Mortgage Update with Jack Shotbolt from Shotbolt Mortgage

A few weeks ago, we had an opportunity to interview our preferred mortgage brokerage, Shotbolt Mortgage. In fact, we were lucky enough to interview Jack Shotbolt himself. Overall, the real estate market, from a mortgage standpoint, is expected to stay largely the same in 2021 as it was in 2020 which is positive. Specifically, here’s what Jack had to say.

Rates are great!

There’s always a lot of political noise in an election year so you’re hearing a lot of it since it’s the beginning of the year and a new president has taken office. The stock and bond markets don’t like unrest so very early in the year, when the new president was about to take office, we saw a lot of uncertainty in the markets. The new presidency will calm things down. Overall, rates should stay low through 2022. We’ll have a good interest rate environment especially for home buyers. The bond market effects interest rates because they are the retreat from the stock market when it’s too risky for many participants. Bonds, mortgage-backed securities, and treasuries are all in the classification. Janet Yellen, the new United States Secretary of the Treasury shouldn’t make much of a difference in terms of being newly appointed. She’ll want to keep things the same given that the new administration is largely in favor of low interest rates. Not a lot of negative impact expected.

What does that mean?

Purchasers will continue to have more buying power. You’ll be able to buy more home than you previously might have been able to. Consequently, the inventory of home for sale in the real estate market continues to be low however if you’re looking to be a competitive buyer, then you will need the extra buying power that low interest rates will afford you. 2021 will be a strong year in real estate and more so if you are a seller. As a realtor, I’m looking forward to it.

Check out our video with Jack and see for yourself what he has to say. To see available homes in the greater Omaha area, go to https://omahaprioritygroup.com/buying and search for a property. I’m happy to answer any questions. Contact Sallie Elliott at 402-630-5953.

What’s Popular in 2021 Furniture - Featuring Elena Mejia-Kerwin

A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of interviewing Elena Mejia-Kerwin, lead designer at Nebraska Furniture Mart. Elena is not only the lead designer, but she is a worldwide traveler well versed in what’s hot in the latest designs, fabrics, and colors. She was kind enough to take some time with me to let us all know what’s hot for 2021. You’ll be surprised by some of the new and sexy styles but there are some classics that have made a come back and some newer design items that are recent but stayed the same from 2020. So, let’s ring in the new year with Elena this week and check out the video we made directly at Nebraska Furniture Mart.

Base Colors, Accents, Patterns and Textures!

Gray is still in for a base color. Elena says that Gray is the new black. It was in style last year and has stayed in style for 2021. It’s an incredibly soft base color to use in your living room design for example. With a soft Gray as your base color, gold is still a good accent color. Use pillows and chairs for accents in various colors. Pink is the newest color. It’s a soft pink, almost a mauve color. Pink goes elegantly with white, yellow, gray, and other base and accent colors. Elena says it’s a “nice plush color.” Next up is dust blue, a deep but soft blue with a little bit of green in it, a touch like a teal. Next honey yellow is “yummy.” Also, plush and goes with all the other colors in our wheelhouse. Another new, exciting, beautiful accent color is Neo Mint. Just gorgeous! And still, there’s Terracotta, beautiful base, or accent color. Pick one or use them all. They blend well together. And lastly, we can add a little spice with prints. There are animal prints and other fantastic patterns. If texture is your thing, furs are also yummy. We love that word.

Trending Furniture Styles

Smaller scaled sectionals fit well into all spaces. Don’t be afraid to mix fabrics. They’re comfortable and it’s especially important that they are low profile to be able to see the views through the windows. Mix modern classic with fun traditional colors to bring interest to an accent chair to go with your sectional sofa. Embroidery cloth is a nice mix for a chair. Mid century modern styles are also in and must be low profile. Lots of very cozy pillows are a must. Mix in an Italian marble art deco coffee table and voila. Of course, a tulip chair in a deco variation in mint green for contrast is a good add. Surprisingly, there is a mix of ottoman’s and ottoman coffee tables together. The floating ottoman serves as a multi-function piece which can be used by itself like a chair or connected to the sofa for extra space or as an extra coffee table. Ingenious!

What’s It All About?

If you haven’t noticed the big trend is mix and match. Almost nothing is off limits when it comes to colors, patterns, textures, and accents. Multi-functional furniture like ottomans are not only practical but add a non-traditional look to any room. 2021 color trends are back to soft and plush, blues, pinks, yellows, and greens. They’re colors that not only warm a room but still bring a splash of interest and dimension to the design. Take it from the pros, this year’s styles are on point mixing popular things from the past and some brand new pizzaz for this year. Stop into NFM and visit with Elena for some professional assistance or get in touch with me, Sallie Elliott at www.omahaprioritygroup.com/scheduleameetup for design pointers in your home.

Small Town Businesses – Gretna, Nebraska

Gretna is a little-known gem with plenty of history for lack of its historical architecture. Most of the areas surrounding the downtown area are where all the action happens today but I found out that Gretna launched a downtown rejuvenation/expansion plan last year. The plan is focused on achievable design interventions, as the web site says, to support the Downtown 2020 plan. For a city with a population of a little over 5,000 and growing, this town is going places quickly. With a lack of housing available for sale in Omaha West, Gretna is where new homeowners are looking to now. Today we’re going to dive into some of its charm and highlight some of my favorite small town Gretna businesses.

The Beanery

This neat little family-owned coffee spot is a treasure. Located in what looks like a previous residential home, it has charm written all over it. Started by a husband and wife in 2003, you can tell that there’s some real heart there. Delicious small meals, artisan hot coffee, cold drinks and smoothies satisfy even the snobbiest of coffee snobs. They also offer catering to liven up your party and they have a coffee truck that travels. This location is one of three and they’re doing it right. https://www.thebeanerycoffee.com

MacDaro’s Pub and Pizzeria

Say yes to a slice! I’ve eaten at this restaurant several times and also ordered out from here. I have a staff member from New York who says that this pizza competes with the Brooklyn pizzerias she’s familiar with. The interior design is kind of cute as well. It’s not your typical pizza joint décor. They have a glass wine storage room and a full stone covered bar. On their pretty extensive menu are soups, salads, sandwiches including burgers and starters. Not to mention…PIZZA! My favorite is the Carnivore with Pomodoro sauce and lots of meat. Delish. And their prices are very reasonable. Highly recommend stopping here for a taste. https://www.facebook.com/macdaros

Nebraska Crossing

Shop, shop, shop til you drop. Nebraska Crossing outlet mall has something for everyone. In addition to some great designer stores, there are a couple of places to eat that aren’t too bad either. Go on a nice weather day though because it’s all outdoors and onsite parking is always at a premium. Located at 21209 Nebraska Crossing Drive, it’s less than 20 minutes from Omaha. Just a quick car ride away and there are approximately 80 retails stores to pick from including Ralph Lauren, Coach and Nike. Take a trip out to this cool shopping haven and enjoy spending some of that hard earned cash. https://nexcrossing.com/

Holy Family Shrine

This Catholic shrine sits on 23 acres in Gretna along I-80 and Phlug Road in a scenic location set up on the hills overlooking the Platte Valley. Construction on this shrine finished in 2002 after a long conception that began in 1993 when four people were led to come together to build a place for travelers to find spirituality. I personally thought that this beautiful structure was older than it is and was surprised to find out it’s relatively new. It’s absolutely stunning even from a distance. It’s mostly made of glass with curved trusses and 49-foot ceilings. It sits on top of limestone from St. Mary’s, Kansas. The story of how this structure came to be is an inspiring and awesome one. There are many accessories in the shrine that reinforce the mission such as the 16 foot by 8-foot etched glass figure of the Holy Family which hovers over the chapel. It is only 1,800 square feet and is next to their visitor center and gift shop. I recommend a visit here regardless of your faith just to see the beautiful architecture and experience the serenity. https://holyfamilyshrine.com

Small Town Businesses – Elkhorn, Nebraska

Part III of our small-town business series is a feature on Elkhorn Nebraska. With a small but up and coming downtown area, Elkhorn has a bit of everything from galleries to eateries to salons and more. It’s a great walking area of approximately three blocks and it’s surrounded by charming homes. Some have been preserved as they originally were, and some have been upgraded to newer styles. I absolutely love this part of town because of all the original architecture. It’s a combination of old west meets something new. Check it out when you’re in the area. I think you’ll find it’s a neat way to spend a couple of hours. Or more if you make it an evening and stop for lunch or dinner.

Bella Vita Ristorante

Now open for dine in as well as carry out, this delicious gem is a must. The Italian food served here is second to none. My favorite is the fresh Seafood Linguine. It has sauteed shrimp, scallops, clams, crushed red pepper, garlic and white wine tossed with linguine noodles and topped with parmesan cheese. So good, but not to worry if you are not a fan of seafood because they have many wonderful beef, veal, and pasta dishes plus great salads. And let’s not forget their wine selection. Particularly good. They have a cute little wine closet off the main dining area, and they hold private wine tastings and wine dinners. It’s not a large restaurant but that’s what makes it so nice. The quint comfortable feeling you get when you are there. If you want a little bit more space, there’s the patio in summertime. It’s elegant and pretty and it’s a lovely place to eat. They typically get pretty busy on the weekend so I recommend calling them beforehand. https://www.bellavitanebraska.com

The Mark

Now this one is not in downtown Elkhorn but I couldn’t skip it because it’s a great family entertainment place and we have so many wonderful young families in town. The Mark has something for everyone including those of us who like to bowl, play volleyball, arcade games and laser tag. And while the kids are playing, the adults stop in at the sports bar and grill for some delicious eats and drinks. I’ve heard their pizza is great. They also have a kid’s menu. If you like, you can host your party at The Mark as well. They have some great party specials, and they don’t just do kid’s parties. You can also host your adult party here including company parties and fundraisers. Call ahead to find out about availability. https://markomaha.com/

Fala’s Treasures & Coffee House

A downtown Elkhorn treasure in its namesake, Fala’s is one I recommend stopping into for a cup of coffee and a little shopping. FALA stands for Fun and Loving Atmosphere which is precisely what this place is. They have lots of unique gifts and treasures to choose from such as jewelry, wine glasses, holiday trinkets, clothing, bath items and toys plus much more. And don’t skip the one of their cold beverages called Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough. OMGosh! This one is a treat/dessert that will spoil your appetite. I think of this shop as a boho mixture of all things wonderful. They also have a menu of delicious foods and they offer catering. Try them out for something different and very cool. https://www.falas.net/

Little Scandinavia

This lovely little shop offers gift items from Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Iceland. They sell ornaments, socks, books, mugs, toys, handmade art pieces and tons and tons of little trinkets. When you walk in your senses are treated to a colorful sight. Take your time or you’ll miss something awesome and do make it a part of your downtown Elkhorn tour because there’s so much for everyone. If you’re in from out of town this stop is a must so that you can pick up a little something for your friends back home. Oh…don’t forget the Gnomes…they have those as well. https://www.littlescandinavia.com/

For more real estate and design information or to see all the blogs from the Priority Group and Sallie Elliott, go to www.omahaprioritygroup.com

Small Town Business Series – Ashland, NE

Part II of my Small-Town Business Series is all about Ashland. Ashland, Nebraska that is. This town is one of the quaint, rural beauties just outside of Omaha. It’s mostly about shopping, which is one of my favorite things to do, but it’s also about wine and Being in real estate I get to go there from time to time and these are my favorite places to frequent.

Salt Creek Mercantile

They can be found at 1502 Silver Street and here you will find a hearth and home type mix of items including furniture, kitchen items, bath items, artifacts, candles, basketry & totes, textiles, greenhouse, and some seasonal items. When you walk into this store, established in 2018 you’re not only greeted with a cornucopia of items but beautiful, earthy colors and lovely smells. Their hand made, wood, farm style furniture is just gorgeous. You can find things here like hand turned wooden mixing bowls and copper accessories. And the fragrances are amazing from hand sanitizers to soaps, candles and bath salts. This spot has all the things a girl needs. Check them out at https://www.saltcreekmercantile.com/

Gift Niche

This little gem is an eclectic mix of retail items located at 1414 Silver Street. The Gift Niche has two full floors of specialty gifts and handcrafted items. They carry brand names like Lang cards and Calendars, Melissa and Doug educational toys, Sugar Shack and Wood Wic candles, Klutz, Willow Tree figurines, Stonewall kitchen products, Tag and more. They have balloons for every occasion and rent Jim’s Formal Wear tuxedoes for prom and weddings. Upstairs they have a year around Christmas section, John Deere and Coke Collectables, Americana, Nebraska Huskers, Blujay t-shirts, Western area, Kitchen, Garden, Teacher, Farm, and Children toys. Their main level features a large jewelry section, scarves, sandals, purses, candles, cards, baby clothes, Handbeaded Glassware, Photographs prints, frames, party supplies, inspirational books, DVDs, cds, and Bibles. Plus, wreaths, prints, home decor and more. Whew! That’s a lot. Visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/The-Gift-Niche-323242107760664/ for more information!

Cheri O’s Coffee House and Ice Cream Parlor

Delicious is the first word that comes to mind when I think about Cheri O’s. It’s a neat little old world style place located at 1404 Silver Street. They offer something for everyone during breakfast and lunch time. From hand dipped ice cream cones to espresso or terrific soup and sandwiches, there is something to satisfy everyone's palette. It’s a pull up a stool kind of place where you feel at home and where you can get an old-fashioned ice cream soda. They also have something called a Naughty Newman with strawberry ice cream, hot fudge, marshmallow, and whipped cream. Yum! I might have to take a trip there today. Find out more at https://www.cherioscoffee.com/menuitems/icecream.html

Cellar 426

Located at 1402 Dennis Dean Rd in Ashland is my favorite winery. I go there several times a year and as many of you may know, wine is my thing. This winery is an experience like no other and, believe me, I didn’t think you could find good wine in the middle of Nebraska. I was a skeptic turned fan the instant I arrived. In the summertime the flowerpots are full and there is a stage with live music. The staff is outstanding and, if you like your wine a little sweet, they have some of that as well. If you prefer to

celebrate at home, they have online ordering and curb side pickup, but I highly recommend you go and sit for a sip. They also offer a wine of the month and have crafting classes from time to time. Take a trip over and see them on a summer day. You won’t be disappointed. Find more info at https://cellar426.com/

Glacial Till Vineyard Cider House & Tasting Room

Located on Silver Street in the heart of Ashland’s historic downtown this tasting room is one of the first off-site tasting rooms in the state of Nebraska. The tasting room is a mix of new and old. The building offers a rustic feel with the original brick exposed. Venture upstairs to enjoy a rooftop patio and an additional bar. They also feature several rooms to suit almost any size of gathering. Stroll in the vineyard and enjoy the rolling hills, creeks, and ponds. During the summer season, check out Fermented Friday’s line up of live music, food, and local craft brew features. The main level provides for seating outside on the large patio as well. The patio and windows offer a panoramic view to enjoy with your wine. Visit this neat little spot, it’s a treat. https://www.glacialtillvineyard.com/locations

Parker’s Smokehouse

Their website calls it barbeque with soul. I call it heaven on earth. If you like a good smoked meat, this is the place to stop when you’re visiting Ashland. But guess what? It’s not diet food. The first thing featured on the menu is their famous colossal onion which a giant onion cut into a flower, battered and fried. So good and so bad is what I say. BBQ rib tips, signature salads, homemade soups, fire grilled burgers and Cajun catfish strips are some of the things on the menu to name a few. While you’re out shopping Ashland, stop in for a bite. You won’t regret it. https://www.parkerssmokehouse.com/

Small Town Business Series – Valley, Nebraska

Welcome everyone to the Small-Town Business Series featuring my favorite Nebraska small businesses. While most midwestern states tend to have rural areas, Nebraska is a little different primarily because we’re a predominantly agricultural state with a long history of homesteading, but we are also pretty cutting edge with a lot of fun hipster new neighborhoods. Since I’ve been in real estate and design for so long, these areas of my town are particularly interesting to me. Plus, I’ve gained a ton of knowledge on them, traveling the roads as much as I do. I’m going to talk a little bit about some of the neat little towns that you find closer to the metro Omaha area. Or as we like to say, just a stone’s throw away.

The Attic

The Attic in Valley, Nebraska is now open at its new location at 105 N. Spruce Street. They’re a cooperative of local designers that include Furniture Re-Imagined, Art, Antiques, Gifts, Jewelry, Home Décor & More. You just never know what you might find in The Attic. They hold classes on the paint products they sell and how to apply them using the latest and most beautiful processes. And they host neat events like Wine Night where you can get artsy while partaking in a glass of wine. You can find more information about The Attic at https://www.atticinvalley.com/

Simply Delicious Restaurant

Located at 215 North Spruce Street in Valley, Nebraska this place is an adorable nouveau looking spot with some simply delicious food. Part of this amazing little place is a The Gallery by Wendy Deane which is attached. It features a local artist that creates beautiful, colorful, modern artwork. Want to plan a ladies get together? You must try their high tea or their Sunday brunch. They’re now open to the public and they offer take out and curb side pickup. Check out their delicious menu and find out more about them at http://www.simplydeliciousrestaurant.com/

Brew Coffee House & Tasting Room

This little spot is not only a quaint place to meet up but it’s cozy and looks to be newer. Locally owned and community-focused, BREW has a passion to serve their neighbors, family, and friends. Their coffee is hand-crafted. Their wine and beer are local. And their breakfast or lunch items hit the spot. If you're looking for something to do, they’re always having events inside the shop or outside on the patio. From their summer concert series Sips & Sounds to their Sip & Shop vendor events, there's something for everyone. They also open the shop for community and personal events. If you're looking for a venue for your next event, this is a cute space. Check them out at https://brewcoffeevalley.com/ They have a great web site.

That’s it for wonderful places to check out in Valley. Find out more about Priority Group and see more of our blogs at https://omahaprioritygroup.com/

Winter Activities at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park

This week instead of design talk, we’re going to talk Nebraska. The first significant snowfall just began early this morning and it creates the perfect opportunity to indulge in some winter wonderland outdoor fun. Now Nebraska may not be mountainous, and it certainly doesn’t have any natural ski hills but there are some great wintertime things to do at Mahoney State Park. Amongst those things are sledding, cross country skiing, ice skating, ice fishing and special holiday activities to name a few. Now some of these depend on having some good snow and cold so make sure you confirm availability before you take the trip over there. The park is located in southeastern Nebraska along Interstate 80. I’ve heard recommendation for days trips as well as making a weekend out of this visit, but the park has notoriously popular cabins so book in advance. There is also a lodge.

Sledding

Who doesn’t love to go sledding? Find yourself a nice steep, or maybe not so steep, hill at the park, bring your sled or your tube or even a toboggan and go, go, go. They recommend a specific hill behind the Activity Center for those who care to venture a trip down. It’s a nice long run that will make the kids feel like the fun never ends. Just remember to bundle up. And don’t worry about the conditions, the park has a snow making machine to help add snow to the hill if we don’t get enough naturally. Best of all is it’s free and clear of trees to avoid accidents.

Ice Skating

There is an outdoor ice-skating rink as well for the aspiring ice skaters in your family. Skate rentals are only $3. Admission is free and it’s attached to the indoor playground so when the kids get cold, they can play at one of the many indoor activities available including a big climbing wall. Wow!

Ice Fishing

For fishing enthusiast there is a nice lake for catching fish. Make a hole in the ice, rig up your fishing pole and hunker down while you wait for a one to bite. With the right gear, you can stay warm and very entertained. It’s a great family activity providing the kiddos have enough patience. Ice fishing at the park is also free and occasionally there will be a sponsored ice fishing for beginners’ event where they will show you how it’s done. A park entry permit is required, and all fishing regulations apply but they will give you instruction and even provide gear. These events are usually by registration only. It’s a good idea to check the Nebraska Game Parks calendar when planning your trip.

Cross Country Skiing

Throughout Mahoney State Park there are several miles of hiking trails that are groomed in the winter months for cross-country skiing. Dress accordingly and go for a scenic gaunt through the park. Franky, the idea of cross-country skiing makes me tired just thinking about it, but I have friends the highly recommend it. They say it’s a good form of exercise and, depending on where you go, it can be very peaceful and beautiful. I couldn’t find out whether you can rent equipment for this at the park but I’m certain if you call first the park staff will be able to give you some direction. For more information about activities at the park go to http://outdoornebraska.gov/mahoney and for more information on the Priority Group visit our web site at www.omahaprioritygroup.com

Popular Floor Plan Requests

My exclusive home builder relationship with Nathan Homes gives me unique insight into what’s popular and trending in new construction floor plans. Today’s popular floor plans are highly influenced by what’s common in today’s lifestyles meaning family size, number of family members working at home, schooling at home, grown children returning home and how much we now stay at home. And staying at home more brings activities that families are considering now when they create their floor plans such as gaming spaces, larger dining spaces, functional kitchen stations and theater spaces.

The Avalon

One of the reasons this one is popular is because it has a three-car garage that provides an extra automobile space for your driving age child that has returned home from school or to live with you because of a change of circumstances like job loss. The Great room has that desirable open concept giving you more space for entertaining the family at home. One of the greatest features about this one is that the Master bedroom is separated from the spare bedrooms which are located on the opposite side of the house. Just because the kids have returned home to live, doesn’t mean that you have to be next to them all of the time. Something that actually helps families stay closer in their relationships. A large dinette helps with space for family gatherings or for home schooling. By putting headphones on the kids, everyone gets their own privacy and they’re in a separate space so they’re out of the way. No need for a formal dining space in this house. They’re often not use anyway. A really good amount of square footage here to accommodate everyone staying home more often and helping to keep them healthy. A total of five bedrooms is one of the more popular things about this particular floor plan since we have smaller children at home and older children coming back plus, I’m hearing a lot of need for a second home office from the two working parents’ households. A large deck is great for outdoor congregations with immediate family. No reason to have to stay cooped up in the house. Add an outdoor fire pit for extra ambience and your outdoor space is complete. I’m also hearing that a finished basement is critical like this one with a media room, game area and full bar. Another space for entertainment options for the family that now stays put more often.

The Taylor II

This floorplan from our Laid Back Lifestyle designs has been another very popular one for many reasons. Clients have been telling us that they like the practicality of having five bedrooms for extra family members and two work at home parents. The Great room with the master bedroom on one side and the guest bedrooms on the other again gives mom and dad the privacy they need considering all the together time we have these days. Families enjoy the three-car garage for the extra cars or for extra storage when there are more family members at home. This finished basement has a large central recreation space that can be used as a television room for watching movies together as well as a gaming area with a large pool table. Two of the bedrooms are on the lower level which can easily be used for one of your two home offices or for home schooling, so everyone has separate areas. Separate spaces are the key for new floor plans in 2021.

The Prairie Zen

This home is by far one of our more popular builds primarily because it has over four thousand square feet. The square footage is used by family to be together but still have privacy. It’s has home office space and plenty of bedrooms with five. It’s a story and a half so with the finished basement it has multiple levels to get away on. The modern design is sleek and keeps everything clean and unclutters which also helps with how you feel when you’re in this home. There is even a loft area on the second level that give the kids a chance to watch television or play games while mom and dad sneak away to the basement for a cocktail or to watch a movie. With five bathrooms everyone has enough space to get ready for the day each morning. No kids arguing over space at the sink. Again, we have a large, covered deck for a safe and healthy outdoor family gathering. This everything you need to stay home but get away. It’s the perfect combination.

For photos of all these homes, visit the Priority Group web site at www.omahaprioritygroup.com

Matters of the Hearth

Yes…that title is punny! Today we’re talking about fireplaces. They’re not you’re Mom’s fireplace of old, no not anymore. Now they are the focal point of the home. The gathering place and they’re not just about warmth, which of course is important. They bring a beautiful design into the main room in your house and create a certain ambiance. Most fireplaces are featured on an entire design wall which has form and function. And electric fireplaces have made a big come back. They not only look like real flames, but they can come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit the living room. Or bedroom if you so desire. Let’s explore a few designs in some of the model homes built by Nathan Homes and designed by the myself, Sallie Elliott of the Priority Group.

The Vintage Modern Home

This gas fireplace is featured on a full wall of that classic wainscoting finish which has been around for a long time however it keeps a more contemporary feel with a neutral gray/beige all over color. At the same time, there is a bit of a modern touch with the television that’s hidden behind a map of one of my favorite cities, Paris. The map splits in half and travels horizontally on barn door rails giving the entire design a more, modern day look when it’s opened. And lastly, the fireplace itself is mantleless but instead embellished with a molding that matches the wainscoting, making it seamlessly blend into the design rather than being the focus of the wall. All of it is meant to make a quiet statement combined with beautiful hardwood floors and a candelabra style chandelier.

The Yorkshire Home

Despite how grand this home is, it is designed with cottage inspiration in mind. The gas fireplace is another full wall façade including large creamy white stone that makes a bolder statement and yet has a warm rustic feel to it with built in nooks for firewood and artwork display. It also has a Tudor designed seating bench which gives it pizzaz. There is no mantle, and the fireplace itself is shifted off to the left and balanced on the right with the two nooks. I added a television on this wall, although they tend to make a space look a little harsher, because the stone and the rest of the wall softened up the look and were so gorgeous that you’re not distracted by the technology. Plus, most people want one in their living rooms. The medium warm brown colored hardwood flooring and the two brushed brass chandeliers in this family space tie it all together like a beautiful bow.

The Avalon Home

This one is an exceptionally clean full wall arrangement with a six-foot-wide electric fireplace creating high end faux fire ambience. The built-in oversized nooks are accented inside with a dark gray color and filled with white birch logs that tie to the light wood flooring throughout this house. Light gray all over paint creates an almost concrete look to tie in the beautiful modern simplicity of this stunning house with this wall. It certainly makes a statement and that’s because of its large size and spacious layout. In fact, this wall goes with the grand feeling of the Great Room it’s located in. My personal home has a traditional feel to it, but this modern beauty is my favorite one we’ve designed because of how good it makes you feel when you walk in.

The Riviera Home

This fireplace design is function meets old world. It feels like a modern day take on a homestead style hearth. With the convenience of the undersized gas fireplace, which makes the wall look larger, this wall makes a beautiful bold brick statement. The brick is covered in a plaster application called German Schmear. The plaster is wiped off to make it look like the brick has been “buttered” but still showing the original brick color throughout. While this wall is mostly white, it still has a warm feel because of the texture of the brick and again because the original brick color still shines through. The homestead style, as I like to call it, is amplified with the two alcoves located on either side of the fireplace because they are arched and they each have one brass understated sconce inside. I love this fireplace set up because it makes such a splash without all the fuss. I didn’t get a chance to stage this home because it sold before it was even finished but if I had I would add a beautiful, oversized piece of artwork above the fire to complete the look.

Find more information about the Priority Group real estate team and see more of my home designs/décor at www.omahaprioritygroup.com

By Sallie Elliott ~ Priority Group Team Lead and Designer

Exercise in Style for 2021

Getting more exercise is one of the most common new year resolutions of all so what better topic to blog on today than new ways to work out and spaces to do it. In the past, most of us would go to a workout facility like a gym or to a class but the pandemic has put a damper on that choice. You may choose to go out and risk it however a lot of us are working out at home. Working out at home presents its challenges. The biggest challenge can be finding a private space free from interruptions that also has the right equipment for the job. In new construction we’re seeing homeowners creating intentional workout rooms to get their daily exercise but in existing homes we’re seeing some creativity. For instance, there are some people turning part of their office into a workout space. It’s convenient and certainly helps you to incorporate it into your routine. Additionally, the retail market has realized that home workouts have become a thing of the present. There are more vendors offering exercise at home products than ever as well as more online classes via Zoom and the like than ever before. Let’s talk about some of these options.

Wonderful Workout Rooms

Here’s where the designer in me comes out. Obviously, workout rooms must be practical and I’m fortunate enough to have a relationship with Push, Peddle or Pull, a retailer that provides exercise equipment. They are a fantastic business to work with, recommending everything suited to your routine to help you get in shape and delivering it right to your workout room. But workout rooms are not necessarily all about the practical. They can be esthetically pleasing and have a touch of spa like ambiance as well with things like mirrors which help you check your form and keep that core centered. Especially for activities like yoga. Roll up your towels and put them in a basket for a cute touch but make those towels a nice fluffy spa quality. And lastly, add a cute little fridge for some cold beverages to help you stay cool and hydrated. Add a splash of color with colored hand weights and yoga mats. And don’t forget paint. You’ll be looking at the walls a lot while you do your thing so choose something pretty that appeals to you. The more pleasant your space is, the more motivated you will be to be in it and working out as hard as you can.

New Equipment for the New Year

There are many new inventions in terms of workout equipment but one of the ones I’m liking is called The Mirror. It’s a very cool interactive mirror that broadcasts workouts from certified fitness trainers and lets you see yourself doing it. It’s also includes some resistance tools that serve as exercise equipment. It tucks nicely into itself and hangs neatly out of your way on the wall. It serves as an all-encompassing home gym. One of the fantastic things about it, is that you need extraordinarily little space in your home to have it. Just hang it on the wall in your bedroom. Then it’s a nice mirror you can use to check out your evening outfit before you go out on the town, plus it’s your fitness tool. It’s not cheap so be prepared to pay but if you consider a gym membership or the cost of multiple pieces of equipment than the investment isn’t too bad. This one gets an A+ from me for form, function, and beauty.

Get in Shape Online

In 2020 we used more online communication than any other year before. Zoom, Teams, Facetime, and Facebook Live to name a few. Well, the same media that we’ve used for business meetings has served a similar purpose for exercise. One of my staff members takes an online Zumba class three days a week in her basement. She simply connects her laptop to her large screen television with an HDMI cord, logs into Zoom, and dances her way into a healthier self. And it’s a blast. I have to give props to her instructor Fumie Huseman who makes the class so fun for her members and charges only $25.00 a month. Now that’s a bargain for a better body. But wait, there are many types of classes online. There is weight training, yoga, Pilates and even ballet classes to name a few. And different levels of expertise so if you’re a beginner, no problem. It’s as simple as finding them on Google.

Transform the Spare Room into a Fitness Transformation

What’s more important, your health or the guest you host once a year. Well, you may not have to choose. There is a stylish way to accommodate both. Have you ever heard of William Lawrence Murphy? Until I wrote this blog, I hadn’t either. He’s the inventory of the Murphy bed. A full-sized bed that folds up. Usually, it tucks away into a wall cabinet. Get some easy to move or fold up workout equipment and get a Murphy bed for your spare bedroom. Then you have the best of both worlds. A place to get fit and a place to lodge your guests. The wonderful thing is that Murphy beds come in a lot of different styles and price ranges so that you can design a room that’s nice to look at and still have a practical place to sweat it out.

For more design tips check out our blog at www.omahaprioritygroup.com/blog For more on the Priority Group go to www.omahaprioritygroup.com

Auld Lang Syne….What?

It’s a bid fare well to old times. Who knew? What we’re not bidding farewell to this time of year are fun and stylish party designs. Here are a few goodies to help you decorate for your New Year’s Eve celebration. Colors, textures, old, new, exotic, traditional or modern styles can be used to create an esthetically pleasing party pallet. When it comes to temporary décor for an occasion, the sky is the limit. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, the bling is my thing. And it’s ever so appropriate for this particular holiday. The more sparkle, the better. In my opinion, if you don’t come away from the party covered in glitter then I’ve not done my job as a fabulous host. Here we go.

Lay It Out

The table filled with edible treats is going to be your centerpiece. This is your opportunity to get out all the good stuff. Use the china and crystal you’ve been saving since you got married. Your guests will love being trusted with your expensive accoutrements and it makes us feel special. Pick a theme whether it be a color theme or a party theme or go with something a little more random and maybe a little boho. Layer your serving pieces so that you have some dimension on the tabletop. Plus, it helps your guests to see what goodies are there as opposed to having to walk all the way around to see what’s in the back. Add live or artificial greenery as filler, and perhaps create an overstuffed look of abundance. Candles make things feel warm and inviting, just ensure that it’s safe and there won’t be small children around to tip them over. Formal linens really make a statement especially if they are a matching set. Lay those out for the party people to use or just as decoration depending on how many you have and don’t be afraid of a healthy splash of color.

A Bit More Casual

I mentioned going a little more boho rather than formal and I meant it. Not everyone wants to have a small get together where everyone uses the good silver. Some of us prefer a casual wine and beer event with paper plates and disposable cups. Yes, I said the words paper and disposable. There are some nice matching sets of paper plates, disposable cups, and matching paper napkins. They bring your party look together and they’re easy to clean up at the end of the night. Plus, if you have anyone that celebrates a bit too much, you don’t have to worry about broken champagne glasses. And using these doesn’t have to cheapen your party décor. Just spice up the table with a nice charcuterie which is like decorating with food. Lay out some rolled deli meats that make your plate look intentional instead of random. Decorate with food so to speak. Lay out your napkins and plates in a decorative manner so that no one notices they’re paper. And lastly, decorate the room. Balloons are a nice way to fill up a room without spending too much and you can add decorative ribbon to them and let it hang down from the ceiling for a romantic feel.

Decorate Your Guests

Don’t forget that the people at the party like a little wearable schwag. Buy some matching hats, boas, necklaces, eyeglasses, or masquerade masks for them to put on. And everyone loves to snap a good pic so go for it with a designated area for photo opps. Include a shiny backdrop and some quick costume pieces or hold up frames for folks to enjoy while snapping away. You can even go nuts and rent a photo booth if you like. Everyone will love dressing up a bit and creating photographic memories with the props you provide. And it makes for some funny social media posts to last a lifetime. All you have left to do now is enjoy the countdown and welcome in 2021.

Wishing you a prosperous new year from our Priority Group family to yours. For more blog posts and to find out more about us go to www.omahaprioritygroup.com or schedule a meetup to discuss your real estate needs with one of our team members.

Smart and Stylish Laundry Rooms

Once upon a time, laundry rooms were overlooked and made to be utilitarian only. The typical laundry room had a washer, dryer next to the furnace and a drain in the middle of the concrete. They were also located in some dungeonous part of the basement where only Mom dared to venture. Now they’ve moved to more practical places in the home. For instance, most two-story homes have a laundry room on the second level where all the bedrooms, hence the clothing, is actually located. Makes sense. In one ranch style models you’ll often find the laundry room is also what’s called a mud room or a drop zone. That means it’s a room where you can come in from the garage and drop the items that don’t need to be in the house or need to be laundered, keeping the house organized and free from superfluous sports equipment and uniforms.

Utility and Style

Often you will find cabinetry in laundry rooms, but the latest trends are to have attractive cabinetry not something that’s been recycled from a kitchen renovation. The cabinets will tie your laundry room in with the rest of the house making it look like an intentional space. Putting in a sink is also a great way to rinse muddy items, paint brushes or other things you might not want to put in your kitchen sink. To add a little style to the room that you probably spend more time in daily there are wonderful paint colors to invite your laundry room into the present day. For instance, robin’s egg blue might not be a color you would use on your kitchen cabinets but for a smaller set of cabinets it can really transform the space into a pleasing and brighter place. Add some brushed brass cabinet hardware and voila!

Tile It!

Again, to make your laundry room a place where you don’t mind going, hand painted tile on the floor might be nice. And don’t be afraid to go bold. Beauty and function don’t have to live separately in your home. Tiling a backsplash, which isn’t often done in this room, makes a lot of sense, especially on the wall where your sink resides. It’s practical so that you don’t ruin your walls and if you add countertop to ceiling tile you add a design feature that is also esthetically pleasing. Don’t be afraid to decorate this space. After all, you spend a lot of time there. Why shouldn’t it be pleasant?

Decorate It!

Yes, I said decorate it. As you can see in this photo from a home, I personally designed we added a vase and some artwork. If there is a blank wall, why not put something pretty there. Have a large countertop? Add an artificial plant just to liven it up. There’s no reason why you can spice up the laundry room with a vignette of items. Place them strategically so they don’t get in the way of folding clothing or ironing but do put some out so that this room is part of your house rather than the place no one should go.

Lighting

Gone are the days of stark, florescent lighting in the laundry room. There is absolutely no reason to have lighting that is so bright white, you can see into the future. Do something dramatic and put a hanging light in there. With today’s LED bulbs you’ll still get enough light without getting a sun burn. Try something casual like a wicker shaded hanging light or a flat black metal light as the center piece of the room. If you have a flare for the dramatic and really want to enjoy doing laundry, hang something with a little more bling like a small glass chandelier. I personally have a flare for the bling, so I highly suggest the latter.

To read more blog topics and to find out more about Priority Group go to www.omahaprioritygroup.com

Lights Around Town – Omaha Area Christmas Displays

2020 has certainly been a year to remember for so many reasons. What I’m most impressed with this year is our communities Christmas spirit. For example, you can find beautiful Christmas displays north and south of Dodge as well as Council Bluffs and surrounding areas. It’s pretty impressive to say the least. My opinion is that everyone was fed up with the downside of 2020 and ready to put it behind them, so they started putting up trees and lights even before Thanksgiving. It is so nice to see people being resilient during challenging times and celebrating the good things in life. Here are some places to go to get an eyeful of love and hope. Find the best Christmas Lights in Omaha full of beautifully decorated houses with bright lights, inflatables, decorations, and some with thousands of lights choreographed to music! I was able to find hundreds of locations where families are putting on their own private shows at Family Fun Omaha’s web page https://familyfuninomaha.com/christmas-light-displays-omaha

Old Market, North Omaha, & South Omaha

There are lighting displays in these areas from November 20th through January 4th on a nightly basis and they are FREE! The Old Market display has white lights, garland, and festive decor illuminating the brick streets of the Old Market and surrounding areas. This display will run from 10th Street to 13th Street, and from Harney St. to Jackson St. The North Omaha display will be showcased along a 6-block area around 24th Street and Lake Street. And the South Omaha Display will be showcased on 24th Street between L St. and Q St. Walking through these areas at night is a great and socially distanced way to enjoy the decorations while still staying safe.

Season of Lights at Midtown Crossing

Midtown Crossing is a renaissance area located in the heart of Omaha. There are plenty of excellent restaurants and, of course, a beautiful holiday display that runs from November 20th through February 14th. Something to enjoy, free of charge. Stroll in the glow of a cherished holiday tradition with tens of thousands of white LED lights strung throughout Turner Park and along Farnam Street. Plus, visit the beautifully decorated tree in Farnam Court. It is located at Turner Park on 31st Avenue and Farnam Street in Omaha, NE.

Santa’s Rock ‘n Lights at Werner Park

Werner Park is a minor league ballpark near Papillion, Nebraska. Opened nine years ago in 2011, it is owned by Sarpy County and is the home of the Omaha Storm Chasers of the Pacific Coast League, and USL League One soccer club Union Omaha. However, from November 20th through January 3rd, you can drive through an amazing holiday display there. The price is reasonable at $19.99-$27.99 per vehicle. There are more than 700 feet of light tunnels, including a new techno rainbow tunnel located at Werner Park, 12356 Ballpark Way, Papillion, NE. Find times and buy tickets at https://santasrocknlights.com

For more information on the Priority Group and how we can help you buy, sell or build and home go to www.prioritygroup.com

Tile to Make you Smile

In all my years in design I’ve never seen tile as exciting as the tile that is out today. My partnership with Nathan Homes gives me an opportunity to keep up with the latest and greatest and use the most recent styles on a regular basis. There are many tile materials, colors, sizes, shapes, and patterns making it easy to find something to suit each client’s taste. Take a journey with me down this lovely, tiled lane and discover all that is possible.

Antiqued Pattern Tile

This colorful, vibrant and yet a little bit boho tile is my favorite. It’s called Islander and we used an 8-inch by 8-inch size. It really pops even in earth tones. Adding some pattern to your tile design brings fun, interesting, and eye-catching style to any project. It’s the perfect splash to contrast solid colors like we did in our Riviera model bath with solid beige tile on the side walls. Additionally, these tiles are finished in an antiqued surface to make them more appealing and artistic. We found these gems at Floor Source here in Omaha Nebraska.

Marble Look Without the Maintenance

Want to create a custom marble look without the expense of marble? This tile product made in Spain and sold by Omaha based vendor Premier Tile is the ticket. It’s called Conde and not only is it more cost effective but the white with gray veining is rich and elegant. It also doesn’t have the same upkeep as real stone which made it optimal to use in our Organic Modern model to make the master bath shower a spa like experience. We complimented it with octagonal mosaic tile on the floor and high-end fixtures to finish off the space.

Colors and Shapes

This triangle configuration was created with four separate tiles in different gray colors. It’s an accent tile combined with subway tile for a pretty contrast sold by Premier Tile. We chose this geometric design to make our Prairie Zen model Jack and Jill bath stand out as a unique yet stylish design. It matches the Zen yet modern them in this house and is soft despite the hard-edged shapes. The color of course is muted so as not to cause too much chaos and to accent rather than be the center of the bath plan. It pops without overwhelming which is what I was going for in this space.

Want to know more about these models and other new construction? Go to www.omahaprioritygroup.com

Floorplan Evolution – How Homes are Changing

The Priority Group helps clients, sell, and buy homes however a couple of the things that we specialize in are building homes and staging homes for showing. We’ve definitely noticed a metamorphosis in the way people are designing their homes and it’s mainly due to the pandemic. It’s caused people to work and live at home more than ever which means practical utilization of space is of utmost importance. As an example, we have less need for a formal dining space and more need for a second office or learning area. And that’s not likely to change any time soon. Most corporations that have staff who can work from home either have a plan to do so longer term or have switched permanently to remote working. In today’s article, we’re going to explore this a little more and see what folks are doing to utilize their existing rooms or change a new construction layout out in their new homes.

Do we Really Need a Formal Dining Room?

The answer in today’s environment, is no for most people. Using your dining room once a year during the holidays versus having a dedicated space for a second home office is a no brainer for most. It’s one thing to work on your kitchen counter for a short period of time but another to do so long term. There’s no privacy for meetings and the surrounding noises interrupt and aren’t professional. It’s cute to see people’s meeting interrupted by the family pet once in a while but I guarantee you, the boss won’t think it’s fun when it happens all of the time. Transforming a dining room into an office is easy. Simply take out the dining table, put it in storage and add a chair and desk. Decorating the space will make it feel more comfortable and motivate you over the long run. Rooms meant for dining usually have more space than a typical office would so you can add some functionality with an accent table and chairs in case you need to have a “meeting” with your spouse.

Home Schooling

At home learning was once a whole lot less common than it is now. There are still a lot of cities that have schools closed. Have a room for the kids to take online classes in is a no brainer. With two parents potentially working at home and likely 2 children, the average family needs a dedicated space for each activity. That loft space that you once used as a recreation or television area makes an excellent classroom for the kids. Utilizing headphones, you can have more than one child in a single space. Here’s where making the room functional as well as inviting will be especially important. Kids always like stability and if they feel that their home classroom is a good one, they’ll likely be able to focus better.

New Construction and the Remote Family

Fewer bedrooms to accommodate for a second home office, basements, attics, and even separate units if there’s enough property have become more common place in today’s new construction. Expanding the footprint of a new home has also become common to provide for remote classrooms for the kids in the family. New construction needs have morphed from entertainment spaces to more practical spaces. For instance, that spare bedroom or the basement playroom has now become a classroom and the finished attic you once used for storage is now an office. Most likely, in new construction, families are adding to the footprint of their home and putting in these spaces. You can always turn them into another type of space later but not having the square footage to do it in the first place isn’t an option anymore.

For more information on this topic, to see other blogs and to contact the Priority Group, go to www.omahaprioritygroup.com

Tis the Season for Giving

As I considered the topic for this week’s blog, it occurred to me how fortunate I am to be able to have a career doing what I’m passionate about. With that in mind, I wanted to do something a little different with today’s blog. Instead of design, I’m going to be writing about what this season is really all about, giving. I’m a true believer that once you start to realize your goals, you have to turn around and help the next person in line. Sometimes that means mentorship or career counseling. And sometimes that means fulfilling a need in the community. Locally, and especially this year, we have many in need and here are some ways we can all help.

Open Door Mission

This one is located in West Omaha right in my own back yard. It’s a mission whose goal is to break the cycle of homelessness and poverty. They have some urgent needs that are extremely easy to contribute to and certainly worth a few minutes of time. The first one is called Project Santa. If you go to their website at https://www.opendoormission.org/urgent-needs/project-santa you will find a link where you can easily shop for toys that go to needy boys and girls so that everyone will have gifts on Christmas morning. You don’t even need to leave the comfort of your own home. How easy is that? Additionally, they have a program called Christmas bells. This one is for the adults who need some love at this time of year. It provides gifts for hurting adults who are lonely and need to know someone cares. You can help by hosting a drive to collect these much-needed gifts. Hosting a drive has never been easier! https://www.opendoormission.org/urgent-needs/christmas-bells

The Lane Thomas Foundation

This one is near and dear to my heart. It was founded by close friends of mine. Imagine being a family with a child that must have an organ or multiple organs transplanted. The expense of caring for that child including travel, lodging, meals, etc. that are not covered by health insurance can be overwhelming. Often times, one spouse will have to quit their job to dedicate time to their child’s care, but the bills still must be paid. The foundation provides support in this area with contributions towards non-medical expenses. It’s a cause well worth contributing toward. https://www.lanethomas.org/donate

Realtor Ring Day

This past week, a few of the team members from the Priority Group pitched in and donated their time to the Salvation Army by ringing the ever so well know bell and filling those red pots with some cash. You can help out with monetary donations as well as donations of lightly used household items. What better time than when you have to dig out all the holiday decorations to clean out that storage space and get rid of some of those items that you haven’t used in a long time? The Salvation Army will sell your things at their thrift stores and the proceeds are used to fund their adult rehabilitation centers where those struggling with drugs and alcohol find help, hope, and a second chance at life. An excellent way to make an impact in our community. https://satruck.org

Habitat for Humanity of Omaha

In 2020, Habitat Omaha built or renovated more than 40 homes. Additionally, they completed up to 140 home repair or improvement projects, expanding their impact through critical repairs and services for veterans, people with disabilities and the elderly. One of the things that Habitat does is build homes for those in need. A homeowner needs to put in up to 350 hours of sweat equity before purchasing their home. I personally have volunteered my time in building one of the Habitat communities and the satisfaction of helping is tremendous. They will accept your time, money, and household items like gently used kitchen cabinets and appliances that you have left over from your home renovation. https://habitatomaha.org

For more information on the Priority Group, go to www.omahaprioritygroup.com

Christmas Mantles and More

Tis the season and today I’m going to show you how the merriest people deck the halls. It’s traditional for most folks to put up a Christmas tree but some go the extra mile with mantle decorations and others love to really jazz things up with a Christmas village. There are so many ways to mix it up with mantles and villages…garland, lights, moving parts, tiny people, not to mention colors, glitter, and artificial snow. Creating an indoor winter wonderland is something that some of us take very seriously. Myself included.

Go with What Works

I personally like a more traditional look with a little bit of holiday floral inside to make my mantle décor a real showstopper. I also use it as the center piece of my room, drawing the eye to it as soon as you walk in. Warm burgundies, gold and creams are the theme with just a little bit of greenery. I love the way it’s set with a higher level in the center as the thriller, some medium level items as the filler and still some lower level items to finish it off. It cascades down to the left and right of the thriller and fills up the mantle, but I finished it off with some family heirlooms on each end to help me remember my grandmother who gave them to me. That completes the emotion I wanted for my personal mantle.

Get Creative. No Offense Rudolf

Everyone loves something a little different. For a more interesting, and rustic, look this designer went with antlers. Yes, antlers! It’s hard to imagine but this design would go really well in a winter cabin up in the mountains someplace. Check out how the designer uses the antlers as the center piece and then throws in a pop of color with a red berry garland swag to contrast the cream-colored mantle. It’s pretty ingenious. The oversized pinecones and the pine boughs tie it all together with a little bit of bling brought in by the gold jingle bells scattered throughout. This one is a real creation that most people would not think to put together.

Keep It Simply Silly

For those of you who are city people, there’s a style for you as well. This design took a black fireplace and turned it into a sheik Christmas display. What really accentuates the entire thing is the circular mirror topped off with a hat of greenery which matches the greenery on the mantle itself. Accents of brass candle holders and reindeer really give it a quiet elegance while at the same time giving it a little shine. The gold and cream-colored beaded garland draped down and across soften the entire design and give it some added class. The forest green plaid and fur stockings blend in with the dark paint while still adding color. And finally, white twinkle lights give the entire thing some sparkle. Nicely done!

Let’s Put a Little Bling in this Thing

You’ve got to check this beautiful spectacle out. As much as I like the ever so popular buffalo plaid, there’s something to be said about an overstuffed mantle with big, bold splashes color. If you’ve been hanging on to those multicolored lights and decorations waiting for them to come back into style, you’ve arrived. This is a multifaceted color and sparkle mix with mesh ribbon to give it a full look and a little greenery thrown in for good measure. I personally love how playful it is. It gives me that feeling of when I was a kid and rainbows were all the rage. Unlike the matched and color coordinated look, with this mantle, you can add almost any color and texture you want to the rest of the room and they will blend nicely. A coordinating Christmas tree would be just darling. Don’t be afraid to go for it when you’re doing up your mantle. Color is your friend.

It’s a Wonderful Life

Anyone who knows the movie will understand it when I say that a friend told me my Christmas village looks like Bedford Falls. And that’s exactly what I was going for. That hometown, I wish I lived there, feeling. Village people, as I call us, are just grown ups longing to play with toys again. Collections are not usually my thing, but someone bought me my first little white church as a gift and from there on in, I was hooked. Since then, I’ve added tiny homes, businesses and people. This year’s addition, compliments of my wonderful mother-in-law, is a skating pond with people that actually skate. Sound silly? Maybe but it has brought me and the folks that follow me on Facebook, loads of joy. Adding fake snow made everything feel more real believe it or not. And it helped me cover up the wires that bring power to the lights inside the buildings. I topped off the entire thing with multicolored twinkle lights just to bring some pop to it all. Hopefully, you love my little town as much as I do.

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Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree

Anyone who’s taken time to reflect on 2020 has probably given the pandemic some thought and how it’s impacted this year. We’ve had some struggles, to say the least. That must be why everyone has been decorating extra early for the holiday. I’ve seen lights on houses before Thanksgiving and some starting as early as Halloween. I for one think it’s pretty fantastic. Dress up the remainder of 2020 and call it good. The design/decoration we’re talking about today, is Christmas trees. There have been so many creative trends this year, I can’t fit them all into one blog article. Instead, I picked out a few from our own Priority Group team. Oh, and let’s not forget the most famous tree of all. The Rockefeller Center tree just to satisfy those of us who would like to know the stats for that beauty.

Classic and Simple

This tree was created by our Assistant Designer Taylor who chose her first ever live tree. As you can see, it’s simply done and has mat, shiny and glitter covered silver balls on it and a few whites ones as well. What I like about it is that the tree skirt is a beautiful piece of red and black plaid fabric that contrasts the decorations. The tree itself is not too big, not too small but just the right size for the space. Taylor’s house is well put together and tasteful just like her new tree. Well done to her for putting together a little piece of heaven without going to extremes. Now let’s put some presents under this one.

Did you say Ombre? Yes you did.

I must say that I’ve never seen an ombre Christmas tree before but this one is, as the younger generation likes to say, the bomb. Another one of our talented Design Assistants, Amanda is responsible for this work of art. Not only is it unique but it’s so nicely color coordinated with the light to dark theme. You can find this tree at At Home the home decor store. It’s definitely one in a million and I love it. It’s interesting how the fade from white to grey to black and dark green blend with festive red, white and green decorations. Way to go Amanda!

A More Traditional Look

This one is my tree. It’s referred to as a pencil style artificial tree made for more narrow spaces. I chose to decorate it with burgundy and gold including a gold and white lame skirt. It has a floral garland on it in a soft cream color accented with gold and burgundy balls. To top it all off there is a beautiful, large bow at top with long pieces of ribbon hanging horizontally from it. I think it makes the tree look like a beautiful Christmas gift. The entire thing blends with the decorating style I chose for my home which is a warm, soft, eclectic feel that blends a lot of different styles and earth toned colors. I felt the tree really completed the room.

Candy Cane Design

The next one on my list is a nine-foot artificial, white flocked tree that belongs to our team Transaction Assistant Lisa. I call this one a candy cane design because of the wide white ribbon spooling at an angle vertically from top to bottom. It reminds me of a candy cane with the blue stripe through it. The ribbon is gathered and tucked all the way from top to bottom which gives the tree a full and overstuffed looked. Added to that is a blue theme with light and royal blue balls and a few white feathers thrown in there for good measure. The clear Lucite oversized snowflakes scattered throughout the tree gives it a little sparkle when they reflect the lights behind them which matched the sparkle in the silver balls that are thrown in. And lastly, the white velvet tree skirt with a sparkle silver crisscross pattern on it ties all that glitter together between the balls, the snowflakes, and the lights. This overstuffed design has been popular for the last several years and doesn’t seem to be going out of style.

And I’d be remiss if I didn’t give a proper salute to the nation’s most famous tree standing in the heart of New York City. The Rockefeller Christmas tree is just gorgeous. This beauty draws some attention to the tune of 750,000 visitors a day while it stands during the holiday season. It is a 75 foot 11 inch Norway Spruce. There are 50,000 lights on the tree once it’s all done and the topper is made from 25,000 Swarovski crystals. It weighs 900 pounds and costs about $1.5 million dollars. And let’s not talk about how much electricity it takes to power all of those lights. Good thing it’s power comes primarily from solar panels installed at Rockefeller Center. To add some excitement to this one, this year there was a stow away in the tree. A tiny and very adorable Northern saw-whet owl was found inside after the tree had been transported. Luckily, the little guy is ok and back in the wild.

The Priority Group wishes you a very Merry Christmas and good luck with your own tree creations. For more information about us go to www.omahaprioritygroup.com.

Sherwin Williams 2021 Colors of the Year

They refer to the 2021 colors as the “Rhythm of Color”. I love the way they worded that because they truly have a rhythm. They also did something very interesting with the colors and they created a collection of forty hues across four pallets and called them Colormix. An entertaining way to help us feel the colors they’ve chosen for the new year. Join me as we take an expressive dive into these new color pallets and explore how they can all be used in designs for your home.

Sanctuary

It’s referred to as a back to nature kind of experience. Bringing nature inside of course. This pallet includes Pure White, Bona Fide Beige, Pearl Gray, Morris Room Grey, Oakmoss, Antiquarian Brown, Modern Gray, Messenger Bag, Canyon Clay and Urbane Bronze. All of these colors are earth tones and create a feeling of wellness and calm. The earth tones seem to be making a comeback. They include lighter colors for the trim pieces in your home like Pure White as well as bolder and darker colors for accent walls such as Urbane Bronze. One of the colors I’m liking is Oakmoss. It’s a kin to an army green but a bit brighter. This one would be great to put on the walls of a cute little book nook or inside of some book shelves.

Encounter

This pallet includes Alabaster, Reddened Earth, Blustery Sky, Tarnished Trumpet, Jubilee, Natural Tan, Rosemary, Java, Hardware and Navel. It has some nice earth tones as well but more in the darker family of paints including Naval, which is a rich, dark blue color that seems to be remaining popular for the last few years and into the new year. Naval combined with Jubilee (a gray blue color) would certainly make a nice combination for a young boy’s room. Especially if you’re going for that nautical feel. Another fun color in this group is a little bit of a throwback called Tarnished Trumpet. It’s a play on the gold colors that are popular in small accents like kitchen cabinet pulls and lighting. Using this color to play on one of those metal accents in a room would be an interesting way to tie them all together.

Continuum

The Sherwin Williams web site describes this combo of colors as. “An Ethereal Spectrum” and when you look at what’s included, you will agree. Mainly because of Novel Lilac which is a bright star in this group. All the colors grouped here are High Reflective White, Limon Fresco, Commodore, Wishful Blue, Novel Lilac, Moonraker, Swimming, Crushed Ice, Great Falls and Cyberspace. As you can see, they all have interesting names. I’m in love with Novel Lilac. It’s a fun light purple that could easily be used in a nursery or in a young girl’s room to brighten it up but it’s not obnoxious like some colors in this family can be. Paired with High Reflective White for the trim and you’ve got a whole room of happiness.

Tapestry

Contrasting colors in this pallet are beautiful. Peaches and pinks with blues and, believe it or not, black. All with the same underlying hues simultaneously blending them together. The colors in this one are Greek Villa, Aleutian, Enjoyable Yellow, Jovial, Jaipur Pink, Embellished Blue, Perfect Periwinkle, Alexandrite, Cape Verde and Tricorn Black. You can pair many of these colors to make a room soft or bold or, like I said, create a beautiful contrast. The colors that I like the best together are Greek Villa, which is a creamy white, and Tricorn Black for an accent wall. They create a modern, curated look which is very intentional.

Check out this Rhythm of Color for yourself at https://www.swcolorforecast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/SW.Colormix.2021.pdf and for more information on the Priority Group, including our latest blogs, go to www.omahaprioritygroup.com.

Tis the Season for Christmas Tree Farms

It’s the day after Thanksgiving and while the fridge is still packed with leftover turkey dinner, all I can think about is decorating for Christmas. For me it’s the adult equivalent of opening presents on Christmas morning. I’ll have to pack away my fall decorations and pluck all of the bins with my decorating goodies out of the storage room but after I’ve done that, it’s time to deck the halls. Now I have a fake tree, or as my good friend calls it, a faux tree with flocking but lots of people enjoy the process of getting a real tree. It makes the house smell like pine and they love the hunt. Especially if there are children involved. That brings us to today’s festive topic, Christmas tree farms. Nebraska is loaded with them. We thought you might like to find out about some of the most popular ones in the area. Whether you go real or go faux, these farms are a blast to check out.

Santa’s Woods

Just a short trip to Blair, Nebraska and you can help yourself to a beautiful, new tree without the hassle of manual labor. This place is a 2nd-generation, family-run, choose-and-cut, Christmas tree farm. They are a full-service facility that will cut, haul, shake, bale and load your tree for you. It’s the glamping of Christmas tree experiences. Bring the kids with you and let them pick it out then all that you have to do is get it home and put it up. There’s even a rumor that some of Santa’s elves have created “Amazing Technicolor Trees” and wreaths for their farm. And if that’s not enough, you can go on a fun hay rack ride with the whole family. What more could you ask for? Oh…you want the web site. Well here it is. https://www.santaswoods.com

Frosty’s Pine

This gem is located north of Omaha off highway 75. Just about 20 to 30 minutes from most of the metro area. It’s a bit more activity for the family because it’s a choose and cut farm where you do the cutting. Less like glamping and a little more Paul Bunyan style which gives you that sense of accomplishment and lets you tell your party guests that you chopped it down yourself. There are rows and rows of Scotch Pines, but they also carry some Concolor Firs, Blue Spruce, and White Pine. And their Facebook page says that all the trees are $40 regardless of size. That’s a bargain! They recommend tagging your tree early. You can check it out for yourself by going to https://www.facebook.com/frostyspines

Country Conifers

This is a lovely 5-acre farm located just south of Blair, Nebraska that’s been in business since 1990. They too are a full-service business that will cut down and load your tree. They charge $10 per foot which seems about par for the course and they have Concolor, Canaan, Douglas and Fraser firs. They also have a pretty little, red barn trimmed in white on the property that’s neat to take pictures in front of if you want to capture the moment. Their web site politely asks that you wear a mask but that shouldn’t stop you from smelling the fragrant pine needles. These folks are only open on weekends so check out their hours at https://countryconifers.com/hours

If you’re more adventurous and would like to make a day of it to explore on your own, you can find some more tree farms at the Nebraska Department of Agriculture web site https://nda.nebraska.gov/publications/promotion/christmas_trees/trees.html They have a cool interactive map listed by county that shows registered tree farms. Best of luck to you on your Christmas tree journey this year. Big or small, I hope you find the perfect one that speaks to you and looks amazing in your home.

For more information on the Priority Group or to read more of our blogs go to www.omahaprioritygroup.com