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September 26.2025
4 Minutes Read

Excitement Unleashed: My Brother’s House Featured in Better Homes & Gardens

Woman smiling with magazine in modern kitchen featured in Better Homes and Gardens.

Exciting Showcase: My Brother's River House in a Renowned Magazine

As homeowners and design enthusiasts alike know, getting a feature in a respected publication can be a huge milestone. Recently, my brother's stunning river house graced the pages of the October issue of Better Homes & Gardens, receiving a lavish 10-page spread. It was a moment filled with excitement but also a fair share of anxiety. Would the portrayal reflect the warmth and love of my brother's family, along with the vibrant creativity that went into transforming their home?

In the months leading up to the publication, I carefully curated a pitch deck, showcasing every nook and cranny that I felt conveyed the essence of the space. It’s not just about getting into a magazine; it’s about storytelling—developing a narrative that connects with readers. After a phone interview where I made sure to highlight the incredible efforts of my brother and his family, I anxiously awaited the magazine’s release.

Finally, the big day arrived, and picking up the magazine was a mix of anticipation and nervousness. The moment I flipped through to see the beautifully captured images and thoughtful layout, all fears vanished. Credit to the talented writer Jody Garlock, who meticulously crafted the article, and editor Kathy Barnes, who ensured that it resonated with the magazine's audience. The article not only showcased my brother's home but also paid homage to their journey as a family.

The Heartfelt Journey Behind the Camera

Photography played a crucial role in bringing the home to life, thanks to my talented friend and photographer, Kaitlin Green. The images captured the cozy, inviting nature of the space, allowing readers to feel as though they were stepping directly into our family memories. There’s something special about seeing a home represented authentically. The magazine did just that, portraying not only the aesthetics but also the emotions tied to each room and decorative choice.

Team Retreat: Crafting Our Vision

In addition to this exciting publication, I recently took the team on a well-deserved retreat to Manzanita, Oregon. We secured a beautiful beachside Airbnb designed by Max Humphrey, which exuded charm and inspiration. Each day, we devoted a few hours to brainstorming creative strategies for our future projects. We delved into gift guides, content planning for 2026, and innovative social media ideas.

The evenings were dedicated to relaxation and bonding, filled with laughter and joy. Our exploration of nearby towns such as Cannon Beach and Nehalem Bay only enriched our experience. On our third night, instead of dining out, we found ourselves in the cozy environment of our Airbnb, cutting up magazines for a vision board session accompanied by reality television. It fostered a creative spark that was palpable in the air.

The Intersection of Work and Play: A Design Perspective

Seeing the interplay between work and relaxation is crucial for fostering a productive creative atmosphere. Through the rigorous brainstorm sessions and the joy of leisure activities, we woven together a holistic approach to our upcoming creative direction. With supportive teamwork and inspiration from the gorgeous coastal views, the retreat served as an essential stepping-stone for future endeavors.

These experiences highlight the importance of incorporating joy into our professional lives, especially in home design and renovation. The spaces we create should reflect warmth and happiness—the very essence of what a home represents. My brother’s significant magazine feature stands as a testament to how collaborative effort and personal stories come together to produce something truly special.

Why You Should Engage with the Home Décor Community

As we navigate our journeys in design and home-making, there’s immense value in connecting with a community that shares ideas, inspirations, and encouragement. Diving into magazines, such as Better Homes & Gardens, can provide new insights and techniques that are both practical and aesthetic. They highlight trends and timeless designs, making them a beneficial resource for any homeowner or aspiring decorator.

So, if you're curious about home décor and renovation, grab a copy of the latest issue. Embrace the inspiration it offers and let it drive your creativity in your own living space. Supporting the magazine by engaging with its content can nurture not just your ambitions but also the larger design community.

Final Thoughts: Share the Love

Engaging with exhibitions of creativity within home design and renovation can transform your own living spaces while contributing to a community of enthusiastic homeowners. A heartfelt thank you goes out to my brother’s family, my dedicated team, and everyone who helped make this magazine feature a reality. Here's to more moments that inspire us to stretch our creativity and support one another along the way!

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02.23.2026

Transform Your Living Space: The Secret to Choosing the Perfect Media Cabinet Size

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Unlocking Creativity: Discover Justina Blakeney’s New Book and Must-See Home Tour

Update Exploring Creativity and Connection in Home Design As homeowners, many of us are always on the lookout for fresh inspiration that combines creativity with functionality. In this vibrant week filled with creative endeavors, we dive into three standout elements: an inspiring new book by Justina Blakeney, essential supplies for budding artists, and an impressive YouTube home tour that promises to ignite your passion for design. The Unveiling of Grow: A Journey in Spirituality and Creativity This week, there's much excitement around Justina Blakeney's latest release, Grow: Pathways to Passion, Purpose & Peace. Co-authored with her mother, Dr. Ronnie Blakeney—a psychologist well-versed in personal growth—this guide and oracle deck are designed to help readers engage in self-exploration through daily exercises and insights. Through its imaginative blend of self-help wisdom and artistic cards, Grow encourages individuals to explore their inner world and connect with their passions. As Emily Henderson shared, Justina’s work is a testament to the power of collaboration and shared wisdom, further highlighting how personal stories are woven into creative expression. The book serves as more than just a guide; it's a nurturing tool for anyone looking to reconnect with their true self. Art Supplies for Young Creators In addition to inspirational reads, having the right tools can spark creativity in home environments, especially for children. Emily highlights Lakeshore Learning, a go-to resource for unique and educational toys, particularly in arts and crafts. Their collection includes proprietary items that stand out in quality and creativity, making them fantastic choices for parents seeking something memorable for gifts. With products like no-spill paint cups and carefully curated art supplies, Lakeshore Learning ensures that little hands can explore their artistic side without the associated stress for parents. This makes them an invaluable resource for fostering creativity in children, helping them express themselves through fun and educational mediums. A Must-Watch Home Tour: Transforming Spaces Another exciting feature is the home tour of a recent project by Victoria Sass from Prospect Refuge Studio, which emphasizes the playful yet sophisticated use of color and texture. This one-hour YouTube tour stands as a compelling exploration of design, where every corner of the space tells a story, embodying creativity and functionality. The tour is perfect for any homeowner seeking to refresh their living space or simply draw inspiration from innovative design choices. Sass's ability to blend artistry with practical living is a reminder that our homes can be both beautiful and resonate with our personal narratives. Capturing the Moment and Moving Forward As the week unfolds, we encourage homeowners to embrace inspiration wherever it appears—through books, quality art supplies, or exquisite home tours that redefine our understanding of space. With each interaction, whether it's engaging with Justina's Grow, finding creative outlets for children, or revamping our own living spaces, we enrich not only our homes but our lives. Each resource offers a chance for growth, whether personally or within our spaces. What’s Next for Your Home? Act on Inspiration! Homeowners, take this moment to explore. Whether you choose to delve into the pages of Grow, stock up on educational supplies for your kids, or embark on your own home makeover inspired by Sass’s tour, each choice paves the way toward a more fulfilling living experience. It's about transforming your houses into homes filled with creativity, love, and connection. So, what will you choose today?

02.21.2026

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