Archive for the ‘Uncategorized’ Category
Monday, March 3rd, 2025 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on Do You Have Hearing Loss?
By Bob Ferraro, H.I.S.
If so, it’s important to know you are not alone. (Globally, over 1.5 billion people, or 20% of the world’s population; and in the US alone, about 48 million people, about 14%, have hearing loss.) Don’t be embarrassed by your hearing loss. Don’t pretend to understand conversations, when you don’t. You shouldn’t risk friends and family thinking that you are just rude or not interested. When the reality is that you just can’t hear them.
Just because your hearing loss may not be all the way to the “profound” level yet doesn’t mean it isn’t holding you back in social settings. Struggling to keep up in a group conversation doesn’t keep you from feeling like you are “missing out”. And the extra energy required just to do that keeping up leads to eventually dropping out altogether.
I personally have met people that I believed were just not friendly, or just not very social. Because of our business, I have begun to realize that they were very friendly, they just couldn’t hear well and so they avoided conversations. It’s really a revelation!
Hearing aids will give you the wonderful experience of being completely in the moment in social situations, private moments outside or just with your close friends or spouse.
Maybe you have avoided physical activity. Hearing loss can affect your balance. The lack of participation in the sports or activities you used to enjoy may lead to depression. Remember that hearing loss is invisible! No one knows why you aren’t joining in; they may wrongly assume that you are just not interested in joining in and engaging with them.
Loose the frustration, reach out for a helping hand.
>> Admit to yourself that you do not hear well.
>> Get tested. (Our hearing tests are free and private)
>> If needed, take the plunge and get hearing aids.
>> Learn how to use them along with the phone apps that give you control options.
After wearing your hearing aids your confidence will return. You will participate fully in conversations and activities.
That’s much better than retreating into the background so no one knows that your hearing is compromised.
Get back into life because you have so much to gain!
Call us TODAY to make your appointment for your FREE test.
Tellico Hearing Solutions, PLLC
865-635-1887
contact@TellicoHearingSolutions.com
www.tellicohearingsolutions.com
Monday, March 3rd, 2025 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on Keener Homes
Monday, March 3rd, 2025 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on Spring is Arriving While We Begin Planning for Fall!
Just as you’re beginning to think about your spring wardrobe, we’re concentrating on what’s new and what you’ll like for Fall 2025. This business is a multi-level chess game with a lot of moves going on simultaneously!
Where does it all come from? I thought it might be interesting to take you on our own never-ending journey into the fun and exciting world of fashion.
Many times, we’re involved with three seasons at once. At this time, all winter merchandise is on sale, 50% off original price… new colorful spring fashions arriving… fall in the planning stages! It’s so much fun to see all of the pieces of the puzzle fall into place in the wonderful mix that’s been ordered months ago. Just as spring begins to arrive, we’re at Market making selections, making the choices that you’ll love to see in the fall.
These color choices appear not only in apparel but in home goods, jewelry, gift items and even dinnerware. Various sources predict the colors trends… based upon lifestyle, world events and the past.
Fabrics are also a key point in our purchasing decisions at Market. We stock lines of pure cotton in both sweaters and tops year-round, appealing to the lady with the natural feel of the fabric.
The final step of the buying process comes from you, our customer. Every bit of information we gather from you is studied and evaluated as we enter it into the equation of buying for the upcoming season. Remember that we always love your suggestions!
Our buying is with your lifestyle in mind, which has become much more casual over the years. You want clothing that looks good and feels good, the perfect combination!
These are some of the things that have contributed to our longevity and success… we listen to your wishes and then we search out the lines that will fill these needs.
As you browse through the store, you’ll know that even though you’re loving the season we’re in, your fashions for the next season are being constructed with you in mind!
Monday, February 3rd, 2025 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on Expect the Unexpected
The Blinds & More team brings a new definition to the term “local,” creating one-of-a-kind spaces with thoughtful attention to detail and design.
“You know, even after two decades designing custom window treatments, I’ve discovered that no two projects are ever the same,” says Jamie Kidd, founder and co-owner of Blinds & More E. TN. “I love what I do, but I also love the fact that no project is ever what you expect. Embracing the unexpected is truly the beauty of design.”
Blinds & More E. TN is a true multi-generational family business specializing in “All Things Window.” From soft window treatments – which include draperies, roman shades, cornices and valances – to your functional window treatments such as blinds, shutters, roller and cellular shades, Blinds & More has all your window treatment needs covered. Everyone in the family has a role in the process, from initial meeting to project completion. Jamie meets with the client for the initial design consultation. Robbie, her husband and co-owner, oversees the company’s commercial and outdoor projects, and Del, their oldest son – who recently joined them after 10 years of service in the Air Force – oversees installation of all projects. Together, exceptional service is the family standard.
In a recent conversation with Jamie, she recounted one of her favorite projects out in Rarity Bay that took her company in some unexpected directions. “We were brought in to address a privacy issue,” she says. “These days, newer larger homes are often situated in close proximity to each other and feature expansive windows, which was the case there. We started the project by designing and installing motorized shades throughout the home that provided the client with the privacy and light control she needed.”
With initial privacy and light control concerns addressed, this “opened the door” to soft treatment needs in other rooms of the home. The client’s beautiful master bedroom suite needed not only some additional privacy but also a finishing touch that functional window treatments alone could not achieve. “Sometimes you just need to add soft elements to a room to create that extra warmth and sophistication that many of my clients are looking for today.” So, elegant draperies were designed and installed providing both the privacy and sophistication the client desired. Once the draperies were installed, one of Jamie’s favorite design opportunities arose, Custom Bedding. “The custom bedding, in this instance, duvet cover, pillow shams and decorative pillows were the finishing touches, or lipstick as I jokingly tell my clients, for an already gorgeous room” Jamie says.
But the project didn’t end there. Now pleased with the master bedroom, the client moved to the kitchen and dining room, where Jamie again encountered large, tall and unusually wide windows. With the motorized roller shades already addressing privacy and light control, both areas needed a “bit of softening,” as Jamie puts it. “We further refined our previous design by installing custom valances over our motorized shades in the kitchen and extra-long draperies in the dining room. Both areas required an unusual degree of precision and craftsmanship. Fortunately, we collaborate with a local workroom that handles all of our custom soft treatments. This partnership ensures a personal touch, as everything is locally made, and definitely contributes to the envisioned final design. This project and the client will always be one of my favorites. We all worked together and very hard to make the clients vision come to life.” Jamie said.
“So, can window treatments be unexpected and get tricky? Absolutely. Can the process get complicated? Absolutely, but we are blessed to work with many lovely homeowners who trust us with their homes and trust we will make the process as seamless as possible. We promise to get the job done right and are always ready to promptly respond to any client needs, even the unexpected ones.”
Blinds & More E. TN
10317 Saint Regence Lane
Knoxville, TN 37922
Phone: 865. 674.4822
Website: blindsnmoretn.com
Monday, February 3rd, 2025 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on Keener Homes, Inc.
Monday, February 3rd, 2025 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on Hurricane Helene Disaster Relief Fundraiser
Monday, December 30th, 2024 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on New Year. New Projects for your Kitchen or Bath!
With the new year comes inspiration to tackle some projects around the house. Although you may have dreams of gutting your kitchen or renovating the bathroom, these big jobs are costly and time-consuming. Instead, consider taking on smaller projects that will give you the best bang for your buck. Here are some ideas to spark your creativity.
- Organize and better utilize your pantry. Throughout the year, you probably accumulate all sorts of things in your pantry. By removing the contents and throwing away expired items you can start with a clean slate. Consider installing pull-out shelving to better access your items. Hard to reach items will be at your fingertips, and you will increase your storage capacity.
- Create usable storage space in your bathroom cabinet. Bath products, hair products, and cleaning solutions may be taking up all the space under your bathroom sink, leaving you no room for essentials like toilet paper and tissues. With a two-tiered pull-out shelving system, you can maximize your storage and easily find what you need.
- Declutter and find more space for your pots and pans. Are you frustrated with the way you store your pots and pans? Most people get frustrated looking in their cabinets for the right size pot and matching lid. With pull-out shelving, you can easily arrange your pots, pans, and lids so you can access them quickly when cooking.
- Make better use of corner cabinets. Most kitchens have a corner cabinet that has dead space that is often hard to access. With a unique, pull-out solution for corner cabinets, you can add more storage space in your kitchen. It’s a cost-effective way to use the space you already have without adding to the footprint of your kitchen.
You may not be able to redesign your whole kitchen, bathroom, or pantry at this time, but you can ease your frustration by working on smaller projects that will have lasting impacts throughout the new year!
Monday, December 30th, 2024 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on Transform Your Home in the New Year with The Tailored Closet’s Custom Organization Solutions
As the New Year approaches, many of us focus on resolutions to improve our lives, but home organization often gets overlooked. Transform your space and start fresh with a personalized closet solution from The Tailored Closet.
More than just storage, closets from The Tailored Closet are meticulously designed to optimize organization and enhance your home’s aesthetic. Crafted with high-quality materials, these custom closet systems provide up to 40% more storage than traditional wire systems and look stunning.
The journey begins with a personalized design consultation. An experienced space-planning expert will visit your home to understand your needs, style, and budget. Whether you prefer sleek modern designs or timeless classics, The Tailored Closet ensures your vision is brought to life. Using proprietary 3D CAD design software, you can visualize your finished project during the consultation, making adjustments before installation begins.
Customization is key. Your closet becomes an extension of your lifestyle and personality, with features tailored to your needs. Options include creative organizers for shoes, customized shelves, cabinets, racks, valet rods, and bins. For a touch of luxury, choose jewelry organizers, safes for valuables, integrated ironing boards, or even televisions.
The Tailored Closet, locally owned and operated in East Tennessee for over 15 years, is deeply committed to the community. With competitive pricing, top-quality materials, excellent customer service, and quick turnaround times, they stand out from the competition.
Aesthetics are equally important. The Tailored Closet offers a wide range of colors, finishes, and decorative options to seamlessly complement your home’s existing décor. Whether you prefer rich wood grains, classic laminates, or luxurious Italia finishes, options like classic white, chocolate apple, and antique white ensure a perfect match.
Elevate your home organization this New Year with a custom closet solution that maximizes functionality and enhances your home’s style. Start 2025 with an organized space that is uniquely yours and experience the joy of living clutter-free. Call us today at 865-777-0306 to schedule your free in-home consultation or visit us online at www.tailoredclosetknoxville.com and see what’s possible for your space!
REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION
The Tailored Closet
(865) 777-0306
TailoredClosetKnoxville.com
Monday, December 30th, 2024 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on How We Work
Decorating Den Interiors – Kozar Design Team brings years of interior design experience right to your home. Our design team is equipped to help you determine the products and design that will work best.
We’ll work with you to help visualize a design solution that aligns with your taste, space, and investment. Our personalized approach ensures that everything we recommend will fit perfectly within your existing furnishings and space.
From the idea stage all the way through delivery and installation of products, here is what you can expect for a typical project.
Reach Out to Us
Fill out our online “contact us” form or give us a call at (865)392-6222. We always respond within one business day. Whether you just moved in or have lived in your home for years, we are happy to help you turn your design dreams into a reality.
Schedule Your Appointment
Call us & we will talk together for about 15-20 minutes to learn more about you, your project, and the ideas or design issues you have for your home. Next, we will schedule your complimentary consultation.
Complimentary Consultation – 1st Appointment
We know every project is unique. We will take the time necessary to help establish the scope of your project and the style you desire. Our initial design consultation is always complimentary and typically lasts about an hour.
We start with a 15-20 minute house tour; this allows us to see your style (or discuss a change in style), colors and discuss function of the room(s). We will also talk about any projects you may want to begin immediately, or in the future. Then we will spend a few minutes “getting to know you”, your lifestyle, and priorities.
This is our information gathering stage; we do not get into deep design work or show product at this appointment. The more information we have, the more we can help you.
Investment & Retainer Agreement
During this first appointment, we will work with you to determine an investment range that accomplishes your overall project goals and timing.
Our extensive variety of products means we can offer a wide variety of quality products that range from traditional to modern, and can satisfy almost any investment range with lifestyle, and luxury lines.
We ask you to sign a retainer agreement with a 10% retainer based on your investment amount for your project. Your retainer amount is rebated back to you the day we install everything. This simply guarantees our design time, as we typically do not charge “by the hour” when purchasing product. Before we leave your home, we take precise measurements, photo documentation of the existing space, and we will also schedule your design appointment to keep your project moving efficiently.
Design Begins
Now the fun part begins! Back at our studio the Decorating Den Interiors | Kozar Design Team gets started on bringing your new room to life, gathering together all of your choices in style, fabric, colors, and create a 3d space plan to let you envision how your new room will look. This stage often takes between 5-10 business days based on the scale of the project, as well as lead times from other projects.
During this stage we check inventory and availability and consider all of the information we gathered in that first appointment. We consider the quality, the style, the function, and longevity of the pieces we select for each design. We do ask that you stop shopping during this phase, since any new parameters in the room would oftentimes force us to start over and redesign for that new piece, delaying the process for you.
Design Presentation – 2nd Appointment
The part you’ve been waiting for! We will present a digital presentation with high resolution photos of all your design options in combination with physical samples of a variety of design and product options all personalized and carefully curated just for you. We also will render the rooms in 3d to scale for you, so you’ll know exactly how your new space will look.
Typically, we will present 2-3 design options for you to choose from. Based on our time spent together at our first appointment (and all involved were present), we have a very vivid concept of what you are wanting for your home design. We leave our clients wondering how we were able to design and improve exactly what they were thinking of! However, if there is anything that needs to be tweaked, we can make alterations to your plan at this time. Selections are made at this design appointment, and a 60% deposit is required to place your order. The balance is due, 40% minus your 10% retainer, the day we install everything.
Ordering Phase
This phase typically takes between 8-10 weeks, depending on lead times and busy seasons. Every Monday we always check the status of each piece on order. So, rest assured, we will keep you updated throughout as to the status of your design and the timeline of installation day.
Installation Day
Once we can anticipate when all of your pieces will arrive, we will schedule your installation day. Our team is always there for installs, as well as our professional crews to revitalize your home. We carefully place each piece, so you don’t even have to lift a finger; let us do the work! Depending on the size of the project, installation can take a few hours to half a day, but it is all within one day!
Often, we will bring extra accessories to fluff your space for the big reveal. Accessories are the jewelry of a room; these add personality and character and make a huge impact on the final look of the space. You are welcome to purchase these “final touches” if you desire. This is a great time to go run some errands or pamper yourself at the spa or with a round of golf while you eagerly await the big reveal.
“The Big Reveal”
It’s ready! We’ve placed all the final touches, and have everything sparkling for you to walk in. It’s time for the big reveal, just like on HGTV! We love this part – seeing our clients react to how much they love their new design!
“In the end, it was our vision because they listened to what we wanted and presented choices that we made. It was a positive experience from start to finish. We are happy with every single purchase and the overall look is exactly what we wanted. We highly recommend Sandy and Rachael from Decorating Den Interiors!” – Melissa from Vonore, TN
Enjoy Your New Space!
Now just relax and enjoy your new space! Rest assured, if you ever have any questions or concerns, we are always here to assist you, now or a year from now. We stand by our customer service and with our quality selection of products you will enjoy your new pieces for years to come.
Remember, the greatest compliment you can give us is a review on Google, Facebook, Houzz, or a simple email to us. Referrals to your friends and family are always appreciated!
Get Started Today!
We love our clients, and we find that providing design solutions for them is fulfilling and rewarding. We take away the overwhelm and frustration of bringing it all together by yourself. We make the design process fun and simple.
Does this sound like the design solution you’ve been needing? Then, get started today! Sign up on our “contact us” page on our website or give us a call today. We look forward to meeting you.
Decorating Den Interiors – Kozar Design Team
521 Lovell Road, Suite 205, Knoxville, TN 37932 | Studio (865) 392-6222
SandyKozar.DecoratingDen.com | skozar@decoratingden.com
Thursday, December 5th, 2024 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on Join Us for a Season of Hope
One of the area’s most popular tourist attractions, The Biltmore Estate, has recently reopened after their forced closure due to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene when it ripped through Western North Carolina.
Portions of Biltmore’s grounds and some of its buildings did suffer significant flood damage from Helene. However, Biltmore House, the Conservatory, winery, gardens and the estate’s hotels received minimal or no damage from the storm.
The holiday season is now underway for the 8,000-acre estate employing approximately 2,400 people. While the Biltmore House, restaurants, some trails, and other estate attractions will be open to visitors, select trails and the Outdoor Adventure Center will remain closed until further notice, and some areas will have limited access.
“We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support for our community and the determination of our first responders, utility workers and community volunteers,” Bill Cecil Jr., president and CEO of Biltmore, said in a statement. “As recovery unfolds, welcoming guests back to Biltmore not only means we can open, but also brings critical support to our region’s economy to aid area employees, local businesses and friends.”
According to Marissa Jamison, a Biltmore spokesperson, no storm-related fatalities were reported among staff; though several staff members did lose their homes, all have been accounted for.
Some are also out of work due to the decline of tourism in the area due to the storm. Biltmore is hopeful that all staff members will return in phases now that they have reopened.
Lizzie Whitcher, floral displays manager who has worked at Biltmore for 10 years and leads holiday decoration operations, said people in the Asheville area need something special this year. “It felt a little crazy to be decorating for Christmas when there are people who literally lost everything, but we had to remind ourselves, we’re not just doing this for Biltmore. We’re doing this for this whole area,” she said.
Chase Pickering, vice president of Biltmore House Guest Experience and Operations and great-great-grandson of George and Edith Vanderbilt said reopening was important for the local economy. The entire staff at The Biltmore House are working to bring joy (and visitors) to the area through their hugely popular Christmas at Biltmore events.
“We are here in Western North Carolina. We are a resilient community, and Biltmore has for generations ― for five generations now ― been a beacon of hope,” Pickering said. “And this community stands for resiliency. It’s moments like this where we come together, and we find a way to come back stronger and support each other and that is what resiliency means for WNC.”
Offering good tidings of comfort and joy, Christmas at Biltmore awaits you.
Now–January 5, 2025
As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Candlelight Christmas Evenings, the glow of candlelight is a reminder that we can weather any storm. Plan your visit to Biltmore today to enjoy Christmas with those you love.
From Biltmore House to Antler Hill Village, fragrant wreaths, glittering garland, and thousands of sparkling ornaments create a one-of-kind holiday oasis. Dazzling by day, the house is truly magical during Candlelight Christmas Evenings, a 40-year tradition not to be missed.
Select ticket options include Chihuly at Biltmore and FREE next-day grounds access.
An Unforgettable Holiday Evening
Now–January 4, 2025
A majestic Norway spruce and pathway luminaries welcome you to America’s Largest Home®. Inside, thousands of ornaments reflect the soft glow of candles, fireplaces, and twinkle lights. The magic continues in Antler Hill Village, which is festooned with glittering lights, ornaments, and displays.
Chihuly at Biltmore – A Thrilling New Exhibition
Now–February 2, 2025
Featured in museums and gardens around the world, including the spectacular 2018 Chihuly at Biltmore exhibition, Dale Chihuly’s awe-inspiring works have captivated millions.
Specially curated for Biltmore, a new experience of the world-renowned artist’s iconic creations awaits your discovery within the intimate gallery setting of Amherst at Deerpark®.
Reserve your admission tickets and special admission-inclusive overnight packages for this remarkable experience today.
Antler Hill Village Illumination
Now-February 17, 2025
Included with admission
Bask in the glow of a glittering cascade of lights illuminating trees, buildings, and the pathways that connect Antler Hill Village’s unique shops, restaurants, and Winery. Experience this must-see part of the Christmas at Biltmore tradition, which includes festive displays adorning our relaxing Winery, where complimentary tastings await.
Candlelight Christmas Evenings – An Unforgettable Holiday Evening
Now–January 4, 2025
A majestic Norway spruce and pathway luminaries welcome you to America’s Largest Home®. Inside, thousands of ornaments reflect the soft glow of candles, fireplaces, and twinkle lights. The magic continues in Antler Hill Village, which is festooned with glittering lights, ornaments, and displays.
Santa at the Bandstand
Included with admission
Capture that classic Christmas moment you and your children will never outgrow. Afterward, explore all that Antler Hill Village has to offer: ice cream at The Creamery, friendly animals at our Farmyard, plus Pisgah Playground, shops, restaurants, and award-winning Winery.
Dates available: November 29-30, December 1, 7-8, 14-23
CHECK KNOW BEFORE YOU GO for directions
https://www.biltmore.com/visit/visitor-information/know-before-you-go/
About Biltmore
Established in 1895 in Asheville, North Carolina, Biltmore is as impressive today as it was more than a century ago. In addition to Biltmore House, the 250-room French chateau known as America’s Largest Home®, this beloved National Historic Landmark includes 8,000 acres of gardens and grounds. Comprised of managed forests and farmland, a working vineyard, 20+ miles of nature trails, Antler Hill Village and its shops, restaurants, and award-winning Winery, the estate also features such splendid overnight accommodations as a four-star Inn, a charming hotel, and a distinctive collection of private cottages. All this, plus seasonal exhibitions, outdoor activities, and live entertainment make Biltmore a one-of-a-kind destination.
Privately owned and maintained by his descendants, Biltmore remains true to George Vanderbilt’s original vision: a self-sustaining Blue Ridge Mountain estate and a luxurious retreat amid year-round natural beauty. Whether as a day trip or multi-night getaway, to experience Biltmore is to experience a legacy of gracious hospitality, timeless elegance, and an inspired sense of wonder. To learn more, go to Biltmore.com.
By Bob Ferraro, H.I.S.