By: Joanna L. Daneman, AAMS®

As an investor, you can get plenty of advice from financial experts on the evening news or cable financial shows. But you may actually be able to learn some deeper truths about investing by observing other professionals — such as winemakers.

At first glance, you might not see what these “guardians of the grape” can teach you about building an investment portfolio. After all, they’re shaping Sangiovese while you’re seeking stocks, they’re bottling Burgundy while you’re buying bonds, and they’re mastering Malbec while you’re monitoring mutual funds. Where’s the connection?

Start by considering the life cycle of wine and the concept of “vintage.” For example, a particular wine is labeled a 2005 vintage if it is made from grapes that were predominantly grown and harvested in 2005. Yet given the requirements of wine production, this 2005 vintage may not actually hit the markets until 2008 — and some aficionados may think the wine won’t taste its best until 2018.

If you translated this type of scenario to the financial world, you could say that the 2008 investment “vintage” was not promising, given that the value of almost all investments — even the quality ones — fell last year. But if you were to hold these quality investments for the long term — as you should, because investing is a long-term activity — you might find that the 2008 vintage investments may eventually become productive vehicles that can help you achieve your financial goals.

So, what lessons can you learn from winemakers? Here are a few suggestions:

• Be patient. Winemakers put a lot of time, effort and money into planting today’s grapes — for which they will not see one penny of profit for many years. Yet they have the discipline to wait patiently until the products of their labors come to fruition. Are all their wines successful? No — and all your investments may not be, either. But given enough time, quality investments can usually help you work toward your financial goals.
• Have faith in your strategy. Wine drinkers’ tastes can change from year to year. Yet winemakers don’t rip out their vineyards and replant them with today’s “hot” varietal. Instead, they cultivate the grapes they’ve planted, make the best wine they can and maintain their belief that their products will find a market. As an investor, you can’t allow yourself to be swayed by today’s hot tips and trends. Instead, build a portfolio of quality investments that can stand the test of time.
• Adapt your goals to your situation. One of the most famous winemaking regions in the world, Napa Valley, contains a number of microclimates that vary by temperature, rainfall and soil. Napa Valley winemakers know which grapes will do best in which microclimate, and they concentrate their efforts accordingly. And you, as an individual investor, should make your investment decisions based on your own “microclimate” — your risk tolerance, family situation, time horizon and other factors. In other words, you should choose those investments that are best suited for you and that have the best chance to help you meet your goals.

Investing, like  winemaking, is filled with challenges. But by observing how winemakers work, you may learn some things that can eventually help you raise a glass to your own success.

By: Colleen Stone

With so much unsettling news these days, much of our country lives in fear, stress and anxiety says Colleen Stone, Certified Hypnotherapist.

In working with her clients, Colleen sees and hears similar complaints such as, “I am so afraid …”, “I have so much anxiety that I cannot sleep!”, “My migraine headaches are so much worse” or, “I cannot leave the house without taking a pill!” Colleen believes that core beliefs play a big part in how the mind/body operates affecting our thoughts, emotions and our health. The body can heal itself once the negative energy from these emotions has been resolved and released and Ms. Stone states, “This is what I do everyday….with the use of hypnosis, self-hypnosis and EFT.” In addition, Colleen believes that ENERGY MEDICINE is the medicine of the future…just think if we could resolve and release negative energy before they manifest into an illness!

Look what Dr. Candace Pert has to say in her book, “Molecules of Emotions”, about the power of releasing negative emotions with the use of forgiveness, and how the process actually affects our mind/body, and the immune system:

“Releasing blame requires a quantum shift in which the whole body/mind is altered, a true state change that affects the entire system. It isn’t a small thing that is done by degrees, but a whole-body turnaround. Who you are when you forgive yourself and others is someone living a new reality. You are free and experience true happiness. You can also be healthier; because physical inflammation in your body is diminished, (it is no longer continuously triggered by resentment and rage).

If you experience a constant, suppressed state of anger in your body/mind over many years, holding grudges and not forgiving people for incidents that happened in the past, then you are most likely using energy to make antibodies, and keeping yourself in a chronically inflamed state. As a result, you tax your immune system to overreact, aggravating autoimmune disorders such as Fibromyalgia, lupus, CFS, and rheumatoid arthritis, and many other illnesses.

Colleen’s goal for each client is self-awareness through positive changes in their core belief systems allowing for desired behavior changes, ultimately self-love and reconnecting with the original/true self that is happy, healthy and strong!

Colleen uses a five-step process of one-on-one hypnosis, including one session of Direct Suggestion, and four other steps of letting go and resolving negative emotions including “Forgiveness of Others” and “Forgiveness of Self”. Forgiveness is about no longer having to carry around the pain and anger caused by these negative emotions. This is when the self-healing begins!! Colleen teaches her clients what she has learned after ten years of researching and working successfully with other clients that, “the bottom line to healing is learning self-love and allowing the body to heal itself!” Forgiveness is a gift to self and it is not about the other person.

Self-Hypnosis and EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) are two methods of self-healing that Colleen teaches to all her clients, along with the one-on-one process of 5PATH.

Self-Hypnosis is a method of resolving and letting go of negative emotions daily so that they no longer accumulate and manifest into illness. EFT is an amazing healing technique that is easy to learn and has profound effects. It is a simple, rapid and remarkably effective approach to healing emotional disorders that is based on a synthesis of Chinese Acupressure and Applied Kinesiology.

As clients clear away the negative emotions related to the illness, they experience a process of improvement and inner peace and find a transformation of energy for the good. From there many clients use that energy in a positive way to achieve lifetime goals.

Testimonial:

“Dear Colleen, After five long months of suffering with ‘Post Traumatic Stress with Repressed Memories”, I was so thankful that God finally lead me to you. You helped me “rescue that little girl” from the torture that I suffered from childhood sexual abuse that had now surfaced into my adulthood. I was living partly as an adult and partly as a five-year-old girl. No doctor, psychologist, clinical social worker, mental health worker, drugs, or “talk therapy” was able to help me. Thankfully, with your understanding, compassion, and field of expertise in Hypnotherapy, my life was brought back to normal and continues to be.

May God bless you and continue to use this alternative field of medicine to free those who are in mental bondage, and feel there is “No Hope”. ~ In sincere gratitude, CP”

Colleen Stone is a Certified Hypnotherapist through the Banyan Hypnosis Center in California and a member of National Guild of Hypnotist, Inc. www.ngh.net. She has a successful business, ADVANCED HYPNOTHERAPY OF DELAWARE, www.ahode.com, located in Felton, Delaware. Colleen is also certified in Anti-Aging Principles and Natural Hormone Replacement Theory through Giovane Medical Services Inc., member of American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, and sells natural hormone trandsdermal creams. She is trained in Energy Medicine by Donna Eden through Omega Institute in New York, and all of Colleen’s clients are taught how to use EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) a form of acupressure, and Self-Hypnosis.

Colleen holds a Bachelors Degree of Education with thirty plus hours of graduate work. She spent sixteen years in the classroom teaching in addition to four years at the Caesar Rodney School District Office training teachers. She has also presented workshops across the country through involvement in two national projects. This nurturing, giving quality and her trusted rapport has carried over to her practice by helping her clients achieve positive changes in their lives through hypnosis for nine years.

Ms. Stone provides workshops and talks in many of the titles listed in this article.

Left to right: Tish, Homairah, Emily, Leila, Heather, Rene’, Alison, Christine, Carrie, Gulya, and Chelsey

Without a doubt, hair is the most important changeable feature that we have. Many people come to us with a desire for a fresh new style.

Here at Rene Delyn our team of color experts are ready to assist you with making those important decisions about a new style. We believe in educating our clients and giving tips that may help aid in their decision-making about a new look.

First, we want to make sure that a specific style is compatible with our client’s lifestyle. An extreme style may fit well with someone who works in a creative field, but not so much so for the more business professional. Whether you’re making over your color, cut or both, it’s important to know what works well for you. When it comes to getting great hair, look no further than in the mirror. After determining your face shape, we will create balance and beauty by helping you select a style that will emphasizes your best features.  Forget “just the usual” trim and go for something a little more updated. Stiff, over-styled hair is out of fashion; where as flowing, natural hair is currently in style. Women’s hairstyles are seeing a return to more soft feminine waves.

Emily Moses: “I like to change my color a lot and it always feels healthy and shiny even after a drastic change.  I’ve gotten so many compliments.”

Try transforming your fringe to a fuller bang. Bangs, when done correctly, can compliment almost any face shape. You may desire a more defined shaped, which can be created with layering. Some people have a big misconception about layers. However, layering the hair can frame the face in a very complimenting way, create depth and enhance body and movement. When layers are properly placed, it can make thicker hair more manageable and give a fuller appearance to thinner hair.

We believe in staying up to date on current styles and ever changing hairstyling techniques. Our stylists have traveled the U.S. and abroad to further their education in this industry. After studying in Taiwan at the Vern Styling College, Rene has brought extensive cutting knowledge and training to the Rene Delyn Team. By using the Vern Combined Scissors Technique, our stylists are able to create texture, adjust hair volume and transform your haircut to a softer longer lasting style. With the eight interchangeable scissors, there simply is nothing that compares to the guaranteed satisfaction that this cutting technique can provide.

Pam Matthews: “The before and after blew my family away. Thank you for making me feel so comfortable.”

Now, there is no better way to compliment your updated haircut than with a fresh new color. Whether it is highlighting to brighten and accent or lowlights to create depth. It is important to stick with colors that compliment one’s skin tone; the key is finding the right shade for you. From warmer richer reds to icy cool blondes, we at Rene Delyn are here and ready to help you with your color choice.

Rene Delyn Stylists are on hand to assist you in transforming your hair and makeup for even those more special occasions. Hair inspirations are coming straight from the runways. From low knots to stunning braids, these looks are sure to turn heads at every occasion of the season.

Whether you’ve had the same hairstyle for years, or just a short time, you may be ready for a change.

Come visit us at Rene Delyn Hair Designs and let us inspire and transform you today!

*   Registered Nurses
*   Licensed Practical Nurses
*   Pediatric Speech
*   Occupational Therapists
*   Physical Therapists

Come join the Bayada Nurses team and become a hero to a wonderful child in need. We offer the flexible schedules, full benefits, weekly pay and competitive pay rates. At Bayada Nurses our healthcare professionals are dedicated to providing care with Compassion, Excellence and Reliability.

For more information
please contact SherVonne at 302-322-2300.
You can also email your resume to swilson@bayada.com
or fax it to 302-322-6300.

Anthony B. Furey, DO
Cardiology Physicians

Dr. Anthony B. Furey joined Cardiology Physicians in March 2011.  Dr. Furey has been a Cardiologist in Delaware since 1996.  Dr. Furey grew up in Chadds Ford PA. He attended Bishop Shanahan High School and Lafayette College where he obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology.  During his four years at Lafayette, he lettered in Varsity Basketball and was Captain of the 1983 squad.

Dr. Furey attended Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. His post doctorate training involved internship at Doctors Hospital in Columbus, OH, and Internal Medicine residency at Lehigh Valley Hospital in Allentown, PA.  His Cardiology fellowship was completed at The Graduate Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA.

Dr. Furey is board certified in Internal Medicine and Cardiology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He has been recognized as board certified in Adult Echocardiography by the American Society of Echocardiography and Nuclear Cardiology by the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology.

Dr. Furey’s professional associations include membership in the American Osteopathic Association, Delaware Society of Osteopathic Medicine, Delaware Medical Society, American Society of Echocardiography, American Society of Nuclear Cardiology, American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation, and Fellow of the American College of Cardiology.

Dr. Furey’s interests involve clinical and consultative cardiology along with echocardiography, transesophageal echocardiography, and nuclear cardiology.

Dr. Furey is the Medical Director of the Christiana Care Cardiac Rehabilitation program. He was named “Outstanding Specialty Teacher” in 2002 by the Christiana Care Family Medicine program and has been named Delaware Today’s “Top Doctor” in Cardiology in 2003 and 2010.

Dr. Furey and his family reside in Wilmington, DE. He and his wife Katherine were married in 1990. They have three children; Brannock born in 1993, Conor born in 1996, and Corinne born in 2001.

Charles J. Simon, MS, OD
Simon Eye Associates

Charles J. Simon, MS, OD, is the founder and CEO of Simon Eye Associates.  A native Delawarean, Dr. Simon grew up in Dover, Delaware, graduating from Dover High School.  He then attended the University of Delaware, obtaining an undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences, and a graduate degree in Nutritional Sciences.  An additional degree in Visual Sciences and a Doctorate in Optometry was earned from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry.

Dr. Simon completed externships in primary care at the JFK Hospital Eye Clinic, and in electro-diagnosis and low vision at The Eye Institute, all in Philadelphia.  He continued with post-doctoral studies at the National Eye Institute in Bethesda, Maryland.

He began practicing Optometry in 1982, along with becoming an Assistant Professor at the University of Delaware.  Since starting his own practice, he has expanded from his first office on Bancroft Parkway in Wilmington to become a multi-location practice serving all of Delaware and surrounding areas.  Simon Eye Associates now employs 14 Doctors and over 100 staff members.  Dr. Simon attributes the growth of the practice to his firm commitment to satisfying the eye health needs of his patients.  The mission statement of the practice reflects this belief:

Dr. Simon is a member of both the American Optometric Association and the Delaware Optometric Association.  Past memberships include Student Optometric Service to Haiti and Omicron Nu National Honor Society.  His awards include the Clinical Excellence Award, Outstanding Graduate Student, Outstanding Young Men of America, and Oxford’s Who’s Who.

Dr. Simon and his wife Marina live in Hockessin with their three Chihuahuas.  He enjoys oil painting, running and biking in his spare time.

Ron Sayers
Sayers Jewelers and Gemologists

Ronald Lee Sayers, goes by Ron Sayers is 66 years old and originally from Pennsylvania.   At age 5 his parents, Leroy and June Sayers moved to Smyrna Delaware and opened Sayers Jewelers.   From the beginning Ron was given chores in the store such as counting envelopes, inserting letters and adding stamps.

Ron Graduated from John Bassett Moore High School in Smyrna then went on to Wesley College in Dover which was a 2 year school at the time and then transferred to Delaware State College and graduated with a business and accounting degree.  After joining the family business full time in 1968 Ron began taking courses at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA ) where he earned his Graduate Gemologist degree.

In 1967 Ron married Ellen Killen from Leipsic, Delaware.   Ron and Ellen have three boys,  Ronnie, a commercial waterman,   Rodney, a boilermaker and Tom,who works in the family business and is also a GIA Graduate Gemologist.

Ron and Ellen have worked side by side in the family business since 1968.  In 1989 They purchased the business from Ron’s parents and it became Sayers Jewelers and Gemologists.   Ron, Ellen and son Tom along with seven other employees run the thriving business today.   Sayers was the first jeweler in Kent County to have a gem microscope in their store and Ron was the first jeweler in all of Delaware  to have a high tech Laser welder.   Ron and son Tom also design and manufacture custom jewelry on the premises using state of the art Cad-Cam designing as well as hand carved designs.   Sayers is proud to have customers in 48 states.

Ron has served as Past President of the Smyrna-Clayton Rotary club and currently sits on the board of the Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce and Bayhealth Medical Center.

Interests include snowmobiling, skiing, motorcycles, photography, scuba diving, flying, boating and grandchildren.

Michelle Parsons
ReNove Medical Spa

Dr. Michelle Parsons practices Wellness and Cosmetic Medicine in Rehoboth Beach.  Graduating from Jefferson Medical College 17 years ago, she is Board Certified in Emergency Medicine after receiving her training at Christiana Medical Center, practicing as an Emergency Medicine Physician in Delaware and Maryland.  Enjoying the continuity of care in private practice, Dr. Parsons went on to receive additional training in hormone and endocrine evaluation, vitamin deficiencies, nutrient replacement therapy, and cosmetic medical procedures.

“There is so much to treating the overall health and well being of a person than just addressing their symptoms when an acute illness occurs.  I like to focus on what is going on with a person’s health every day. It’s the little things that are really important in the long run. What kind of nutrients we are taking in and how that affects how our bodies and minds work.  Another example of how closely our minds and bodies are intertwined was demonstrated in a study that showed how a cosmetic medical treatment, such as a rhinoplasty, can have the same benefit to mood and well being as 10 years of intensive psycho-therapy.  Our bodies and minds are very closely related and I really embrace this concept in my practice.”

Dr. Parsons lives in Bethany Beach area with her husband and young son, who is a fifth generation Sussex Countian. Dr. Parsons sees patients in her office in Rehoboth Beach during the week. Appointments can be made by calling 302-227-1079. Please visit her practice website to see what wellness and health services are available at www.RenoveMedSpa.org.  Dr Parson’s wardrobe is from the  CAbi, spring collection, Jody Ryan.

Jeffrey Minkovitz, MD
Eye Physicians

Jeffrey Minkovitz, MD is an ophthalmologist and partner at Eye Physicians and Surgeons in Wilmington, Delaware.  Dr. Minkovitz specializes in cataract and refractive surgery, and is one of only a few Delaware surgeons specially trained in corneal diseases and transplantation. He joined Eye Physicians in 1994, after completing a cornea and refractive surgery fellowship at the world renowned Wilmer Eye Institute of Johns Hopkins.  Previously, he graduated magna cum-laude from Harvard, earned his medical degree from the University of Massachusetts Medical School, completed his internship at Harvard’s Mt. Auburn Hospital, and served his ophthalmology residency at Washington University.

Dr. Minkovitz participated in the early research on Excimer Laser photorefractive surgery beginning in 1994. He has offered this procedure to Delawareans since FDA approval in 1996, before Delaware had its own laser. These early pioneering individuals travelled to Wilmer Institute with Dr. Minkovitz, where he maintained his teaching and clinical appointment.

Dr. Minkovitz is a co-founder of the Center for Advanced Surgical Arts and serves on its medical advisory board. He is also on active staff at Christiana and Wilmington Hospitals.  While at Johns Hopkins University, Dr. Minkovitz received the Outstanding Teacher Award from Wilmer Eye Institute. He was also named Top Doc in ophthalmology by Delaware Today Magazine six consecutive years, including 2010, and has been an invited instructor at the American Academy of Ophthalmology Annual Meetings.

Dr. Minkovitz served as councilor to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, and has held several offices including president of the Delaware Academy of Ophthalmology.

Charles Curry, MD
Delaware Eye Institute

Dr. Curry is a board certified ophthalmologist with Delaware Eye Institute in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. His practice ranges from the surgical treatment of cataracts, to the medical treatment of such ailments as glaucoma and diabetic eye disease to ongoing and preventive care through routine eye exams.  Dr. Curry said, “Making sure I’ve addressed my patient’s concerns is a high priority for me.  I want them to be informed and comfortable with the choices we make together.”

After graduating from the Indiana University School of Medicine he completed his residency at Wake Forest School of Medicine in North Carolina where he acquired hands-on ophthalmology training with patients.  In 2003, he became certified with the American Board of Ophthalmology.   After five years of private practice in Indiana, Dr. Curry joined Delaware Eye Institute in 2007.  When not practicing medicine, Dr. Curry spends his time with his family, often camping and visiting water parks.

Delaware Eye Institute is the leading provider of advanced eye care in Southern Delaware.  Each year thousands of new patients, from infant to adult receive care ranging from routine eye exams to services for macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetes.  Delaware Eye surgeons perform thousands of surgeries for cataracts, retinal disorders, functional and aesthetic eyelid problems.

Please take time to view our website at DelawareEye.com to learn more about our doctors, our staff and our services.  With our goal of doing everything possible to enhance and preserve your vision, we look forward to helping you see your world more clearly.

Heather Rooks, DC
Wilmington Delaware

As senior clinic director, Dr. Rooks is skilled and experienced at treating the root physiological, biochemical, and hormonal imbalances associated with Type 2 Diabetes and with Hypothyroidism.

Dr. Rooks uses breakthrough diagnostic testing and analysis that’s rarely done in conventional settings, to uncover the hidden, underlying causes a person may be experiencing from Type 2 Diabetes and Hypothyroidism.

She also takes great pride in delivering personalized healthcare treatment to patients as well as providing an environment that supports and inspires patients to reverse their poor health.

Dr. Rooks graduated from the University of Delaware, with a BA in Biology and has a Minor in Women’s Studies. She attended Life University for her Doctor of Chiropractic degree, and has extensive Postgraduate education in Functional Endocrinology.

Outside the office, Dr. Rooks enjoys being with her Cream French bulldog, Romeo, traveling and consciousness raising activities, spiritual retreats and humanitarian mission trips. She also loves Yoga and any kind of fitness.

Royal Photography
302-438-1308
Roy McDowell, owner
royalphotogde@aol.com

Royal Photography’s owner, Roy McDowell, brings a wealth of experience, both creative and business, along with an unmatched ability to put people at ease, to every occasion he photographs.

Over the past 18 years, Roy McDowell has captured “that” moment for more than 300 brides and grooms and preserved high school memories too numerous to count. Such exposure has led Roy to become one of the most recognizable photographers in Delaware. He creates a lasting impression, not only of an event, but of himself. The pride, precision, and passion he exudes has compelled brides-to-be to track down, “the photographer who took their senior portrait years before”.Roy exhibits this same commitment and customer service when working with the many schools and businesses with whom he’s managed contracts.

“The consumer drives the product I provide; not the other way around”. With the help and support of family, friends, and business associates, Roy McDowell strives to achieve his goal of providing an unforgettable experience with superior photographs, exceptional customer focus, and lasting relationships.

J. Christian
Owner of  J. Christian Studio
7465 Lancaster Pike,
Hockessin, DE
(302)-235-2306

Hair styling & make-up application were provided compliments of J. Christian Studio, where hair and art perform.

J. Christian is a Master Artist with more than 30 years experience in the beauty industry. Together with his wife Marcy, they own and operate J. Christian Studio, an upscale salon located in Hockessin, DE.

As an International Platform Artist and Master Educator for Sexy Hair Concepts, J. Christian travels here and abroad teaching other Stylists about hair fashion. He regularly teaches at the Institute of Courage, a hair academy established by Michael O’Rourke, founder of Sexy Hair Concepts located in the Topanga Canyon just outside Los Angeles as well as at the Paul Mitchell School in Delaware.

By: Mary Laskaris, Realtor

Have you heard the latest buzz?
According to the American Homeowners Association, due to decreasing property values in many areas, it is 60% more likely that your property taxes are too high.

There are several steps homeowners should take to investigate whether or not their property taxes can be lowered:

• First, get your detailed property tax assessment record online or from your assessor’s office. Check the accuracy of the details of your home used in the tax assessment.
• Check with a real estate agent to get a solid understanding of what homes are currently selling for in your community. Professional agents will have the most up to-date statistics on local market values.
• If errors have made your assessment higher than it should be, first try working directly with the assessor. If the correction cannot be made informally, you will need to make a formal appeal. Keep in mind there is usually a narrow window of opportunity in which to file an appeal. Some jurisdictions set specific times every year to hear appeals, while others only consider appeals for a few months after your house has been reassessed.

Be certain to maintain fastidious records during the entire process. Proper documentation can be critical in supporting your case.

You may also be eligible for property tax exemptions ranging from a senior citizen or active duty military discount, to discounts for those who own livestock, depending on your municipality.

Mary Laskaris can be reached at (302)383.9644.
Prudential Fox and Roach is an independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential Financial company. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Mary Laskaris has been a knowledgeable resource for Real Estate matters in Delaware and Pennsylvania for over 30 years. She has negotiated over $300 million in sales during her impressive career. Mary has been continuously recognized as a Member of the President’s Circle and recipient of the Leading Edge Society award for Prudential Fox and Roach Realtors and is ranked in the top 5% of Real Estate agents in the United States. Her personal approach and high level of service is what Mary’s clients say makes her a great choice when choosing a realtor.

Mary Laskaris, Realtor 302.383.9644
Diane Penna, Realtor 302.598.9088
Corby Spruance, Realtor 302.530.1898
Kristi Prosceno, Team Manager 302.426.6187

Testimonials:

“Mary has been so patient and understanding of my needs.  She is truly a pleasure to work with.” ~ Chris C.

“Not only was Mary sensitive to the emotional aspects of the situation she was knowledgeable and professional in all aspects of the technical end.”~ Michael L.

“Thank you Mary for the much needed guidance and support, you are the best.” ~ Melania S.

“Mary was so helpful…this was our first house and we felt at ease the entire time.”  ~ Peter B. & Amanda R.

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By: Rita Wilkins

Often homeowners think that using a design service means that they are going to be deluged with a million confusing design decisions, while living in a state of construction chaos for months. Last, but certainly not least, they assume it will probably cost them a fortune. And at the end of the process, they worry: What if all these new changes don’t fit my lifestyle??

At Design Services, Ltd. we understand these concerns and can address each of them. How do we do that? Let’s take a look at one of our clients in Chadds Ford.  Here is what they shared with Rita Wilkins of Design Services.

“Thanks for making this our best Christmas because finally we were all able to be together and work together in our newly designed kitchen/breakfast room/family room.”

They have a comfortable, single family home in which they’ve raised five children for the past 20 years. Spending family time together was of paramount importance to this couple. During the holidays, everyone loved to cook, but gathering in the small kitchen, separate small dining room and adjacent family room had never fostered the “togetherness” that our clients wanted. Picture trying to cook a huge Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner for family and friends in an 8 x 10 kitchen with outdated appliances, few cabinets and very little counter space. At the most, only 2 people could work in their kitchen; in fact, everything came to a halt when someone needed to get into the refrigerator for ice. There was a cramped table in the corner of the kitchen that was used for meals. Most of the year their dining room sat unused (according to the national average most people only use their dining rooms 4 times a year) because it just wasn’t warm and inviting. Having more than a few guests proved an exercise in creative seating plans throughout the rest of the first floor. But since their priorities were set on five college educations, they’d made the best of it for many years. But finally the time came to focus on updating their home. And no surprise, they wanted a solution for the kitchen, dining room, family room dilemma. A place where everyone could be together in the holiday hustle and bustle.

First: Design Services worked with them to identify their wish list and space needs. We believe that good space planning can have an impact on lives and lifestyles. Rita is especially adept at maxing out space to make sure that every inch counts.

Second: a plan was proposed to eliminate walls between the kitchen, dining room and family room and update the kitchen. Once the walls were gone, the space was now open to more interior possibilities. In addition, a door was installed from the newly opened dining room to a lovely private patio right outside. A real benefit in the warmer months!

Third: a working budget was established that fit our clients “comfort zone”.  Because Design Services has relationships with a large selection of vendors, they were able to design a new kitchen using modestly priced cabinetry and incorporating new appliances that fit the space and allowed for more efficient work areas.

Fourth: A timeline for the project was identified, and Design Services took care of outsourcing the work to the appropriate contractors. We use only the highest quality craftsmen on our projects and have long standing relationships with the best in the area.

How long did this transformation take? From design phase to completion of the project, only 8 weeks! With project oversight by Design Services, our clients were finally able to enjoy holiday entertaining in their new space. Everyone was able to get into the act in the kitchen. When it came time to eat, family and friends were able to share the holiday table comfortably. Our clients were thrilled with their newly renovated home; “It was our best Christmas ever!”

Rita Wilkins is President of Design Services, Ltd., as well as principal designer and project manager. With over 38 years experience in design and management, her approach to design is both aesthetic and business-like. She is known to be a highly effective “hands-on” designer with extensive knowledge and expertise in residential, dental, medical, and commercial interiors.

She is a graduate of University of Rhode Island, attended Rhode Island School of Design and the University of North Carolina. Having received numerous design awards, she has been published in a variety of national publications.

Interior Design Questions?
Please email Rita: rwilkins@dsltdonline.com
Design Services Ltd
1403 Silverside Professional Park
Wilmington, DE 19810
302-475-5663
www.dsltdonline.com

From our clients:

“I cannot imagine having done this project without you! I had no idea how much was involved and having you and Design Services Ltd on our team was the best decision I made..the results are amazing!” ~ JM, CEO Newark, DE

“When we came to you with our project to downsize from our home to a condo, we were overwhelmed and did not know where to begin. From beginning to end, Design Services Ltd provided us with clearly defined ideas, budgets, and a schedule to implement our project. You took away all of the stress for us so we could enjoy the process. We are now enjoying our beautiful condo that you helped to create! ~ SJA, Wilmington, DE

By: Amy Marta, owner of Clutter Bugs, LLC
with her inspiration, daughter Gabriella.
Photo by lifeartimaging.com

Are you feeling ashamed? Do you feel like you can’t have people over to your home? Has the anxiety overwhelmed you?  Call Clutter Bugs LLC, don’t wait another day….They will help you regain control of your life.

Do you want to close the door on your “dirty little secret”? You are not alone, so many people just can’t get organized. It’s not because they are lazy or unable, it is simply not knowing how to be. Someone’s home and/or workspace can tell you so much about them. Organizing is a process, not a one day project. These are words to live by or so Amy believes.

Hard to believe summer is coming to a close. With that brings school, the holidays, and company. It soon will be time to start a new year and put away all the year has brought and most of us will feel weighed down. Amy Marta owner of Clutter Bugs LLC and her associates can help you take the ouch out of organizing!

People spend time, money and effort on the outside of their homes but neglect the inside. We need to show the same TLC to the inside too! Amy knows all to well how hard it is to keep up with a busy lifestyle. With family, careers, a social life and trying to find “me time” the last thing on our minds is, “is my home and or office place functional”? The truth of the matter is probably not. 9 out of 10 times we do 5 things at once and 4 of those things suffer. Having a third party like Clutter Bugs assist you while you make your space more functional makes sense. Don’t allow your things to over take your space, because you have the right to control your environment.

More often than not, things don’t get put away because they don’t have a home. The key to getting organized is to find the best possible home for all your things. Making your space functional is not always the easiest job.  That is where she comes in…

Amy has found a way to help her clients lose the overwhelming feelings and get to work. As a mother of two, Amy knew clutter and had to make organizing a way of life. Inspired by her first child Gabriella, Clutter Bugs LLC was born in 2005. Wanting to do something she loved creating her own business was the way to go.

From moving to collecting and just plain old inheriting other people’s things there is just not always enough space.

So that’s when cluttering becomes an issue. Once it starts to pile up we can’t always get a handle on it, and that’s when you need to remember some key rules:

• Have you used this item in the last 12 months?
• When you buy something new, get rid of something old
• Resist the urge to buy sale items unless you really need them
• Making piles are just organized messes
• Give your rooms and space a purpose
• When in doubt throw it out!

There are many resources for reusing and recycling items that you no longer need.

Just because it has no home with you doesn’t mean it doesn’t have one somewhere else. From donating to charitable organizations and selling your items either in second hand shops or having your own sale can really lighten your load, and put a little extra in your pocket.

Give the gift of organization…It makes wonderful birthday gifts and unique wedding gifts.

E-mail amyclutterbugs@gmail.com
or call 302-438-8137.
Gift certificates can be bought and sent directly to the recipient from Clutter Bugs, LLC.

“Organizing Everyday Life”

Testimonials:

“Clutterbugs started me on the path to a more organized, clutter-free life!” ~ Jen L., Wilmington, De

“As a busy professional I could not find the time to tend to my home and things just seemed to be piling up. One day I looked around my home and thought, wow how did it get like this. I saw Clutter Bugs add and made the call the very next day. Amy and her team taught me how to balance being a working mother outside of the home and keep my home functioning so I no longer felt as if I was drowning. Thanks to Clutter Bugs Im back on track!” ~ Tracey K. Greenville, De

“I saw the Ad for Clutter Bugs and called Amy and I am sure glad I did. She came out, we discussed our needs, she gave us an estimate, we scheduled the work and when she arrived we finished the kitchen in 6 hours!! With Amy, you work as a team –she pitched in and helped sort and clean. She took items that I did not want with her and by the end of the day it looked like a different kitchen! It has been about 2 months and surprisingly everything in the kitchen is still organized and has a “home”. I was so happy with the results that I used Amy again for my office and I have scheduled her to help me with the Basement.  Amy is friendly, caring, and fun, and importantly, she listens to your needs. I have recommended her to my friends!”

Discover Unparalleled Fine Dining at The Farmhouse.
Where foods of rare excellence are served in an elegant provincial setting.

Intimate candlelit dining rooms, exceptional service, award-winning menus featuring The Farmhouse famous crab cakes, and many seasonal specials all contribute to a delightful dining experience. Sundays, a superb prix fixe three-course dinner is offered.  The intimate Farmhouse bar with fireplace is a local favorite. Reserve the unique subterranean wine cellar featuring the Wine Spectator Award winning wine list for a very special Chef’s Table.  Enjoy summer evenings of genteel tableside service on the Farmhouse’s covered outdoor patio. The 18th century Farmhouse is open for dinner Thursday – Sunday.

The Farmhouse is the quintessential destination.

Indoor and outdoor catering is available for parties, meetings, and corporate events.  Specializing in weddings, Chef Roland creates your menu from farm-fresh foods. No frozen or pre-made foods are ever used. The gracious Banquet Room connects to a soaring sky lit Round Room offering a beautiful view of gardens and golf course.  Sip a frosted mug of beer or special Martini in the adjacent air-conditioned Tavern with flat screen TV or dine out of doors and watch play from the Tavern’s open-air brick patio.

The Greathouse and Tavern are open daily for lunch and dinner.

Sunday Brunch is served in Country Elegance while enjoying a complimentary flute of champagne. Free Children’s menu.

Loch Nairn’s impeccably groomed Golf Course
is open to the public.

This is a true shot maker’s course with tree lined fairways winding through wetlands, lakes, and ponds.  There’s a fully stocked golf shop, locker facilities, and Men’s & Ladies Associations. Lessons are available for all levels. Be sure to stop by the unique Tavern for food, drink, and conversation.

Discover
unparalleled fine dining at The Farmhouse
Casual dining and all manner of celebration,
The Greathouse at Loch Nairn

Visit us online at www.lochnairn.com or call 610.268.2235.