From Wanderlust to Home

Capturing Memories, Creating Inspiration

Creating mood boards has become one of my favorite ways to gather inspiration, and over the years, I’ve found the most joy in using travel photos I’ve collected from different parts of the world. Each photo holds a unique memory, and I love translating those moments into visual stories that fuel my styling work. Whether it’s the soft beige sands of Australia or the deep greens from a misty forest hike, these colors become the foundation of my creative process.

Going Beyond the Surface: Finding Depth in Colors

When I create a mood board, I don’t just focus on the surface of the photo. I dive deep into the shades and tones present in the image, paying attention to the tiniest details—the way the light falls on water, how the sky shifts from blue to lavender at sunset, or how the texture of a worn wooden bench adds richness to the scene. These subtleties bring the photo to life and serve as my starting point for a cohesive palette.

Working With the Color Wheel

I have a little secret weapon when it comes to working with colors—the amazing Eye for Color book with 6 Color Wheels from my dear friend, Beverly Ash Gilbert. This tool is like pure magic for anyone who loves playing with color combinations! Whether you're an interior stylist like me or just someone who wants to bring more harmony into your home, this color wheel will become your new best friend. I use it every time I’m creating moodboards to ensure the colors I pick work beautifully together.

If you’re curious to see how it works or ready to add one to your own toolkit, you can visit Beverly's website and purchase yours directly. Trust me, it will change the way you think about color!

Incorporating Colors into Styling

Once I’ve created a palette, it’s time to think about how to incorporate those colors into my styling work. The key is not to be too literal—it’s about evoking the feeling of that place through color and texture. If a client wants a serene space, I might use soft blues and muted greens from a coastal photo, while a bold look might call for vibrant reds and oranges inspired by a sunset shot. These elements can come alive in the form of accent pillows, art, or textiles.

Styling with Emotion and Story

For me, styling isn’t just about decorating a space; it’s about capturing emotions and memories, then translating them into tangible elements that make a home feel personal and meaningful. Each mood board tells a story, and when I share them with clients, I hope they can sense the journey behind it—the places I’ve been, the cultures I’ve experienced, and the beauty I’ve seen in the world.

Finding Inspiration Outdoors

I always encourage you to get outdoors, take your own photos, and start seeing the world as I do. Inspiration is everywhere, often in the most unexpected places—a shadow on a sidewalk, the vibrant colors of a local market, or the changing leaves of fall. Once you begin to notice the details of color and texture, the world opens up with possibilities.

Start Your Own Creative Journey

Next time you’re out exploring or traveling, take a moment to observe the colors around you. Capture them, hold onto those moments, and bring them back home to inspire your own space. Creating a mood board isn’t reserved for professionals; it’s a way to express your personal style, fueled by your experiences. You might find the perfect palette for your next project, or simply rediscover the beauty of the world. And if you find it a bit daunting please feel free to contact me and book one of my packages so I can be of your assistance. I would be honoured to help you out.

Let Inspiration Guide You

I hope you can appreciate my work and feel inspired to explore your surroundings, just as I do. There’s so much beauty out there waiting to be discovered—allow it to become part of your creative journey, just as it has become part of mine.

Ohhh, and you must have seen a bit of me in the moodboards. ;-)

I have this quirky little habit—wherever I go, I take pictures of my feet—and legs. Yes, you read that right! Whether I’m on a sandy beach, in a lush forest, or even just lounging at home, there’s a photo of my feet somewhere. It’s my way of letting my mind wander back to those special places or holidays. And honestly, this is how I see the world—textures, colors, and a little peek of my happy feet! There’s something about capturing those earthy textures or amazing old tiles underfoot that inspires me in my work as an interior stylist.

Happy creating and adventuring!

Love Dagmar

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