Category Archives: Uncategorized

Buying a home can feel overwhelming. There’s a lot of information, a lot of emotion, and usually a lot of opinions coming at you from every direction. My goal, always, is to make the process feel exciting instead of stressful and intentional instead of chaotic. By now, you probably know my philosophy: the key toContinue reading “How I Make the Home Buying Process Feel Less Stressful (and a Lot More Fun)”

I love hosting, but I’ve learned something important over the years: entertaining doesn’t have to be complicated to be memorable. Living by Design, to me, means creating a home that feels welcoming, warm, and lived in — not stressed, overplanned, or performative. I’m not interested in perfect place settings or a 12-step menu. I am interested inContinue reading “Stacey’s Favorites: Hosting Essentials That Make Entertaining Easy”

I’ll be the first to admit it — I am easily influenced. If something promises better sleep, glowier skin, or a calmer nervous system, I’m probably already adding it to my cart. Self-care doesn’t always mean booking a spa day or clearing an entire afternoon. As much as I love a great facial or massage, someContinue reading “Stacey’s Favorites: My At-Home Self-Care Rituals I Swear By”

Let’s be honest: I really enjoy a good girls’ lunch. Not a rushed bite between meetings. Not a “we’ll just grab something quick.” I’m talking about the kind of lunch where you bring a great bottle of wine, the conversation flows, phones stay face-down, and somehow two hours disappear without anyone noticing. Living by DesignContinue reading “My Go-To Spots for a Girls’ Lunch in Monmouth County”

In real estate, there are a lot of moving parts. Contracts, inspections, timelines, logistics. But for me, one of the most meaningful moments comes at the very end of the process, when the paperwork is signed, the keys are handed over, and my clients step into their new chapter. That’s where the closing gift comesContinue reading “Where I Shop for Closing Gifts (Because the Details Matter)”

Listing a home isn’t just about putting a sign in the yard. It’s about preparation, clarity, and having the right people in your corner. These are the five professionals I trust and recommend when it’s time to start the conversation. Making Space – Shannon LittlehaleShannon is a home organizer who truly makes moving a breeze.Continue reading “The 5 People I Call When I’m Thinking About Listing a Home”

As we wrap up 2025, it is a great time to zoom out and look at what actually happened in the Monmouth County housing market. If you are thinking about buying or selling in 2026, these trends give you a clear starting point. Note: The numbers below are based on data from sources like Zillow, Redfin,Continue reading “Monmouth County Real Estate 2025: Year in Review”

When school is out and the sugar rush hits, the big question becomes: What do we do with everyone for the next 10 days? The good news: you do not have to go far. Monmouth County is packed with winter friendly activities that keep kids off screens and out of each other’s personal space forContinue reading “Winter Break in Monmouth County: A Family-Friendly Guide”

If the idea of hosting a holiday meal makes you want to order takeout, this one’s for you. Instead of a 17-dish spread, here’s a simple, elevated menu: one appetizer, one main, one side, one dessert, and one signature cocktail. It feels special, but it’s totally doable between gift wrapping, school concerts, and real estateContinue reading “A Cozy Holiday Menu”