One of my favorite people on the planet is Joe Nye. He is a decorator (he prefers this description over interior designer). We became good friends a couple of years ago, which was a major Silver Lining in my life!
He is not only incredibly talented, but also hysterically funny, charming, smart, capable, and impeccable with his word. Yes, impeccable. He does EXACTLY what he says he’s going to do when he says he’s going to do it. Oh, and he has the best manners you’ve ever seen. Oh, and he was named one of America’s top 100 Designers by House Beautiful!
I was so thrilled when he published his first book, Flair: Exquisite Invitations, Lush Flowers, and Gorgeous Table Settings, last year because it is a wonderful opportunity to share his talents with the world.
Thanks to Joe’s insistence (I mean encouragement) I now use our fancy china and silver (that belonged to my grandparents) at least once a week because as he says, “it adds a little refinement and elegance to the everyday.” He also believes in mixing things up, e.g., “shuffling funky flea market finds with valuable family heirlooms.”
He generously agreed to an interview with The Silver Pen. To read more, be sure to pick up his book. I promise that it will put a smile on your face…& you’ll learn a few things as well (Silver Lining!).
When I wake up, I… READ THE NEW YORK TIMES IMMEDIATELY OVER COFFEE
Before I go to bed, I…ANALYZE MY DAY AND THINK ABOUT HOW IT COULD HAVE BEEN IMPROVED OR BE GRATEFUL FOR WHAT HAPPENED
What is the best thing that has been said about you? THAT I AM VERY SERVICE-ORIENTED AND THAT I AIM TO PLEASE
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? STAY ON TRACK AND GET ONE THING DONE AT A TIME
What is your favorite charity? ANYTHING AIDS RELATED
What is your greatest indulgence? EATING GREAT FOOD
What is your favorite piece of furniture? MY CHINOISERIE DINING TABLE
What are your top 3 decorating tips?
- PAINT IS THE MOST AFFORDABLE WAY TO MAKE A CHANGE,
- BUY QUALITY, COMFORTABLE UPHOLSTERY (YOU WILL HAVE IT FOREVER),
- BUY CLASSIC FURNITURE THAT DOESN’T REFLECT A PARTICULAR PERIOD OF TIME…..IT WILL GO ANYWHERE WITH YOU.
What are your favorite color combinations? I DON’T REALLY HAVE ANY FAVORITES, BUT I AM ATTRACTED TO HIGH CONTRAST COLOR SCHEMES
What inspires you? ALL THE FABULOUS DECORATING MAGAZINES OUT THERE AND THE PLETHORA OF DESIGN BLOGS THAT PROLIFERATE THE INTERNET
Why did you become a decorator? I JUST ALWAYS WANTED TO DO IT.
Why do you prefer the term decorator over interior designer? I AM BECOMING MORE ACCEPTING OF THE TERM “INTERIOR DESIGNER,” I JUST ALWAYS THOUGHT IT SOUNDED PRETENTIOUS.
Men should always… EXHIBIT GREAT MANNERS
Women should always…SAME AS ABOVE
Happiness is…WAKING UP EVERYDAY AND BEING GRATEFUL FOR WHAT YOU HAVE.
What is your favorite place to unwind? MY HOME.
How do you describe your design style? CRISP AND FRIENDLY
Who is your style icon? SISTER PARISH
A perfect day is…WHEN EVERYTHING GOES AS PLANNED!
Favorite blogs (in addition to The Silver Pen, of course):
Thank you, Joe!
I hope u didn't mind me pinning the rolex watch. If I get ever hit the lotto, I want one. lol. I am almost a three year survivor and you have helped more than you know with my FBC. lol. I read your column ever day. Keep it up. There is a book called UPLIFT by Barbara someone (chemo brain) it begins with a D. That is so funny. I would cry and laugh. Everyone of my friends that have FBC, I tell them about your column and buy them the book. Also I have to say that I have adopted a soldier under soldiers angels.org and that has done me wonders. He is a bomb hunter in Afghanistan. after all can't have the Rolex. lol
Thanks again,
susan thurman
Tennessee.
Thanks so much for your note, Susan! I'm so glad that you pinned the Rolex. Yah! How wonderful that you adopted a soldier. Absolutely wonderful. Thank you for sharing. Please stay in touch!
I would love to have you as a friend just to share your up beat attitude,you seem like a wonderful person,and I love to decorate as well,I do alot of friends houses,not in the business,am a disabled cancer survivor,but always wanted to do it.,ya never know,stranger things have happened! Hope this note finds you well,and hope I've gained a decorating friend.,I'd love some tips sometime. You have a great page as well. You have a pleasant evening,and hope I hear from you sometime! Thanks for letting me share……………
Thanks so much for your note, Connie. I'm so glad to hear that you are following your passion. How wonderful! Yes…let's definitely share tips! All my best wishes to you!