The other day, I was visiting my parents’ house, and I found myself just pausing for a moment and taking it all in.
You know that feeling when you’re somewhere that just feels…right? As I stood there, I wondered why this place makes me feel so welcomed, so safe, and just plain cozy.
It wasn’t about the furniture or the paint colour on the walls (though, don’t get me wrong, my mom’s got great taste!). It was the little things scattered around that really caught my attention—like the antique black glass sign that says “J. Carew Lumber” hanging in their TV room.
That sign might not mean much to anyone else, but to me, it’s a little piece of history from the home I grew up in, which belonged to Mr. Carew, one of the founding members of our town.
Or the vintage law books stacked on the bookcase in the corner—those used to be in my dad’s law office, and I remember them from when I was a little girl. They remind me of visits to his law firm, waiting for him to finish up so we could go get ice cream together.
I realized that what makes my parents’ home feel so good isn’t just about how it looks, but about how it FEELS —thanks to these meaningful pieces that carry stories, memories, and connections to our family’s past.
That’s when it hit me: decorating isn’t about creating some “perfect” space that looks like it came straight out of a magazine.
It’s about surrounding yourself with things that bring you joy, comfort, and a sense of belonging.
Letting Go of Perfection
It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing your home to the ones you see on Instagram or in design shows. I’ve been there myself, scrolling through beautiful, perfectly styled spaces and feeling that little twinge of, “Why doesn’t my house look like that?”
But here’s the thing—those spaces are STAGED. They’re curated, edited, and highly styled to be photographed so that we can be inspired, but they’re not exactly real life. At least not in that photographed moment.
When you start decorating with the goal of making your home look “perfect,” it’s easy to lose sight of what really matters: how your space makes you FEEL.
A home that feels authentic, comforting, and truly yours will always beat out a cookie-cutter version of the latest design trends.
The goal is to create a space that brings you a sense of peace when you walk through the door, and NOT to impress someone scrolling on their phone.
Why Decorating with Meaning Matters
Decorating with meaning is about being intentional with the pieces you choose to have around you. It’s more than just filling a room with pretty things—it’s about surrounding yourself with objects that tell a story or hold a special place in your heart.
When your home reflects you—your history, your passions, your loved ones—it becomes a place that’s truly YOURS. And that feeling of comfort and connection? You can’t buy that at any furniture store.
For example, think about those vintage law books at my parents’ house. Yes, they’re styled beautifully on the black bookcase, but what makes them special is knowing they were a part of my dad’s life for so many years.
Or that horse on the shelf in their living room—it reminds me that my mom used to be a fairly accomplished equestrian before she had children.
It’s those kinds of pieces that add character and warmth to a space, making it feel lived-in and loved.
How to Start Decorating with Meaning (Without Feeling Overwhelmed)
I know it can be intimidating to get started, especially if you’re worried about making your home look “just right.” But here’s the good news: when you’re decorating with meaning, there’s no such thing as “wrong”. It’s about what makes you feel good in your space.
Here are a FEW SIMPLE STEPS to help you get started:
1) Identify What Matters to You
Take a moment to think about items that bring you joy or hold special memories. It could be something that reminds you of your childhood, a family heirloom, or even a souvenir from a favourite trip. Look around your home—what makes you smile when you see it?
2) Find a Place of Honour for These Items
Don’t just tuck meaningful pieces away. Display them proudly! Whether it’s putting a vintage family photo in a beautiful frame, setting a treasured book on the coffee table, or hanging a piece of art that reminds you of a special memory, find a spot where you can enjoy these items daily.
3) Blend Meaningful Pieces with Your Decor
You don’t have to sacrifice style for sentimentality. Combine meaningful objects with your existing decor to create a look that feels cohesive and intentional. For instance, add a few cherished keepsakes to a styled shelf or incorporate personal items into a gallery wall. It’s all about mixing the old with the new in a way that feels authentic.
4) Reframe Your Mindset About Your Home
Remember, your home is for you. It’s not about impressing guests or mimicking what’s trending online. It’s about creating a space where you feel grounded, peaceful, and happy. Let go of the idea that everything has to be “just so” and embrace the beauty in a home that’s filled with personal touches and real-life moments.
The Takeaway: It’s About How Your Home MAKES YOU FEEL!
At the end of the day, it’s not about whether your home could be featured in a magazine. It’s about how your space makes you feel when you walk through the door.
When you decorate with meaning, you’ll create a home that’s not just stylish, but truly comforting and authentic—a space that tells your story.
So, take a look around. Is there something special that’s tucked away in a drawer or hidden on a top shelf?
Bring it out, give it a place of honour, and start creating a home that’s a reflection of you.
