You may have heard me mention the cabinet we affectionately call our “decor store,” so here’s a clearer explanation of what it actually is and why it works. In short, it’s a dedicated storage spot for vases, shells, candles, vase filler, corks, starfish, decorative dishes and plates, and anything else I might want to use to change up a tablescape or display fresh flowers. It’s the place I reach for when inspiration strikes—whether I’m styling the dining table, refreshing the mantel, or putting together a quick bouquet. (Don’t mind the shrimp scampi in the photo below; I grabbed the picture while John was whipping up dinner.)
One of the best parts of having a decor store is that it encourages you to shop your own home. Most people already own extra vases, platters, corks, and small decorative objects that sit scattered around. When you gather those items in a single drawer, basket, or cabinet, they instantly feel like a curated little decor shop. Smaller collections—like a stack of matchbooks, a handful of tapered candles, or a few polished rocks—look intentional when grouped and displayed together. For example, a stack of matchbooks can read as a chic, personal detail when placed in a simple cylinder vase. To make those items easier to access, toss matchbooks or other tiny bits into a zip-lock bag or small box so they’re ready to go next time you’re styling.
When everything has a designated spot, refreshing your space becomes effortless. Instead of tearing apart closets or digging through drawers to find a specific bowl or vase, you can open the decor store and choose from a curated selection. That saves time and reduces the temptation to buy new pieces you don’t need. It’s both economical and sustainable—using what you already own keeps your home feeling varied without adding more things to the mix.
Designers often recommend rotating decorative objects to keep a room feeling fresh and alive, but in real life this can easily fall by the wayside. Busy schedules make frequent swapping feel like a chore, so items tend to linger on mantels, shelves, and consoles for seasons—or even years. A small, organized decor store lowers the barrier to change. Pulling out a vintage glass vase for spring, filling it with fresh cut leafy branches, and replacing a candlestick on the console becomes a simple, enjoyable routine instead of a big project. The convenience makes seasonal decor updates feel approachable rather than intimidating.
Beyond the practical benefits, a decor store also supports creativity. When you can see your options at a glance, you’re more likely to experiment—try different vase and filler combinations, mix textures, or create layered tablescapes. It’s easier to create a cohesive look when similar items are grouped together: all glass vases in one shelf, ceramic pieces in another, and decorative fillers in jars. Organizing by type or color helps you visualize combinations and quickly assemble a look that feels intentional.
If you don’t already have a decor store at home, consider carving out a small cabinet, shelf, or even a section of a closet for this purpose. Use baskets, clear boxes, or labeled shelves to keep small items tidy and accessible. Do any of you keep a decor store at home? How do you store seasonal decor, extra vases, candles, or small decorative finds? Share your methods—the best tricks are often the simplest ones.