As seen in Elf (Enjoy Life to the Fullest) Magazine, produced by The Keene Sentinel.

Beyond designing a home that feels warm and attractive is the art of creating a space that invites conversation. You can probably picture a house you always love to visit, a place that holds lots of memories. Of course, it’s the people that make it special, but what else? What’s unique about the layout, the style, and the finishing touches?

My mom once said to me, “Wherever I sit in your home, I find something really interesting.” It was such a compliment because that’s what has always made me love home décor—creating sweet surprises inside and out. 

If you love to entertain and you’re always looking for ways to step up your hosting, think about blending in pieces that start a story. So when your friend inevitably asks: “What’s the deal with your taco towels?” you have a tale to tell. 

Maybe it’s the one about eating tacos until you almost burst on that trip with your hubby. Or maybe it’s about the time you and your sister collided in the kitchen, sending a whole tray of tacos sailing. Many of the most memorable stories end with a long laugh and an invitation for everyone else around the table to share their own.  

Some of my best distinctive home décor stories come from my travels and others arise as thoughtful gifts. In fact, bringing a hilarious hostess gift when visiting friends has become a tradition of mine. Now they each have something to tell about, too. I always keep a few tricks up my sleeve when it comes to home décor that starts a conversation.

Outdoor Whimsy

Sharing a cocktail in the garden and catching up with close friends has got to be one of life’s most pleasurable pastimes. When summer is in full swing and the blooms are popping, I could kick back for hours just swapping stories.

But a garden doesn’t just become this kind of setting by accident. It’s something you dream up all winter, put into motion in spring, and fully enjoy in the summer. A gorgeous pot here, a shaded bench there, and a touch of whimsy always do the trick to make guests feel both welcome and eager to see more. Peeking behind the petunias, you might spy a rainbow of toadstools. And, as the conversation lulls, listen for the gentle trickle of a water feature. 

Even seating can be used to add creativity. A classic, sealed wood is very New England. And you can also branch out with colors that burst as much as your blooms. This year, bright, bright, bright has been in, with hues like creamsicle orange and tropical teal. Adding these unexpected shades brings the backyard to life. 

Kitchen Indulgence

While the garden is the perfect place to start a gathering, you’ll want your touches to be just as thoughtful when you move indoors. This is especially true if you have guests staying overnight or spending the weekend. 

For this very reason, I’ve noticed many people adding a fun and practical feature to their kitchens—a coffee bar. Meaningful mugs, an iconic sign, and different blends to choose from are perfect conversation starters. Not only will your guests be impressed, but it’s also a decadent addition to your very own Saturday morning. 

On that note, keep in mind that eye-catching signage in the kitchen can go way beyond the wall. I love it when I’m drying dishes at a friend’s house and look down to see a particular piece that speaks to their personality. There are those special platters that only come out for a party or witty wine cups that get everyone giggling. 

Kitchen windows are another spot I always keep an eye out for distinctive home décor. Lately, it’s all about sweet succulent tea parties and delicate air plants in their glass globes. These little plants and trinkets pack so much personality. What story do your window sills tell? 

Brave Bathrooms 

I’ve seen bathrooms with tiny terrariums, audacious jokes, flower-crowned farm animals—you name it. Last year, our community from The She Shed got together to craft fairy gardens in a class with Kathryn’s Florist of Winchester. Not only was it a huge hit, but I’ve loved hearing and seeing what people have done with their gardens at home. 

Décor is truly so personal and gives you a chance to mix and match to your heart’s content. For me, I enjoy a range of styles, like farmhouse, primitive, country, heirloom, and even industrial. The amazing thing is that when I take the time and think about what story I want to tell, all of these different styles blend together.