve the specific functions required for each space.
3. Pretty: Elevate Your Design Aesthetic
Finally, let's talk about the aesthetic appeal. Your window treatments should seamlessly integrate with your overall design scheme, enhancing the beauty of your space. Whether you're going for a minimalist look or a more opulent style, there are numerous options available.
Consider custom-designed drapes in a fabric that complements your furniture or stylish plantation shutters that add a touch of sophistication to any room. At RMD, we take pride in our custom workroom, where skilled artisans bring your design vision to life, ensuring that your window treatments are not only practical but also a stunning focal point in your space.
In conclusion, finding the perfect window treatments involves a thoughtful consideration of the 3 P's – Personal feelings about light, Practical solutions needed for your home and family, and Pretty options that enhance your design aesthetic. At RMD, we are committed to helping you strike the perfect balance, creating window treatments that are both functional and visually captivating.
The Transformative Power of Draperies: Elevate Your Space with RMD
At Rebecca Munster Designs (RMD), we understand that every element of interior design plays a crucial role in shaping the ambiance of a space. Among our array of services, draperies stand out as powerful tools for transforming any room. Let's delve into the enchanting world of draperies and discover how they can elevate your living or working space.
1. Unparalleled Elegance:
Draperies are synonymous with sophistication and elegance. Whether you opt for luxurious fabrics, intricate patterns, or timeless solids, our custom draperies add a touch of refinement to any room. The way draperies gracefully cascade from the rod creates a visual feast, turning your windows into works of art.
2. Versatile Style:
One of the most remarkable features of draperies is their versatility. From classic and traditional to modern and eclectic, our design experts at RMD can tailor draperies to suit any style or aesthetic preference. Draperies become a seamless extension of your design vision, enhancing the overall appeal of your space.
3. Light Control and Privacy:
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, draperies serve a practical purpose. They provide optimal light control, allowing you to adjust the amount of natural light entering your space. Moreover, draperies offer an unparalleled sense of privacy, creating a sanctuary within your home or office.
4. Energy Efficiency:
In addition to their aesthetic and functional benefits, draperies contribute to energy efficiency. During colder months, heavy draperies act as an insulating barrier, keeping warmth in and cold drafts out. In the summer, they can be drawn to block out the sun's heat, helping maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
5. Custom Craftsmanship at RMD:
At RMD, we take pride in our custom workroom, where skilled artisans meticulously craft draperies tailored to your exact specifications. Whether you desire unique patterns, specific lengths, or intricate detailing, our team ensures that your draperies are not just window coverings but expressions of your individual style.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Space with RMD's Draperies
In conclusion, the power of draperies extends far beyond mere window coverings. They are an essential element in creating a harmonious and visually stunning environment. Contact Rebecca Munster Designs today to explore the endless possibilities of custom draperies and let us bring a touch of elegance and functionality to your space.
An Open Window
There is an old saying, “when one door closes another door opens.” Well, maybe it doesn’t have to be a door, maybe, just maybe it could be a window. A window of hope.
This business started very organically. I had a skill set and once my friends and neighbors new about it they started requested my services. After a very successful career in IT/Project Management it felt really good to do something creative, be my own boss, and reinvent my professional life. It also felt really good to have more flexibility with my family. All of that also came with sacrifice and with sacrifice comes good life lessons. While I love this new profession and love what I get to do every day, I also have felt something was missing. I get the privilege of creating beautiful things that improve your home, the largest investment and most intimate space, I still felt like I needed to find a way to give back and pay it forward. The challenges (time and money) of a baby business made it hard for me to dig into that and figure out how and what to do. As a goal for 2019 I wanted to figure out a way to give back but I wanted it to relate to my business and I was on a mission to figure that out!
I believe in my first blog I may have mentioned that my growing up was a little dysfunctional. There were hard times, eviction notices, living without power, my fathers substance abuse, just to give you a little glimpse. In the grand scheme of things, I have turned out pretty well even with so many cards stacked against me. In my 20’s whenever someone would come into my life and learn about my past they would always ask how I turned out so good. I suppose that is a pretty good question, but I wasn’t sure the answer. I was just doing what I do. As I struggled with infertility in my 30’s I had the opportunity to have my strength exercised again and the answer to that question became clear. I turned out okay because I had HOPE. Hope is a powerful thing. Hope comes from so many different sources but as I thought back on my life I realized that there were lots of things and sometimes they were just little things that helped to provide me with Hope. The acknowledgement that someone cared and believed in me through various acts of kindness gave me hope. Hope made me believe my life could be better, I could be better, things didn’t have to stay the same. This is why giving back and paying it forward is so important to me. If you feel stuck, you will never reach your full potential. Life is full of twists and turns and the challenges never stop coming, even when you are more “normal” so having hope and knowing how to use hope is really important.
As I thought about hope and I thought about my business an idea came together. Windows, windows let light in, windows let fresh air in, windows provide a way out, windows are a great symbol of hope. Is there anything better than opening the window shades and feeling the sun on your face? What if, we started a program where a portion of our sales went into a special program that allowed us to do acts of kindness? This just might work!
So today, we are rolling out our new program An Open Window. A portion of all of our sales will go into An Open Window and will be used to provide HOPE to someone else. Perhaps we will buy a sofa for a family that cannot do it financially and doesn’t have anything to sit on, or maybe we will provide drapery for a special family faced with a difficult situation. As the funds build we will identify new opportunities to spread hope and keep all of you posted with An Open Window projects. Our first project is being funded by myself and our team and we will be sharing the details with each of you.
What is even more exciting is that as each of you help us to build our dream with our business you also get to help make these acts of kindness happen. Each of our clients will be An Open Window Hopemaker. Making your home beautiful will contribute to helping someone else feel hopeful. It doesn’t get much better than that!
So, when one door closes – we have An Open Window!
In the beginning...
There isn’t a career test out there that pin points who should be a curtain maker, or upholsterer, or just maker of beautiful things. So, where in the world did it start with me? How did I get this idea to create? Well, I think I was always creative and always interested in making my little corner of the world pretty.
I grew up in a lot of dysfunction and my room was my happy place. It wasn’t big, but it was mine and it had a small window that felt like it was in the clouds every spring when the Bartlett pear in our backyard bloomed. I found myself asking for lamps, art work, bed spreads, and more for every birthday and Christmas. I wanted anything that would help transform that space into something just perfect for me. Red was my color of choice and boy did I know how to use a pop of color.
As I grew older I found myself working after school at a craft store. I loved working in that store. Every isle was full of things that were just a few steps away from becoming amazing. I didn’t know then but I was learning to really appreciate “custom” items and the value behind having something that is just perfect for a space and unique to my home.
During high school, we moved and my sister and I had to share rooms. That meant my signature color would no longer work. My sister and I picked out inexpensive comforter sets and while they were nice in the room, the room was missing something. It was white and didn’t have a lot of character. Our beds had drawers on the bottom so the bed skirts that came with the comforter set were not needed and my creative mind all of a sudden had a plan. Those windows in that house had no molding and the metal mini blinds were not helping the situation. I used my employee discount to purchase a couple of bottles of craft paint, a roll of masking tape, and some ribbon. I taped off a border around the window and went to work with the paint creating a beautiful trim around the windows. While that was drying I started reworking those bed skirts into pretty swags using the ribbon I purchased. Once the swags were in place the room had character, color, and something special. Somehow in this boring, dare I say cheap, rental I was able to add some style on a budget. It was amazing how some paint and leftover fabric could transform a space. I didn’t know then that this was the moment that I inherently learned the importance of dressing a window.
All these years later, after a long and healthy career in IT and project management my path has come back to making spaces beautiful. It really happened very organically – some might call it destiny.