HOME UPDATE: Window Valances 

We moved into our home over 9 years ago and the previous owners left behind their window treatments. Initially I was happy to have them and liked them enough. These valances in the formal living room were a nice neutral color, however, as my taste evolved over the years, I realized they just weren't really my style. My sister-in-law described them best - they were very "heavy." 

I was at a friend's house and admired her window treatments and she told me they were from Smith & Noble. So I went to the Smith & Noble website and started looking at options, and ordered a bunch of fabric samples (they're all free). My husband and I narrowed it down to 3-4 options and then I connected with one of their designers for a free consultation. She was able to create mock ups for me so we could see what each pattern would look like in our current space. We were torn between two options, a watercolor leafy pattern and colorful dots (see below). We really wanted to go with the dot pattern, but ultimately decided it was too modern for our traditional house. I am so glad we went with the watercolor leaves because I absolutely love it! It is so much lighter and brighter and changed the whole room.

Final two:

BEFORE:

AFTER:

We decided in November to change the valances. I didn't select a fabric until a few days before Christmas and they were installed on January 27th. The whole process was about 3 months. I'm glad we took our time and selected something we love, especially since we won't be changing it again for a very long time! I wish we had done it sooner! Smith & Noble had great customer service and were very easy to work with. I highly recommend!

- Heather