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One great source for bedroom design inspiration? Hotel rooms! (After all, a restful night’s sleep is pretty much the hotel industry’s bread and butter.) Calming colors, layered bedding, and lamp inspiration galore are commonplace in luxe hotel rooms , so it makes total sense that Santeka Grigley’s vision for her bedroom during the One Room Challenge was “a serene, hotel-inspired” space. Before, her beige bedroom was far from calm or relaxing. Santeka and her partner, Reggie, had been fixing up rooms gradually in their home, and the bedroom was neglected over time. “It definitely showed with the mismatched furniture, lack of character, and a yellowish wall color,” Santeka says. Santeka and Reggie set about to create a space that they “yearned to return to at the end of the day.” Although Santeka is normally drawn to bold, vibrant colors, for her bedroom makeover, she and Reggie —again taking a page from the hotel world’s design book — chose to go classic, dark, and moody. Their dark paint choice ( Sherwin-Williams’ Cyberspace ) and the new textured headboard are the stars of the show. Santeka and Reggie built the slatted headboard (plus the matching floating nightstands!) from scratch, and it was much more difficult — and involved a lot more troubleshooting and research — than anticipated. “I’m glad we didn’t let lack of knowing how (in that moment) stop us from seeing the vision through,” Santeka writes on her blog — a great DIY mantra. Written by: Nikol Slatinska ・ published September 15, 2022 This project was completed for the  One Room Challenge , in partnership with Apartment Therapy. See even more of my bedroom transformation and fixer upper inspiration here.

Oily skin can be tricky to manage. On one hand, it helps your skin look youthful and hydrated, but on the other hand it can feel feel like a never-ending battle with excess shine, acne breakouts, and clogged pores. But what if I told you that managing oily skin doesn’t have to be complicated? With a streamlined skincare routine and the right products, you can control oil production, prevent breakouts, minimize pores, and keep your skin feeling fresh without a million steps. Here’s my go-to routine featuring the best skincare products for oily sensitive skin - simple, effective, and gentle enough to keep your skin balanced without feeling overwhelmed. We independently  select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing. Top Picks: Best Skincare Products for Oily Sensitive Skin Step 1: Cleansers The first step in any skincare routine is a good cleanser, and when it comes to oily skin, you want something that will clean deeply without stripping your skin. Product Recommendation: (1) KORA Organics Turmeric Glow Foaming Cleanser It's a luxurious yet gentle facial cleanser that deeply purifies the skin while promoting a brighter, more even complexion. Infused with turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich properties, this foaming cleanser helps to calm irritated skin, reduce redness, and restore a healthy glow. Why it's Great: Gentle and Effective : Cleanses deeply while being gentle on sensitive skin. Turmeric Power : Helps brighten the complexion and reduce redness. Non-Drying Formula : Maintains your skin's natural moisture balance, ensuring it doesn’t feel tight or stripped. Product Recommendation: (2) Urban Skin Rx Even Tone Cleansing Bar 3-in-1 It's a multi-functional skincare product designed to cleanse, exfoliate, and brighten the skin in one simple step. This bar is specially formulated to target uneven skin tone, dark spots, and discoloration, making it a great option for those seeking a more radiant and uniform complexion. Why it's Great: Targets Hyperpigmentation : Formulated to help fade dark spots, even skin tone, and reduce discoloration. Gentle Exfoliation : Contains glycolic acid and salicylic acid to gently exfoliate, removing dead skin cells and promoting a smoother texture. Vibrant Glow : Helps reveal a brighter, more radiant complexion by removing impurities while boosting skin clarity. Product Recommendation: (3) Anua Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam It's a gentle yet effective foaming cleanser designed to deeply cleanse the skin while helping to control excess oil and minimize pores. Infused with heartleaf extract and quercetin, this cleansing foam provides soothing and antioxidant-rich benefits, helping to calm irritated or sensitive skin. Why it's Great: Deep Cleansing : Effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup while unclogging pores, preventing breakouts and promoting a clear complexion. Hydrating Formula : Cleanses without stripping the skin's natural moisture. Minimizes Pores : Helps reduce the appearance of enlarged pores. Quick Tip: Anua Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam contains BHA  (Beta Hydroxy Acid), which is known for its ability to deeply penetrate the pores, exfoliating dead skin cells, and helping to control oil production. While BHAs are effective in managing oily and acne-prone skin, using them daily  can be a bit too harsh for some, especially for those with sensitive skin. Step 2: Exfoliator For oily skin prone to blackheads and breakouts, a chemical exfoliant with salicylic acid (BHA) is a game-changer. Product Recommendation: (1) Paula's Chocie Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant It's a cult-favorite exfoliating treatment designed to refine skin texture, clear pores, and improve skin tone. This product contains salicylic acid (BHA), a powerful exfoliant that works deep within the pores to remove dead skin cells, excess oil, and debris, preventing breakouts and promoting smoother, clearer skin. Why it's Great: Deep Pore Cleansing : Salicylic acid (BHA) penetrates deep into pores, exfoliating from within and helping to clear blackheads and prevent breakouts. Smooths Skin Texture : Regular use helps to refine skin texture, making it softer and more even. Prevents Future Breakouts : Helps control excess oil production. Quick Tip: Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant contains salicylic acid (BHA) , which is an effective exfoliant for oily and acne-prone skin. However, like all exfoliating acids, it’s important to be cautious with how often you use it to avoid potential irritation or over-exfoliation. Step 3: Toners Toners are a great way to help balance your skin after cleansing. Product Recommendation: (1) OLEHENRIKSEN Glow2OH 7% Exfoliating Dark Spot Toner It's a potent, exfoliating toner designed to target uneven skin tone, dark spots, and texture while leaving your skin with a glowing, refreshed appearance. This toner contains 7% glycolic acid (AHA), which works to exfoliate the skin's surface, removing dead skin cells, and promoting a brighter and more even complexion. Why it's Great: 7% Glycolic Acid : Gently exfoliates the skin, removing dead skin cells. Brightens Dark Spots : Targets hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and dark spots. Soothes & Calms : Witch hazel and licorice extract work together to reduce redness, soothe irritation, and calm the skin. Product Recommendation: (2) numbuzin No. 3 Toner Super Glowing Essence It's a hydrating and brightening toner designed to give your skin a healthy, radiant glow. This essence combines the benefits of a toner and a serum, providing deep hydration while improving skin tone and texture. Why it's Great: Brightens Skin : Niacinamide helps reduce dark spots and uneven skin tone. Deep Hydration : Hyaluronic acid locks in moisture, keeping skin plump, smooth, and hydrated. Improves Skin Texture : Gently smooths and refines skin, helping to even out rough patches and enhance radiance. Step 4: Serums Serums are good for the skin because they target specific concerns like aging, pigmentation, or hydration. Their lightweight, fast-absorbing texture allows them to penetrate deeper into the skin. Product Recommendation: (1) COSRX The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum It's a nourishing serum designed to strengthen and rejuvenate the skin by incorporating six different peptides, each with its unique benefits. Peptides are known for their ability to promote skin elasticity, enhance collagen production, and improve overall skin health. Why it's Great: Peptide-Rich Formula : Contains six different peptides that boost collagen production, enhance skin elasticity, and improve overall skin health. Hydrating : Infused with hyaluronic acid. Strengthens Skin Barrier : Supports the skin’s natural barrier. Product Recommendation: (2) Elizavecca Hyaluronic Acid 100% Serum It's a highly concentrated serum designed to deliver intense hydration and moisture to the skin. Made with 100% pure hyaluronic acid, it deeply penetrates the skin to replenish lost moisture, plumping and smoothing the skin for a more youthful appearance. Why it's Great: 100% Pure Hyaluronic Acid : Provides intense hydration and moisture. Deep Penetration : Penetrates the skin to deliver moisture deep into the layers, improving skin texture and elasticity. Boosts Skin Hydration : Helps restore moisture balance, especially for dry and dehydrated skin. Product Recommendation: (3) Urban Skin Rx Even Tone Super Glow Serum with 10% L-Ascorbic Acid + Kojic Acid It's a potent serum formulated to brighten, exfoliate, and even out skin tone. Why it's Great: 10% L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) : Brightens skin, fades dark spots, and provides antioxidant protection against free radicals. Kojic Acid : Reduces hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and dark spots, helping to even out skin tone. Exfoliating Action : Glycolic acid helps exfoliate dead skin cells, improving texture and promoting skin renewal. Product Recommendation: (4) Anua Niacinamide 10 TXA 4 Serum It's a brightening and clarifying serum formulated to address skin tone unevenness, hyperpigmentation, and dullness. Why it's Great: 10% Niacinamide : Helps reduce dark spots, acne scars, and pigmentation. TXA (Tranexamic Acid) : Brightens the skin and works to fade stubborn hyperpigmentation and discoloration. Balances Oil Production : Regulates excess oil, helping to prevent breakouts and control shine. Quick Tip: Anua Niacinamide 10 TXA 4 Serum  contains active ingredients like 10% niacinamide  and TXA (Tranexamic Acid) , both of which can provide excellent results for brightening, reducing hyperpigmentation, and evening out skin tone. However, due to the potency of these ingredients, using it daily may lead to irritation, especially for sensitive skin types. It's a good idea to start by using it every other day or a few times a week to see how your skin reacts. Also, you should avoid combining it with certain other strong active ingredients to prevent irritation. Product Recommendation: (5) Arenci a Hyssop Glow Serum 12 It's a powerful, multi-functional serum designed to brighten, hydrate, and rejuvenate the skin. This serum combines the benefits of 10% niacinamide, a form of Vitamin B3, with the antioxidant-rich blend of Vitamin A (retinol), Vitamin C, and Vitamin E to target multiple skin concerns, including dullness, uneven skin tone, fine lines, and wrinkles. Why it's Great: 10% Niacinamide : Brightens skin, reduces redness, and helps even out skin tone and texture. 12% Vitamins A, C, and E : A powerful blend that reduces the appearance of fine lines, brightens dark spots, and provides antioxidant protection. Promotes Skin Renewal : Vitamin A (retinol) encourages cell turnover, reducing fine lines and enhancing skin elasticity. Step 5: Moisturizers Moisturizing is crucial for oily skin, despite the common misconception that oily skin doesn’t need hydration. Product Recommendation: (1) OLEHENRIKSEN Strength Trainer Skin Barrier Moisturizer with Peptides and Niacinamide It's a nourishing moisturizer designed to restore and strengthen the skin's natural barrier. The formula combines peptides, which promote skin elasticity and repair, with niacinamide, an anti-inflammatory ingredient known for its ability to reduce redness, even out skin tone, and enhance the skin's barrier function. Why it's Great: Peptides : Help boost skin elasticity, improve firmness, and support skin repair and regeneration. Niacinamide : Calms inflammation, reduces redness, and strengthens the skin’s natural barrier to protect against environmental stressors. Strengthens Skin Barrier : Helps restore the skin’s natural moisture balance, making it more resilient to dryness and irritation. Product Recommendation: (2) NOW Foods Solutions Jojoba Oil It's a 100% pure, natural oil that provides deep moisture and nourishment to the skin, hair, and nails. Extracted from the seeds of the jojoba plant, this oil is known for its similarity to the skin's natural sebum, which makes it an excellent moisturizer that absorbs easily and helps balance oil production. Why it's Great: 100% Pure Jojoba Oil : A natural and nourishing oil that closely mimics the skin’s natural oils for optimal hydration. Balances Oil Production : Helps regulate sebum production. Rich in Vitamins & Minerals : Contains Vitamin E, B-complex vitamins, and zinc, which help promote healthy, radiant skin and hair. Step 6: Sunscreens Sunscreen is essential for all skin types, but for oily skin, you need one that is lightweight, non-comedogenic, and won’t cause shine. Product Recommendation: (1) Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Daily Sunscreen It's a lightweight, broad-spectrum sunscreen designed to provide effective sun protection while keeping the skin hydrated and nourished. Why it's Great: Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ PA++++ : Provides high-level protection against both UVA and UVB rays, reducing the risk of sun damage, premature aging, and dark spots. Black Rice Extract : Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and amino acids, helping to protect and nourish the skin. Hydrating : Contains hyaluronic acid to maintain skin moisture and ensure a soft, plump appearance. Product Recommendation: (2) Innnisfree Daily UV Defense Invisible Broad Spectrum SPF 36 Sunscreen It's a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays while leaving the skin feeling fresh and hydrated. Why it's Great: Broad-Spectrum SPF 36 Protection : Shields the skin from both UVA and UVB rays, helping to prevent sunburn, premature aging, and skin damage. Green Tea Extract : Rich in antioxidants, this ingredient helps protect the skin from environmental stressors and reduces irritation. Invisible Finish : Leaves no white cast or greasy residue, offering a smooth, matte finish suitable for daily wear. Tips for Oily Skin Avoid harsh products that strip the skin (this can cause the skin to produce more oil in compensation). Regularly exfoliate to remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores. Always wear sunscreen even oily skin can get sun damage! Managing oily skin doesn’t mean sacrificing hydration or skipping essential skincare steps. By selecting the right products designed for your skin type, you can control oil production, prevent breakouts, hydrate without clogging pores, and maintain a healthy complexion. Remember, consistency is key even using the best skincare products for oily skin won't work without sticking to a routine to achieve clear, smooth, and balanced skin. Have you tried any of these products? Or do you have other favorites for oily skin? Share your thoughts in the comments below, I’d love to hear your skincare tips!

Moving can be one of the most stressful and expensive life events. Between purchasing packing supplies, renting a moving truck, and possibly hiring professional movers, costs can add up quickly. But one expense you can easily cut down on is the cost of moving boxes. Why spend money on something you’ll likely discard or recycle after moving? Luckily, there are plenty of ways to score free moving boxes, and I’m here to share five of the best options. Whether you’re moving across town or to a new state, these tips will help you secure boxes without spending a dime! Learn More: The Ultimate Vacation Rental Inventory Checklist 5 Top Places to Find Free Moving Boxes Near You 1. Craigslist Craigslist has a "Free" section where locals list belongings they want to give away. Head to your local Craigslist page, search "Free Moving Boxes," and you might find exactly what you need! 2. Facebook Marketplace Similar to Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace allows people to post items they’re giving away. Simply search for “Free Moving Boxes” and connect with someone in your area who has boxes to spare. 3. Large Retail Stores Large retailers like Target, Walmart, Costco, and Sam’s Club, as well as stores like Dollar General and Family Dollar, receive shipments regularly. Visit these stores on restocking days (typically Tuesday or Wednesday mornings, except Walmart, which stocks at night) and ask an associate if they have any boxes available. 4. U-Haul’s Box Exchange Program U-Haul’s Customer Connect Box Exchange Program allows customers to give away or find free moving boxes and other packing supplies. Check out their website or visit a local U-Haul store to see what's available in your area. 5. Grocery Stores Like retail stores, grocery stores receive frequent shipments and often have empty boxes to spare. Stop by and ask an associate if they have any boxes they no longer need. Final Thoughts Moving doesn’t have to break the bank, and finding free moving boxes is one of the simplest ways to cut down on expenses. By checking out online platforms, visiting retail and grocery stores, or utilizing U-Haul’s Box Exchange Program, you can gather all the boxes you need without spending a cent. Not only does this save you money, but it’s also an eco-friendly way to repurpose materials that would otherwise be discarded. Have you ever used any of these methods to score free moving boxes? Let me know in the comments! And don’t forget to share this post with friends and family to help them save money on their next move!

It week 8 of the Fall 2021 One Room Challenge ! I can hardly contain my excitement to share my hotel inspired bedroom makeover with you! The last 8 weeks have been a rollercoaster of emotions. This is mostly because I didn't know if I had what it took to completely transform the space (that was out of my typical design aesthetic) in such a short amount of time. Instead of making a big splash with vibrant colors and over the top patterns, I decided to do something totally out of my wheelhouse. I combined Transitional Style with a Modern Farmhouse (more Rustic) design. Do you remember what the space looked like when I started this project? The bedroom was not a priority and it definitely showed with the mix matched furniture, lack of character, and yellow-ish paint on the walls. It needed some serious help to look like a page pulled out a magazine with all of the personality to match. We independently  select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing. If you'd like to revisit any content from the previous 7 weeks, click images below for easy access. Week 1 - Before Pictures Week 2 - Luxury Hotel Bedroom Mood Board Week 4 - Custom Slat Wall Headboard Week 6 - DIY Cabinet Upgrade Week 6 - Slat Wall Headboard Update Week 7 - Easy Furniture Upgrade Week 7 - Slat Wall Headboard Reveal Now, let's get to the moment you've all been following along for - the REVEAL of our bedroom!! Whoop! Whoop! Hotel Inspired Bedroom Makeover Reveal I had a huge vision for this space. I wasn't even sure if we could execute some of it like the slat wall and the nightstands, but I'm glad we didn't let lack of knowing how (in that moment) stop us from seeing the vision through. I think it turned out incredible! Come on in. I'll walk you through the space! Paint Colors The paint color is Sherwin Williams' Cyberspace  match in Behr  paint Satin. At first glance, it looks black, but is actually a dark shade of gray with deep blue undertones. We weren't worried about the new paint color being too dark, but we did think painting the ceiling the same color would make the room feel too dark and small. So we decided to use a shade of white on the ceiling. The paint color is Sherwin Williams' Snowbound (Flat) . Slat Wall The slat wall is definitely the focal point of the bedroom. Initially, it was meant to be an accent wall, but we realized we could further incorporate it into the design by using it as our headboard. Learn how to build your own slat wall >>   Bed Frame and Linen Previously, the mattress and box spring were supported by rails. The rails set atop bed risers, which offered under bed storage space. We didn't want to lose that storage. We also needed an option that was low profile so it wouldn't obstruct the slat wall too much. The Nordli bed frame with storage from IKEA was the perfect choice. We got it in a queen size because a king would have been too big for the size of the bedroom. Another reason we decided against a king bed is because it wouldn't have left enough space to install floating nightstands. The best feature of this bed frame is the storage. There are six drawers (three on either side) that provide tons of under bed storage. Bed Frame with Storage, Queen The linen is neutral tones - beige, cream, taupe, brown, white with hints of blue. Although the bedding is mostly neutral colors, the varying fabrics pull in a lot of different textural elements such as waffle, bamboo, faux fur, and cotton. This adds the depth, warmth, and elegance to the space that I hoped to achieve. Comforter Set, King Euro Sham Set Cozy Earth Sheet Set, Queen Faux Fur Throw Blanket (Not Exact) Lighting The lighting adds more gold metals to the space. The wall sconces offer softer lighting that's perfect for reading before bed. The fixtures were meant to be hardwired. To save time and money, we surfaced wired them and used a conduit cover to hide the cord. Then, we painted the conduit c0ver to match the wall paint. Wall Scones Lamp Cord Conduit Cover (Not Exact) The ceiling light is a dupe. I found a light fixture that was over $500 and I refused to spend that much on a light fixture. So I decided to try my hand at creating a dupe. My dupe turned out amazing! The light fixture has four bulbs providing the perfect amount of light. And was super easy and affordable to make. It costs a little over $100 for all of the supplied needed. Light Fixture E12 Bulbs (Not Exact) Gold Spray Paint Yarn Brass Tube Beads Shoe Storage Cabinet The storage cabinet was in great condition, it just needed a refresh. We simply gave it a face lift using neutral wallpaper that added an additional textural element. We also changed out the hardware bringing in more gold metals. To see more behind the scenes for this project, check out week 5 of the ORC. The gold hardware came with 10 knobs in the pack. You'll see these throughout the bedroom space, as we used them on the closet doors and for DIY wall hooks. Shoe Storage Cabinet Wallpaper Gold Hardware Flameless Candles Drawer Chest Similar to the shoe cabinet, the drawers were in great shape, butThe drawer handles and locks were silver, which didn't go with the new decor. We swapped out the silver plastic hardware for a brass and beech wood cabinet pull. It further tied together the space incorporating more gold metal and brown hues. Then, we spray painted the locks gold using the same spray paint used for the ceiling light fixture. Chest of Drawers Cabinet Pulls Gold Spray Paint Bench We've owned this hallway bench for years. It was a last minute addition to the space. I was looking for a chair made of rattan or crane material, but I couldn't find anything that wouldn't obstruct the walkway in the color or price I had in mind. This bench takes up minimal space while providing more shoe storage and a place to put pillows while sleeping. The pillow and throw blanket were part of the comforter set. Bench Comforter Set Floating Nightstands Since the bed frame has drawers on both sides, the nightstands had couldn't be directly on the floor because there wouldn't be enough clearance. The other challenge was the size of bedroom and location of the entrance to the bedroom. There was only 18 inches on either side of the bed. The problem is most of the nightstands we found online were too large for the space and didn't offer enough clearance below. Did I mention the price? We ended up creating dupes of floating nightstands to save money. The ones I found online were $60.71, so two would've cost over $120. We built our dupes for a total of $25. We stained the wood using the same colors as the slat wall. They tie in well with the slat wall adding another modern farmhouse (rustic) element. Check out week 7 of the ORC for wood stain colors. Floating Nightstands (Not exact) Wall Decor We used the wall decor to add more of our personalities to the space. We kept it super simple - we did some DIY art along with pictures we found online of places we've traveled to such as Cuba, Tokyo, and Mexico City and ordered prints. The frames were a thrift store find. Although the wood is a different color than the nightstands and slat wall, they give a nod to the rustic design style while offering more brown hues to the space. Floating Picture Frames (Not Exact) I found the mirror at 2nd Ave Thrift Superstore for $20. It's just a coincidence that it matches. The mirror definitely creates more light making the space feel bright and bigger. Mirror (Not Exact) Previously, we had an over the door rack to hang our robes and hoodies. While we wanted to keep this feature, we needed to find a way to include it that would add to the design. Instead of purchasing wall hooks, we used the gold hardware from the closet doors and shoe cabinet to create wall hooks. This was also a more affordable solution because two wall hooks cost the same as the 10 cabinet pulls. Gold Hardware Last, but not least, we installed a ClosetMaid closet system. This system is adjustable and can be configured a few different ways depending on your needs. For your reference, the closet is approximately 6ft. Closet Sytem I'm excited to share Apartment Therapy featured our bedroom makeover in there Before and After Series. Read the article here . Thank you so much for your support and for following along! Until we meet again for the next room makeover and/or DIY project!

We've reached week 7 of the Fall 2021 One Room Challenge ® ! The time has definitely flown by with only one week remaining. While we haven't been able to stay on schedule or maintain the pace that we intended to, we have made tremendous progress and are continuing to move the project forward in order to reach the finish line. We independently  select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing. Our goal was to complete our custom wood slat wall headboard over weeks 3 and 4 of the One Room Challenge, but instead of finishing it during those weeks, we fail behind because it was way more time consuming than we anticipated. Please don't let this discourage you! While there was a serious level of difficulty, there were also challenges with time management. Additionally, we didn't allocate or should I say properly calculate the amount time it would realistically require to complete the slat wall. We did a poor job factoring in our daily commitments, restraints, conflicts, and how sheer procrastination would impact our timeline We started week 3 with looking for inspiration on Beyoncé's internet (i.e. Google and Pinterest). The one thing we were honest about from the start was what we were and weren't capable of doing. We found a slat wall design that was inline with what we hoped to achieve and then tweaked it to fit our skill level. We sketched out the design before heading to the store to purchase the necessary supplies to complete the project. We also took measurements of the wall where the slat wall was going to be built in order to decide on the dimension of the slat wall and placement. We were unable to center the slat wall because of the space limitations created by the door. We are adding floating nightstands on both sides of the bed and had we centered the slat wall there wouldn't have been enough space to include a nightstand on the right side. Supplies Needed to Build a Wood Slat Wall Headboard Below I've listed all of the tools and supplies you'll need to build your custom slat wall headboard. This includes the measurements and exact number of 1x2s and plywood required for this project. TOOLS & SUPPLIES Nail Gun 2'' Nails Miter Saw Miter Box Circular Saw Reciprocating Saw Stud Finder Tape Measure Sander 1X2S Plywood Stain - Special Walnut Stain - Golden Pecan Paintable Caulk Now that you have all of your tools and supplies, let's start DIYing! How to Build a Custom Slat Wall Headboard Step 1: SAND AND STAIN Stain the plywood and 1x2s. We chose to stain the plywood and 1x2s prior before attaching them to the wall to avoid dripping and creating a mess in our bedroom. We mixed Special Walnut and Golden Pecan in a 50/50 ratio and used a paint brush to apply the stain to the plywood and 1x2s. We ultimately added two coats remembering to spread the stain as thin as possible. We didn't stain all of the 1x2s at the same time, which is why there are slight variations in the color. Step 2: MARK YOUR STUDS Measure and mark the studs with the stud finder. You want to hit as many studs as possible when installing the plywood by making sure that the nails used to hold up the plywood are going directly into the studs. This will ensure the wall can properly support the weight of the slat wall. Step 3: CUT YOUR PLYWOOD Measure and cut your plywood using a circular saw. Be sure to measure and cut out the area of all outlets. We used to a reciprocating saw to cut out the outlets on the plywood. Step 4: INSTALL THE PLYWOOD As stated above, install the plywood by nailing it into the studs. Now, we didn't stress this step too much, because the plywood is light and we knew we would hit more studs when installing the 1x2s. Step 4: CUT YOUR 1X2S FOR THE FRAME Next, you're going to grab four 1x2x to create a frame around the edges of the plywood along all four sides. To do this, you're going to cut the four 1x2s to them using a circular saw or miter saw. Step 6: INSTALL 1X2S FOR THE FRAME Attach the 1x2s with nail gun flushed with the edges of the plywood along all four sides. Try to hit as many studs as possible during this process. Step 7: PLAN YOUR DESIGN This step was the most important and stressful part of the process. Before, we started, we sketched a rough draft of the design. We did have to make some modifications. First, we measured the seams where the different pieces of the plywood met. Next, we measured the areas around the outlets where there were rough plywood cuts. We used those new measurements to better understand how far apart we should space the 1x2s and the placement to cover seams and rough edges. Step 8: CUT YOUR 1X2S This was the slowest part of the process because wanted to make sure we made proper cuts and wasted as little material as possible. We used the circular saw for straight edge cuts and the miter saw to achieve 45 degree angles. Be sure to measure, measure, measure, as we discovered our wall was not 100% straight. So don't attempt to take one measurement for all of the 1x2s that will be placed parallel within the design - the assumption is that each of the 1x2s can be cut to the same length, however there could be slight variations in the measurements. Step 9: INSTALL THE 1X2S We started by installing 1x2s over the seams between the different pieces of plywood. Then we installed 1x2s around the electric outlet. After those two important tasks were complete, we begin installing the remaining 1x2s to build out the slat wall design. Remember: if the nails holding up the plywood didn't hit a lot of studs, be sure to make sure the 1x2s hit studs for added support. Step 10: FINISHING TOUCHES When your custom slat wall headboard is complete, go back and add finishing touches to elevate the look of your slat wall. Add paintable caulk to fill any gaps. Once the paintable caulk dries, go back and touch up all seams, corners, and edges with stain. Was building this wood slat wall headboard worth all of the stress and time? ABSOLUTELY! It was an affordable way to add a bold feature to our bedroom. We still have one week left of the ORC. We're not sure if we'll finish on time, but we're proud of the work we've done so far. Be sure to check out the incredible work the other Guest Participants have done. They are killing it!

The One Room Challenge ® is underway! To rec ap the One Room challenge® provides participants with a supportive, enthusiastic forum in which to share the process of transforming a room over the course of eight weeks. The ORC is not a competition, but rather a celebration of creativity, inspiration, and original ideas that happens twice a year, in the spring and the fall. Last week marked the first week of the Fall 2021 challenge. Guest participants shared which room they would transform, introduced their platform, and start following and engaging with one another. I chose my main bedroom for the challenge. Check out my blog post for week one | Bedroom Makeover >> Over the next seven weeks, my goal is to create a serene retreat with a luxury hotel-inspired bedroom mood board, blending transitional, farmhouse, and boho styles. I’ll layer textural fabrics, rich hues, linens, and lighting to bring the space to life. If you've been following my fixer upper / home renovation journey, you know that I love bright colors and bold patterns. So you're probably shocked and to read that I decided to go with darker hues in my bedroom. A lot of thought went into the mood board and color story this space. I truly focused on the purpose my boyfriend and I wanted our bedroom to serve - we wanted a space to retreat to at the end of the day that was reminiscent of our favorite hotels and echoed the experience and feeling we had while in those luxury hotel bedrooms. This led us to a choose a more neutral palette with hues from the same the color family to add warmth and create depth within the space. From the lighting to the metal finishes to the type and color of wood to hardware to linen, all of the elements will work together to bring a calming effect, elegance, and a timeless, classic aesthetic We kicked off the first week by painting our bedroom and finished during week 2. The paint color is Sherwin Williams' Cyberspace match in Behr paint Satin. At first glance, it looks black, but is actually a dark shade of gray with deep blue undertones. I know you're probably wondering what's going on the wall where a strip of paint is missing?... We'll share all of the details next week! Week 3 is going to fun. We'll start the biggest DIY project for the space. Our bedroom gets tons of natural light from the two windows. While we're not worried about the new paint color being too dark, we decided to use a shade of white on the ceiling. The paint color is Sherwin Williams' Snowbound (Flat) . Be sure to come back to see the week 3 DIY project reveal! By the end of the One Room Challenge, we will have a luxury hotel inspired bedroom. Follow along on Instagram @onerooomchallenge to see how the second week is going for the other guest participants!

I'm beyond excited to kick off this 8-week design journey as a first-time guest participant . If you're not familiar with the One Room Challenge (ORC) , it's a widely celebrated biannual event that encourages bloggers, designers, and DIYers to completely transform one room in just eight weeks. Hosted by the official ORC platform and supported by Better Homes & Gardens , the challenge is all about creativity, community, and pushing the boundaries of design. Each week, participants share their progress online, giving readers a behind-the-scenes look at the inspiration, planning, successes (and sometimes setbacks!) involved in a full room makeover. It's a unique opportunity to connect with a supportive community of like-minded creatives, discover new ideas, and watch beautiful transformations unfold in real time. This season, I’ll be tackling my main bedroom and taking you along for the ride from mood boards and DIY projects to shopping hauls and the big reveal. I’ve followed the ORC for years and always dreamed of participating, so I’m thrilled to finally be part of this talented group of designers, makers, and fellow home enthusiasts. Stay tuned for weekly updates, design tips, and all the behind-the-scenes fun from my One Room Challenge bedroom makeover! By the way, hey there! I’m Santeka Grigley , the content creator behind SantekaGrigley.com , a bold and vibrant space where I share my journey of growing a business, exploring the world, and living life unapologetically. As a millennial Southern baddie with a passion for travel, good food, DIY adventures, and all things home decor, I’m all about curating a life that’s full of style, soul, and a little bit of spice. My mission? To inspire others to live their lives out loud - boldly, authentically, and colorfully, just like I do. Behind the Scenes of My One Room Challenge Bedroom Makeover Now, let’s dive into the real reason you’re here - the One Room Challenge! I decided to join the One Room Challenge because I needed a little push to finally show some love to a space that’s long overdue for a makeover, our primary bedroom . Since purchasing our true fixer-upper, we’ve been focused on tackling more urgent projects throughout the house, and the bedroom has slowly but surely slid to the bottom of the to-do list. But that changes now. The One Room Challenge felt like the perfect opportunity to not only carve out intentional time to focus on this space, but to also connect with a community of creatives who are just as passionate about design and transformation as I am. I love a good challenge—and this one lights a fire under me to finish what I’ve started and share every step along the way. My vision? To turn this bedroom into a calm, transitional-style retreat  with layers of texture, rich moody tones, and subtle nods to boho  and modern farmhouse  aesthetics. Think cozy, elevated, and effortlessly stylish. Just the way a personal sanctuary should feel. Next week, I’ll be revealing the bold new wall color along with the mood board that’s inspiring the entire design. I’m beyond excited to bring this room to life and even more excited to have you on this journey with me. And don’t forget to check out the other amazing guest participants  and their inspiring projects. There’s so much creativity to explore!

Hey Gorgeous People! I'm excited to share the garage is up and running! While we're waiting on delayed shipments, we still accomplished our goal in turning the garage into a usable pace that serves our dynamic, multi-faceted lifestyle. We independently  select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing. Let me walk you through the space and journey! Before Pictures We needed the garage to include the following: Storage for Holiday Decor Crafting Station Gym and Storage for Outdoor Gear Storage for Event Essentials Workstation and Storage for Home Improvement Items Figuring out our needs and how we intended on using the garage was an essential step. It informed our plan regarding the design, layout, organization, and storage. I ended up researching home design software websites to create a rendering of our desired layout for the garage. I found several, but ultimately went forward with HomeByMe - an online solution dedicated to the creation of interior design projects. From the search for inspiration to the purchase of furniture, through 3D modeling, this software provides support in all your interior design projects. I chose HomeByMe because the platform was the easiest to navigate. I was able to quickly learn how to use the software to create the rendering below. In comparison to their competitors, it was not challenging at all to learn. 3D Rendering of Garage Layout Multi-Purpose Garage: Gym Organization & Layout Ideas Paint Color The garage was in desperate need of paint refresh. The inconsistency of the existing paint job and variety of paint colors made the space feel dark, dim, and dirty. We only used one paint color on the walls in the garage. The color is Sherwin Williams' City Loft matched in Behr paint. This helped brighten up the space and made it feel more open. We initially used rollers to paint the walls of the garage. We weren't getting the results that wanted using the paint roller, so we switched to the Graco TrueCoat Paint Sprayer . It provided way better coverage and sped up the process. Floor The garage also needed a refresh. There were yucky oil stain and spills on the floors and we wanted a solution that was durable and that was cost effective. We decided to go with DRYLOK Concrete Floor Paint in the color Dover Gray. It's a latex paint specifically formulated for both interiors and exteriors such as garage floors, basement floors, and outdoor patios. We chose is because it's durable and less likely to peel, non-slip, and affordable. I definitely feel like we should have done two to three coats instead of one. Wire Shelving Systems and Accessories Our partners at The Shelving Store helped us select shelving systems that supported our goal in using the garage as a multi-functional space. The features we love the most about the shelving systems and accessories: Load Strength / Heavy duty Adaptability Versatility Functionality Durability The shelves were easy to assemble and can be adjusted as our needs change down the line. From the flexibility in height to adding or removing shelves to integrating more accessories. We're not locked in. So in a year or two we won't have to purchase all new storage solutions. These will grow with us. The level of organization the shelving systems allows us to achieve is top tier. We we able to reach our goal of having space and storage for holiday decor, crafting station essentials, outdoor gear, and home improvement items. And it doesn't feel cluttered at all. The Shelving Store is offering 10% off  of your storage needs. Check out my personalized storefront  to find the products we have in our space and for more incredible inspiration. * Promotion has ended * Additional Shelf & Workbench All of our shelving didn't come from The Shelving Store. We previously purchased a shelving unit from Home Depot and a workbench from Amazon. These options were great for creating a workstation or as I like to call it a Jesus Shop. The shelving unit was just the right size for storing all of our event essentials. Workbench with Storage Shelving Unit Gym Last addition to the space was a garage gym. We didn't need anything complex. We simply wanted an at home gym that had the basic necessities to do a quick workout, sufficient workout on day we didn't feel like going to the local gym. Weight Bench   Yoga Ball (not exact)  Mats Dumbbell Set  Rowing Machine  Mirrors   Curl Bar Medicine Ball 10lbs Medicine Ball 25lbs Weight Storage Organizer We transformed our garage into a usable, multi-purpose space that includes a gym, workstation, and organization ideas that were super easy to implement. For more fixer upper inspiration, check out my home and DIY blog posts .

Welcome to my favorite room in our home, my cloffice! I worked on this room for over a year and it's finally finished. What is a cloffice?! It's a closet, office, twirling space, and Mercedes' daily hang out spot. Oh, and there's a beauty bar too! We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing. I had so much fun turning this small, spare bedroom into my dream walk-in closet and office. We have an older home, which means the floor plan consists of small closets and minimal storage space. There was no way the closet in our main bedroom could possibly store all of my stuff along with Reggie's. So converting this small room into a multipurpose space was the perfect solution! I get a dedicated office and more than enough space and proper storage solutions for all of my clothes, purses, beauty, skincare, and hair products, and so much more! Before I began the work of transforming the space into my cloffice, I took measurements to figure out the layout. The bedroom is approximately 9x13 square feet, which is not a large size considering I needed the space to serve multiple functions. Another factor I had to consider and work around was the minimal wall space. Two of the walls have windows. The third wall is where the closet and bedroom entrance are located. This left only one full wall. It was a no brainer that my closet shelving would be installed along that wall. I also knew I needed to maximize the usage of that wall. My cloffice design was extremely important. Not only did I need the room to serve multi-purposes, I needed a space that I loved spending a lot of time in; was vibrant; made me feel inspired, excited, and energized; and most importantly that didn't feel cluttered or overwhelming. Now let's take a closer look and get into all things cloffice! Turning a Bedroom into Closet Overview Paint Colors There are five paint colors used in the room. The paint colors and natural light makes the room feel vibrant, fun, and bright. Additionally, the color scheme allowed me to incorporate colors that reflect my brand. I think it's safe to say my personality is reflected throughout the room. Colorful Stripes Sherwin Williams' Eros Pink (Satin) Sherwin Williams' Calypso (Satin) Valspar's Organge Taffy (matched in Sherwin Williams paint Satin) Top Part of Wall, Full Wall, and Beauty Bar Interior Sherwin Williams' City Loft (Satin) Ceiling Sherwin Williams' Snowbound (Flat) Paint Design The paint design (and colors) definitely add depth and personality to the room. I created the wall design using two different size of painters tape: Skinny Orange Diagonal Lines: 1/4'' inch Painters Tape Wider Pink, Orange, Blue Lines: 1.88'' inches Painters Tape I wanted the wider lines to extend at least half way up the wall with the line at the bottom being the widest. From there, the second and third lines decreased in thickness. Here's the width of lines: Calypso (Blue): 21.5 inches Orange Taffy (Orange): 13.5 inches Eros Pink (Pink): 13 inches The thickness of the wider diagonal lines were intended create contrast and a more dynamic look by going up the wall more than halfway. The size of the skinnier orange diagonal lines were chosen simply due to the width of the tape used. Lastly, I painted a border around the closet opening to create more color fun. This allowed all three colors to show up on all of the walls. I painted behind the radiator without moving it using a flat paint edger . Rug The shag rug from Rugs USA truly pulls the space together. The wall paint colors aren't the same shades of pink, orange, and blue seen in the rug. And that's ok. The variations of the shades and the additional colors introduced by the rug makes the space look more dynamic and less matchy-matchy, Not to mention it makes the space feel more cozy. I did place a rug pad underneath, which was not necessary because the rug is a good weight and thickness. 5 x 8 Multi Carnival Shag Area Rug 5x8 Rug Pad Gripper Lighting The light fixture from Target adds more depth to the room bringing in Boho charm. The gold accents and wooden beads adds neutral tones and a natural textural component. Light Fixture - Large Chandelier Wall Decor The wall art allowed me to showcase more of my personality throughout the space. I am an avid traveler and love to track my adventures on the world and U.S.A scratch maps. I placed my graduation cap and stole in a shadow box and hung it below my degree. Lastly, I placed artwork done by Erica Puckett on top of the shelf along with a poster / book cover. I was featured in the book and picture on the cover is of my shoe collection. The space isn't that large, so I didn't want to over due it with the wall decor. Scratch Off World and States Map 12 x 12 Shadow Box Picture Frame E. Puckett Art In Pursuit of Beauty by Deborah Willis Closet Systems Storage and organization was the most important aspects of the space. Since the room isn't large and since there's only one full wall, I spent a lot of time figuring out the layout before starting any work. I knew the closet shelving would be located along the full wall - so needless to say, I needed a solution that would allow me to take full advantage of the limited space. Believe me when I say I researched every closet system I could find. Just so you know the PAX System by IKEA and custom closet spaces by The Container Store were the most popular options. Here's what I was looking for in a closet system: Affordability Completely Customizable Maximized Room Height Good Quality / Sturdy and it wouldn't permanently alter the space or make it really difficult to convert back into a bedroom Taking all of those factors into consideration, I decided against going with either system. Neither one of them met all of the above criteria. While both are amazing quality and wouldn't permanently alter the room, they were above my price range; lacked the customization I was looking for; and wouldn't allow me to take advantage of the room height. I ended up selecting the Rubbermaid FastTrack Closet Kit . I was able to create a 3-tiered closet for under $300 by purchasing 2 of the 6-10ft kits (the price has increased since I completed my space). The kits allowed me to truly maximize the length and height of the wall; fully customize the layout to my liking; and if I ever need to convert the cloffice back into a bedroom, the shelving will be easy to remove. Also, hello...the price! If you decide to go with this option, you can add wood shelf covers over the tops of of the wired shelving to create a more custom appearance. Rubbermaid FastTrack Closet Kit 6-10 Feet Shelf Cover s I purchased two Rubbermaid FastTrack Closet Kits for my clothing because it was cheaper to get the whole system versus buying the pieces individually. For the shoe storage, I purchased Everbilt wired shelves and brackets individually from Home Depot . I was able to use the remaining pieces from one of the Rubbermaid FastTrack Closet Kits. Here's what you'll need to create the shoe shelving system (everything is linked below): 2 12x12 wired shelves - each 12 ft shelf was cut down into four pieces that were approximately 3ft in length, which gave me a total of 8 shelves (the ninth shelf was a leftover piece) 18 12 inch brackets - 2 brackets per shelf Small End Caps - I needed 45 since I only placed them on the outer ends of the shelving. If you plan on putting them on both sides, you'll need 90 total 4 48 inch Regular Duty Vertical Rails 1 40 inch Regular Duty Hang Rack 12 x12 Wired Shelf 12 Inch Regular Duty Support Bracket Small End Caps 48 Inch Regular Duty Vertical Rail 40 Inch Regular Duty Hang Track The five drawer chest fit perfectly below the shelves containing the folded clothes. I would have like a drawer chest with more depth. However, I didn't want the chest to extend out beyond the shelving because I wanted it to flushed. If you have a lot of clothes, this might not be a good fit for you, as it's not a standard size. 5 Drawer Chest Laundry Basket Beauty Bar The beauty bar was a last minute addition. My original plan was to store my coats in the closet, however, the depth of the closet didn't really allow for bulky items. I was also scrambling because I didn't like the options I had come up with for a vanity and I didn't like the idea of storing my makeup, skincare products, hair accessories, etc. in the bathroom. I truly wanted this space to serve as a dressing room. After revisiting the design board, I decided to remove the door and transformed the closet into a beauty bar. Vanity LED Vanity Mirror Lights Ikea Alex 9-Drawer Unit 63 x 20 LED Full Length Mirror Some of the challenges I faced were due to the dimensions of the closet. The depth of the closet led me down the internet rabbit hole on the search for a vanity that wouldn't extend past the door frame and that had a least one drawer to store my earrings (I was not in the mood to build a custom vanity). While I was able to find a vanity that fit the above requirements without doing a custom build, I ended up completing a DIY project so the vanity would completely fit my needs. The mirror for the vanity was intended to be attached to the base vertically (picture below). Had I attached the mirror vertically, there wouldn't have been room for three shelves above. So I used Liquid Nails Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive to hang the mirror horizontally on the wall. I then added LED lights to the mirror. I created the shelving for the beauty bar similar to how I achieved the shoe shelving. I purchased Everbilt wired shelves and accessories a la carte from Home Depo t. Here's what you'll need to create the beauty bar shelving system (everything is linked below): 1 12x12 wired shelf - the 12 ft shelf was cut down into three pieces that were approximately 39 inches in length, which gave me a total of 3 shelves 6 12 inch brackets - 2 brackets per shelf 2 30 inch Regular Duty Vertical Rails 1 40 inch Regular Duty Hang Rack 12 x12 Wired Shelf 12 Inch Regular Duty Support Bracket 30 Inch Regular Duty Vertical Rail 40 Inch Regular Duty Hang Track The gold organizers were DIY / reimagining projects. The gold organizer (picture below on the left) is actually a spice rack for a kitchen. The original color was black and I spray painted it gold. It's perfect for the haircare products I use often. The gold jewelry organizer (picture below on the right) holds bulky necklaces. Instead of storing more jewelry in the space above the hooks, I placed the skin products I use most often. 3-Tier Wall Mount Spice Rack (Not Exact) Wall Mount Accessory Organizer 3 Drawer Plastic Unit Makeup Organizers: Acrylic 8 Drawer Organizer / Acrylic 2 Layer Organizer Turquoise Baskets: Small Plastic Storage Basket / Half Medium Plastic Storage Basket / Medium Plastic Storage Basket Office The office area completes the cloffice. My number one concern in combining my office with a closet was being overwhelmed by the clothing and other things stored throughout the space. In fact, it's the total opposite! The way the clothing, shoes, accessories and beauty bar items are arranged adds to the design and zhuzh. And the natural light pouring in from the two windows makes the space feel open and bright. IKEA MICKE Desk IKEA Billy Bookcase Desk Chair (Pictured / Not Exact) New Desk Chair  (Not Pictured) For more fixer upper inspiration, check out my home and DIY blog posts .

Who: Must be a current customer and have used the ZenBusiness formation services within the last 3 to 6 months Deadline: December 31, 2025 At ZenBusiness, they understand the challenges small business owners face, and they're dedicated to supporting you. That’s why they're awarding over 40 grants to our small business customers this year. Grantees will receive $5,000 to help grow their business, along with access to eligible ZenBusiness products and services available at the time of the grant disbursement. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply to become one of their monthly grantees. Take the opportunity to get the support you need to elevate your business. Evaluation Criteria | ZenBusiness Grant Program for Small Businesses All applicants must meet the following criteria: Must be a current customer and have used the ZenBusiness formation services within the last 3 to 6 months Must be at least 18 years old Grantee Obligations Please visit the grant website to review the details, rules, and specifications. Benefits Grantees of the ZenBusiness Grant for Small Businesses will receive a $5,000 grant, access to Money Pro for 30 days, “Ask Me Anything” office hours with their team, and/or other eligible products available at the time of grant distribution. Are you ready to grow your business? Check out The Creator Parlor® for on-demand educational videos, free digital resources, and so much that will help you reach your business goals!

Who: Must be a Black-owned small business, must be based and operating in Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, or select areas of Connecticut Deadline: None. Always accepting applications The Power Forward Small Business Grant program aims to create a lasting impact through the economic empowerment of Black-owned small businesses across New England. Through a combined commitment of $1 million, Vistaprint and the Boston Celtics Shamrock Foundation are teaming up with the NAACP to award transformative grants of $25,000 on a rolling basis. Through this initiative, grant recipients will have opportunities to be featured on national co-branded platforms along with receiving marketing and design resources customized to their specific needs to help their business grow and thrive. Evaluation Criteria | Power Forward Small, Black-owned Business Grant All applicants must meet the following criteria: Must be Black-owned small businesses with 1 to 25 employees Must be based and operating in Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, or select areas of Connecticut *Applicants should be able to demonstrate the impact their small business has on their greater community and showcase how they intend to use the $25,000 grant award. Grantee Obligations Please visit the grant website to review the details, rules, and specifications. Benefits The recipients of the Power Forward Small, Black-owned Business Grant will receive $25,000, marketing and design resources, and other opportunities. Are you ready to grow your business? Check out The Creator Parlor® for on-demand educational videos, free digital resources, and so much that will help you reach your business goals!

Who: Must be a commercial business, nonprofit, or operator of an incubator Deadline: No deadline, on-going The Small Business Lease Grant supports the growth and success of small businesses and nonprofits by providing grant funding to cover a portion of lease payments. These resources will help the establishment and growth of small businesses, while also helping to fill space that is currently vacant and preventing future vacancies. The Grant is being funded through the Main Street Recovery Finance Program (NJ Economic Recovery Act). Please be advised, New Jersey State law prohibits most cannabis license and certification holders from receiving or continuing to receive an economic incentive from the NJEDA, including the Small Business Improvement Grant.  If the applicant, or any person who controls the applicant or owns or controls more than one percent of the stock of the applicant, has applied for or received a license or a certification from the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (NJ-CRC), the applicant is ineligible for this program and should not proceed with an application.  If an application is received from an applicant that meets this criteria, the application will be declined.  Evaluation Criteria | Small Business Lease Grant (New Jersey) All applicants must meet the following criteria: Be a commercial business, nonprofit, or operator of an incubator. Meet SBA definition of a Small Business – determined by employee count and NAICS code. Provide a current tax clearance certificate prior to approval. Provide certification from the landlord showing they are current on lease payments. Be in good standing with Department of Labor and Department of Environmental Protection. Certify at time of application that they are not in default of any other NJEDA or State assistance. Certify at application the applicant will pay wages that are the greater of $15/hour or 120% of the minimum wage rate for the term of the grant agreement (five years). Tipped employees are only required to be paid 120% of minimum wage rate. Commit to remaining in the facility for at least five years. **Applicants with multiple locations are limited to one application per location. Applicants cannot terminate an existing lease and enter into a new lease for the same square footage in order to pursue this grant. Grantee Obligations Please visit the grant page for program details, rules, and specifications. Benefits The Small Business Lease Grant is for small businesses is New Jersey. The s elected businesses will receive two grant awards of 20% of the total annual lease payment. Are you ready to grow your business? Check out The Creator Parlor® for on-demand educational videos, free digital resources, and so much that will help you reach your business goals!