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Colour Me Happy’s 5 Year Blogoversary Celebration!

By 10/31/2013July 25th, 2018379 Comments

It’s hard to believe it’s been 5 whole years since I started my blog. This post is 1013. When I started writing my blog on the 31st back in 2008, I had no idea it would take me this far.

This is the first and second post I wrote.

So to celebrate, I’m having a giveaway! Some of you will know that I’ve recently launched a new set of 50 Colour boards called the VIP Collection! They are an entirely different collection from the first one. I’ve added some greiges, greens, blues, 3 yellows and some darks. Just leave a comment below and I’ll announce the winner on Monday.

Colour Me Happy's 5 Year Anniversary

 Here are my halloween Pumpkins this year.

Colour Me Happy's 5 Year Anniversary

 My lambs ear is still hanging on.

Colour Me Happy's 5 Year Anniversary

 William & Markus all ready for trick-o-treating!

Colour Me Happy's 5 Year Blogoversary

 Markus wanted me to get a picture of the back of his dinosaur.

Colour Me Happy's 5 Year Blogoversary

 

Colour Me Happy's 5 year Blogoversary Celebration

Here’s the motley crew that started off at Elizabeth’s house at 5:30 pm.

Colour Me Happy's 5 Year Anniversary

 Such a creative pumpkin!

Colour Me Happy's 5 year Blogoversary Celebration

 Here’s another adorable costume later at our door!

Colour Me Happy's 5 Year Blogoversary Celebration

And our neighbours across the street!

Colour Me Happy's 5 Year Blogoversary Celebration

Last year we ran out of candy, this year we bought back-up candy and I’m a little worried about how much is still sitting beside the door at 8:05 pm tonight.

Don’t forget to post a comment for the giveaway! Thank you to all my wonderful and loyal readers, and to those of you that comment regularly–you know who you are–thank you, I really love that we’re friends!

I also want to give a special shout out to Victoria Austin! She was my very first blog subscriber and she still follows my blog and we occasionally exchange emails! Thanks Victoria!  xoxo Maria

Related posts:

Colour Me Happy is 4 Years Old!

My One Big Secret You Don’t Know

Sometimes the Full Moon is Harsh

If you would like your home to fill you with happiness every time you walk up to the front door, become a client. On-line or In-person.

Download my eBook, How to Choose Paint Colours – It’s All in the Undertones to get my complete step-by-step system on how to get colour to do what you want.

To make sure the undertones in your home are right, get some large samples!

If you would like to learn how to choose colour with confidence, become a True Colour Expert. 

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379 Comments

  • Gale Abello says:

    Adorable costumes! They are all cuties.

    • Margie DiMonte says:

      Thank you so much for your great ebook, How to Choose Paint Colors! I’m a novice with all of this and you have helped me to simplify the world of selecting paint and being a designer. Just love your website and how you put together the most gorgeous environments. Happy 5 years with your blogs and may you continue to do many more.

    • Sandy Guerin says:

      Love to see your great pictures and have learned a lot from your blog. Happy Anniversary.

  • Terry A. says:

    Happy anniversary, and here’s to 5 more!

  • Your nephews look so similar to you – how wonderful. Fingers crossed hoping for the VIP boards.
    Congratulations for 5 wonderful years – you’ve made so many people happy with their (now) beautiful and colourful homes – thanks to you!
    Jil

  • Virleen says:

    I’ve been reading for many years–and have learned so much. Happy Anniversary.

  • Katey says:

    Happy five year Maria !! You have a gift,I love the way you write your blog.Im addicted!!

  • Aileen says:

    I discovered your site about two weeks ago and inhaled it all at once. Great job with the blog!

  • Farha Syed says:

    Congratulations Maria

    On your 5 Year Blogoversary. I like that word. 🙂
    I’m so glad I found your blog and learned a great deal from it. I look forward to your blogs and feel like I’m missing something if I haven’t read them. I consider you my mentor, since I have adopted and applied a lot of the things you talk about in your blog, when I meet my clients. Thanks So Much for your generosity in sharing your experience.

    Hoping to win your new boards. 🙂

    Lovely pictures of your nephews all dressed up for Halloween

    Thanks Again

  • Dimi says:

    Maria, before I stumble to your blog I was so fed up with bad designing and all the exploitation of the concept out there. You showed me that when you care about people, their lives and needs then the space you create will always be a hit! Thanks for giving me back something I thought I’ve lost. You’re precious! Happy blogoversary! Keep it up 🙂

    p.s. – Cute boys and costumes!

  • Martha D Bennie says:

    Awesome costumes! As great as your blog

  • Layne stabler says:

    Congratulations for 5 year anniversary !

  • Diane says:

    Your motley crew are so cute in their creative costumes. I have been using your How to Choose Color often as a reference and would value the boards as well. I have a cupboard full of paint samples. My husband thinks I should just paint the walls with them:)

  • Alice says:

    Congrats on 5 years! You are amazing!

  • Lorrin says:

    Congratulations on 5 amazing years! Your blog has helped me immensely over the years and I’ve enjoyed reading every post. Keep following your dreams! I can’t wait to see what the next 5 years hold for you!

    Loved all of the costumes–so creative!

  • Christine says:

    Hi Maria,
    I so enjoy your blog. it’s what blogs should be, entertaining, teach something and always keep it real. Congrats on your anniversary….and would LOVE it win the boards.
    Thanks

  • Sonya Parsons says:

    I have been following your blog for 3 years, and participated in your true colour expert course Oct. 2011.(it help immensely with our new house build, I would have made so many wrong choices if I had not taken the course) It has been nice watching your success unfold. it reminds me of the phrase “the harder you work the luckier you are”. So congratulations Maria on 5 wonderful years!

  • Cheryl McLaughlin says:

    Love this blog. Keep it going. And, keep posting the pictures of your garden.

  • Gail says:

    Discovered your blog shortly after you started posting. Been loving it ever since. Inspirational, professional and yet it still has a very personal feel. Keep up the fantastic work!!

  • barbara morano says:

    wonderful blog…learning so much!

  • Joanne Rupp says:

    Wish I had found you before I painted and carpeted our Master Bedroom. Pink beige carpet, green beige walls, yellow beige drapes. I knew something was off… Then I found you. I lived with the room for a couple of years and finally last winter I painted the room Wythe Blue and changed the custom drapes to Pottery Barn. I am happy. Congratulations. I have learned so much from following you.

  • Ellen Marx says:

    I always look forward to reading your posts – congratulations on five years!

  • Gretchen says:

    Adorable halloweeners! Congrats on 5 years. Love your blog and I’ve learned so much.

  • Andrea Farrow says:

    Congratulations Maria on 5 years. I look forward to your blog posts and have learned so much about choosing colors from you!

  • Susan says:

    Congrats on Colour Me Happy “V”! Your e-book and blog are resources I return to over and over…I’d love to have a set of your VIP Colour Boards.

  • Sylvia Alonso says:

    Congrats on 5 years!!! I discovered your blog just one year ago, after moving into my home, and find your information wonderful! – thank you!

  • Gretchen says:

    What creative halloween-scapes. The kids are great!

  • Lisa says:

    Hi Maria,

    I have had so much fun and learned so much from you over the last 5 years! You have taken my style in a fun direction I would never have found on my own! Here’s to the next 5 years!

  • Babs Loyd says:

    The large orange lantern set among Lambs Ear is beautiful. I also like your pumpkins wrapped with strings of lights. Both ideas for next Halloween. We had a bit of candy left over too, so I will be incorporating Butterfingers into toppings for ice cream, muffins and cakes.
    I would love to have a set of your large color boards. We moved recently and every room needs a good dose of color so the boards would be useful. Love your blog, congrats on 5 years of sharing your great knowledge.

  • Fabienne Boy says:

    Congrats on five years!!! I love how you used lights on your pumpkins. I’d love to win your awesome 50 Colour boards. 🙂

  • Cate says:

    Hi Maria – I love your blog and am inspired every time I catch up with you. I am still hoping one day you will be able to have your seminar in the US maybe like Virginia :). Congratulations on your anniversary!

  • Nann Heath says:

    Congratulations on your 5 yr milestone!!! Can’t
    Wait for the next five.

  • Denise Posey says:

    Congratulations ! And here’s to 5 more!!!

  • Congrats, Maria! I don’t comment very often, but want you to know that I tune into your blog every day. Your color (colour?) training a couple of years ago in Atlanta was invaluable. Although I was already working as a color consultant at the time, you amped my game considerably with the fab sessions on undertones. Now I feel like I’ve got the whole package! Thanks for being there for us.

  • Kay says:

    Congrats on the 5th blogging year.. I’ve learnt a lot from your website – ESP why the current color in my north facing room isn’t working and what might be a better deal.. Thank you!

    What a cool giveaway and how i’d like to win!

    Those Halloween decorations and wee buddies are really cute. Yesterday I dressed up for the first time to handout treats and had fun myself. I have a lot left over too.. Must be the rains…

  • Reena says:

    Congratulations Maria,
    Your blog is fantastic! I wish you all the best for many more years. You have not only made me and countless others understand so much you did it in a fun way. I’m in a new house and would love any help I could get from you, so far I’m just looking at old posts. Amazing!

  • Angela says:

    Keep up the good work!

  • Melissa Newman says:

    Just stumbled upon your blog and website this week. Love the post about brown couches. Still trying to design around mine.

  • Carol Brockway says:

    Your blog is the only one I can’t miss reading no matter how busy my day is. Thank you for sharing your talent. Aesthetics are so important in our everyday lives and you show me how important the right color can be.

  • Sabrina says:

    Pinky Beige!! That is just the beginning of the wisdom I have learned from you Maria. Thank you for your blog – it is a highlight for me! Love the pics of your nephews -thanks for sharing!

  • yolande says:

    love your blog maria! would also LOVE a set of color boards. thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with us!

  • Kimberly says:

    Happy Anniversary to you! So glad that you started this blog 5 years ago so that when I needed advice 2 years ago for my kitchen remodel you kept me from making expensive mistakes! It’s also such a wonderful resource to which I refer people when they ask me for advice. May you and your business continue to thrive!

  • Alison says:

    Happy 5th year ‘blogoversary’ ! Colour Me Happy seems to be doing just that for many folks. I know it’s totally impacted my relationship with colour in my home and on my person. Haha I was just recalling that when I first came across your blog I had released myself from hair dye and went ‘au natural’ which for me is white/ grey and I applied ‘colour me happy’ to my wardrobe choices. Grey can be a neutral that offsets colour…I love it!
    Ali

  • Stephanie says:

    Congrats on your anniversary! Its great to see where life takes you, right??!!

  • Susan says:

    Congratulations Maria!
    Your blog is so informational and it resounds with me and my company as well as your readers. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge!

  • Congratulations, Maria! I so enjoyed meeting you in New York in 2012 at Kravet’s Blogfest. As a decorator, I follow your blog religiously and appreciate your generosity in sharing so much of your knowledge with your fellow professionals. You are an inspiration!

  • Annie B says:

    I’ve found your color advice very helpful over the last 2 years since I found your blog. I appreciate the accessibility of your advice. Thanks for sharing and I’m glad it has worked out so well for you.

  • Elynn says:

    Mazel Tov! Your blog parallels my ‘singleness’ to the exact day! You’ve been with me through thick and thin. When I see how much you’ve accomplished in these 5 years I’m inspired to set some new goals for myself. Thank you for your charm, grace, humor, honesty and wisdom.

  • Barb says:

    Congratulations Maria!!! I have learned so much from you, and am looking forward to the next 5 years!!

  • A-L says:

    Congratulations on your anniversary! I appreciate all the helpful and informative posts you’ve put out over the years; you definitely deserve all the success that comes your way.

  • Sarah says:

    Your nephew in the dinosaur costume is especially adorable! and love the lights around your pumpkins!

  • Gina Pardoe says:

    Congratulations! It’s hard to imagine how many people you’ve reached in five years! I read something recently on Houzz where the writer was totally using your language for color. I catch myself often doing the same thing! I use your language confidently, Maria, because over and over, I find that it’s true! I’m busy starting my own business, fixing all of the mistakes in my own home, and planning a trip to Totonto, perhaps next fall! Thank you for sharing your knowledge and language with us!

  • Tina says:

    Congratulations on 5 years of blogging. I wrote my first series of blogs last week and I think I am addicted. As a newbie I will be anxious to hear what you and Penelope have to teach me.

  • Pam Helfrich says:

    Maria, I had just finished a major remodeling project when I discovered your blog. It confirmed all of my decisions that seemed to work and explained why others clearly didn’t. The two online classes I’ve taken from you have been great. Thanks!

  • Tricia says:

    Congrats to you!! Love your blog.

  • Helen says:

    Congratulations on your 5th anniversary. I would like to thank you for helping me with my kitchen renovation. I love the warm white cabinets and quartz countertops, white subway tile and consistent hardwood throughout the main floor. I tell people about your blog all the time.

  • cindy says:

    Love, love, love your blog. Expecially the Q and A sections. Can’t wait to buy my next house and decorate it the right way from the beginning!!

  • Karen says:

    I have learned so much from you and your blog! I am not a professional, but am very sensitive to color and would drive myself and others crazy when I knew a color was ‘just not right’, but couldn’t explain why. Now I have your Color Theory to back up my hunch and am more confident when making choices. Love you! Be blessed!

  • Noel says:

    Congratulations on the anniversary! I love your blog. Thanks for the great giveaway.

  • Ellie says:

    Congratulations on your anniversary! that is a great milestone. and your blogging is as fresh and useful as ever!

  • Christine says:

    Thanks Maria….Happy 5th! You are very good at what you do, it is a valuable service that you are delivering and I always look forward to reading your posts.
    Bonus would be to win the set of colours! Yes!

  • Silvia says:

    Happy Anniversary to you! I have learned so much from you, and am looking forward to the next 5 years!! Greetings from Argentina. Silvia

  • Loribeth says:

    Congratulations on your 5 year bloggerversary!

    Great costumes! Your nephews are so adorable.

    It was raining here, so all the kids that visited our house had coats and rain gear over their costumes. We were disappointed, because seeing the costumes is the part we really enjoy.

  • Dianna A says:

    5 years – that is great! Congrats! Love your blog and these Halloween pics are adorable but your color advice is invaluable!

  • Amy says:

    Maria, Thank you for your sharing work in color undertones. You explain concepts so well that they seem obvious after your enlightenment! I’m planning a (white!) kitchen remodel and will use your e-book to help make color decisions. Always good to know that you are there for a consult if needed. Thank you!!

  • Sophia says:

    I’ve always struggled with choosing the correct paint colour, always choosing the WRONG colour! Ever since discovering your blog I don’t worry about it any more – I now choose the RIGHT colour! We are in the process of getting our house ready for sale and I’ve now chosen all the colours for EVERY room and I know it will look awesome! Thanks so much, Maria – a million times!

  • happyAnniversary!! Love your blog and the Halloween pics. I love the fall… It’s such a pretty, colorful time of year!!

  • Margaret says:

    I too have picked the wrong paint colours many many times.
    I would love to win your new set of large samples.

  • suzie says:

    Congratulations! What a great time of year to celebrate color! I think it was meant to be….your beginning and autumn beauty. Being a snowbird and traveling south doesn’t give me the opportunity to enjoy the colors of fall. We recently moved in to a new condo and look forward to my informative & always positive morning emails. I feel like I have a new northern friend! Thank you.

  • Jessica in MN says:

    Time truly does fly when you’re having fun, doesn’t it? Many happy congrats to you!

  • donna says:

    Congratulations on 5 years! Love the information on undertones!

  • Beverly Lowry says:

    Congratulations on your 5th anniversary! I really appreciate all I’ve learned from you about color. It’s come in very handy these past two years as I’ve updated the colors in my home.

  • Happy 5 year anniversary! I found your blog a couple of years ago, and have read every post. Still one of my favorite blogs!

  • Kathy Purser says:

    I have the basic set of paint colors and they have really helped pick the perfect color. I’d love to see your additional colors.

  • Connie says:

    Brand new house, lots of bare walls to paint. I would make those VIP boards work overtime! Love the Halloween photos.

  • Sheri says:

    Congratulations on your 5 years! I’m so glad I came across your blog and website. Looking forward to taking your blogging course soon!

  • Happy blogiversary!!! You are always so inspiring to me, and congrats on another milestone!! xoxo

  • Joanne says:

    Congratulations, Maria. Your blog really stands out as a learning experience. I’ve gotten so much useful info here. Best of luck.
    Joanne

  • Sandy says:

    Congratulations Maria ! I have learned so much from you about color and I have also extended the learnings to the clothes that I wear. I can now see the subtleness in creams and whites and undertones with colors.

    Love the punches of orange against your new landscape.

  • Janine Varney says:

    Thanking you for sharing your colourful world with us! I am a professional Home Decorator/Stager and have always been told I have an “eye” for color. I love reading your blog was so touched when you introduced us to your life partner. We have enjoyed watching you continue to colour the world over the years. Keep up the good work – and a heartfelt thank you.

  • alisa klein says:

    Happy Anniversary. Just finished reading your book-twice-and would love those boards to go with my new understanding of your great color system.

  • Kim says:

    Congratulations Maria! Your blog was the first I ever subscribed to. When I decided to start educating myself about color, I found you and am so glad I did. No one else can teach me about ‘whites, off whites, and creams’ the way you have. Thanks!’ Boy, would I be a happy color camper if I won your color boards :). Good luck to everyone!

  • Julie says:

    Congrats on your blogiversary Maria! Because of you I am no longer trying to decorate around a pinky beige sofa….could never figure out why I didn’t like that thing! I’d love to win your new colour boards!

  • Jill says:

    Thank you Maria for being so generous with your knowledge. I have learnt more from you than I did during my two years at Design school.

  • Susan says:

    Maria, congratulations on your 5 year anniversary. I have been a faithful reader for years. Your blog was so helpful in decision making for my white kitchen remodel. I find all your color advice so useful and never knew about undertones till your blog. Keep up the great advice!!!

  • Margaret P says:

    Congratulations Maria on 5 years of sharing information and inspiration. Looking forward to many more great posts.

  • Anne Argue says:

    Congratulations! Maria. Love your blog….have been reading it for almost 5 yrs…..it would be awesome to win your new colour boards.

  • Beth says:

    Congratulations on 5 years of blogging. I like the idea of all the colors on one board but honestly can’t figure it all out. I know the colors I like which are your newest color board– yellow, blue, etc. I wish I was as talented as you!

  • jeanette says:

    Congratulations on 5 years of “Color Me Happy”; I know I’m happy every time I “see” you in my inbox!!! Learning so much..Thank you for your generosity, creativity, and sound advice. Happiness always!

  • Lois says:

    We love the house colors you helped us choose and get compliments all the time. Never would have found you without your blog ! Happy blogiversary!

  • Carol says:

    Congratulations and thank you for five great informative years! Here’s to many more!!

  • Candy says:

    Just before I got your ebook and my BM fan deck, I actually saw my 1st real undertone(a breakthrough, thanks to you, Maria!), in a restroom of all places. It was done in beiges, with fushia and plum accents, but the floor tile was green beige, and it stuck out like a sore thumb, compared to all the other beiges. I thought, Oh my gosh, that’s what Maria is talking about!!!! You’ve helped me so much! Can’t wait to reread your book, and always excited to read your blogs Thank you and congrats!

  • sue says:

    Every morning, your blog is the first thing I look for while having my first cup of coffee. Don’t ever stop!

    Love the Halloween costumes.

  • Happy Anniversary Maria, I have been following you since the beginning. I can’t tell you how much I learned. I am reinventing my kitchen and bath business through the discovery of color in my presentations. Thanks to you:)

  • Susan Lewandowski says:

    You deserve every bit of success you have achieved. Congratulations on five years.

  • Judith says:

    Happy blogiversary Maria!!

    Where would we be without you, our fearless leader? You single-handedly protect all of us in the design community each and every day from the perils of mixing pinky-beige with yellow-beige – or worse, green/gray with taupe aaaaack! You are truly a superhero with an invisible cape.

    We are empowered to go forward with colour confidence and chose the right colour every time. . . . and the best part? You spell colour correctly! You’ve done us Canadians proud.
    I would be honoured to put your new boards to good use.

    Judith
    ps. those are adorable kids in adorable costumes by the way. Love your posts!

  • Kate Doyle says:

    Congratulations on 5 years!! Colour Me Happy is by FAR my favourite Design/ Decor blog <3 Your insights into the world of design and building a successful career on your own terms are invaluable. I never miss a post and am constantly recommending your blog to friends & colleagues…keep up the good work!

  • Deb says:

    Happy 5th anniversary! I love your blog…my husband thinks you might be a trouble maker, rotf lol. His honey do list keeps getting longer.

  • Theresa says:

    Congratulations on your 5 year anniversary. You had more trick or treaters at 5:30 then we did last night. We only had 4, so sad.

  • elle says:

    Thank you for starting and sticking with your blog. You have resonated with me from the get go. We do share the same birthday! 😉 I want to be happy with my color choices and I want to understand why I’m not but also why I am. You make that possible. Thank you.

  • Bonnie says:

    Thank you for five years of wonderful design help and wishing you all the best on your 5th blogversary! Thanks Maria!

  • Susan says:

    Congratulations Maria!
    You truly are an inspiration. I have learned so much from you… I have also plucked up the courage to start blogging!

  • Diane says:

    Congratulations on 5 years of Color Me Happy blogging. Thank you for sharing your color knowledge. Cute costumes — I love the red car!

  • Kristen Rinn says:

    Your first set of color boards are fabulous and I use them with every client. I sure would love to have the VIP collection…

  • Beth says:

    Love your blog and advice. Happy 5th Anniversary! Congrats and Thanks!

  • Dorie says:

    Happy 5 Years!
    I have this thing for 1950’s vintage robots, so I LOVED William’s costume! Lol! And of course, all the kids were so cute!
    I look forward to learning more from you and also seeing how your home is coming along! -Beautifully so far!

  • Anne K. says:

    Congratulations on the anniversary of your wonderful blog. I have learned so much from it. I don’t usually make any comments but I could sure use those boards for help in choosing new colors for the new home we just moved into. They must not read your blog- pinky beige all over the place. HELP!!

  • Susan says:

    Maria, congratulations on your 5 year anniversary. I have been a faithful reader for years. Your blog was so helpful with design advice for my white kitchen remodel. I love all your color advice and never understood undertones till reading your blog. Keep up the great advice.

  • Joanne G says:

    I have learned more from your blog than any other. You have changed the way I look at colour. Thanks so much and congratulations!

  • franki says:

    That’s a LOT of wisdom in five years!! Thanks for ALL your efforts, sharing, etc. The photos are “terribly” CUTE!! I liked your orange lantern..I just spray painted lanterns orange. 🙂 franki

  • Karen D. says:

    Congratulations!! Thank you for all your blog advice throughout the years and your consultation on my kitchen (I can’t wait to send you the photos!)

  • Linda says:

    Congrats on 5 years and best wishes for many more to come. I’m trying to help my Mom pick out a “greige” and what looks perfect during the day is turning olive-y at night… but at least it is not pink!

  • Karen says:

    Congratulations on your 5 year anniversary Maria!
    I am so very glad you started your blog and even more glad to have found it and your True Color Expert Workshop….Glad to know you!

  • Robin L says:

    Congratulations on 5 years Maria! Looking forward to the next 5.

  • Erica Peale says:

    Hi Maria,
    Congratulations on your anniversary! I’ve been following your blog for a few years and always enjoy reading it and have learned so much from your posts.

    I started following it several years ago when we built our own home. Your e-books greatly helpful in selecting paint colors. Through building our home, I fell in LOVE with design, color selection, and choosing finishes – and have actually started my own company helping builders and homeowners select their finishes. It’s so much fun and I love it! I have you to thank for a lot of it! Thanks Maria!

  • Wendy says:

    Best wishes for continued success in your design and blogging business! I really need those color boards…I’m moving soon!

  • Congratulations on 5 years! Enjoy your blog very much.

  • Cathy says:

    Congratulations! I love reading your blog, and appreciate all of the tips you share!

  • Kalina says:

    Happy anniversary! Such a milestone. Just got into our new home and am already seeing all the yellow and pink undertones mixed in the hard features-never would have realized why it bugged me before I read your blog! I look forward to “fixing” the issues with the assistance of your advice. Your blog is so full of information and resources which I am truly grateful for! Wishing you many more successful years.

  • Michelle Krick says:

    Congrats on 5 year blogging. I enjoy reading your articles on design, life and your own personal journey of a renovation. Seems like an auspicious day to start something.

  • Franci says:

    Maria,
    Congratulations. I read your blog daily and find myself nodding in agreement and thinking, that’s what I’m talking about, people! Your VIP boards would help me launch myself further into helping people choose color for their homes, something I’ve been dabbling in for years. Fingers crossed…

  • Andrea says:

    Congratulations on 5 years blogoversary! Your website is one of a rare few I peruse on a daily basis. Your photographs are top quality, and you don’t skimp on details. I dream of remodeling/redecorating my home and I’m studying your design aesthetic as it represents a shift from the traditional that I embraced over a decade ago. I love how you incorporate new with vintage and how you edit for a crisp finish. Genius! Thank you for sharing your happiness and light.

  • Paula Diekhoff says:

    I don’t know how long I’ve followed your blog, but I’ve sure mentioned your insights to many other people. I also think you finally helped my husband realize that painting over paneling and woodwork really DOES make everything so much fresher!! I would love to have your color boards, as I would be thrilled to feel confident, not cowering in my color decisions. Congratulations on your success and for bringing ideas/suggestions into fruition.

  • Maggie S says:

    Congratulations!! Your blog was the very first one I ever found (almost 4 years ago) and I immediately went back and read all your posts from the very beginning (not a very productive month!)

    I think that all the energy you put into your blog and your generosity in helping people understand color has come full circle to give you success in a way you never could have imagined 5 years ago!

    Thanks again
    Maggie S

  • Vicky says:

    Your nephews are so cute. One day I will take your color course. I think it would be truly awesome. Iove color and decorating. Thank you for your blog.

  • Mary says:

    Congrats. Always, always, always read your blog. I purchased your ebooks a couple years ago. Since reading your books, I have come to understand why some of my previous paint choices seemed “off” – that uneasy feeling that it just didn’t quite work. Now I know why and can correct. The more I look & compare, the more I can see the undertones that dictate compatibility and the feeling of comfort. Many thanks – you have saved me many gallons of paint and many hours of painting.

  • Susan Toth says:

    Thanks for the amazing gift. I truly enjoy your blog, actually the only blog I get regularly. Of course my old iPad has Houzze, and I do enjoy that as well.
    Your samples would come in handy. Two weeks ago I bought a can of paint, and painted 2 strips on the bathroom wall and kitchen as well. My daughter sees it and says, “You are not actually going to paint using that color”. I thought I had it right! I got it all wrong, I guess.
    Thanks,
    Susan

  • Tamara says:

    What wonderful costumes you have in Canada!

    I, too, look forward to starting my day by reading your blog. It feels like an old friend.

    Thanks to you, I decided to remodel my kitchen and do white cabinetry (but added walnut cabinetry to warm it up) and it was the best decision in my renovation!

    I just finished painting my entrance and upstairs Powell Buff and it looks gorgeous with the Revere Pewter in my kitchen and sunroom on the first floor. Thanks for all your great advice over the years. You have made color less scary, which may not be appropriate for Halloween, but is welcome the rest of the year.

  • Linda Lachance says:

    Maria, I thoroughly enjoy your blog and colour advice. Also your pumpkin display is super – love the orange lantern!
    Thank you.

  • Jennifer Smith says:

    This is my favorite blog. I subscribe to several. Yet when I see it in my inbox, it is the first one I click on. Maria, thanks for all the wonderful advice. I am looking forward to the next 5 years!

  • Lori says:

    Love your Halloween decorations and the creative pumpkins! Congrats on five great years!

  • Hi Maria,

    Happy Anniversary! I have followed your blog for approx 3 years and I look forward to your emails with advice. When I had just started by staging/redesign business I did not have a lot of confidence. You were a huge part of helping me build my confidence. I use your advice every day in my design consultations. Thanks you so much for just being you!

  • Cindy B says:

    Congrats Maria! When I first discovered your blog a few years back, I spent many hours catching up. I’ve read all of your posts, and some multiple times.

  • Cynthia says:

    Congratulations Maria!!!!! Wow, 5 years!!!! May you have 10 times as many years to blog!!! I so appreciate your sharing your knowledge and prizes 🙂
    luv the groupie

  • Cathy says:

    Really enjoy your posts and they have helped me make many decisions. Congrats on 5 years.

  • Jessica says:

    Congratulations! I love that your advice is for real people with real homes!

  • Margaret Meade says:

    Congratulations on your 5 year anniversary! I have so enjoyed reading your blog and who would have thought learning about undertones would have such an impact! Thanks Maria for sharing your wisdom!

  • Robin says:

    I really look forward to opening my email and seeing a new blog from you. I have always had a passion for the RIGHT color. With you I have a kinship. What a wonderful life you are having, living your dream and utilizing your gifts. And what is even better, is that you are sharing it with others. Thank you for that. Best wishes for more years to come from someone in the Deep South USA.

  • Allison says:

    Congratulations on five!! What fun it has been to follow you for so long!

  • Linda says:

    I, too, just celebrated 5 years – of writing a bi-weekly newspaper column. I know the dedication it takes to just sit down and do it. You do it so well, Maria; of all the blogs I follow, I look forward to yours the most.
    See you in the course.!! Maybe I can start making money off my blog.

  • honey says:

    Congratulations Maria! I’ve learned a lot from you. Of course my biggest a-ha moment was the day I finally got “it” about white/cream/ivory paint colors and why you need to have light coming in the room from different directions to make it work!

    What a very nice giveaway!

  • Ms Judy Reed says:

    I really enjoy your blog; and wish you many more years! I’m moving into a new house, and trying to choose colors. Without your advice, it would be even more overwhelming! Thank you!

  • Kristi says:

    Congratulations on reaching your milestone! Thank you for doing what you do. I have learned so much and been saved from so many mistakes. My hubby really appreciates that too!

  • elizabeth says:

    Congrats to you on 5 years! I am a faithful follower and learn so much from your blog.

  • Wendy Upton says:

    I am a quilter, not an interior designer, but everything I read on your log is relevant and revealing to me. I have learned much. And my home looks better too. Thank you

  • Congratulations on 1013 beautiful posts! I look forward to your blog every day. I agree with previous posts that your nephews really look a lot like you…..so cute! Hoping for your color boards to add to your neutral boards that I already have. Happy Blogging for many years to come!

  • Sheila says:

    Thank you so very much for 5 years of wonderful color advice! Until I found your blog I had no idea that undertones had been the cause of my many paint disasters. Last year when I repainted nearly every room in my house I got it right the first time thanks to you!

  • Susie says:

    Those are some really cute Halloween goblins and ghouls!
    I’d love to win this giveaway — I struggle so mightily with getting colors right.

  • Indie Cindy says:

    When I discovered another color consultant who could see and explain undertones, I was over the moon! Once we teach a client to see them, she can never NOT see them again. Thanks for the past five years.

  • Jadyn says:

    Congrats on 5 years!! I’m so glad you started blogging five years ago and for all you share with us! Love your e-book and hope to take your training someday!

  • Julie says:

    Happy Anniversary! I love your blog–it’s usually the first thing I read every morning. Thanks for all you do!

  • Mary says:

    You nephews are adorable, Marcus looks so much like you!
    Love your blog Maria,
    congratulations!
    Mary in Ohio 🙂

  • Susan H says:

    I always enjoy your posts and all you share with us… you are my “go-to” when I question myself. Happy anniversary and a “toast” to many more blogging years.

  • Judy says:

    Fairly new subscriber here – I have enjoyed your posts and insights! Congratulations.

  • L says:

    Thanks for all your hard work over five years!

  • J Fisher says:

    Love the lantern against the lamb’sear! Just found your blog about a month ago and have really enjoyed it. Inspiring. Thanks.

  • Deborah Towsley says:

    Congrats on 5 years! I have learnt so much from your blog and e books. I am now choosing color with confidence, and can pinpoint my past mistakes. Keep the info coming. And I love seeing the pics of your nephews!

  • Katherine says:

    Freshly roasted coffee and Colour Me Happy – two things I look forward to in the morning.

  • Suzanne Stimik says:

    My Hungarian exchange student “daughter” experienced her very first Halloween last night here….It is such a grand time…you did it up right as well.

    Fingers crossed on being a “winner”!

  • Karen Fron says:

    Cheers to five years of wonderful posts. Your blog brings good design principles to so many. Thanks for all the time you put into your work.

  • Agnes says:

    Congratulations ~ your blog is wonderful!

  • Shelley says:

    Five years! Terrific milestone. I’ve enjoyed reading and referring to your blog for many of those 5 years.

  • Mary Jane Magoon says:

    The kids are so cute. You are lucky to have them close to you.
    I love your blog and look forward to seeing it in my mail. Congratulations on your 5 year anniversary!

  • Mavis Truscott says:

    Congratulations on 5 great years! I enjoy your blog and the great photos and links.

  • Theresa says:

    On my walk to work this morning I was taking pictures of the brilliant orange maple trees, noticing colors all along the way. Downtown the park benches have all been painted one background color, minty turquoise, and then artists have individually designed each one. Thanks to your writing I know exactly what the city SHOULD have chosen for the background color to go with the earthy bricks of the mall instead of the clean minty green.

  • Congratulations! No small feat at all – 5 years of high quality blogging!

  • Shaina says:

    Happy 5 year anniversary!

  • Miriam says:

    Maria, I have learned so much about paint colors in the past several years reading your blog. I often refer friends before they go out and pick color. If I were not in Miami I would attend one of your seminars. P.S. I have a fun kid filled neighborhood too that’s awesome for trick or treating.

  • Tracy says:

    Happy blogoversary! Yours is one of my favorites!

  • Anne says:

    Your blog has such an authentic voice, Maria, it’s always a pleasure to read it. So happy it has brought you success!

  • Cindy says:

    Congrats on your 5th year, Maria! I truly enjoy reading your blog. And your nephews are just so adorable!

  • Cathy says:

    Congrats on 5 years! WOW!!

    The Halloween costumes are all adorable! Thanks for sharing.

    Love your blog, btw!! So informative!

  • Stacy says:

    I have learned so much from your blog! Thank you for sharing your time and expertise with us followers! Just painted my kitchen Revere Pewter and it is beautiful! Congrats on 5 years!

  • Elizabeth says:

    Hi Maria! Happy anniversary to a great blogger (the only one I read religiously). I’ve been your silent fan for many years, quietly going off to try to apply your advice in my home. I enjoy your insights; they are right-on! After all this time I’m speaking up; the lure of your VIP colourboards is just too much to resist. Congrats on 5 years of sharing yourself with the rest of us, and thanks!

  • Vicky Rizzardo says:

    I look forward to every entry you write. You helped me so much with my house, it was such a good investment to hire you for a consultation. I love the changes you helped me make to our dear old home.
    Congratulations on all your success!

  • Gail Bailey says:

    Congratulations on ALL your achievements! Your blog has been a blessing to so many. Your nephews looked so cute!

  • Mariette says:

    I LOVE reading your blog, always something new and refreshing. Congratulations on 5 years!

  • Maureen says:

    Congratulations on your 5 year anniversary! I’m not surprised it has been so successful. The way you say things makes it impossible not see the “why” of colour. I no longer say to myself, “yeah, but…” because I KNOW my case isn’t the exception. Here’s to the next 5 years!

  • Nancy says:

    Congrats on five years! I’ve learned SO much here. You saved me from some BAD tile choices. Thanks!

  • Lisa Loeppky says:

    Way to go! You have so much to celebrate. Enjoy the moment and realize all your hard work at blogging has helped many people avert design disaster! WE LOVE YOUR BLOG. Keep writing and designing and inspiring us!
    PS Those children are adorable in their costumes! We had one at our store in a cute sheep costume. She was a cute 1 year old sheep!

  • susan mccarthy says:

    I have learned so much from you over the past couple of years and I enjoy seeing you and your family photos.

  • Kari Koob says:

    Happy Anniversary Maria! Keep the posts coming!

  • shirley says:

    I enjoy reading your daily blog and would be thrilled to win the VIP colour boards.

  • kate says:

    Happy happy day to you Maria, what a wonderful celebration of five years. I’ve enjoyed your blog for three years now and look forward to many many more!

  • kate says:

    Happy happy day celebrating Maria! I’ve enjoyed your blog for three years and look forward to years more in the future. Keep teaching us!

  • Dianne Megenity says:

    It’s all a bit overwhelming to me, a new follower of your blog. We just purchased a new home that needs loads of remodeling. The ONE comment by my astute daughter-in-law was: “You need to make the whole house cohesive, with a flow, being on the same page, instead of many totally different taste-specific themes already going on.” I love what I’m seeing regarding color in your materials! I want to read, study, and absorb it all.

  • Annie says:

    Love the blog…. My #1. Very inspiring! Congrats.

  • Marlene Gothard says:

    You know how to have fun with the celebration days in the year. I look forward to forever reading your blogs. I especially liked the pumpkin with the “innards”coming out. Take care and be safe.

  • Timi says:

    I just discovered your blog last week and can’t soak up all the information fast enough! I would LOVE the VIP boards. Happy Anniversary!

  • Denise says:

    I love your blot and agree with your decorating ideas every single time! Happy blogiversary!

  • Janine Arietta says:

    Love the (homemade?) robot costume, and of course…….the rich colors of the all the costumes! Happy Halloween! – Janine

  • mrsben says:

    HAPPY 5th BLOGVERSARY, to you Maria! Have appreciated your dedication, talent and expertise. (Even at my age I am still learning.)

    Your nephews are totally adorable. Love when costumes are homemade! Re backup Candy; my choice for that very reason is microwavable, individual servings of popcorn. Keeps well and I love it …. winks. -Brenda-

    P.S: Keeping my fingers crossed that Karma will smile upon me and my name is drawn for the VIP Collection since I have fourteen spaces to paint. Am currently just priming plus they might save a bit of my sanity. ☺

  • Cheryl Haas says:

    CONGRATULATION! I LOVE YOUR BLOG!

    Your home is so beautiful!

  • Kim says:

    Happy Anniversary Maria! Thanks for all the great tips!

  • Bridgette says:

    I am fairly new to your site but you have helped me tremendously! I just painted my whole inside of my house and you were right there with me…..it was so fun now I’m going to paint my rental…..thanks for all that you do and all your gifts of rblessings!

  • Robin says:

    Happy Anniversary Maria! Thank you for all of your great tips and insight.

  • Trudy in Red Der says:

    Happy anniversary! I look forward to all your blog posts and have reread many. ALWAYS good info and insight. Happt Day to you.

  • Bruce Barone says:

    Happy Birthday!

    And Thank You for all the inspiration!!!

  • Eileen says:

    Happy Anniversary, Maria! I enjoy your blog so much and can’t help but see you as a friend. Keep up the good work!

  • Tiffany says:

    Congratulations on 5 years! I always love the pictures you choose.

  • Stephanie says:

    Hi Maria,
    Your Halloween is Boostacular! Happy Anniversary!
    I’m so grateful I found your blog, and THANKS for all that you share. I always look forward to you’re new posts!

  • Elizabeth Emmens says:

    Maria – 5 years. I hope you do something nice for yourself and celebrate your success.
    I have to say recently, I have been utilizing your blog as a life-line. I came out of the womb with a passion for design, allowed the forces that be to influence me into a soul-sucker corporate career. Now, here I am at the ripe age of 45, trying to keep my mojo going as I develop my design company. Some day I truly feel like I’m parachuting without a net and I haven’t even launched yet! Thank you for your frank and witty blogs that answer the questions I’ve been searching for. Keep it comin’!

  • Elizabeth Smith says:

    Congratulations Maria! I’ve been following you just since July & love your work!! I always look forward to reading each new blog! Have a great birthday!!

  • Congratulations on FIVE years! Very impressive for blogging!
    Love seeing all of the Halloween costumes. Please tell your neighbor that her kids’s Despicable Me costumes are FABULOUS!!

  • Linda Leyble says:

    Hi Maria! Congrats on your blogoversary! I have to check mine too – you just reminded me!

    Would love to win your VIP boards.

    Thanks,

    Linda

  • Happy Birthday to Colour me Happy!! I am so happy I found you Maria, love the inspiration you have brought to me and my business! Looking forward to the next 5 years of pretty and interesting blog posts!! xox

  • elise lundeen says:

    Maria, I’m not sure exactly how long I have followed you but it is probably close to 5 years. I love your blog, look forward to every entry. You are so successful because you are so good and love what you do. Thanks for being part of my days.
    Elise

  • cheri duzanica says:

    A very happy 5th to you Maria, it’s been fun watching the transformations.

  • MaryAnne says:

    Love the pumpkin with the upset tummy

  • Lori Haddock says:

    Happy Anniversary. I am a fairly new subscriber and am currently going through How to Choose Paint Colors. I am signed up for the webinar and am looking forward to it. Congratulations and looking forward to learning more on your blog

  • Suzanne Young says:

    Congratulations on your 5 years! Love your Halloween post, the kids are adorable.

  • Martha Hughes says:

    I always enjoy reading your blog and gleaning some of your expertise. Keep it up!

  • Melodie Green says:

    Love the blog! The only one i follow 🙂

  • Colleen says:

    Congratulations! Happy 5th anniversary! <3

  • Mary says:

    Happy Anniversary! I have found your blog very informative – thanks!!

  • Trish says:

    Congratulations Maria, you are an inspiration!

  • Patty Bruni says:

    Congratulations Maria! Keep blogging for those of us who need all the help we can get.

  • GaBi says:

    Congratulation to your aniversary and many more years to come. Thank you for sharing your experience and love for color.

  • Pat Button says:

    Congratulations Maria!
    I have read your blog for a few years and even spoke to you by phone. I wish I knew how to post photos on my MAC so I could hire you. I have learnt so much about colour from you and so enjoy reading you blog.
    Pat