There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it. Edith Wharton
I did a lot of reflecting this week so, of course, I thought I’d talk about mirrors in today’s The Survivor’s Nest post. Looking around my own home, I realized I’m surrounded by wonderful examples I’d like to share with you.
1. Look for inexpensive diamonds in the rough: I’m a big garage sale and flea market enthusiast and am always looking for inexpensive, uniquely beautiful mirrors. I have a collection stored away, most of which cost me very little. This mirror is one of my absolute favorites, earning it a spot in my entry hall. It actually cost me nothing because it was given to me by a friend. Originally sporting a dark stain, I sanded it and gave it two coats of white paint for a lighter look. If you like the distressed look like I do, use the sandpaper again after the paint is completely dry to wear down a few edges.
2. Look for interesting frames: I love the shape of this mirror, which gives it great visual interest. As an added bonus, the detail at the top mirror is especially beautiful, and the paint actually accentuates the nooks and crannies.
contrasts with all the straight lines and rectangles of the built-in cabinetry in the family room down the stairs. Its contrasting shape and size (it’s 25.5″ in diameter) makes a dramatic focal point over the stairs.
4. Create collections: Sunburst mirrors are all the style now and you can easily find them at retailers and throughout shelter magazines. I actually bought this mirror several years ago at a garage sale for $7.00. You know what they say about everything old being new again! What I love about it, besides its fabulous convex bull’s-eye mirror, is that it started my collection of sunburst mirrors. A collection of mirrors brings light, sparkle and a cohesive style statement to any space.
5. Use what you love: This mirror has a heavy rectangular oak frame. It’s beautifully simple and classic, but that’s not why I love it. When I was a young teenager, I remember visiting my grandfather at his home in Wurtsboro, NY. His house had been passed down to him by his aunt and there were lots of goodies still in her shed. He pulled out this mirror and gave it to me, explaining that he knew I loved antiquing so he wanted me to have it. It’s one of only a few actual family heirlooms/antiques in my house, but it’s so much more than that – it’s the embodiment of a lovely moment between my grandfather and me.
Take the time to find special, unique mirrors to decorate your home. They don’t have to cost a lot of money and they bring light and reflectivity into your home. Do you have any interesting mirrors in your house? If so, how do you display them?
Ballard Designs and Emmi Interiors, LLC
Survival > Existence,
Comments
Blinded but eager to heal.
My name is Shante Shavers. I’m located in Tampa Florida. I’m holding a Breast Cancer Awareness event in october. I have been a volunteer for the American Cancer Society for 2 yrs now. I enjoy helping and i wish i had a power to heal. I don’t know much about the disease. I know it hurts the victim and it hurts those watching them suffer. I would like to know more about it. I would like to be able to help more. Tell me more to answer the questions that i seek.
Where We Go Now 
Welcome to WWGN, Shante!
Shante:
You can look at the National Breast Cancer Coalition site for lots of information about getting involved. This organization is creating a grassroots network of women and men who want to stop breast cancer now. You can also check out the Army of Women, which promotes research into the prevention and cures of breast cancer. Thanks for getting involved and good luck with your awareness event in October. Remember, however, that awareness without action only gets us so far.
Survival > Existence,
Debbie