Planning an Ikea Trip

I mentioned on Monday that we are planning an Ikea trip this weekend.  Like many people, we do not have an Ikea right around the corner.  Our closest store is 1.5-2 hours away in Pittsburgh.  So when we go, we have to have a plan of action.  Typically I go through the catalog and website and make 3 lists.

• List One:  Things we HAVE to buy.  This usually includes necessities and stand-bys, like Tekla towels.  I also include items we have discussed and have a spot for.
• List Two:  Small things I LOVE but probably don’t need.  I leave those for the spur of the moment.  If I see them in person and they sing to me, they end up in my big blue bag.
• List Three:  Bigger purchase items to look at in person.  For instance on this trip we’ll be taking a close look at beds and mattresses for our bedroom and bathroom sink cabinets and storage.  While we are there I want to take a look at the quality, color and take my own measurements.

I’ve spent the evening working on my lists and prioritizing which items we need and what larger purchases we need to make sure we take a look at in person.  Here are some of the highlights from all three lists…

Clockwise from top left: ANIA Cushion Cover – $6  //  SANELA Cushion Cover – $13  //  SUTARERoasting Pan – $7.99  //  JONSBO BÄRBY Table Lamp – $59.99  //  MOGDENToilet Roll Holder – $12.99  //  NÄSUM Basket – $19.99  //  KARLSTAD Isunda Gray Sofa Cover – $249  //  RIBBA Frame – $17.99  //  HEMNES RÄTTVIKEN Sink cabinet – $249

I also just heard they have brought out their holiday collection!  Since we’ll have some family at our home this holiday season I’m really hoping to pick up a few things to make the guest room festive.  Here are some of my favorites…