1. What is your favorite project Shavonda has done, and why?

Naomi: “My absolute favorite project was the backsplash in our previous home. It felt like it took us an eternity to finally agree on something, navigating through countless options and debates. But once we settled on it and it was installed, the transformation was truly stunning. It turned out incredibly beautiful and even played a role in getting our home featured in Better Homes & Gardens, which was a huge achievement. That backsplash holds a special place because of the effort, the collaboration, and the fantastic result.”

2. What is your least favorite, and why?

Naomi: “Without a doubt, my least favorite was a small nightstand in the guest room of our last house. Shavonda painted it this vivid emerald green color, and I truly hated that thing. It just never sat right with me.”

*Shavonda: “Ugh, screw you very much! I absolutely adored that nightstand. It had so much character!”

3. What is the one creative item or tool that Shavonda cannot live without?

Naomi: “It’s definitely a measuring tape. That thing goes everywhere with her. Seriously, she’s never without it.”

*Shavonda: “This is absolutely true! You just never know when you’ll stumble upon ‘the piece’ that needs an immediate measurement, whether it’s for fitting into a space or imagining its potential.”

4. What is your biggest pet peeve about Shavonda in the real world or the project and decorating realm?

Naomi: “My biggest pet peeve is that she’s ALWAYS on her phone! Whether she’s researching, browsing Instagram for inspiration, or engaging with her online community, her phone is practically an extension of her hand.”

*Shavonda: “Yup, that’s pretty much an accurate, if slightly exaggerated, assessment. The digital world is truly where so much of the creative process unfolds!”

5. If you could take Shavonda on a vacation anywhere, where would she want to go?

Naomi: “She would absolutely want to go to Paris. It’s her dream destination, and I promise to take her there someday.”

*Shavonda: “Oh, I’m definitely holding you to that one, babe! The thought of exploring Parisian architecture and design fills me with so much joy.”

6. Shavonda finds $100. What does she do with it?

Naomi: “She’d probably spend a portion at Bath & Body Works, and then the rest would vanish at Ikea and Home Depot.”

*Shavonda: “Ummmm, not so much these days! While I do love a good scent and a trip to the big box stores, that kind of moolah would definitely be strategically spent at places like Target, Marshalls, TJ Maxx, Homegoods, Craigslist, or West Elm. I’m always on the hunt for unique finds and design steals!”

7. What is YOUR favorite room in your house and why?

Naomi: “My favorite room is our bedroom. It’s genuinely a very relaxing space, and I absolutely love the French doors that open up. They add such an elegant touch and make the room feel open and airy.”

8. Creativity is messy, but for the most part, blogs show the pretty picture. Can you tell us how Shavonda is a secret slob?

Naomi: “Well, she spends a significant amount of time at the computer, which means there are almost always plates, cups, snack wrappers, and papers scattered everywhere. It’s the byproduct of her deep dives into research and design inspiration.”

*Shavonda: “This should serve as excellent motivation for you to finally get going on my garage-to-studio conversion, my love. A dedicated creative space would solve so many of these ‘problems’! #justsayin”

9. Name a project or decorating adventure that you thought would be a flop but was fabulous?

Naomi: “There are actually two projects that come to mind. The first was painting the cabinets white in our previous kitchen. I’m not a fan of the ‘country kitchen’ look, so I was against it for a long time and really nervous about the outcome. But once it was done, I absolutely LOVED it – it completely transformed the space in the best way. The second is the butcher block countertops in our current kitchen. Let’s just say, through these experiences, I’ve truly learned to trust her design vision more and more.”

10. Blogging takes a lot of time. Do you ever pass by Shavonda while she is on the computer and secretly feel neglected?

Naomi: “Sometimes, I do. It’s not often, though. She’s quite considerate and does most of her intensive blogging work while I’m at my job, which helps a lot with maintaining our balance and quality time together.”

11. Before, during, and after photos are an important part of blogging. Do you remember to do that while working on projects for Shavonda?

Naomi: “Honestly, she usually handles all of that herself. She has a keen eye for capturing the process and the details that make for a compelling blog post. I mostly just provide the muscle!”

12. How often do you read Shavonda’s blog, and do you have a favorite post?

Naomi: “I read it quite often. My favorite post thus far is definitely the 2014 recap. It brought back so many great memories of the past year for us. We’ve experienced quite a few changes, both big and small, and I’ve genuinely enjoyed a lot of them. Reading that post reminded me just how truly blessed we’ve been.”

13. Before changing a piece of furniture, hanging new curtains, or planning a whole room redo, does Shavonda consult you or do you come home and it’s done?

Naomi: “I used to wake up to surprise changes that had occurred while I was asleep! However, she’s much better about it now. She’ll ask for my opinion and input, even though I’ve given her 100% creative control over the design and decoration of our home. It’s nice to feel included in the process, even if the final decision is usually hers.”

*Shavonda: “And I’m holding you to that 100% control, too, my dear!”

14. Does Shavonda discuss her blog with you, stories from other blogs, or friendships with other bloggers?

Naomi: “Yes, absolutely! She frequently discusses her own blog, shares fascinating stories she’s come across from other blogs, and talks about her friendships with fellow bloggers. Soon enough, I’ll probably know many of them by name myself, just from listening to her!”

15. Where do you think Shavonda gets most of her creative inspiration; TV, magazines, online, you, or was she just born that way?

Naomi: “She was definitely born this way. She’s incredibly talented, and I am genuinely so proud of her dedication. She’s truly following her dreams, and that’s super admirable to witness.”

*Shavonda: “Thank you, love, that means the world to me! To add to that, I also get tons of inspiration from shelter magazines, Pinterest, and of course, my wonderful community of fellow designers and bloggers. It’s a rich tapestry of ideas!”

16. Do you know what Pantone’s color of the year is and how do you feel about so-called “girly” colors for your walls?

Naomi: “I’ve definitely heard her mention the color of the year, and I recall her saying she doesn’t particularly like it, but I honestly couldn’t tell you what it actually is. As for ‘girly’ colors on the walls, I’m not opposed to them at all, for obvious reasons! I generally like lots of colors. Just… not emerald green, lol!”

*Shavonda: “Okay, you know what… seriously with the emerald?! I’m a May baby, for Pete’s sake! Emerald is my birthstone, and it’s such a gorgeous, rich color. And I’d like to extend a special thanks to my mother-in-law for scarring you for life from one of the most beautiful colors there is. Hey, Mom, that hunter green bedroom you painted haunts your daughter in her dreams, and now she’s taking it out on my ideas for sofas, curtains, and nightstands! Thanks for that unforgettable influence!”

17. If you could change one room or area of your home with no decorating advice from Shavonda, what area would you choose and why?

Naomi: “It would absolutely be our bathroom. I just don’t think its current style really reflects ‘us.’ It’s long overdue for a complete makeover and refresh.”

*Shavonda: “Funny you mention that! I’ve been secretly scheming on that very space for a couple of weeks now. Great minds think alike, even when one is trying to be secretive!”

18. Are you ever worried Shavonda will share too much personal information or that blogging might invade your private life?

Naomi: “No, I’m not worried. She truly respects our home life and our privacy too much to ever share anything that would cross that line. There’s a clear boundary she maintains.”

19. Have you ever helped Shavonda style photos for her blog or offer input on how you think a vignette should look?

Naomi: “No, I haven’t. Wait, what’s a vignette?! Just kidding! But seriously though, she is definitely far more talented and skilled in that particular area than I am. I leave the intricate styling to the expert.”

20. There is a saying, “If walls could talk…”, what would yours say about the decorating in your bedroom?

Naomi: “If our bedroom walls could talk, they would probably say, ‘It’s getting there, but it’s not quite there yet.’ It’s a work in progress, always evolving.”

*Shavonda: “Also, they would definitely say, ‘A door would be nice’ – hinting at my creative plans for the space!”

The Unseen Realities of a Creative Life

So there you have it, folks! A unique and heartfelt slice of life with me, as seen through the eyes of the wonderful Mrs. Gardner herself. Naomi’s willingness to share her perspective offers such a valuable glimpse into the unseen realities of what it means to be married to a creative, a designer, and a blogger. It’s a world of shared projects, sometimes conflicting tastes (hello, emerald green!), and an unwavering foundation of support and love.

Her insights highlight the delicate balance between passion projects and daily life, the constant quest for inspiration, and the quiet dedication behind every “pretty picture” you see on a blog. From the measuring tape that’s always within reach to the trust built through numerous home transformations, Naomi’s candid answers paint a picture that many spouses of creatives will surely recognize and appreciate.

I’m so incredibly proud of her for stepping out of her comfort zone to share her thoughts with all of you. It’s a testament to our partnership and the fun (and sometimes messy) journey we’re on together. Perhaps, just perhaps, I can convince her to return for another round of Q&A sometime in the future!

This post is part of a fantastic series where spouses of creative bloggers share their experiences. If you’re intrigued by what life is like with other dynamic duos in the design world, make sure you pay them a visit and read their unique perspectives. It’s a wonderful way to discover new voices and see the world of home decor from all angles!