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Dear Jessica,
 
I was planning to get started with a few decorating projects that I’ve had in mind for some time, however, I am wondering if I should hold off until the economy stabilizes. What do you suggest? — Jana, Greensboro

Dear Jana,

The home decorating business has gone through quite a few ups and downs in the past year. Manufacturers have had to downsize their factories and outsource products to stay competitive and maintain sales volume. In some cases, companies in business for decades have had to close their doors.

The industry has had to change to keep up with turbulent economic times. Since profits are down and there will be tough times in the future for home décor vendors, bargains are trickling into the marketplace and incredible deals await those interested in updating their décor.

While the home décor industry has been hit hard by the current state of the economy, the reality for consumers is fantastic. For the first time in my almost 20 years in the industry, the wholesale bargains are amazing. On my end, not a week goes by that I don’t receive an e-blast from an accessory or furniture vendor offering extra incentives to place orders.

A trend I have noticed with furniture vendors is that they are waiving any freight costs, which can result in a substantial savings. The hard and fast rules of buying in volume are also being eliminated, where you can now purchase items such as a single chair or ottoman and still qualify for the discounts.

If you are ready to buy, now is in fact a great time to take advantage of savings that might not be around for long.   

Customer service also has been turned up a notch. Lead times, once eight to 12 weeks, are now three to six weeks.

If you are unsure about starting to redecorate, there is no better time to begin making your space into a haven. The easiest way to create an impressive space — and stay on budget — is to develop a plan and stick with it. If you need assistance, I highly recommend hiring a professional designer or decorator to help you work out a plan, execute it, or provide a well-thought-out shopping list to assist you. You can still tackle your project in stages if necessary.

Many people say they would love to hire a designer, but are concerned about the high cost. In fact, now is also a great time to bring in a design professional because of the potential savings. Most decorators and designers will charge a consulting fee and a fee that includes commission on purchased goods. With wholesale incentives in the marketplace, the savings are passed along to the customer.

A design professional can create a signature space filled with unusual and interesting products not readily available to the masses. Designers also can ensure that a project stays within budget.

I recommend that you begin your long-awaited project knowing that you will get to enjoy your new space for a long time to come. You also will be stimulating the local economy because North Carolina is, after all, the hub of the furniture industry here on the East Coast.   

Jessica Dauray is owner of Elements of Style Interiors, a full-service interior design firm with offices in Greensboro and Wilmington. Visit her Web site at www.elementsofstyleinteriors.com. Have questions for Jessica? E-mail her at jessicaofeos@bellsouth.net.