My Journey with Paint & Design

🎨 My Journey with Paint & Design

Before becoming a realtor, I studied Interior Design at Central Washington University, where I developed a deep love for color, space, and function. During school, I worked at Standard Paint in Yakima, and my favorite role was at the paint center—mixing custom colors and helping customers pick the perfect shade for their homes. That hands-on experience gave me a strong understanding of how lighting, surfaces, and even mood can affect color choices.

Now, as a realtor, I use that knowledge every day. From helping sellers choose the right tones to make their homes shine, to guiding buyers through possibilities in a new space—color is still a big part of what I do.

🖌️ A Look Back: Paint Wasn’t Always Pretty

Not long ago, paint was a far cry from the safe, vibrant, and customizable product we have today. Professional painters often mixed paint themselves—right out of the back of their trucks—using oil-based bases and raw pigments. The color choices were extremely limited, usually just a few standard options. If you wanted something custom, you had to mix it by hand and hope for the best.

Worse yet, many of those early paints were toxic, loaded with lead and harmful solvents that created strong fumes and long-term health risks. Ventilation was a must, and safety gear was far less common than it is today.

The evolution of paint—especially the shift to water-based, low-VOC (volatile organic compound) formulas—has been a huge step forward. Now we can enjoy beautiful, rich colors that are safer for our families and the environment.

🌿 2025 Color Trends to Know

Today’s paint colors reflect a desire for calm, warmth, and personal expression. Here's what’s trending this year:

• Earthy Neutrals – Think warm beiges, soft browns, and sage greens that feel grounded and cozy.
• Moody Jewel Tones – Deep navy, emerald green, and burgundy add drama and elegance.
• Warm Yellows & Terracotta – Perfect for brightening small spaces while keeping things soft and welcoming.
• Monochromatic Looks – Layering different shades of one color adds sophistication without being busy.

Major brands like Behr and Sherwin-Williams are embracing these tones, offering palettes that bring comfort and character into every room.

🏡 Color with a Purpose

Paint isn't just about beauty—it's about emotion, flow, and first impressions. Whether you’re staging a home for sale or settling into a new one, the right paint color can make a world of difference.

With my background in design and real estate, and my early days behind the paint counter, I bring both technical know-how and creative insight to every project. If you need help finding the perfect color for your space—or one that will appeal to future buyers—I’d love to help.

Let’s bring your space to life, one brushstroke at a time.