What's in My (Consultation) Bag?

When I step into a client's home for a consultation, I'm not just bringing ideas--I'm bringing my toolkit for transformation. Inside my bag are the essentials that help me see your space clearly and make smart, creative decisions on the spot. In this post, I'll walk you through exactly what's in my bag, and how each tool ensures we turn your vision into a plan that's aligned with your unique vibe.

Before any space can transform, it all starts with intentional focus. The first thing I pull out isn't a measuring tool, it's my notebook. Note-taking is one of the most powerful tools in my bag because it captures the details that are important to you. We start each consultation with a tour of your home, and discuss the areas you are wanting change. I'm noting what you say about each space--what's working or not working for you. Throughout your consult, I'll jot down ideas we discussed during our time together.

Depending on the type of consultation, measuring plays a different role--but it's always intentional.

For a standalone consulation, I use measuring tools to help you problem-solve in real time. That might mean dialing in furniture placement, checking clearances, scaling a specific piece, or determining whether a piece of art or furniture will truly work in your space. These quick measurements help us make confident decisions on the spot.

If the consultation is the first step toward a full-service decorating proposal, I'm taking more detailed measurements of your space. This allows me to create a thoughtful, intentional design where everything is properly scaled and proportioned--so when the plan comes together, it feels effortless and well considered.

Painter's tape is one of my favorite tools for helping clients feel confident in their decisions. By taping out furniture footprints, art placement, or spacing, we can visualize scale and proportion in real time. It removes uncertainty and helps ensure that what we're planning actually works in your space--before any big decisions are made.

If paint colors are part of your consultation, you'll always find paint decks in my bag. And if color is the main goal, I'll bring full paint kits so we can explore options more deeply. We start with smaller swatches to compare tones, undertones, and how each color reacts to the light in your home.

As part of my follow-up, I can order larger paint swatches to be delivered directly to you. This gives you the chance to see the color on your walls, in your lighting, and at different times of the day--so your final choice feels intentional and right for your home.

When we need to identify an existing paint color, I use a Nix color sensor. This handheld tool scans the surface and connects to an app that helps determine the closest paint color match across multiple paint brands. It's especially helpful when a color needs to be matched, refreshed, or coordinated with new finishes--without relying on guesswork or outdated paint labels.

Having this tool on hand allows us to move forward confidently, even when the original paint information is no longer available.

Every consultation looks a little different, but the goal is always the same: to leave you with clarity and confidence about your space. The tools I bring help us visualize ideas, make informed decisions, and create a plan that feels intentional--not overwhelming.

If you're ready for expert guidance and a clear vision for your home, a design consultation is the perfect place to begin. Connect here to get started.

Want to learn more about the different ways consultations are used?

Check out this blogpost: Consultation: 8 Different Ways