Remember the importance of creating a well thought out plan and have the conviction to stick to it. When shopping for an area rug or any home decor you will have ample choices and fall in love with many items. This proves the importance of having a plan. On a related note, be prepared to be patient. Having the discipline to hold off ordering a rug and ordering a sample instead will save time and frustration.

Finally, let your personality shine through your color scheme and decor. Remember, rules are tools. Let them guide you but use them to your advantage. If you find that they are making your job more difficult or too stressful or are simply taking away the fun of decorating move on and do what feels right.

Decorate for yourself and your family and not for anyone else. After all, your home is your castle and its decor should please you. Of course, other people’s opinions are always important, but should be secondary to what makes you happy.