YAS QUEENS! It's finally the hens night with all the girls! Where to ? Lets go to the Gold Coast.

So here is our ultimate guide to a girls night in the Gold Coast.

WHERE TO :

STAY.

Every one of Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise's stunning apartments offers sublime uninterrupted views of the glistening Pacific Ocean and a new level of sophisticated five-star luxury.

DRINK.

Adjoining boutique hotel, The Island, Gold Coast’s biggest rooftop bar and sprawling alfresco patio, The Island Rooftop is bringing the cool back to Surfers Paradise's after-dark scene. With DJs, a retro-styled cocktail bar, ample seating, nooks and, in the winter months, heaters. Their Gin & Jazz Thursdays are set to become a hit with Bliss Sunday sessions already heating up the afternoons with DJs and live vocalists.

EAT.

Swing in for a share plate or two. A short yet unpretentious menu of share plates and reasonably-priced large plates (mains averaging just $26) changes often, featuring the likes of homemade polenta crisps with mushroom and arrabbiata, wild tuna carpaccio with chunky avocado and capers, or pillowy pumpkin gnocchi with basil pesto and goats cheese.

TO DO

Flower Crown Workshop

The perfect activity to have a bevie, relax and make the cutest crown perfect for your hens squad. After a yummy lunch and some shopping head back to the hotel for some cheese and wine and one of our flower crown hosts will come to your accomodation, set up and run the workshop. The workshop includes all blooms, foliage,tools, wire and everything else you can think of!

For a seriously luxurious feel go for a yacht cruise. This is certainly a memorable one that’ll ensure you’ve got a bucket load of dreamy sunset-lit selfies on said yacht giving you new Facebook profile options for months to follow.

For any more ideas, questions or queries send us a love letter!

Berry is an ideal location for hosting a Hen’s Party – only 2 hours south of Sydney and 2.5 hours from Canberra.

You can grab the bride-to-be and your friends and hit the road after work on a Friday night and be in Berry in time for dinner! It also allows you to have your hen’s weekend away over two nights – with more time for fun, eating, drinking and some much needed girl-time and R&R.

Berry has a great range of luxury accommodation options for larger groups – some of our favs include Ashworth House, Cuttagee, Hill End and Bundara Farm.

A popular food and wine destination, you will be spoilt for choice with numerous options for things to do, including eating out at local cafes and restaurants, visiting specialty food stores with a range of delicious gourmet fare, browsing the bustling boutiques and wonderful array of shops, and a famous tea shop to indulge in copious amounts of tea, cakes and jumbo scones with locally made jam and cream!

There are two country pubs in Berry, the Great Southern Hotel with and the Berry Hotel where you can enjoy a fun girls night out with some great food and live entertainment.

Take some time out to pamper yourself with a massage or mani, do yoga or shop at some of the stylish boutiques showcasing fashion and jewellery, homewares and furniture, gourmet foods, antiques and collectables, arts and crafts and more!

Another fabulous option for celebrating with your Hen’s Party is spending the day down near the beach, bring some bubbles and get some beautiful platters from Garnish Catering.Enjoy the day and make the girls feel like QUEENS with a beautiful flower crown workshop.

The Style Eddies offers the perfect flower crown workshop for a hens day / night which includes locally sourced blooms, foliage, wire, tools and we come to where ever you want.

Okay so one of your besties is getting married to the love of their life! YAY! Now the real fun starts with planning the Hens nights. These days there are sooooooo many different activities you can do. Here are a few things you can do to make your bestie's Hens the best ever!

1. Girls Pamper Spa Day

One of the hottest trends for a hen's party in Sydney is taking your girls for a spa day!

Pamper packages and treatment options abound (check out Ayurve Day Spa Sydneyif you don’t believe us) which can include massages, facials, makeup, nails and hair treatments.Many high-end hotels have day spas so you might even like to book in a room for the girls so they can stay overnight and enjoy a gourmet breakfast the following day, too.

For budget-friendly options check out discount voucher sites like red balloon.

2. Weekend Away with a girls stay-cation.

Weekend or longer? For hens who love to go long, a weekend getaway in a beautiful house near by can be as good as an escape up to Byron Bay.

Rent out a cabin in the countryside or on the coast to spoil yourselves with the scenery and fresh produce. Keep it cheap by browsing for gorgeous abodes on home rental sites like Air bnb or Stayz. You never know what you might find. We found this amazing beach side guest house in Kiama that sleeps 12 people and has 5 bedrooms from $541 per night. YAS!

3. Book a boat or sail away!

Party boats, schmarty boats. If you want to ditch the “studs afloat” cruise but still wish to set sail, try a luxury boat hire and cruise around the Sydney harbour.

Sydney Harbour Exclusive can cater to your every whim and fancy from smaller luxury yachts to super yachts.

4. Get Arty!

Bring an activity to the table with an art class. Booking a private art class gives the hens something to do and learn and food generally can be included in the package. For those who can’t resist, a nude art class is never a bad thing… and if it is your sort of thing The Artful Hen should have you sorted.

5. High Tea with the girls.

Different from a kitchen tea, which is an afternoon tea where guests traditionally bring a gift for the bride-to-be’s kitchen, high teas are a luxurious and classy experience for all and yeah, they don’t require you to bring a gift to the table. A great option for Mum, Nan and the Aunties to come before the girls get wild. Plus...you can through in some fun activities in afterwards. We love heading to beautiful hotels like The Sofitel who serve a beautiful high tea.

5. Glamping Under the Stars.

For a getaway with a twist, try glamping. It’s something even the least adventurous hen can get into as you don’t have to rough it AT ALL and can be as luxurious as you want it to be with linen, beds and lounges as standard.

Glamp on the beach, the wilderness or a rooftop. Glamping is an easy way to camp on Cockatoo Island. They do all the hard work so you can relax and make the most of the only harbour island with sleepovers.

6. A Foodies Day!

Foodies have a wealth of options available to them including cooking classes, cocktail classes, ladies long lunches, high-class dinners and wine and cheese tastings, just to name a few. Kenny Escapes have some great options.

10. The Zen Hen's dream Yogi experience.

A yoga retreat or wellness escape takes relaxing next level, ensuring the whole party is rejuvenated and ready for the event ahead.We'd recommend Beams Retreats for a hen getaway with a side of zen.

Lucky last is.... Flower Crown Workshops!

The best part is The Style Eddies flower crown classes can sneak in some where among all of these activies and you can feel like a flower crown goddess.

Okay girls the hens night count down is on! Whether it is a quit indulgent weekend or a party weekend away with the girls, you need this list to make sure everything goes according to plan.

3+ Months Before

Ask the bride what she wants (or doesn’t want) to do. Whether it’s a wild weekend, day, night, or a quiet night with pizza and movies.What is the weekend rating ? Does she want it G Rated or G String ? This important because we don’t want to embarrass the hen.. or the hens nan.Set the date — shoot for a weekend night at least two weeks before the wedding. (If members of the bridal party are from all over and can only convene a few days before, that timing works, too.)Create the guest list.Source entertainment options… like a flower crown workshop.

2 Months Before

Send out a casual “save the date” email to see if there are any major conflicts among invitees. If you’re partying far away, include specific details.Brainstorm possible game plans and party stunts with the maids (make it a surprise for the bride).If the party will be at a hot spot or out of town make reservations, order tickets, and deal with lodging and transportation details.No matter what the format, alcohol and hens revelry usually go hand in hand. Be responsible. Start thinking about transportation arrangements — many ladies opt for booking a chauffeured limo or bus for the evening. Call around to compare rates.Research and book any talent that might make an appearance at the soiree.

1 Month Before

Send invitations and confirm numbers.If you’re going with the standard pub crawl, devise the itinerary. Start out with dinner at a rowdy restaurant (you don’t want to drink on an empty stomach) and map out all the establishments you want to hit plus what time you’ll be popping in. Planning it out this way will help you book your transportation for the proper length of time, and it limits the carousing so that you don’t overdo it or spend too much cash. Make all necessary reservations, even at bars. Ask about drink specials and special hens party freebies.Make your transportation reservation ( do it a little earlier if you’re in a city) and try to avoid major formal or wedding seasons if you book a limo etc.If you’re partying at home, help the hostess plan snacks, refreshments and activities. Make a shopping list. Divide up to-dos among bridesmaids: games, decorations, booze-buying, play list duties, entertainment etc.

1 Week Before

Make a list of the games you want to play, with rules and how-tos, lest you forget after too many margaritas. Keep it handy.Confirm RSVPsConfirm transportation arrangementsConfirm the at-home entertainment

1 Day Before

Debrief the bride (it’s okay to keep some of the details a surprise).Remind guests of the meeting place and time, reiterating the address. If there are several stops planned, name the second address, too, for latecomers.Re-confirm all reservations.Get plenty of sleep.

Day Of Hens.

Have a bloody good time!

Okay so you have gathered the girls together and got the rock on your finger.. its time to celebrate! Most hens these days cannot go past Byron Bay with it's pristine beaches, laid back atmosphere, great food, fashion, bars and accommodation to suit almost every budget and taste ( why wouldn't you? ).

With all the choice in the world packed within this small beachside town sometimes its tricky to find a place to start, so we have done the hard work for you and create the ultimate hens guide to Byron Bay.

1. Accommodation - The Byron At Byron.

With all the choice in the world from budget to luxury, we couldnt go past The Byron at Byron. Set on a stunning 18-hectare rainforest, 91 suites, a multi-award winning day spa, and a restaurant overlooking the rainforest. We think this is a great option for a weekend with the girls because you can uwind poolside with signature cocktails and pool service by the 25-meter infinity pool. Then dine at the on-site restaurant, with seasonal menus based on a farm-to-plate philosophy accompanied by an extensive selection of local and international wines.

Seriously! Can we go now ?

Breakfast - Beach Byron Bay

Set amongst the Byron Bay Light House and empahsising on simplicity yet delicious food this is the perfect place to stuff your face and feel good about it.. plus.. THAT VIEW!

Shopping - Spell Designs Boutique

If you don't get your own piece of Spell... did it even happen ?

Set just off the main street is the iconic fashion label Spell. Fitting in perfectly with their bohemian luxe vibe this is the perfect peice to get your own little piece of byron bay.

Getting Glammed - By The Loving Gypsies.

We couldn't go past The Loving Gypsies to create your oh so natural Byron bay glam look for a night with the girls, you can wander down to their super cute studio, sip bubbles, have giggles and feel like the queen you are.

Day time activity - Flower Crowns!

What is a queen without her crown? Flower Crown Workshops are fast becoming one of our hens parties favourite activities around Australia, all of the blooms and foliages are locally sourced and are picked the day of your class so they are fresh as a daisy.

The gorgeous instructors will give instruction on how to make your flower crown, set up and pack up with style and encourage you girls to get creative as you like. All of your flower crown making equipment is included and it all comes to you!

INCLUDES:

Beautiful Selection of Fresh FlowersProfessional Instruction from Florist HostAll the Required Floristry EquipmentFlower Crown Party Comes to You!

Finally.. DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY AT THE BEACH HOTEL!

The Beach Hotel is a great place to drink a beer with friends, relax in the sun and listen to live music. It is the place to be for surfers, locals, tourists and backpackers to meet and enjoy the beautiful sea views and nice atmosphere. They also have entertainment at night time with amazing DJ's and live bands. When you love to dance, then The Beach Hotel is the best place to go for you.

Who doesn't love a floral crown? Your face is probably already fabulous but I can guarantee that flowers adorned upon it will make you even more fabulous... Learn the tricks of the trade for making your own personal flower crown. A great way to spend the afternoon with friends before your big day or hen's celebrations... If you are guilty of loving blooms this course will certainly not disappoint.

Why not grab your favourite ladies to spend the afternoon weaving blooms into adorned magic. What to bring: A willingness to learn new tricks, your crafty hands, drinks and nibbles. and patience

What will be provided: Everything you will need to craft magic. A super fun teacher will be provided too!

Some people prefer fake flowers, because they require little or no care, don't die and never go out of season.

Even though The Style Eddies don't sell fake flowers, I admit, even I have some at my house.

But let's face it. There are good fake flowers and bad ones.

I know. I know. I'm not supposed to call them fake. Some people call them artificial. Others refer to them as silk, or real touch. You can call them faux flowers if that makes you happy. And the floral industry gets a kick out of calling them permanent botanicals.

But, no matter what you call them, there's really no reason for them to look fake anymore. Here's how to keep people guessing:

1. Research fresh flowers. Before you can buy good-looking fake flowers you need to know what real ones look like. Visit a florist or look at images of real flowers online. Be sure to check out the leaves. Each flower has its own leaf shape. Makers of fake flowers blow it on this point all the time. By the way, different types of flowers don't all grow on one stem either. I'm just saying.

2. Choose flowers in realistic colors. Look for fake flowers in natural colors. There are no black lilies or roses in nature. No neon blue flowers either. If you're creating flower arrangements for a cutting edge special event, then go ahead and play with color. But, if you want those unrealistic colors to match your sofa they may look nice, but they wont look natural. Which is fine, if that's the look you're going for.

3. Invest in good quality fake flowers. Realistic fake flowers aren't cheap. But they will look a thousand times better than cheaper ones for years to come.

4. Buy great looking inexpensive fake flowers. If you can't afford expensive ones, buy those that look like them. Visit a store that sells high-end fake flowers and study them. What makes them look real? Notice that they're never shiny. How do they display them? Pottery Barn is a good place to get ideas on how to incorporate fake flowers into your space.

5. Avoid weird details. Some fake roses have plastic water droplets on them. You can just peel these off. Others have little baby's breath type growths. Remove these too. Flower manufacturers think these things make the fake flowers look prettier. They're wrong.

6. Beware of super thick stems. Bunches of fake flowers are wired individually then enclosed in thick plastic to create one giant stem. You get lots of flowers for the price of one. Hide those stems in a vase you can't see through.

7. Divide and multiply. Just because your fake flowers may come in a bunch doesn't mean they have to stay that way. Separate bunches of them into different vases. Use wire cutters to cut the stems. If you use your good scissors, they won't be good anymore. An inexpensive pair of wire cutters should do the job. Learn how to make flower pens out of fake flowers here.

8. Go monochromatic. Find one fake flower you like. Buy lots of them in the same color. Place them in a clear glass vase with the stems arranged in an orderly design. I think this is one of the most stylish ways to display them.

9. Limit your color palette. Decide on a color scheme. To achieve an elegant look, use no more than 2 or 3 colors. Those colors should relate well to each other. If one flower is mostly pink, but has a hint of green and white use those colors to complement the first flower. Using 25,000 different colors will make your fake flower arrangement look all over the place. Focus on a few colors for the best result.

10. Dust them. If you don't keep dust off your fake flowers, they'll look an awful lot like fake flowers. Real flowers don't get dusty! Unless you're one of those who bring your fresh flowers home, put them in a vase and allow them to die in place without a single bit of care.

11. Add fake flowers to real flower arrangements. If there are real flowers that are too expensive or not in season for a special event, replace those with high quality fake ones. If you follow the tips above, few will even notice.

12. Just add water. Some people add water to their fake flower arrangements in clear vases to give the illusion that they are real.

If you would like any more information on sourcing and styling permanent botanicals get in contact with The Style Eddies.

Unless you have been living under a rock in one way or another you would have heard about the term "Fast Fashion". The term ‘fast fashion’ refers to cheaply produced and priced garments that copy the latest catwalk styles and get pumped quickly through stores in order to maximise on current trends. Once having 4 seasons a year it is said that Fast fashion stores can have up to 34 seasons a year. With Australia newly home to fast fashion stores H&M and Zara we have also been exposed to the ever growing fast homewares and interiors. Where the latest interior trends are reproduced at dirt cheap prices allowing us to chop, change and dispose of these homewares as we like.

So what is wrong with decking your home out with on trend items... that are so cheap you're basically stealing them? Sounds like a dream right?

Here are our tips so shop sustainably and smart when it comes to fast homewares.

1. Do you actually need it?

Okay STOP Aimee! I say to myself as I look at the new chairs kmart has released.. do I actually need them ? where am I going to put them ? Yes they are cheap, yes they are very one trend.. but where will you put them? WHY do you NEED this item? .. I don't.

Only purchase items you need and have a purpose behind purchasing, because after all no what what it costs.. even $10 is a lot for a dust collector.

2. Where did the item come from?

Yep.. I am a fan of Australian made and as the owner of a small business I have an understanding of the importance of supporting the little guy. Because when you purchase that ceramic b that someone has had to think and imagine before creating it and then actually making it with their own hands.. it makes you understand the worth behind it. Because the truth is I am going to appreciate, love and nothing going to discard a ceramic a local designer made but I will probably get rid of that ugly trinket dish that was "so 2016" that I cost me $5.00,

3. Upcycle or Recycle.

Check out your local classified to see if there are any goodies that have been upcycled or could be an nice and easy DIY project for yourself otherwise head over toEtsyBecause they have their own range of upcycled goodies for sale!

4. Avoid being on trend.

I am all for having your place look like the pages of vogue but the trick is that none of those home are "on trend" they have all designed and curated their homes to their tastes and for their lifestyle. That's the secret.

If you need a hand to shop sustainabley and find your styleget in touch with one of our stylists.

o

We all know the 70's trend of indoor plants is at its peak right now and coming along with the trend are the added benefits of them such as fresh air, relaxation and a killer colour scheme but did you know there are also more benefits from putting the right plant in the right room ? Here are 5 plants you can use in your bedroom for a better night sleep.

source: domino

1. Aloe Vera.

source: domino

Aloe Vera emits oxygen in the evening leaving your nighttime air fresher and cleaner, can help you combat insomnia, and just get a better night sleep.

It is super easy to look after, reproduces easily, is okay with not alot of sunlight and will be okay if you forgot to water it occasionally.

2. Lavender.

source: williams sonoma

Lavender is a golden oldy being used for its calming effects. The classic smell of lavender slows down your heart rate and reduces anxiety levels.

3. Night Jasmine.

The smell of Jasmine has been shown to improve the quality of sleep, ease anxiety and increase alertness and productivity.

4. English Ivy.

Not so popular in Australia, it is said that English Ivy may be beneficial for those who have breathing problems and asthma. Studies show that it can reduce air molds by 94% in 12 hours. Ivy is easy to grow, just make sure the soil is moist.

5.Valerian.

Like Aloe Vera the plant emits oxygen at night while you sleep taking the carbon dioxide from the air from inside your home.It also filters nasty house hold toxins from the air. Valerian root is used as an anti anxiety treatment and can be found in most natural sleeping aids.

'

If you would like help with selecting plants with your home or office space we have you sorted just get in touch with us.

As a small business Owner, Founder, Director... One head with many hats, I know the importance of a first impression. This can vary from the first impression on a date, a loved one, a business proposal, the party of a life time, or even your dream home.

The fact is.. at the end of the day it all comes down to your visual identity and how that correspondences with the audience receiving it and according to the experts you only have 7 seconds to do so.

As a Creative Director I cannot stress that when you have that someone land on your blog, social media, website, party, or open home you only have 7 seconds to love them, embrace them and keep them there before they're gone.

After all at the end of the day whether it is for personal reasons or business, it is all about the photos. Through the photography we sell ourselves, our business, our product and we also look back at those photos as memories with loved ones for those once in a life time events such as Weddings and beautiful mile stones. So if the photos are below par, they will let and your audience down.

Having done the hard yards and working on whatever your project is visually before launching it out to your audience can save you so much stress and energy in the long haul .

So my take away thought is -

"First impressions are the most lasting - proverbs "

If you need an over haul of your first impression be it interiors, events, business or property, email our little studio to discuss how we can create magic.

Okay the time has come to get your place on the market but before you have the photographer come or even get the agent to give you a list price it is important to have your home be the best version of itself.

Here is our check list to keep you on track.

Looking good from the street: Make sure your property is appealing and inviting from the front as many prospective purchasers do a drive by inspection before organizing an inspection - this way you can hook them from the start with freshly washed house and beautiful gardens.

Light and Bright: Before every viewing give your property a quick clean and open all the windows and interior doors – it’s surprising how much difference it makes to the light.

Cut the clutter: Remove anything in the home that is not used regularly or that does not assist in the look you are going for the in home. Put it away or hire storage and stock up there.

Set the scene: Set your furniture in place ready for photos to create the largest proportions you can. You may want to hire furniture to create the look you desire. This is a great way to transform your home and give it extra appeal.

Odd Jobs: Any little last minute jobs from painting the half painted bedroom to fixing the leaky tap... get it done because if you can see it - guaranteed your buyers can and it might be too much work for them.

Get Fresh: Remove all lived in smells from smoke to pets. Invest in some lovely candles, buy some fresh flowers and open the windows.

Light: Double your light and space with the use of mirrors and lamps of all sizes.

Pets: Always clean and tidy up after your pets and take them out of the property during open times.

We love Warmth: Use the weather to your advantage .. if it is a hot Summers day turn on the cooling and fans with the open windows to create a cool breezy house. On cold Winter days create warmth and ambiance within the home with use of heating and candles.

HOT TIP: Be easy on yourself and get a professional opinion with your local property stylist or via an e-consultation.

As a "Stylist" the most difficult space to style is your own. Why? I have to think of budget ( and stick to it), I try my hardest to stick to my own style and sometimes that a bit of everything, and lastly I need to make sure it all fits (even the odd bits) and the layout works. So if I could give you any cheat sheet this would be it - it helps me avoid a major melt down every single time.

1. Start BIG and work your way in.

Okay lets take a moment look at the space well and think of want you want first. From there, get your choice of sofa, coffee table, lamps, and other big furniture before going to the smaller pieces. It'll help in adjusting and balancing the furnishings. BONUS: A tape measure will be your best friend in this process.

2. Want modern ? keep it neutral.

I always try to keep it neutral because I know I will be using the neutral home-wares alot longer than the on trend pieces and will have less of a desire to change them too often. If you do go out there with the colour however just make sure they actually work.

3. Elegant and timeless

If you are struggling for a style, simply go elegant and timeless. Look for pieces you are going to love 10 years from now. BONUS: Think Hamptons...

4. Color power.

Just make sure you use complementing colors, and nothing too flashy or out of scheme. FREE DOWNLOADABLE: SEE COLOUR CHEAT SHEET

5. Finish with accessories

To finish off and tie the space togther always use accessories last. Start with classy metallics, then add subtle elements that make the look more you. Vintage pieces or indoor plants are great choices! and dont freak out with a space you dont like until you add the accessories as you may end up loving it with a killer palm and great cushions.

source: instragram / pantone

Unless you have been living under a rock for the beginning of 2017 you would be aware of the ever growing 'greenery"around us from social media to the super cool trend of indoor plants.

You can thank all of this to Pantones 2017 colour of the year "Greenery". Self described as " fresh and zesty yellow-green shade that evokes the first days of spring when nature’s greens revive, restore and renew. "

I personally love the lush green and silent reminder of a exotic outdoor oasis that is naturally calming. note: Download FREE Create Calming Interiors Mini Design Plan

So here are 5 quick ways to get your fix of 2017 "Greenery".

1. Soft Furnishings.

A quick and super inexpensive way to try out a trend or new colour palate is with soft furnishings. Try out of your bed or a neutral couch. You can start with layering one or two cushions or throw over some beautiful neutral fabrics to create a lush little spot.

source: ali express

2. Do some reading.

Why not buy some cute books that will not only bring in the colour palate you want but also educate you on the subject of other ways to bring in greenery as well.

We personally love INDOOR GREEN LIVING by bree claffey.

source:Freedom

3. Buy something you can eat off of.

Invest in some great new ceramic plates! We love this one because you can style them however you like under plants, on book shelves or even eat off them and use them in a dinner table setting.

source:Jo Headington

4. Does it smell good?

If you are about to buy some new candles or oil infusers try a scent that has the colour palate you would like in its packaging or maybe the oil has a green ting to it. BUT do not sacrifice colour over a scent you love. Just put some great foliage next to it or some green trinkets.

source: ecoya

5. Indoor Greenery

If you havent jumped on the band wagon already GET AN INDOOR PLANT! There is no better greenery than the natural kind. They filter your air, depending on the plant remove lived in smells and just help create your own little oasis.

Need help implementing these hints or want to create a completely one of design for your home ?Contact us and we will create your dream space.

As 2016 is coming to a sudden but likely end, we are now exposed to the design trends of 2017. Although you may have read about what they are - how to do actaully make practial use of them ?

Some of these trends we have been accustom to for some time, some are going to take a while to get our heads around and some way be a repeat of the 80's.

Whatever these trends are, love them or hate them - we are going to show you how make them work for your home.

1. Hello there, Terracotta.

Okay, I know what you're thinking. Terracotta, Gran and Grandpas place, throw it back to the 90's.

But like most repeated trends with will be terracotta with a twist.

Forget the rustic nature of it, or the paths that were enclosed with a terracotta boarder and think more sleek and chic. Keep it simple with a matte finish and only use as a feature.

Think Santorini, earthy shades. Brushed white wood table. Blue china dinner set. Yeah? Yeah.

An easy way to bring this trend into your home is to update your plates with greece insprired prints and terracotta trimming, replant your indoor plants and house them in some chic terracotta pots (matte ones of course) or invest in a terracotta coloured rug.

2. Lets cork about it.

No we are not talkging about cork floors or notice boards. We are talking about warm and practical feature walls that would be an asset to any room.

Bring this trend into your home in a budget friendly way with cork homewares ie: Pendant lighting or take the jump and apply to your choice of wall inside or outside.

3. Get a little fancy.

It is time to move over scandi and bring in over the top luxury to the bedroom.

Bring this into the home with the use of velvet, upholested bed heads and mettalic accessories. To get the longest life out of your new bedhead, pick a neautral colour so you can mix and match soft furnishings such as bedding and cushions.

4. Closed living plan.

The open living floor plan is out and the closed living plan is in. But before you go changing your floor plan completely start with one quiet room such as a parents retreat, study or libary or enclosed kids area.

5. Jewels.

It is time to over haul your interiors and add those touches of luxury. Accessories your home with touches of jewels such as mettalics, metals, raw cut quartzs and opals to add a touch of sparkle. To complete the look dress your windows in sheers, silks or light fabrics.

Interior Stylist extraordinaire Aimee Davies gives the lowdown on creating a dreamy space (even if you don't plan on moving).

1. Pick the perfect paint color: When you go to pick paint, either go for a perfect shade of white, a color that flatters every skin tone, or go for bold in a dark shade of red of brown or even black. Ceilings painted white or cream tend to make the room feel larger.

2. Make your bathroom look like a hotel: This means a counter free of products except a couple that have pretty packaging. Rolled up white towels in a basket and a potted plant look clean.

3. Add a bedroom seating area: It seems counter-intuitive to pack in more furniture, but if you have the space put an upholstered bench or chair and a side table in a corner. It'll give the impression that the room is larger.

4. Style your coffee table like a pro: When designing the top of your coffee table, start with something large and wonderful in the middle: a floral in an interesting pot, a huge bowl (maybe filled with sea urchins or something else interesting). Then build out from that: stacks of art books, candles, sculpture or pottery. Make it interesting and change it regularly.

5. Layer the lighting: Ambient lighting makes a room. Place floor and table lamps at different heights around the room...it is the essence of design romance. Hanging lights (pendants and chandeliers) can be low over dining tables, but need to otherwise be high enough so that tall people don't bump their heads. Sconces look great in larger rooms but tend to hoard wall space and limit options in small rooms.

6. Quickly tie a room together: Whenever I put live white orchids in a room it instantly looks fresh and inviting. Place a throw on the sofa. Plump the pillows, open an art book to a beautiful photograph...and turn the page when you get bored with it. Group together the like items of accessories: little deities or white vases or jars of sharp pencils if it's an office.

7. Don't forget about the outdoors: Think about the indoor and divide the outdoor space into rooms. What will you be doing in each room? If you have the space, do a dining room and living room. The furnishings should relate to what you will be doing in each space. Put two chairs and a little drinks table in an area that no one uses and suddenly you have a new room!

8. Make a good first impression for your guests: Statistically, you have eight seconds at the front door to get a favorable emotional response from guests. Paint your front door an unexpected color. It sends the message that your home is well cared for.

9. Lengthen your ceiling: To create an illusion of taller ceiling or larger windows, hang curtains from as high up as possible!

10. Don't be boring: I like to vary sizes and shapes of decorative pillows to add interest. Every now and then stick a round one in the mix. Nothing is more boring that going to a dinner party with all the same types of people right? Same with pillows. Make it interesting!

There are many interior decorators and property stylists to choose from but they are not all the same.

So how do you choose who will best help you to make the most profit on your home in the least amount of time and decrease your stress levels in the process of selling your home?

A property stylist’s website and Facebook page are a fantastic starting point. Most stylists detail information on their services, testimonials, their current statistics on sales time and profit and images of their recent work.

Even better, why not head out and attend some open homes and see the stylist’s work in person. This allows you to see the complete package, not just the best work from the best angles in the stylist’s portfolio.

You will need to check the following:

1) Relevance of the styling to the market – keeping in mind the style and era of the house, the suburb and the price bracket – the styling needs to be inspirational but achievable for the buyer in order to create the WOW for that particular market (believe it or not there is quite a science to property styling!).

2) Make note of the quality and the quantity of furniture, floral arrangements, artwork, rugs and accessories installed – you need to compare apples with apples on price and the home should not be cluttered nor too minimally styled. Be wary of companies who rush to discount as they will likely cut corners on your styling and this could cost you tens of thousands on your end-selling price.

3) Is there a cohesive style or theme running through the home – putting antiques into a new build home just does not work. However, putting classic modern items and colour into an older style home can work beautifully when done well. Consistency throughout the home is essential.

4) Has the stylist paid attention to all the details by ironing bed linen, created clear traffic zones and planned and co-ordinated furniture and accessories? What about attention to seating layouts with sofas and chairs to maximise views but to also ensure that a TV and entertainment unit fit into the styling. Everyone has a TV and buyers need to know where to put it… not every living area can be styled as a “sitting room”. Of equal importance is that the property has been styled for the number of people likely to be living in the home (eg. ensuring that the dining table is not a small 5 piece setting in a three bedroom family home that simply won’t fit the family around it at dinner time). The aim of styling is to give the home the WOW factor and also to allow the prospective buyer the vision of how they could live in the property.

5) Keep in mind that a stylist is creating a look in a home for the widest cross section of the buying market, so while you may not love the look for your own living style, understand the art of styling a home is to connect with as many buyers as possible. Once you have narrowed down your list of potential stylists you will need to meet with them to determine if they understand you and your property. Most importantly, do they make you comfortable and do they give you confidence in achieving a great outcome (both styling and financial return)? Remember that you will be working as a team with your property stylist and your real estate agent during the selling process so you need to find someone you can get along with.

I know from personal experience that there have been a number of projects we have said no to, as we haven’t felt 100% confident that styling would add value to the property without first attending to important issues such as painting and recarpeting. Honesty between the stylist and the client is such an important element.

When you engage a property stylist to design a styling package for your home, you are engaging a professional who understands the real estate market and knows how to bring out a property’s full potential to make you the most amount of money on the sale in the least amount of time. Be aware that you should plan in advance for your styling, as there can be a two to three week waiting period, especially over the busy spring and summer periods.

We all know that house hunting can be daunting and well repetitive, so here are some thoughts on how to make your next open home a winner, whether your an owner or real estate agent.

1. Have a nice set up fresh linen that you put on the bed the day of the open home and then put away until the next one to stop it getting dirty and stale. Plus who doesn't love the smell of fresh linen?

2. PLANTS! Get those plants inside! They mask lived in smells, or invest in a naturally fragrant plant like jasmine to get it smelling amazing.

3. Play up the season or weather! If its raining get the fire place going and make it cosy, or if its a killer summer day then make the place bright, light and open. note: Best to plan ahead with this one

4. Keep it ambient. If you're missing the dimmer or some pendents to create ambience get some get candle holders to act the exact same may and you can always move them and play with different heights! - Keep them high enough that the kids cant grab them.

5. Keep it fresh, take any tired homewares away and dress it with some new ones or contact a stylist to help dress it for you.

Heres to a great open home!

I am obsessed with plants. Its a fact (even though they might not all make it out alive). Indoor plants calm us, make us relaxed, clean the air and hide the lived in smells of our home.

Indoor plants are having a huge resurgence as people are wanting to soften minimal and contemporary spaces and bring nature inside. The greenery needs to be carefully curated, though it still has to be clean, bold and also thrive in its spot. Use contrasting foliage texture for interest. Pots can easily blend with interior decor, we are seeing more pots with texture and character come through, although shapes are simple and we still want the plant to take centre stage.

TREND ALERT - If you cant commit to a live plant try some foliage pieces in an oversized vase or a vintage piece.

Tips for indoor plant success:

1. Firstly, choose the right plant for your conditions and climate. Indoor plants in general like a well-lit filtered sun position. Avoid placing them next to hot western sun coming through windows in the afternoon. Dark areas need special consideration.

2. Cacti and succulents can work well inside – but check, as some demand full sun all day – common jades and crassulas work well, epiphyllum trailing succulents are great. Keep them drier inside.

3. Use one bold floor plant with height – giant-leaf strelitzia, fiddle-leaf fig, and ficus ‘burgundy’ all perform well – and use smaller trailing plant on shelves or coffee table plant specimen for interest.

4. Best performers in darker spots include peperomias, aspidistra and all mother-in-law’s tongue (sansevieria) varieties, devil’s ivy for trailing.

5. Apply liquid feed, such as Nitrosol or Aquasol, to plants every fortnight during the spring and summer.

6. As a general rule when watering, best do it in the shower, sink or outdoors – drench the plant to make sure its fully damp, then allow to dry out in between watering, although check your individual plants need. If your plant is very dry it may need a bucket soak.

7. If you take plants outside for a holiday in the sun make sure its soft morning sun only or they have a shock and leaves could easily burn.”

Hello 2016!

My 2016 started in a small country town in NSW surrounded by new and familar faces, it was quiet, simple and beautiful. It brought me back to basics and the most outstanding thing I came to find was my love of the native flora. The native flora is set in a open, airy and magnificent surrounds which many of my clients try to recreate in their homes - city and country alike.

The Eucaltypt is one of our most dominant flora being quinestially Australian. Most people love it with its bursts of red flowers. Pair the flowers with surorunding greens, pinks and oranges for a comteporay feel or simply leave them as a centre peice in a neutral space of whites and times.

Australian Native Flowers work well with Minimal, Industral, Scandinavian or Colonial settings usually being neutral and filled with a varity of textures and timbers.

For a classic, modern feel I stick to simples and beautiful flowers such as orchids and lilies. Period homes attract larger flowers such as roses and hyrandgas and for a Coastal feel simple fresh whites such as daisies, babys breath surrounded by green foliage and perhaps a beautiful native Warratah.

Again keep things simple, open and airy for the most impactful effect.

What are your favourite flowers to include in your home? Comment below with your ideas, interests and loves.

If you'd like personalise blooms for your home get in touch and we'd love to help.

X Aimee - The Style Eddies

1. Declutter

Pairing things back and simplifying the space makes a world of difference and is often under estimated, even de-personalising a space and removing family photos can help.

2. Focus on key rooms

Focus on the main rooms to be photographed for the internet as these are the ones which will help the buyers choose which properties they will inspect. The kitchen is a very important room and must be clean and decluttered with perhaps just a coffee machine, a bowl of green apples or a small vignette of a cookbook, herb pots and mortar and pestle.

3. Consider your proportions

The rooms need to have well proportioned furniture to suit the size of the room and should contain a focal point, be it a great sofa, accent cushions or a colourful interesting art work. Also consider which angle the photos will be taken from and avoid showing the backs of sofas and chairs.

4. Neutralise the space

A lick of neutral paint always freshens up a space, allowing you to add pops of colour through art and decorative cushions which can be changed seasonally. Colour draws the buyers emotionally. For example soft blues and grey to create a feeling of relaxation and brighter oranges and yellows to energise the living areas.

5. Fresh flowers for the win

Especially for photography purposes. Greenery or flowers adds freshness to a space and adds impact to photography. “We often use greenery to enhance the decor in the home and help link the rooms with the garden or outdoor space,”