"Bugs Be Gone: Product Review"

You guys already know I've been loving my patio this year.  Even though it's been a steamy summer, it's been a little more bearable with the addition of two new products I was recently asked to review.

 

 

The first is a lantern insect zapper.  Now, you know I'm all about form and not just function, so first off I appreciate its streamlined design. 

 

 

According to the maker, the Stinger^® Insect Zapper Lantern is a portable, cordless and rechargeable bug zapper. It is designed for both indoor and outdoor use and covers up to 625 sq. ft. – approximately the size of a 25x25 sq. ft deck or patio space.  That's pretty much my entire patio.

 

Call me crazy but I sort of like the fact that I can hear the bugs getting zapped.  Perhaps it's the fact that I know it's working.  I think this is great for evenings out on the patio as the UV light seems to lure bugs in.  And when it's not in use, it looks pretty nice too. 

 

 

 

 

The second is a mosquito repellent lantern and trust me I needed this one more than anything. I am a mosquito magnet!  I like to think it's because I'm so sweet.  : )

   Again, what I like most about the mosquito lantern, other than the fact it repels mosquitoes, is its decorative design.  It fits in perfectly in with my décor.   

 

 

According to Stinger^®, the mosquito repellent is made with ALL NATURAL active ingredients, the lantern lets you enjoy your time outside with powerful mosquito protection that’s DEET-free and safe around family and pets. The blue lantern can be used hanging or on the tabletop, making it perfect for the patio and deck, or any outdoor space. The lantern uses a fan-dispersion technology to repel mosquitoes within a 15-foot radius.

It's the perfect barrier between me and that fountain I love that seems to like to bread mosquitoes this time of year.  It operates like a citronella fan and I can attest to the fact that this one really works.  I sat outside for an hour and fifteen minutes without a single bite and, trust me, THIS does not happen. 

You can find more info on both products HERE. 

Don't let bugs stop you from enjoying your outdoor living space.  I know I'm not.  The heat?  Well, that's another story.

Until next time...

"Mood Boards: Concept to Reality"

I just put the final touches on a design plan for my new client's family room. Surprisingly, this is often the most difficult part for me.  I think it's the fact that there are so many options and so many directions you could take things, that it can become a bit overwhelming. 

I make ever effort to listen really closely to what my clients say and get a good feel for their style and lifestyle during the on-site consultation.  Armed with this info, I work to put together a mood board designed to give them a sense of what the space will look like when completed.  Now, for many design bloggers, these boards are more electronic design (e-design) plans, outlining specific items to be utilized in the space. 

I'm always sure to explain that these mood boards are merely conceptual and may not include the exact items that will be used in the project.  Now, I know for some that can be a bit concerning, so I like to show them exactly what I mean.

It's pretty cool to see how a past concept became a reality.  Here are a few great examples...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you look closely you'll notice that many of the pieces that appear in the reveal photos aren't the same ones that appeared in the mood board.  However, it's amazing that they still look pretty much the same from concept to reality.  You may have noticed that the one thing that does remain the same is the area rug.  That's because it's typically where I begin and with it usually having such visual impact on the space, I like to make certain we all agree on at least that element of the design.

My goal in sharing these past projects with them is to hopefully get them to put a little bit more trust in me.  Thankfully, it usually works.  I can't wait to share my latest project plan with you guys.  Here's hoping they like it!

Until next time...