Classic Blue is, and always will be, the epitome of cool in my book. From a dusty pair of blue jeans to a slick coat of paint on a wall, Classic Blue speaks to all of us. And by tapping into sight, sound, smell, taste, and texture, Pantone is taking PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue to the next level with the first multi-sensory Color of the Year in the company’s history. 

Over the years, Classic Blue has become the very basis of my own personal style and my home’s interior design. From my collection of blue and white chinoiserie vases, to the blue and white striped roman shades in my kitchen, to my Colonial Blue sofa and the vibrant Ralph Lauren rug it sits upon (as modeled by my Scottie pup above), Classic Blue is where my design eye shines.

If you need inspiration, take a peek inside Ralph Lauren’s Norman-Style Stone Manor House in Bedford, New York. It’s what Classic Blue dreams are made of! From subtle hints in the drawing room to Ralph’s masterful use of the color in his bedroom, Classic Blue makes an impact that is undeniably chice. And it proves just how many colors pair well with Classic Blue. 

Another resource? Pick up Beautiful: All-American Decorating and Timeless Style. It showcases the color beautifully. And the Jackie O-inspired mood board is everything!!! Anyone else a fan of Draper James? Word on the street is Mark D. Sikes helped design their brick-and-mortar stores. Of course, the brand itself is a love letter to Classic Blue. As is another design darling, Serena and Lily. Don’t get me started on their French Blue linens or Coastal Blue Alpaca throws. I could collect them all! Once you start digging, everything poised and seasonless stems from Classic Blue - but perhaps Pantone describes it best. 

​In today’s increasingly busy world, one where multi-tasking and mobile devices threaten to dominate our everyday lives, it’s more important than ever to take some time for ourselves and detach from life’s demands. This is a time for practicing mindfulness, which means having a clear awareness of our thoughts and feelings and of our immediate environment, shutting out all past and future distractions and simply embracing the present moment.

We all need to take a few moments every day to properly experience mindfulness, as these few minutes of serenity can be enough to let go of the pent-up stress from our hectic daily routines. Giving a short time each day to practicing mindfulness will ease our anxieties, free us of negative thoughts, boost our immune system and facilitate a better quality of sleep. In turn, we will feel far more energized and motivated when waking up the next morning.

As this infographic from EZ Living Interiors shows, a simple way to promote mindfulness is through interior design. It is very easy to arrange your home in a way that, as soon as you enter the front door, you can immediately feel more relaxed. A clutter-free environment with an abundance of natural light effortlessly creates positive energy and enhances a sense of mindfulness. Choose soft, neutral color tones for your décor, as this will help to achieve a mood of calm and serenity. Embellish your home with nature by incorporating plants into your décor and using sensuous natural fragrances. Best of all, establish a defined space for meditation and relaxation, a room that you’ll quickly associate with practicing mindfulness and switching off from the pressures of the outside world.

Last year, Pinterest reported a 248% increase in search demand for ‘mindfulness’ in its home décor category, which suggests that the modern homeowner places great value in creating a mindful interior. You can pick up some fantastic tips on mindfulness in interior design in the infographic above.
​
Like what you see? Get more interior design inspiration from across the pond at EZ Living Interiors, the No.1 furniture store in Cork, Ireland!

Cheers,

AP

Amy Puchaty is a luxury real estate writer and communications specialist whose marketing campaigns and copywriting work have appeared in numerous print and digital publications including The Wall Street Journal, Architectural Digest, Inman News, The Denver Post, and Dallas Business Journal. Why Amy Puchaty? Because it’s selling season. Follow Amy at www.amypuchaty.com #AtHomeWithAmy #AmyPuchaty #LuxuryRealEstateWriter

Wondering what the next big thing in Denver is? THIS. IS. IT. SOBO 58, the newest condominium development in Denver’s South Broadway neighborhood, opens for business February 7th with 58 units available for purchase, ranging from $320K to $620K. 

YES it is minutes from Sushi Den, Corvus Coffee, & Herman's Hideaway! YES it's mere blocks from LIGHT RAIL. And YES, you have to see it. Where else can you get all this for the price???

​I had the pleasure of getting a first look at the development by assisting with their website and promotional copy - and let me tell you, this building will offer you a lot more bang for your buck, and a location that can't be beat!
 
“SOBO 58 is unlike any other mid-rise in Denver with an incredible location nestled in the heart of South Broadway, just one mile from Platt Park! Buyers have a level of customization that is rarely offered at this price point. Top that off with easy access to local favorites like Sushi Den, Corvus Coffee, Park Burger, Morning Collective and Herman’s Hideaway; this is where everyone wants to be.” says co-listing agent Debra Guy of RE/MAX Cherry Creek.

Now is the chance to get in on the ground floor of this cutting-edge development in an area positioned for extreme growth. The premier location and visionary design will appeal to a variety of buyers, from millennials to empty-nesters. ​

Mid-rise units include studios, 1 bedrooms, 1 bedrooms + den, and 2 bedroom units, many with mountain views. Five select units afford two-story floor-to-ceiling windows, and an open-air mezzanine that maximizes indoor-outdoor living and entertaining.
 
“All units come with generous floor plans ranging from 645 to 1,370 square feet, and boast 9-foot ceilings, an upgraded stainless steel appliance package, and your choice of three professional interior design schemes,” says Debra.

​Additional highlights include a professionally designed lobby with seating area, fireplace, and pool table; lushly landscaped private courtyard maintained year-round; a rooftop terrace with majestic views of the Rockies; close proximity to light rail with D & C lines accessed just three short blocks from Evans Station, and E, F & R lines accessed at Louisiana Station; secured covered parking; plus EV charging stations available.
 
“SOBO 58 distinguishes itself with innovative design and a building footprint that emphasizes community, walkability, and the outdoors,” adds co-listing agent, Leslie Lamora. “Few Denver condos offer this level of finish-out, square footage, and mountain views for the price.”
​

Debra and Leslie invite you to explore the SOBO 58 lifestyle and ownership opportunities at the Launch Party, Thursday, February 7th from 4-7pm at Declaration Brewery located at 2030 S. Cherokee Street. Food and Drinks will be served. RSVP on their Facebook page at SOBO 58 Denver Condos.For more information contact Debra Guy and Leslie Lamora of RE/MAX Cherry Creek at 720-387-0989 or development@guyteamhomes.com
​

Interested in learning more? Take a peek at the floorpans in our latest Splurge vs. Steal on SecondShelters.com and don't forget to check out the incredible design choices on www.sobo58.com

Cheers and Happy Hunting,

AP

Amy Puchaty is a luxury real estate writer and communications specialist whose marketing campaigns and copywriting work have appeared in numerous print and digital publications including The Wall Street Journal, Architectural Digest, Inman News, The Denver Post, and Dallas Business Journal. Why Amy Puchaty? Because it’s selling season. Follow Amy at www.amypuchaty.com #AtHomeWithAmy #AmyPuchaty #LuxuryRealEstateWriter

These days, the holiday season can be a perfect time to move to a new house, but it doesn’t automatically make it the right time for you to relocate. That said, you might consider the idea of moving after the holiday season instead. Whether you’re planning a local or interstate relocation, here are the pros and cons of moving after the holidays.
 
PROS:

While the holiday season can be the best time of the year to move, for some people, moving after it is much more convenient and stress-free. With thorough planning and preparation, relocation after the holidays offers a wide array of advantages that you’ll not find during the season. Here are the pros of moving after the holidays:
 
1. No holiday stress – Even if the holiday season is known for being the wonderful time of the year, it can still be challenging to move during this time. Unlike after the holidays where people are resting from holiday blues, you can go through with your moving tasks step by step with ease and convenience. At this point, you can move comfortably and without stress because the streets are no longer busy since people have come back from their extended vacation.
 
2. No complaints from your kids - Most children love vacations, which means they won't be happy if you schedule your relocation during the holiday season. Hence, it’s a good idea to start moving after the holidays, so they’ll have enough breaks and enjoyable activities for the week. If you do this, you’ll also stop hearing them complaining and bickering, thereby making your holidays a relaxing one for you and your family.
            
3. Moving prices might be lower – The good news about moving after the holiday season is that the moving prices might be lower. Unlike during the holidays where you’ll find yourself paying companies more, it’s wise to set your moving date after the breaks instead. That way, you don’t need to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars right away, thereby helping you to save more money in the long run.
 
4. It’s not busy – There are always celebrations and fun parties during the holiday season. That’s why you don’t actually have sufficient time to pack and relocate smoothly. However, moving after the holidays provides the opposite. That’s because people are no longer busy attending parties and going everywhere, which is why you’ll have so much time for planning, preparing, and organizing everything for the big day.
 
5. Movers can accommodate you right away – Holiday season is a peak season for moving. Thus, it’ll save you stress and headache if you decide to move after the holidays. During this time, perfect movers for your family can accommodate your move right away. Even if you plan a last-minute move after the holiday season, moving companies might be readily available to handle every aspect of the moving process.
 
CONS:
 
Now that you know the benefits of moving after the holiday season, it’s time to take a look at some red flags. Here are the cons that you should be aware of when planning a relocation after the holidays:
 
1. You might need to extend your break – Moving after the holidays means you might have to use the official days for the relocation. Typically, you need to go back to work after a few numbers of vacation days, which is why relocating at this time might push you to take an off from your job or extend your break instead. This can be an extra hassle for you knowing that you have to juggle your time for both your work and your upcoming move. 
 
2. Not a popular time to move – Due to the demand of relocating during the holidays, planning a move after that season might not be a good option. That’s because you might encounter some moving companies that are unavailable to take care of your relocation. Due to their busy schedules during the holidays, some might decide to take some off, which means you’ll probably not be able to book a moving date immediately. 
 
3. You do all the tasks on your own – Unlike moving during the holidays, a relocation after that season means no more people are on vacation to help you with the process. As a result, you’ll end up accomplishing all the tasks on your own which isn’t fun at all. Not only that but after the parties and relaxing time with family and friends, you might not have the drive to prepare a move after the holidays.
 
Conclusion

As long you’ve done all the preparations from start to finish, you’ll not experience any stressful issues along the way. Even if troubles are unavoidable, don’t forget to ask for some help from Movers NYC if you’re moving within the New York City after the holiday season. Hopefully, we’re able to help you weigh the pros and cons of moving after the holidays, so you can make a decision easier. 

We hope you enjoyed this guest post!

Cheers, 

AP

Amy Puchaty is a luxury real estate writer and communications specialist whose marketing campaigns and copywriting work have appeared in numerous print and digital publications including The Wall Street Journal, Architectural Digest, Inman News, The Denver Post, and Dallas Business Journal. Why Amy Puchaty? Because it’s selling season. Follow Amy at www.amypuchaty.com #AtHomeWithAmy #AmyPuchaty #LuxuryRealEstateWriter

​Are you filled with the spirit of the holiday season? We sure are! Nothing is more rewarding than looking back on a year well spent. And over here at Amy Puchaty Communications, we are definitely thankful for 2018. It was a record year filled with exciting new projects, unbelievable clients, and virtual peeks inside some of the most incredible homes and lifestyles across the country. We want to send a special thanks to all our of our clients and friends who continue to honor us with their business. Here's wishing you a joyful and prosperous 2019!

Cheers, 

AP

Amy Puchaty is a luxury real estate writer and communications specialist whose marketing campaigns and copywriting work have appeared in numerous print and digital publications including The Wall Street Journal, Architectural Digest, Inman News, The Denver Post, and Dallas Business Journal. Why Amy Puchaty? Because it’s selling season. Follow Amy at www.amypuchaty.com #AtHomeWithAmy #AmyPuchaty #LuxuryRealEstateWriter

5. Great Island Road, Connecticut, $120 Million
On the market for the first time in more than 100 years, this 63-acre island retreat is the ultimate equestrian estate. It boasts over one mile of coastline directly on Long Island Sound, and affords a generous 13,107 square feet main house. ​Like what you see? Catch up with more luxury real estate coverage here.

This post was written by Amy Puchaty for SecondShelters.com, the center of the second, vacation, and investment home real estate universe. Follow along on SecondShelters.com for the latest in hot properties around the U.S. and beyond.

Attraction Marketing on Instagram!
Tips and tricks to increase Instagram engagement
By Delroy Gill

We are in a world that requires businesses to engage directly with our consumer. Personal websites are no longer an informational resource, they are online branding pages where people get to know your brand. By googling you and looking at your social media presence, these consumers will “get to know you” before ever speaking to you. This is why it is so critical to be conscious of what you are posting! Make sure it aligns with your brand EVERY time! Especially on Instagram.

1: YOUR NAME
Be sure your social media profiles have a name where people can easily find you. It is okay to use a nickname, as long as people know you by that name. I use my first and last name “@DelroyGill” for as many of my social platforms as I can, because that is what people know me as. The easier you make it for people to recognize you on Social media, the faster they will find you!

KEEP: Simple, short, straight to the point names.

LOSE: “YourName1998” – Remove basic random generated numbers or alternatives to your actual name that don’t make sense or complicate things.

2: YOUR PAGE
Immediately switch your account to an Instagram business page so you have all of the tools you need, and create a bio! This can be a short description of “what you do” or a few bullet points like I do on my page on @DelroyGill.

3: PHOTOS/VIDEO
Your pictures and videos have to be good quality! Yes, cell phone photos are acceptable but lighting is EVERYTHING. It's always a better option if you can work with a professional! Be sure the content you are pushing out to the public is at the standard of the services you provide. Think of your IG page as an online magazine. Are you more Walmart or Whole Foods? Branding is key! Your photo quality has a heavy reflection on your brand.

4: HASHTAGS
When posting photos, EVERY picture/video should have at least 30 hashtags.
This is made very easy with websites like www.displaypurposes.com– a site that will generate all 30 hashtags for you when you put in the basics of your picture. 

Example: I upload a picture that features a home and me in a suit.I will then put the hashtags into the generator “#Home #Suit #Realestate” the system will then generate 30 tags for me to use. You then copy and paste this into the comments section of your post, NOT the caption. Keep your caption clean and direct. Have value to offer to your follower base. Ask yourself, is my captionentertaining, educational, inspirational etc?

5: LOCATION
Every picture should have a location tag. People can follow locations and hashtags on Instagram, not just actual people, so having more ways for people to find your content is key. 
 
6: ENGAGE
Instagram is a place that works with engagement. Your post will rank higher with comments and replies. It recognizes if people are more interested in your photos based on the likes and comments. Therefore,the more engagement you have in a picture, the more it shows up in other user’s feeds. The old algorithm of time stamps are no longer.

There you have it, straight from one of Denver real estate's most Insta-famous agents. Incorporate these simple practices into your social media marketing and you'll be navigating the world of Instagram in no time. To learn more about Delroy Gill visit www.DelroyGill.com. 

Cheers, 

AP

Amy Puchaty is a luxury real estate writer and communications specialist whose marketing campaigns and copywriting work have appeared in numerous print and digital publications including The Wall Street Journal, Architectural Digest, Inman News, The Denver Post, and Dallas Business Journal. Why Amy Puchaty? Because it’s selling season. Follow Amy at www.amypuchaty.com #AtHomeWithAmy #AmyPuchaty #LuxuryRealEstateWriter