After decorating professionally for more than 25 years, I have learned a thing or two about shopping. One of my favorite sources for just about ANYTHING decor-related is Homegoods, and when I go… I’m a girl on a mission- no aimless meandering of the aisles for me. Here are my top tips for how to shop HomeGoods like a pro:
1. Make a list of what you need
Before you even leave for your shopping trip there are a few important things to do, first of all, make a list of what you need. Even with a list in hand, it’s easy to get distracted and off-task at a shop like Homegoods with all its gorgeous items, so walk through your room before you leave a make a quick list of exactly what you need and want to look for!
2. Take photos of your room
I know it sounds funny, especially when it is your home, but photos are SOO helpful to look at while shopping and will help you visualize your room while making decisions on your purchases. Forget fancy photography- just use the camera on your smartphone!
3. Take measurements and pack a tape measure
Another thing to do before you even leave the house is to take measurements for the items you are looking for. This is especially important when shopping for artwork and mirrors- measure the wall you need to furnish so you aren’t coming home with something too small or too large. Lamps, tables, bookshelves, bedding, drapery- I measure EVERYTHING before leaving then bring it with me on my list. Be sure to pack a tape measure to take with you as well.
4. Take paint colors and fabric swatches
I always find it helpful to take swatches of any paint colors or fabrics I need to match, especially when shopping for artwork and bedding/accent pillows. You can put all your paint swatches and fabric samples in a small Ziploc bag and keep them in your car or purse so you have them.
5. Take an inspiration photo
Sometimes you have a specific “look” in mind while shopping and an inspiration photo will keep you focused on items that have the same style you are looking for. For example, maybe you are going for a more sophisticated, modern look in your bedroom, but you spot a really cute rustic lamp- (it’s so easy to get distracted by all the great items Homegoods offers) an inspiration photo will help keep you “on track” for your design goals!
6. Buy more than you need
I am a firm believer in having plenty of options and trying different things when decorating a room, especially when it comes to artwork, lamps, and accessories, so I always buy more than I need. I know it sometimes scares clients when I come to their houses and I unload so many boxes and shopping bags, but I want to give them the best look possible and that may mean I try a few different lamps or pieces of art. Whatever I don’t use can easily be returned, just be sure to save your receipts!
7. Go to more than one Homegoods
This is a real “Homegoods Pro Tip”- inventory in their stores is constantly changing, also, inventory varies quite a bit from store to store, sometimes I go to more than one Homegoods to find everything I need! I know it sounds crazy, but it works.
8. Take your items home for a “test drive”
This is the fun part! First, take all of your wonderful Homegoods finds home and set up a little “staging area” outside of the room you are working on. Unwrap everything and set it all out so you can see it all easily. Next, strip your room of anything you no longer want- old artwork, pillows, lamps, and accessories. Then, start bringing in all of the new items and playing around with everything until you get the look you want! You will probably know very quickly what is working and what is not.
9. Save your receipts
Keep your receipts in a safe place so when it comes time to return any items that did not work out you are ready. Also, try to do your returns in 30 days, everything should have its price tags and original packaging. Homegoods is great about accepting returns as long as nothing is damaged.
I hope these tips will help you with your own decorating projects, Homegoods really is a wonderful resource for all your decorating needs, (though these tips would apply when shopping at any number of home decor stores) good luck, and have fun!
For more tips like these, check out my free 9-page printable “Style Your Home Like a Pro” Guide- with checklists, cheat sheets, and tips for styling every room of your home! CLICK HERE to learn more.
