Susie Skog knows Lake Norman Real Estate Inside Out

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Ensure that your smart home is safe from potential threats with these steps.

Create a Separate Network

Have a separate wifi network for your smart devices to run on, which can be done without having to purchase an additional router.

Review Privacy Settings

Do research to get a better sense of what the manufacturer or service provider has access to.

Change Default Passwords

When you get a new smart product, be sure to change the default password.

Install the Latest Updates

Software updates include improved security features, so set your smart products to automatically update.

Consider a VPN

When using public networks to control your smart products, use a VPN, virtual private network, to encrypt your connection.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

After you buy a new house, that usually means its time to do some furniture shopping. Finding just the right pieces to fill out your new space can be a challenge, though, thats particularly true if the home dictates a specific style, like contemporary or rustic. Following are a few of todays top interior designers with stunning furniture collections that are sure to inspire.

Bunny Williams Home
Bunny Williams knows how to stay at the forefront of style and her home collection stands as a testament to that. With everything from garden furniture to bamboo bed frames, the design legends trademark elegance certainly extends to her home dcor line. Youll find original designs and inspired reproductions that will instantly give your new home a refined ambience.

Timothy Corrigan & Perennials Collaboration
Timothy Corrigan is renowned for projects that capture European elegance without compromising on comfort, so its no wonder that high-end fabric brand Perennials decided to team up with him. This collaboration yielded a breathtaking array of performance fabrics and rugs that are all resistant to stains, mildew and UV-fading, which means theres no cause for concern if someone spills a glass of red wine at your housewarming party.

Marmol Radziner Furniture
Marmol Radziner is an internationally recognized design-build firm with a list of noteworthy clients that includes Tom Ford, Ellen DeGeneres and Bradley Cooper, to name a few. The firm may not have designed your new house, but you can incorporate their sophisticated style with Marmol Radziner Furniture, which consists of pieces that were originally created for custom homes.

Kelly Wearstler Furniture
Another designer to the stars, Kelly Wearstlers iconic furniture line is energetic and borderline eccentric with pieces that are sure to make for a memorable abode. If you want to try out maximalism or transitional style in your new home, this collection will certainly steer you in the right direction.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Here are five ideas to help keep your kids busy while spending time around the house.

Prepare the Playroom

Puzzles and board games can be a great way for kids to stay mentally active.

Utilize the Library

If you have a library or reading area in your home, its the perfect space for kids to spend an hour of daily reading time.

Cook Together

With everyone doing their part to prepare a delicious home-cooked meal, little ones will be sure to feel a sense of accomplishment.

Designate Outdoor Time

Dont overlook the importance of outdoor time when it comes to keeping your kids entertained.

Enjoy the Media Room

After a long day of keeping them busy around the house, theres no reason to feel bad about letting the kids enjoy some entertainment of their own.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Published with permission from RISMedia.