That 90's Ranch

Tag: #ronniekaydesign

  • A New Backdrop, A New Wreath, and a Full House

    There’s something so satisfying about finally having a spot dialed in for photos. If you’ve been following along, you know I’ve been chasing the perfect light and background for my wreath shots for a while now — and I think I’ve finally landed on it.

    The New Door Setup

    Right outside my sunroom, I’ve set up a painted door leaned against the brick wall of the house, and honestly, it’s been a game changer. It’s just steps from my workshop, which means I can finish a wreath, walk it outside, and get it photographed while the light is still good — no lugging pieces across the yard or waiting for a “good day” to drive somewhere with better scenery.

    The brick gives just enough texture and warmth without competing with the wreath itself, and the door adds that cozy, welcoming, front-porch feeling that I think really matters for fall listings. It photographs beautifully in both morning and late afternoon light, and I’m already noticing the difference in how the listings look.

    Introducing: The Mixed Fern Wreath

    This one’s a little different from my usual fall lineup — softer, more textural, and built around layering several types of fern for depth rather than leaning on the bold pops of color I usually reach for.

    I wanted something that felt lush and a little wild, like it had been gathered rather than arranged. The layering of textures against that weathered door really lets the greens do the talking.

    A Full House This Season

    Life at home has looked a little different lately, too. My dad moved in with me recently, and it’s honestly been such a blessing having him here. He’s turned into one of my biggest cheerleaders when it comes to the wreaths — always ready with a compliment, always curious about what I’m working on next, and always happy to sit out on the porch with me.

    It’s a nice reminder that this little business isn’t just about the finished product — it’s woven into the everyday rhythm of home, family, and the people cheering you on along the way.

    More fall pieces coming soon — thanks for following along!

  • Mastering Wreath Photography: Tips for Optimal Light

    When I started working on the side door off our garage, I had one goal in mind—create a clean, simple backdrop where my wreaths could shine.

    And for a minute… I thought I had it.

    The door looked fresh. The brick had that warm, cozy tone I love. It felt like it should work.

    But there was one problem I couldn’t fix with paint or styling—light.

    The Problem I Didn’t See Coming

    That side door faces south, and while that might sound ideal, the roof overhang created a harsh shade line across the door most of the day.

    Half light. Half shadow. Constantly shifting.

    If you’ve ever tried to photograph anything for Etsy, you already know…
    that kind of lighting is a dealbreaker.

    • Colors don’t photograph true
    • Shadows cut right through your product
    • Editing becomes a nightmare
    • And worst of all—it just doesn’t look professional

    I kept trying to “make it work,” but deep down I knew…

    This wasn’t the setup my wreaths deserved.

    The Pivot That Changed Everything

    So I did something a little unconventional.

    I bought a brand new 36-inch door.

    Not to install…
    but to stage.

    I painted it, styled it, and leaned it against an east-facing wall outside my sunroom.

    And just like that—I had something I never had before:

    ✨ Consistent, soft morning light
    ✨ A full-size door that fits larger wreaths beautifully
    ✨ A controlled, repeatable photography setup

    No harsh lines.
    No guessing.
    No fighting the sun.

    Why This Works So Well

    This setup solved more than just lighting—it elevated everything about how my wreaths are presented.

    Here’s what made the biggest difference:

    1. East-Facing Light is Your Best Friend

    Morning light is softer, more even, and far more flattering than harsh afternoon sun.

    2. A 36” Door Gives Breathing Room

    My larger wreaths finally look proportional and high-end instead of crowded.

    3. Neutral = Timeless

    The simple painted door keeps the focus where it belongs—on the wreath.

    4. It’s Repeatable

    This might be my favorite part.

    I can now walk outside, hang a wreath, and know I’m going to get a good shot.

    And when you’re running a small handmade business—especially on days when energy is limited—that kind of reliability matters more than anything.

    A Little Honest Reflection

    I’ll be honest—there was a moment where I thought:

    “Am I really buying a door… just to lean it against a wall?”

    But this is one of those times where doing something a little different made all the difference.

    Because this isn’t just about taking pictures.

    It’s about:

    • showing your work in its best light
    • creating a consistent brand
    • and making your products look as beautiful online as they do in real life

    And for me, that’s worth it.

    If You’re Struggling With Product Photos…

    Let me just say this—if your photos aren’t working, it might not be your product.

    It might be your light.

    Before you second guess your design…
    try changing your setup.

    Sometimes the smallest shift (or in my case… a whole door 😄)
    can completely change the outcome.

  • Spring Inspiration

    Warmer weather has finally arrived at That 90’s Ranch, and spring inspiration is everywhere. Tulip buds are pushing through the soil, and baby green shoots are peeking through last fall’s fallen leaves. After weeks of cold and quiet, it feels good to step outside and breathe in fresh air again. It’s time for yard cleanup!

    Inside the studio, I’ve been just as busy. I freshened up the doors I use to display my wreaths — a little new paint can make everything feel brand new again. I installed new wreath hooks and, in a flurry of activity, started redoing photos for my Etsy shop while introducing a few new designs.

    I’m especially loving the soft pastel colors that are trending this season. They feel hopeful and gentle — just like spring itself.

    If you’re ready to bring a little spring inspiration to your own front door, I’ve just added a few new designs to the shop. I’d love for you to take a peek.

    Ronnie Kay Design is where I share my love of wreaths and seasonal décor—slowly, thoughtfully, and always inspired by home. If you’d like to see what I’ve been working on (and what’s coming next), you can find my shop on Etsy at https://ronniekaydesign.etsy.com.

  • A Winter Thaw, a Quiet House, and Learning to Sew at That 90’s Ranch

    A new sewing machine, fresh fabric, and the quiet promise of learning something new.

    Hey! Today, the weather is finally breaking after a week of below-freezing temperatures. The water faucets have been turned off at That 90’s Ranch for the first time in days. The house feels suddenly, eerily quiet—no more tap, tap, tap of water hitting porcelain basins, just the soft popping of burning wood in the stove.

    This afternoon, I’m looking forward to opening the windows and letting the house inhale fresh air.

    Ronnie Kay Design, my Etsy shop, has been slow lately. Instead of fighting that, I’ve used the pause to restyle the shop and take a closer look at its performance. I’m committed to it. I love making wreaths and dreaming up new designs. The marketing side of running a shop… well, not so much—but I’m learning.

    Last week, I bought a sewing machine, picked up some fabric, and spent time watching YouTube tutorials. I’m hoping to start making wreath sashes to offer in my shop. Before I get there, though, I think I’ll try my hand at some potholders to test my sewing skills.

    Wish me luck!

    Ronnie Kay Design is where I share my love of wreaths and seasonal décor—slowly, thoughtfully, and always inspired by home. If you’d like to see what I’ve been working on (and what’s coming next), you can find my shop on Etsy at https://ronniekaydesign.etsy.com.

  • Love the One You’re With

    I bought That 90’s Ranch on a whim. Purchased in 2021 at the height of Covid, I got caught up in the whirlwind of real estate activity. Located a block from my mother’s home who I worked overtime with as a Realtor and having a large yard outside of the city limits with a shop building made it somewhat attractive.

    I was hoping to find a small dreamy home with European cottage charm with a yard big enough to have English style rose garden outlined with well manicured box hedges and loads of character. Like every buyer I’ve worked with over the last 20 years, I wanted a home filled with luxurious, generous spaces at a small price. It’s completely unrealistic that I would find such a lofty and ideal English style property in this area. It’s certainly possible that it could happen, it’s just not probable.

    That 90’s Ranch, while well maintained and custom built by the first owners, was very typical of all brick ranch homes built in the last half of the 80’s and first half of the 90’s. It had some great features including a large sunroom, but was no where near what I wanted to purchase.

    Today, The 90’s Ranch looks different, but in many ways the same and I have come to love it. If you love seeing before and afters, stay tuned.

  • Tulip Update

    My labors to celebrate Spring 2025 have paid off. These beauties mean more to me this year than pretty flowers. I am recovering from yet another surgery which means that lifting bags of compost and mulch is not in my immediate future, but I will not dwell on my misfortune. I will instead celebrate all that I have planted and established since purchasing That 90’s Ranch.

    Landscaping your home can impact the resale potential of any home. That 90’s Ranch had great bones and just needed a little tweaking. Maybe it won’t happen in 2025, but I sure am glad that I have accomplished what little I have! Hope you are having a great Spring!