Here are some easy staging tips to keep in mind when getting ready for an open house.

1. Make sure that the kitchen counter tops are clear and clean.
2. Organize the kitchen drawers.
   
3. Clear out as many personal items as you can, so that people will be able to imagine themselves living in the house.
4. Hang up or store away all jackets and boots in the front hall.
   
5. Arrange furniture so that it has a purpose, example a sitting area around a fireplace.
   
6. Clear out all dirty laundry and freshen up all room with 'Fabreese'.
7. Make all beds.
8. Organize closets to show space.
9. Clear all extras from the bathroom and add a plug in air freshener.
10. Add fresh flowers and open windows to let in light.
    

Getting ready to host a Mardi Gras Party, here are some tips to make your gathering as fun as possible.

Drinks - Serve one of New Orleans signature drinks such as the Hurricane.

Food - Serve fun Cajun recipes such as jambalaya, crawfish, and shrimp.

Dessert - One must during Mardi Gras are the traditional King Cakes, check out this recipe from Emeril's restaurant 'Nola' at NolaCuisine.com

Decorate your place with beads and masks ( make sure you have enough to hand out to your guests as well)

Another interesting idea that is great for kids is to have everyone create their own mini parade floats from shoes boxes, decorating them with toys, glitter and beads. Thanks, www.holidays.net

To save money you may be either having a romantic dinner in for two or a dinner party with friends, here is a table setting that will not break the bank.

• Simple white square plates
• Bamboo place mats
• Red cloth napkins
• Interesting red glass candle stick holders (you can find these cheap at Pier 1)
• "Love" dessert plates (look for these at your local thrift shop or Marshall's)
  

This year many of us will probably be staying in on Valentine's Day to save money. To make your home feel special and different than normal day to day life you may want to add a little ambiance. Let me show you how to do this with out breaking the bank.

Candles - Candles are one the easiest ways to create romance in your home. Don't go out to places like Bath and Body Works or Yankee Candle and buy those expensive candles. Go to your local craft store where they will usually be selling candles for a couple of dollars, also try the dollar store you never know what you will find there.

Flowers - Flowers bring a feeling of romance and freshen the air in your home. Go to your local grocery store and pick up a boutique of flowers, if you go for something other than roses it will cost you much less, roses tend to be overpriced this time of the year.

Champagne Glasses - Adding a few champagne glasses filled with colorful beads will add an extra boost to any centerpiece or mantel. Wine, Martini or other fancy glassware works as well.

Music - Even though music is not technically part of your decor, it will enhance the romance of your home. Make a play list of the most romantic songs you have and play it all Valentine's Day, it will relieve your stress and let you enjoy your Valentine's Day at home.