Whether you’ve just moved into a new house or want to update your old one, you don’t have to break the bank! You want to make your home feel distinctive and unique without the stress-inducing costs of an interior decorator. Here are some practical tips to make that happen:

-Scour thrift stores and Craigslist for cheaper furniture and decorations. Garage sales can be a valuable resource as well. Look in listings for ‘moving sale’ on Craigslist and you’ll find people selling nicer items. Plus, you’ll have bargaining power. People who hold moving sales are trying to get rid of stuff quick. Here’s an app that can help you out: Yard Sale Treasure Map.

-Invest in the usage of warm temperature bulbs, string lights, candles. Not only are they cheaper and more energy efficient, but the light is more flattering for your home.

-Check out the Pinterest board for easy-to-make DIY home décor.

-If you want truly unique decorations for your home for a reasonable price, then check out theanou.com.  You can request custom made rugs, jewelry, houseware, art from talented artisans all across Morocco. You will be getting an item for an affordable cost directly from the artisan, and your purchase will make a huge impact on a rural Moroccan village. It’s a win-win situation!

-Use family photos as wall art. It is easy, cheap, and a great way of celebrating all the good memories you’ve had. Not to mention, you can do the framing yourself and build a good looking photo wall right in the living room.

-Visit your local IKEA for affordable items. They have a vast selection of appliances, and multi-use, multi-purpose furniture that can be used to any capacity. Check out their catalogue for everything from furniture, to an entire kitchen, to cabinets, to beds and sheets, to textiles and rugs, to lamps, to other accessories.