Today we are getting into the details of DIY outdoor projects, depending on how handy you are! If you aren't that handy and would prefer to call in the pros, no worries! We split the show into 2 episodes because we have that much info we want to share, including advice about utility easements (we know, not very exciting!) but very important nonetheless. Part 2 will follow this episode and will wrap up what we have for you about this topic. We hope you will be that much more inspired to create your own outdoor tropical escape after these 2 shows!

Welcome to Tropical Escapes At Home, the podcast about creating indoor and outdoor tropical spaces and tropical lifestyles! Tom from Cerulean Bay brings the beauty and serenity of the tropics right into your living room, your kitchen, your backyard, and even onto your balcony. You will be guided through the art of creating your own personal tropical paradise, no matter where you live. You don’t need to travel to unwind in a stunning tropical setting of your very own. We’ll talk about how you can transform any part of your home, from a small apartment to a large house, into a tropical retreat and we’ve got everything you need from design and lifestyle ideas to entertaining tips, recipes, and more.

When people think of the tropics, they often imagine amazing beaches with swaying palm trees, thatched roof huts, lush tropical plant life, and an awesome tropical drink. Who says all of this beauty, tranquility and style is reserved for the islands only? In this podcast, we will show you how you can replicate that same peace, relaxation, and amazing ambiance, (to the extent that it is possible of course!) right where you are!

Whether you love the laid-back vibe of a surfer's paradise, the upscale elegance of a luxurious island resort, or any tropical vibe in between, we’ll explore how you can take inspiration from some of the world’s most iconic tropical places to create your very own tropical style.

While we can’t recreate a sandy beach with crashing waves and swaying coconut palms at home, we can help you to do the next best thing: recreate amazing tropical designs based on your budget. The key to this kind of transformation is in the details and we’ll walk you through it all. Whether you’re decorating a cozy nook, turning your backyard into a lush tropical retreat, or reimagining an entire room, we’ll offer design tips and suggestions that will help you bring the wonderful atmosphere of the tropics into your home.

Tropical escapes are not just about aesthetics, they are also about the lifestyle! In this podcast, we’ll explore the tropical way of living that enhances relaxation, joy, and connection. This is so critical for mental health and physical wellbeing! Finding time in between busy home and work schedules to slow down and de-stress will lead to taking that much-needed break where you can read a book, meditate and re-energize, or just simply lounge in your own private paradise.

Tropical lifestyles are also social and fun! After all, what is a tropical retreat without food and drinks that transport you to the islands? You’ll find plenty of inspiration in our episodes dedicated to entertaining in authentic tropical style. We’ll share must-haves for the bar and kitchen as well as recipes for island-inspired dishes and a variety of beverages including classic tropical cocktails.

Ultimately, the goal of this podcast is simple: to help you create a tropical sanctuary in your own home that offers the peace, relaxation, and mental rejuvenation that you would experience on a beach or at a distant island resort. It’s about creating a lifestyle for yourself that works for you, given where you live and what is possible at home. It’s about finding that perfect balance of tropical beauty, comfort, and tranquility which will help you to unwind and recharge.

So we are here to help you make it happen. We absolutely love the people and the cultural authenticity of the tropics. We have traveled to several tropical locations, we have met with local artists and craftsmen for our online shop, we have thoroughly researched indoor and outdoor tropical design, and we embrace what true tropical beauty can do at home, no matter where you live. We want to share that with you! Join us each week as we explore the many ways you can transform your home into a tropical retreat, one step at a time. Welcome to Cerulean Bay and our podcast, where your tropical escape awaits!

Here is a quick intro to our new show, Tropical Escapes At Home. Let's create your own tropical paradise!

Today we take a close look at what tropical and coastal designs look like and the big differences between them. Know which design styles and accent pieces are the right ones for you! Check out our blog for some great pics and details!

Explore the basics in tropical design elements. Here we cover everything from how to choose paint colors and how lighting affects spaces to plants both live and fake and how to choose textures and accents. Check out our blog post for additional details and awesome imagery!

Today we get into the definition of sentimental value and how important it really is when creating your own personal tropical space. We even share a real-life example of this so don't miss it!

Join us on our journey through thrift stores, consignment shops and estate sales as we take a close look at how these three sources of cool stuff work, what you can expect to find, and how you can create your tropical escape at home for a lot less money than you would think! Check out our blog post too about this money-saving topic!

Just some encouraging thoughts and words for those of you who are self-employed and are struggling or who are thinking about striking out on your own. We love the tropics and we refuse to give up. We promised to share our journey over the years and now we can. We hope what we have to share will inspire others to keep going. It's very hard and we know it. Hang in there!