Tips for a Happier Thanksgiving!

Preparing for a wonderful Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s a simplified guide focusing on the essentials:

Grocery Shopping and Food Prep

  • Fresh Ingredients: Buy your fresh ingredients today to ensure everything is as fresh as possible.
  • Preparation: Start your food prep today. Things like pie crusts and some side dishes can be prepared ahead and stored, saving you time on the big day.

Home Preparation

  • Cleaning: A clean and tidy home sets the perfect stage for a festive gathering. Focus on the dining and living areas, where guests will spend most of their time.
  • Decorations: Embrace the spirit of the season with Thanksgiving-themed decorations like autumn leaves, pumpkins, and candles.
  • Table Setting: Set your table the night before. A well-laid table with a beautiful centerpiece, nice dinnerware, and a festive tablecloth can make a big difference.

On the Day

  • Cooking Schedule: Have a clear cooking schedule. Start with dishes that take the longest to cook, and remember to warm up pre-prepared items.
  • Entertainment: Think about simple activities or games to entertain your guests. This could be anything from board games to a casual walk outside.
  • Relax and Enjoy: It’s important to take a moment to relax and enjoy the festivities. After all, Thanksgiving is about spending quality time with loved ones.

Gratitude and Tradition

  • Sharing Gratitude: A beautiful tradition is to have each guest share something they’re thankful for, fostering a sense of gratitude and togetherness.
  • Upholding Traditions: Whether it’s a special family recipe, a toast, or a game, traditions add a personal touch to your Thanksgiving.

Post-Celebration

  • Efficient Cleanup: Make cleanup easier by enlisting help from your guests. Many hands make light work!
  • Plan for Leftovers: Have containers ready for leftovers. Not only does this help with storage, but guests often appreciate taking a bit of the feast home with them.

Remember, the essence of a great Thanksgiving is not just the food or the perfect table setting, but the joy and gratitude shared with family and friends. By focusing on these key aspects, you can ensure a delightful and memorable Thanksgiving celebration.

Embrace Autumn in Arizona: Fall Decorating Tips for Your Home

Autumn in Arizona may not have the quintessential falling leaves and crisp air that are synonymous with the season, but that doesn’t mean you can’t bring the cozy vibes of fall into your home! With a few creative touches, you can transform your living space into an autumnal oasis, perfect for enjoying a pumpkin spice latte while basking in the warmth of the Arizona sun.

  1. Play With Color: Arizona landscapes are filled with rich, earthy tones that can easily be incorporated into your fall décor. Opt for warm shades of orange, red, and yellow, and complement them with neutrals like beige, brown, and cream. Think burnt orange throw pillows, terracotta vases, and mustard yellow blankets.
  2. Incorporate Natural Elements: Take advantage of the beautiful natural elements found in the Arizona desert. Incorporate succulents, sand, and smooth stones into your fall décor. For instance, create a centerpiece with a wooden bowl filled with sand, topped with a collection of different succulents and stones.
  3. Texture is Key: Fall is all about cozying up, and texture plays a big role in creating a cozy atmosphere. Add textured elements such as woven baskets, knit throws, and plush rugs. Don’t forget to layer up with cozy blankets and pillows for the perfect snuggling spot.
  4. Scent-sational Fall: One of the best parts of fall is the delicious scents that come with the season. Incorporate fall scents into your home with candles, potpourri, or essential oil diffusers. Opt for fragrances like cinnamon, pumpkin spice, apple cider, or even desert-inspired scents like sage or cedar.
  5. Light the Way: As the days get shorter and the nights longer, lighting plays a crucial role in creating a cozy fall ambiance. Add string lights, lanterns, or candles to create a warm and inviting glow. You can also swap out your lampshades for warmer tones to enhance the cozy fall vibe.

Embracing fall in Arizona may require a bit of creativity, but with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a cozy, autumn-inspired oasis in your home. So go ahead, grab your pumpkin spice latte, and enjoy the beauty of fall in the desert!

Halloween Decorating Ideas for Arizona Homes

Arizona may be known for its scorching heat and beautiful deserts, but that doesn’t mean you can’t embrace the spooky spirit of Halloween! There are plenty of unique and creative ways to transform your home into a haunted desert oasis. Here are some ideas to get you started.

  1. Desert-Themed Haunt: Embrace the beauty of the Arizona landscape by incorporating desert-themed decorations. Use sand, rocks, and desert plants like cacti and succulents to create a spooky desert scene. Add in some fake skulls, bones, and cobwebs to turn your front yard into a haunted desert.
  2. Southwestern Spooks: Add a southwestern twist to your Halloween decorations by incorporating elements like Dia de los Muertos skulls, colorful Mexican banners, and southwestern-patterned fabrics. Hang string lights and lanterns to create a festive atmosphere.
  3. Creepy Cacti: Turn your cacti and succulents into creepy Halloween decorations by adding fake spider webs, plastic spiders, and tiny Halloween-themed props. You can also carve faces into your cacti to turn them into desert jack-o-lanterns.
  4. Ghost Town: Transform your home into an abandoned ghost town with wooden signs, old lanterns, and tumbleweeds. Use sheets or white fabric to create ghosts and hang them from trees or your porch.
  5. Glow in the Dark: Since Halloween in Arizona can still be quite warm, take advantage of the balmy evenings by incorporating glow-in-the-dark decorations. Use glow-in-the-dark paint to create spooky signs, and hang glow-in-the-dark skeletons and ghosts around your yard.

Be sure to check out our Pinterest boards on Halloween and Fall Recipes!

No matter how you choose to decorate, the key is to have fun and let your creativity run wild. With these ideas, you’re sure to have the spookiest house in the neighborhood this Halloween season. So go ahead and embrace the spooky spirit of the Southwest!

Is Your Home Holiday Ready?

As the holiday season approaches, the air is filled with festive cheer and the anticipation of joyful gatherings. Here, we’ll explore tips to ensure your Fulton home is dressed in its holiday best and ready to embrace the seasonal spirit.

  1. Embrace a Warm and Welcoming Entryway

Start the holiday magic right at your doorstep! Adorn your front door with a lush, seasonal wreath, and line the entryway with potted poinsettias or evergreens. A festive doormat and twinkling lights around the doorway will make your Fulton Home feel welcoming.

  1. Design Around Your Home’s Features

Fulton Homes are renowned for their thoughtful designs and architectural features. Accentuate these by integrating them into your holiday decor. For instance, if you have a visible staircase, drape it with garland and bows, and if you have a fireplace, don’t forget the stockings and a festive mantel display.

  1. Festive Centerpieces and Table Settings

Create a memorable dining experience by designing a holiday-themed table setting. Use holiday colors, candles, and seasonal flora to craft a centerpiece that captures attention. Don’t forget the holiday crackers and personalized place settings for a thoughtful touch!

  1. Layer with Textiles

Introduce warmth and texture by layering rooms with holiday-themed textiles. Think cozy throw blankets, decorative pillows, and area rugs in festive patterns and colors. These can instantly transform your living spaces and make them feel holiday-ready.

  1. Strategic Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood. String lights, lanterns, and candles create a cozy, festive atmosphere throughout your Fulton home. Consider placing battery-operated candles on window sills and using fairy lights to highlight artwork or architectural features.

  1. Create a Festive Fragrance

Aromatic scents such as cinnamon, pine, and peppermint can transport your senses to a holiday wonderland. Use scented candles, essential oil diffusers, or simmer pots to infuse your home with the delightful aromas of the season.

  1. Personalized Decorations

Introduce a personal touch by incorporating handmade or personalized decorations. Whether it’s ornaments crafted by the kids or a family photo displayed in a festive frame, personalized touches make your holiday decor feel unique and sentimental.

  1. Eco-friendly Approach

In the spirit of giving, consider an eco-friendly approach to decorating. Opt for reusable decorations, energy-efficient lighting, and locally sourced materials. This not only benefits the environment but also adds a thoughtful dimension to your holiday celebration.

  1. Create Themed Zones

Make each room a unique holiday experience by creating themed zones. For instance, have a traditional Christmas setting in the living room, a winter wonderland in the dining area, and a playful, colorful theme in the kids’ rooms.

  1. Safety First

As you adorn your Fulton home with festive flair, don’t forget safety precautions. Ensure that your decorations are fire-resistant, secure loose cords, and keep fragile ornaments out of reach from pets and children.

Getting your Fulton home holiday-ready is an exciting endeavor that combines creativity, tradition, and a sprinkle of magic. By incorporating these tips, you can transform your home into a festive sanctuary that’s warm, inviting, and brimming with holiday cheer. Enjoy the process, and here’s to a holiday season filled with joy and wonderful memories in your Fulton home!

The Benefits of a Neutral Kitchen

In the ever-evolving world of home design and decor, neutral kitchens continue to reign supreme. From the rich tones of natural wood to the clean freshness of white and gray palettes, a neutral kitchen presents a canvas rich with possibility. Here at Fulton Homes, we are advocates for timeless, neutral kitchens that not only enhance the visual appeal of your home but offer numerous other benefits. Let’s delve into the multi-faceted advantages of opting for a neutral kitchen.

Timeless Appeal

Neutral kitchens are revered for their ageless beauty. By choosing neutral colors such as beige, white, or gray, homeowners create a timeless backdrop that stands resilient to changing trends. This foundational palette offers the flexibility to update your accents and decor without a complete kitchen overhaul as styles evolve over time.

Enhancing Space Perception

The neutral palette’s magic lies in its ability to create an illusion of a more expansive space. Light hues reflect natural light, fostering a brighter, airier atmosphere. Whether you have a spacious kitchen or a more intimate setting, a neutral palette will accentuate the dimensions beautifully, giving a more open and inviting feel to your culinary space.

Versatility in Styling

One of the standout features of a neutral kitchen is its compatibility with a variety of design elements. Be it contemporary, classic, or rustic, neutral hues gracefully complement different styles, offering a rich ground for experimentation. You can easily alter the ambiance with the season’s change, replacing summer’s fresh florals with autumn’s warm copper accents, all while retaining the kitchen’s neutral foundation.

Increased Home Value

Real estate experts often point out that neutral designs are a safe bet when it comes to increasing a home’s market value. Prospective buyers are generally drawn to neutral kitchens as they can easily envision themselves customizing the space to suit their preferences. Thus, a neutral kitchen could potentially be a lucrative investment in the long run, facilitating a quicker and more profitable home sale.

Easy Maintenance

Neutral kitchens are not just about aesthetics; they come with the practical benefit of easy maintenance. Lighter hues gracefully conceal minor stains and scratches, ensuring that your kitchen retains its pristine look with minimal effort. Moreover, neutral palettes tend to encourage a peaceful and organized space, helping to maintain a clean and inviting kitchen environment.

A Sanctuary of Calm

A kitchen drenched in neutral tones tends to evoke a calming effect, providing a serene sanctuary amidst the bustling dynamics of daily life. The neutral hues create a harmonious visual flow, encouraging a relaxed and peaceful culinary experience.

Personalization and Adaptability

Lastly, a neutral kitchen serves as a blank canvas, offering endless opportunities for personalization. It’s a space where you can express your changing tastes and preferences over time, adapting to different life stages gracefully, and growing with you and your family.

At Fulton Homes, we are dedicated to crafting kitchens that stand as the heart of your home – a space that is not only visually appealing but also harmoniously integrates functionality with style.

Decorate Your Home Like a Model Home: Part II

Having covered the foundational aspects of decorating your home to emulate the elegance of a model home, let’s delve into some nuanced touches that can elevate your home even further.

1. Personalize Your Space:

While model homes are generic for broad appeal, your home should tell your story. Integrate personal elements like family heirlooms, travel memorabilia, or custom-made items to make your space uniquely yours.

2. Upgrade Hardware and Fixtures:

Swapping out basic knobs and handles with stylish alternatives can instantly give your home a more upscale look. The same goes for light fixtures and faucets.

3. Invest in Quality, Not Quantity:

Instead of filling your rooms with many items, consider investing in fewer, high-quality pieces. This might mean a solid wood coffee table instead of a particleboard one or a hand-knotted rug over a machine-made counterpart.

4. Play with Height and Scale:

Use tall plants or decorative items to draw the eye upward, especially in rooms with high ceilings. Conversely, in smaller rooms, be mindful of scale to ensure the space isn’t overwhelmed.

5. Window Treatments:

Upgrade your curtains or blinds. Drapes that flow from the ceiling to the floor can make your room feel taller, and quality blinds can control the room’s natural lighting.

6. Pay Attention to Outdoor Spaces:

Your home’s exterior and outdoor spaces are as important as the interior. Add cozy seating areas, maintain a tidy yard, and consider features like a fire pit or water feature.

7. Scent-sational Atmosphere:

Engage all the senses. The scent is a powerful mood-setter, so consider diffusers, candles, or potpourri that evoke tranquility and warmth.

While model homes are designed to attract a wide audience, the ultimate goal for your home should be a reflection of your personal style, combined with the timeless appeal of a well-decorated space. Using these guidelines as a foundation, you can craft a home that not only looks like a model home but feels uniquely yours. With a touch of planning and creativity, every corner of your Fulton home can mirror the elegance and comfort of a model home.

Decorate Your Home Like a Model Home: Part I

You’ve visited a model home and were instantly captivated by the upscale allure, harmonious design, and the comfortable yet modern vibe. Whether you own a Fulton home or are simply looking for that high-end designer touch, the secrets to achieving that model home look are closer than you think. Here are the first of several steps to help you transform your living space into something out of a design magazine.

1. Start with a Clean Slate:

Before you even think about décor, declutter your space. Model homes are captivating because of their simplicity. By keeping only the essentials and your most cherished items, you’ll free up space for your new design ideas.

2. Consistency is Key:

Pick a color palette and stick with it throughout your home. This doesn’t mean every room should be the same color, but rather there should be a harmonious flow from one room to another. Soft neutrals mixed with occasional bold colors work wonders.

3. Texturize and Layer:

Model homes often feel luxurious because of the depth created by different textures and layers. Incorporate various fabrics like velvets, silks, and cotton. Add textured rugs, throw pillows, and blankets to give a room depth.

4. Lighting Matters:

The right lighting can transform a room. Ensure you have a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting. Update old fixtures to modern ones. Consider investing in dimmer switches or smart lights to alter the mood with ease.

5. Artfully Arranged Bookshelves:

Don’t cram every book and knick-knack you own onto your shelves. Instead, organize books by size or color, use stylish bookends, and intersperse with attractive décor pieces or plants for a more aesthetic look.

6. Opt for Large Scale Art:

One statement piece often has a more significant impact than several smaller ones. A large painting or print can instantly elevate the room and serve as a focal point.

A model home look isn’t about spending a fortune but making intentional choices about your décor and how you arrange your space. In our next part, we’ll delve deeper into more specific touches you can add to enhance every corner of your home.

Bringing the Great Outdoors Inside: Transform Your Living Space with Natural Elements

Timber Cove Model

Imagine stepping into your home and being greeted by the fresh aroma of a forest, the sight of lively greenery, and the peaceful sense of being amidst nature. While we all can’t have homes with extensive gardens or woodland backyards, there’s a way to experience nature’s charm right within your living spaces. By bringing the outdoors inside, we can transform our homes into rejuvenating sanctuaries that inspire calmness, happiness, and productivity.

Here’s how you can infuse natural elements into your indoor décor and create an organic oasis in the heart of your home.

1. Indoor Plants: A Breath of Fresh Air

Indoor plants are the simplest, yet most effective way to bring nature into your home. Not only do they enhance aesthetics, but they also purify the air and promote well-being. Succulents or air plants make great choices for those who lack a green thumb, as they require minimal care.

2. Natural Lighting: The Sun Inside

Harness the power of sunlight to bring warmth and vibrancy into your home. Try to maximize the amount of natural light that comes into your rooms by using light curtains, or simply repositioning furniture. If you don’t have large windows, strategically placed mirrors can help bounce the light around, illuminating even the darkest corners.

3. Materials Matter: Textures from Nature

Incorporating natural materials into your decor helps to emulate an outdoor atmosphere. Think hardwood floors, stone countertops or woolen throws. By mixing different textures, you can achieve an earthy, tactile quality that creates a sense of comfort and tranquility.

4. Art and Accessories: Nature’s Touch

Your choice of art and accessories can echo outdoor themes in your space. Consider prints of landscapes or botanical sketches, framed pressed flowers, or nature-inspired ceramics. Even smaller elements like a bowl of pine cones or a display of beautiful rocks and crystals can make a difference.

5. Water Elements: Flowing Serenity

Water has a soothing, calming effect that is very much associated with nature. Introducing a small indoor fountain, or even a fish tank, can create a soothing ambience. Not to mention, the soft sound of flowing water can mask unwanted noise and foster a peaceful environment.

6. Colors of Nature: Earthy Tones

Color impacts mood, so consider a palette inspired by nature. This could mean soft greens, warm browns, calming blues, or even vibrant floral hues. For a more subtle touch, opt for neutrals with pops of color in accents like pillows, rugs, or artwork.

In conclusion, infusing your indoor spaces with elements of the outdoors can do wonders for your overall well-being. You can create a refreshing, calming, and inspiring environment by incorporating plants, natural materials, and nature-inspired colors and art into your décor.

Remember, your home should be a reflection of you – so let your personal style shine. You can adapt these suggestions to suit your aesthetic and preferences, ensuring your indoor oasis feels truly your own. By bringing the outdoors inside, you can enjoy the benefits of nature from the comfort of your home, no matter where you live or what the weather outside is like.

Creating an Inviting Guest Bathroom

Pelican Bay Model

As one of the most practical and used spaces in the house, bathrooms are key touchpoints in the guest experience. While it’s essential to have a clean and functional space, a well-designed guest bathroom can be a delightful surprise, adding to the overall comfort and enjoyment of your guest’s stay.

Follow these tips to create a luxurious and inviting guest bathroom that your guests will love.

1. Sparkling Cleanliness

The first rule of thumb is always cleanliness. Ensure every nook and corner of the bathroom is sparkling clean. Use high-quality cleaning products to make fixtures, mirrors, and tiles shine. Leave no traces of mold, dust, or water spots. Regular cleaning and maintenance not only promote hygiene but also extend the life of your fixtures and finishes.

2. Luxurious Linens

Invest in plush, high-quality towels for your guests. Ensure you provide a complete set, including bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths. Opt for colors that compliment the theme of the room or neutral or light colors as they add a sense of calm and luxury. Remember to replace them regularly for freshness.

3. Storage Solutions

Your guests will appreciate some space to keep their toiletries. A shelf or a small cupboard can be very useful. Provide a set of empty hangers too, where guests can hang their towels or clothes.

4. Quality Toiletries

A mini selection of high-quality toiletries can make your guests feel pampered. Provide essentials like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and soap. Extras such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, and razors are always appreciated. Display these items neatly, either in a pretty basket or on a clean shelf.

5. Delightful Scents

A well-chosen scent can instantly uplift the ambiance of your bathroom. Use air fresheners, scented candles, or diffusers with essential oils to create a pleasing aroma. Opt for calming fragrances like lavender or vanilla, which can help your guests relax.

6. Ample Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood. Layer your lighting – use brighter lights for makeup or shaving purposes, and softer lights for a relaxing soak. Remember to have a night light, particularly helpful for guests unfamiliar with the layout.

7. Thoughtful Extras

Little extras can elevate your guest bathroom from good to great. Add a small indoor plant for a touch of greenery. A pile of fresh, fluffy towels, a small basket of toilet paper, and a new bar of soap never go amiss. You can also consider keeping a pile of magazines or a small book collection for those who enjoy a read in the bath.

8. Personalized Touches

Finally, personalize the space based on who’s visiting. If you know your guest’s favorite color or scent, try to incorporate it. If your guests have children, make sure you have kid-friendly bath products on hand.

Creating an inviting guest bathroom doesn’t require a full remodel. By focusing on cleanliness, comfort, and a few personal touches, you can create a space that makes your guests feel pampered and welcomed. Remember, the secret to a great guest bathroom is anticipating your guests’ needs and providing for them in advance. With these tips, your guest bathroom will surely be the talk of the town!

Regenerate response

Decorating Tips for Homes with Neutral Walls


Decorating a room with neutral-colored walls offers a lot of flexibility because neutral tones can act as a perfect backdrop for many different styles, color palettes, and décor pieces. Here are some tips to help you decorate your neutral space:

  1. Incorporate Textures and Patterns: Use a variety of textures to add interest to the room and prevent it from feeling flat. This could include items like a knitted throw, a velvet couch, or a shag rug. Additionally, patterns can bring depth and complexity to a neutral space. Consider patterned pillows, an intricate rug, or a statement piece of wall art.
  2. Use Pops of Color: Although your walls may be neutral, that doesn’t mean the rest of your decor has to be. You can add bright, bold colors to create contrast and focal points in the room. This could be in the form of colorful throw pillows, vibrant artwork, or brightly colored furniture.
  3. Mix and Match Shades of Neutral: Just because it’s neutral doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Try mixing different shades of neutral colors, like cream, beige, and brown, to create a layered, sophisticated look.
  4. Invest in Statement Furniture: Since your walls are neutral, you can afford to go bold with your furniture. Consider pieces with unique shapes, textures, or even colors.
  5. Add Plants: Greenery can provide a lively contrast to the neutral colors and adds an element of freshness to the room.
  6. Play with Lighting: Warm or cool lighting can dramatically change the appearance of a neutral color, bringing out different undertones. Layer your lighting with a mix of overhead, task, and ambient light sources to create an inviting space.
  7. Incorporate Metal Accents: Gold, silver, brass, or even black metal can add a modern touch to a neutral color scheme. You can incorporate metal accents in picture frames, lamp bases, furniture legs, or accessories.
  8. Use Mirrors and Glass: Reflective surfaces can break up the neutrality and add a sense of depth and light to the room.
  9. Layer Rugs: Rugs not only add texture and pattern to a room, they also offer an easy way to incorporate additional neutral or colored elements into the space. Layering rugs is a popular interior design trend and can make a room feel more inviting and complex.
  10. Add Personal Touches: Last but not least, make the space your own. Add family photos, artwork, travel souvenirs, or any other items that have personal meaning to you. These items can add life and personality to a room with neutral-colored walls.

Remember, decorating should reflect your personal style, so feel free to use these tips as starting points and adapt them to suit your own taste.