Sharing the Stage with THE Nate Berkus

Gosh, where to start? Part of me doesn't even know where the beginning actually was, or if it's truly over. Plus, I want to leave some of this a surprise to you all so that you can enjoy the show without me spoiling it for you. The lovely producers of the Nate Berkus show contacted me last week and wanted to talk about rooms - after lots of emails and pictures, they settled on one, and sent me a flip cam to film it, and talk about how inexpensive it was to create such a beautiful space. Hours later, I had a flight to NYC, a car service, a hotel, and I was running around like a mad person trying to figure out what I was going to wear!

Almost overnight, I had this opportunity fall into my lap, and I wasn't going to say no. (Even though I was worried that I was going to look HUGE on camera ...) So, off to NYC I went, and Tuesday morning had the experience of a life time. I shared the stage with Nate, and 3 other gorgeous and talented ladies who had beautiful rooms that they had created staying true to a budget that was similar to what any of Nate's at home viewers would be looking to spend.

We all had our few minutes of design talk show fame, and then the audience was asked to guess how much the rooms actually cost. It was so much fun! There was a winner, and I'm not going to tell you who it was ... that can wait for the show ... but I will tell you I didn't leave empty handed. I've got sore feet, aching shoulders, and a headache that is probably going to last a week, but it was worth it - so worth it.

In fact, I met a new friend and blogger in the deal. Joi, (pronounced Joey) of http://daveandjoi.blogspot.com/ was one of the lucky 4 who shared the segment. We clicked instantly, and began talking about blogging, decor, anything and everything! Her blog is chock full of fun and budget friendly ideas, and her and her husband are the cutest couple!

I was happy to be sharing this experience with someone so talented. Look at some of her rooms:



She made these little clay butterflies, and I'm totally copying this for my office, and you can too! Just check out her post on it here: http://daveandjoi.blogspot.com/2009/09/diy-3d-butterfly-wall-art.html

Check out her blog, and look for her to post about her Nate experience, too!

Now, don't get upset! I didn't take my camera. I know, I know! But, it was a very last minute trip. I did get a few pictures with my fancy new phone, and I'm waiting til' Joi can send copies of the photos she took with her Nikon. Unfortunately, no personal shots with NB. In fact, it felt as though as soon as we swooped into the studio - they swooped us out. Gotta protect such a hot commodity, and yes, I mean that they way you're reading it!

I had the time of my life, and it was my biggest pleasure meeting Nate, having fun with his staff, and getting chauffeured around like I was the Prince of Niagara Falls. Nate had some wonderful things to say about the room they chose, and was super impressed with everyone on stage ... but I'll let you guys see what he actually said once they give me an air date!

Again, thanks to all of you who read, comment, and watch what's happening around here. Each time I check my email or blog and see a new face following, or a comment left, it makes my heart leap. It's what drives me back to the keyboard daily to work on fun and interesting things for all of you, and what has opened doors to wonderful opportunities like this one. Of course, when it all goes down, it's not usually alone - and there's more wonderful news to share in the coming month ... so stay tuned.