“All Growns Up!” FINALLY!

So you just landed your first real job and your first real apartment in Boston that where don’t have to write your name on your food. But you can’t go on a shopping spree in your favorite furniture store (really, can you ever?) so what can you do?

Here are few ideas:

Start at Home: Your first stop should be your parents’ home. Pick a few pieces you love (that they can part with) and start there. Ask family or friends if they are getting rid of or replacing something. Hit up your Facebook friends for any one who is moving and doesn’t have room for certain pieces of furniture. Have them over for a nice home-cooked meal to say thank you.

Yard Sales, Garage Sales, Ebay: You can find a lot of treasures from others people’s trash. You’ll be able to use your creative imagination to upgrade or update a new lamp or a fresh pair of end tables. Get out early in upscale neighborhoods and follow the signs. You’ll be surprised what you can get for little to no money.

Thrift Shops and Consignment Shops: Check out your local second hand stores to score some great extra finds to spruce up your style. Think kitchen ware, rugs, or vases in these places but keep an eye out for that something extra.

Craigslist: Especially at the very end or very beginning of the month, people are more likely to give stuff away. Check the “free” section and keep your mind open to some painting or easily repaired swag. Re-purposing can make an otherwise drab coffee table into a new sleek TV stand.

Remember, it’s all about your style. Make it your own and keep it neat and clean. You can slowly add pieces to eventually make it the your adult sanctuary.