A little magical thinking can go a long way.

Of course, once we signed the dotted line, realityand the budgetset in.

Weve made our house work for usand more importantly,feellike usthrough some magical thinking and thoughtful decorating.

Ashley Hanley living room

Credit:James Ransom; Styling: Alya Hameedi; Interior design: Ashley Hanley

Here are the most important decorating lessons Ive learned as afirst-time homeowner.

Hold Out for the Good Stuff

Im a sucker for instant gratification.

I finally committed to Benjamin Moores Old Country and my long-awaited shell-pink living room now sparks joy daily.

Nat Note Natalie Steen Living Room

Alison Gootee; Styling: Page Mullins; Interior design: Lila Malone.

Daydreaming and scheming are all part of the fun.

Cottage Style Main Bathroom in Marble and Neutral Colors

Credit:Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Lizzie Cullen Cox; Interior design: Whitney McGregor