Have you ever wanted help choosing a perfect paint color but didn’t need a full service designer? Consider calling an interior stylist. An interior stylist is a new breed of design professional that specializes in adding those finishing touches that make all the difference!

To give you an example of how a stylist might work with you on your paint color, here are several techniques that I use to help my clients:

1. We choose one or two of your favorite colors already present in the fabrics in your room.

2. Then we look for paint in matching, paler, deeper or muted versions of those colors. If you chose neutral colors (i.e. wheat, stone, white, etc.,), they can flow into adjoining rooms as well.

3. Next we use the paint to create a large "paint chip" by painting a 3’x4’ piece of "Foamcore" board (available in art & craft stores).

4. We then simulate that color in your room by using your paint chip as a backdrop for a vignette: I’d arrange an upholstered chair, a side table and a lamp, a plant and a few accessories. I would even hang a small picture on the "wall" to complete the illusion.

5. Then, we step back and see what the effect was. It’s a very realistic way for you to see the color. (Much more so than testing paint swatches on a bare wall.)If you love the vignette, you’re just about assured of loving the entire room feeling that way!

6. If the color isn’t quite what you wanted, we can still use that information to make further decisions. For instance, we’ll know to look for a yellow that has less of an olive and more of a tan undertone.

The best part is finding the perfect wall color in your rooms so your furnishings feel right at home and so will you!