I have some things to share tonight, but I’m going to do something I don’t usually (or ever) do. I’m going to ask you to watch this video first and then read the post. The reason is that I’m going to talk about the video and I don’t want you to read all about it before you watch it. Okay? Deal?
Did you watch it? Okay, now you can read…
So, Saturday morning, I was showering to get ready for the day and I was thinking about the landscape dresser that I just finished. I was smiling at the fact that someone was coming to buy it that morning, despite all of my doubts and struggles as I worked on it. I was intimidated by that piece and I told myself that.
You’re going to mess this up. You aren’t good enough to pull this off.
But I pushed through it and, in the end, was really pleased with the results.
As I thought through those emotions, the lightbulb went off. This is how a lot of people feel when painting a piece of furniture, when using milk paint, probably when tackling most home projects. There is a moment of pause and those voices of negativity push in on you. You can decided to listen to them or you can prove yourself wrong.
Ah! This is my next milk paint commercial!!!
I literally hopped out of the shower, wrapped up in a towel, and ran out to get a scrap of paper and pen to write down exactly what I envisioned. It was rather silly, because I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t have forgotten it in the five minutes it takes to properly dry off and dress, but I wasn’t going to risk it!
As I envisioned the commercial, I knew exactly the words I wanted to say and the emotions I wanted to express. I also immediately pictured the face of the person I wanted to be featured in the video – Jen Baker.
I met her at 2015 Lucketts when she was shopping our space and spent some time chatting with me and Kriste. A few weeks later, she spent the day with us at the studio. Since then, I’ve followed her on Facebook and her blog, Eight Hundred Furniture, and she hung out with us for a while at Lucketts this year. Anyway, I pictured her face, clear as day, for this commercial.
If you did watch the video, as instructed, you know why I pictured her. She has the warmest, most contagious smile and that was going to be important for the ending. She also has an “every-girl” quality about her. That could be me or you or your friend painting that piece of furniture.
I sent her a text only hours after writing down the idea and she agreed to be my “model”.
And she was available on Tuesday.
Okay, this is happening and I didn’t have a piece for her to paint!! So, my mom and I went out shopping on Monday and I found a sweet Eastlake dresser that was perfect.
I found a few other awesome pieces, too, which I’ll share in another post.
Last night, my brain was buzzing with the anticipation of the day ahead, so I started looking for a piece of music. I listened to clips for a couple of hours until I found the one I used and it was perfect – moving, beautiful, and hopeful. I even took the time to make a mock-up of the commercial with the music and some old video clips, so I could share my vision with Kriste and Jen the next morning.
Today, everything came together. The day was overcast (mostly), so it was perfect for shooting outside. Jen was a dream to work with and totally got the emotions I wanted her to convey. The piece turned out great as well (although I am going to get simpler hardware for it, but that was all we had on such short notice!)
I edited the video as soon as we had all of the footage. I felt like I needed to get it done while it was fresh.
The finished product was just what I hoped for.
Yes, a commercial is about promoting a product, but my goal has always been more than that. I want to encourage and inspire and I wanted this video to convey that – to flesh out what my tagline, “move mountains in your home”, means.
It’s not about pretty decorating. It’s about experiencing the process of creativity and working with your hands and ending up with something you’re pleased with…not because it’s the best thing ever made, but because you made it. It might be wonky and crooked and imperfect, but it’s your wonkiness and crookedness and imperfectness. You learned and you grew through the process.
And, best of all, you proved yourself wrong.
You are making a positive difference in people’s lives. Blessings! ?
You made me cry a little bit. Thank you.
Super fabulous!!!!
Thank you Marion. This is … PERFECT. I’m teaching my first painting class this weekend and this was the exact inspination I wish to portray. At every show ladies say … I could never do that. I think to myself if I can you can. You are a great inspiration and I love it that you just put it all out there!!! Fearless… Merci! Holly
I LOVE it! The commercial, the dresser, the meaning behind the commercial, everything about it. I purchased that little bit of yellow paint for that little stool I purchased from you at Lucketts…and YES it is still in the bag. Because of fear. So, I signed up for your workshop. Yet maybe, just maybe I will try it before the workshop. As you always say Marian, it is JUST paint right? Thanks so much for the encouragement. Maybe by the time I see you I will be a pro? Great “commercial” and encouragement.
Great video! I often start a DIY project with high hopes and then about half way through I think “Why did I ever start this? My handywoman skills aren’t that good.” I push through (mostly just to get it over with and the house back to normal) and then I’m surprised at how often the project turns out better than I imagined (even with the wonkiness). It helps that my non-handy husband is a great cheerleader and always amazed at what I do to make our home better.
You make believe that I can actually paint something. You are so inspirational!
Marian,
I saw a quote which reminded me of you. “Let her sleep for when she wakes she will move mountains.”- Napoleon Bonaparte
This really got me all choked up! Perfect idea, perfect music, perfect model. When Jen smiled on my screen, I smiled back at her with tears in my eyes. LOVE!!!
You made a very lovely, inspiring and emotional piece. Thank you
I guess I’m an unusual one is this aspect ! I have been a crafter and experimenter my whole life – my sister and I would see something at a craft show, and we would look at each other and say “we can do that!” Sometimes it turned out good, sometimes not, but the major thing was, we had FUN! I still feel the same way now – I usually just dive in and hope for the best! Sometimes it still turns out good, and sometimes not so good, but I have fun! One dresser I painted turned out not so good, painted it again, distressed it and the three colors came thru and it came out awesome. Sometimes something horrible turns into something wonderful! Just like life!
Loved it! You totally nailed it! That is exactly what I am struggling with right now. I have a rather large project and I admit I have succumbed to doubt and fear. Even though I have used your products on a previous project, with success I have to add. It is still intimidating to start a new project not only the fear of messing up but the expense involved when you are starting from scratch and having to acquire all of the supplies needed. Thank you for the inspiration
Thank you, I needed that.
I just got chills watching this! She made it look so easy to use the milk paint! Great job!
I’ve been struggling with these same feelings and doubts in another context; your mesage has helped me see what can be, if only we take that first step. The music is perfect, too; I got a bit teary … which I needed…thanks!!!
Perfect video for those of us who are reluctant to paint. I have 5 pieces waiting on me. I’m not even going to say how long they’ve been waiting!
In hairdressing we have an awesome mentor who teaches old and new techniques. Some of us are reluctant in this aspect too. He teaches and then tells us “Just cut the darn thing!” It’s that little push someone like me always needs. Between this video and the great Sam Villa, I’m hearing, “Just paint the darn thing!” Thanks Marian.
Well, that’s a winner! And I really like the fussy hardware. I was cryin’ by the end and appreciate your depth. It’s NOT just paint. It’s changing a piece of furniture in a house by putting a personal touch to something that becomes part of a home.
So lovely. And I’m totally jealous that you can just go out shopping and find something like this!!! I don’t live that far from you so I must be in the wrong places hahaha!
You completely hit the nail on the head with this one! I have felt that way so many times. If I had listened to myself I would be without many things that I now love and get compliments for all the time! I have to keep a notepad in the bathroom, so I can write down all of the awesome ideas I have in the shower! As soon as I get dressed they are usually gone, if I don’t jot them down!
Inspiring, encouraging, simply perfect video! I have a piece I would love to milk paint. It was my grandmothers and the fear of messing up has stopped me from doing so. I think it’s time to shop milk paint!
Some of the best commercials tell a story. This is such a powerful story. Thank yo for encouraging us all!
Wonderful video…”picture is worth a 1000 words”! I actually like the hardware you used. Along with the color, the hardware and carving on the front of the dresser create a lacy, feminine look.
So, so touching and beautiful. You (all) nailed it!
Oh my gosh…. just when I thought you couldn’t be more perfect you go and produce this perfect video! You had me at hello and you have me in tears! I LOVE this and I need some furniture to paint today !
PS I think Jen Baker looks like she could be your sister or cousin.
I got choked up, too! It is perfect!
Ok…tears at 7:45 a.m. What a great video! Thanks Marian 🙂
And the doggone, absolutely beautiful commercial made me cry!!! So, you get the prize of the day Miss Mustard Seed. You were the first one to make me cry this morning at 6:48. Ta Da!
And this is why I love you so much!!! Inspiration- motivation- encouragement … Following your dreams one “crazy” idea at a time. I found your blog years ago and you have inspired me from day one. Moving mountains in my home, one dresser, one child, one meal, one project at a time. Thank you. You have embraced the gifting God has given to you and shared it with all of us; exactly what we are meant to do. Thank you for making life beautiful!!!
I was wiping tears as I watched the video. I’ve said all those things to myself. Believed all those things. I’m sharing this on my FB page. Thank you, Marian, for the inspiration and the confidence to move forward with making my home beautiful.
Love it!
You have inspired me! I have a table that has been waiting for me to paint it! I have courage now, to begin today! Thank you!!
Beautiful. Inspiring. Moving. And I tested up when Jen busted into that smile of accomplishment and joy. Just like I do when that piece is actually turning out pretty okay. Thank you for that.
One of the best commercials/videos that I have EVER seen for encouraging others to give the movement of “releasing their hidden creative” a go! POWERFUL and you will be impacting a LOT of people with this! You didn’t just move mountains girl, you moved PEOPLE! Way to go!!! XO
What an inspiring clip!! I shared it on FB and here’s what I wrote:
“I know this ad is about paint, but it spoke to me more than that. Having the right tools when you start something new is imperative. If you’re lacking the right tools and try your new thing and it doesn’t turn out the way you hoped (with frustrations along the way), it might make you want to give up. But, remember why you started in the first place, and, if you have the right tools, things just might turn out right and you’ll want to do it again and again!!”
Great commercial! I think it captured just what you wanted. Her smile is beautiful!
Side note: Do you paint furniture without removing the drawers normally or was that just for the commercial? That was one of the first things I noticed…I always remove drawers and such and paint them separately.
No, I rarely remove the drawers. I do if there is a lip on the front, but that is uncommon with older pieces.
What everyone else said. Wow. The message I came away with – don’t try to think so much about where this will end up – just start and see where the journey takes you. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
You have touched me and blessed me today. Thank you.
Love this commercial. Love the video. And I love the encouragement!! I have been fixing up an old house, solo, and learning a ton. I always remind myself that I have to start somewhere and that it can only improve. I feel the same way about the furniture I’ve painted– it can only improve!! And it does and can be so therapeutic in the process.
This video is perfect! Just right for encouraging us to be brave and move mountains in our homes!
Well done, Marian!
What is the name of the music you used…..so peaceful and inspiring!
I love it that you wrote down the message God whispered in your ear. He gives us the guidance to be creative – we just have to pay attention and take notice. I do the same thing when a good idea pops in my head, even in my sleep.
Marian, what did she use on the top of the piece? The dresser turned out so cute! Awesome motivation video!!
Becky
It was Hemp Oil on the top and Tough Coat over the painted part.
I cried tears of joy watching your video! I thought, goofy me, then I noticed that others had the same response as I scrolled down to write this comment. You received true creative inspiration from the true Creator. This happens to me sometimes in a relaxing moment and I identified with your desire to encourage others. Guess what…it obviously worked! You must feel a great sense of fulfillment to have realized your vision. I so enjoy following your blog. Thank you.
This is wonderful!
Can I suggest for future iterations of this commercial, using people who have actually never painted a piece before? I think video and audio of them expressing their feelings through the process, cut in with the music, would be so great!
Yes! Actually, that was the original idea and then I would interview them through the process. I went in a different direction and felt a person being able to convey emotion was better than someone who was using it for the first time. I would love to work with more “first timers”, though, and film some of those experiences.
This message was most about negative self-talk than using the paint for the first time. As I shared in the post, even I still struggle with that, so it doesn’t just apply to novices!
If you are interested, I have shared before & afters of furniture pieces people have finished in my “bring your own furniture workshops”. Almost all of the attendees have never used milk paint before and their pieces turned out amazing.
Anyway, thanks so much for the feedback! I love getting ideas from other people.
Love the commercial! And your model is beautiful!
Lovely. Just lovely.
You very well may have forgotten. Shower thoughts are the best and there should be no delay in capturing them. Never hesitate.
Great work, as always. You are my entrepreneur She-Ro! Note I didn’t say “painting she-ro”…you really are the whole package and I envision your name becoming a verb (i.e. Martha). 🙂
I love what Stephanie Shaw commented about your name becoming a verb. In my mind, it already is. This video made me stop and look around at my house. My husband and I are diyers, but I find myself saving projects for him because he can do it better. Enough of that! Thank you.
Wow!! I teared up over that! Don’t know if it was the music, the expressions on Jen’s face, the finished piece or the message behind it. Oh, heck, – it was all of that and more!. Well done, Marian! Pure inspiration for me!
That was one of the best videos I have seen!
I watched intently and connected to the emotions we often feel about painting , it made me cry a little, but in such a good way!
Beautiful ☺️
Perfection!! The video and the lovely piece of furniture!!
Love it! Very empowering in an uncomplicated way.
Nicely done.
Well done! So positive and beautiful. You care and it shows. Thank you for what you do.
I love this video! What a highly effective and powerful way to motivate and encourage your readers. Thank you for taking the time to produce something so meaningful and inspiring. You continue to ROCK!
You nailed it! These are my exact thoughts when I take on a project. Your message extends well past painting a project to anything we do in life! Love it! ❤️
This is perfection! Your post and the video!
This is just a small part of why I love your blog and your paint. <3
While I love your paint, what I love more is who you are and what you stand for! Beautiful video and great music!
Terrific! I will never forget the long ago video you made that got me painting furniture! You were the “every day girl” that made me believe I could do it! You were wearing an old Baylor sweatshirt, it looked like you were painting in a closet or something! lol! Anyway, I am feeling insecure about hosting a flea market event at our new farm…having the same feelings, doubt, fear, etc. I appreciate your encouragement!
This may sound goofy but the video was so sweet that I was tearing up by the end. Exceptionally well done! Marketing that matches the ethos of its creator–I’m deeply impressed. Maybe I should spend more time in the shower!
Loved it!! I have finished many different projects and that is a feeling that eill creep in if you let it. Be fearless!! It’s just paint!! ? And I love the hardware. I would keep it as is.❤️
Loved the video, I have had the same feelings exactly,it is why I have hesitated to finish a couple painting projects it is why I purchase furniture and then never start. I’m just sure they won’t turn out. This video was inspiring ! I’m pulling my supplies out now and gonna watch it again for more inspiration, thank you!
I love everything about it….
Beautiful….thank you.
Maybe it’s a benefit of getting older, but I derive such joy from the creative process that the end result is gravy. Honestly. My friend at work was discouraged with a project and gave it to me. I promised her that my bar for what is acceptable is so low that I cannot blow a project! Maybe this came from having a custom children’s clothing business for 13 years. You learn to push through even when the juices are not flowing. Have courage…..it’s only paint!
EXCELLENT REACH TO THE COMMON PERSON
Great and very relatable commercial! You go, Marian!
Totally fabulous! I went through every single emotion captured in this video just a couple of months ago. This really is just. perfect!
Love the video – I don’t have too much trouble painting furniture but my fear/hesitation is the brick on our fireplace. It feels like a permanent change in our home and I don’t want to mess it up. Any tips on painting brick?
Carolyn, we painted our pinkish-reddish-70’s brick fireplace as per “The Painted Drawer” Blog instructions. Took two of us 2 hours and the results are room-changing! Could not be happier! We used Annie Sloan’s white milk paint only because we had it on hand (sorry, Marian!). We’ve had tons of compliments and know now that a wall of brick in a room need not be a decorating game-changer!
Perfection! Model, a beautiful way to encourage us all that have doubts Music and Faith of a Mustard seed can move Mountains. Thank you for such about our talents.
Beautiful and so true. We let our doubts and fears take over too often. Experience & wisdom come with trial and the occasional but often helpful error or two. Thanks for the inspiration.
Beautiful commercial!
I loved it. I tend to procrastinate with the feeling it’s not good enough and thus getting zero done. I will start and complete a project today! Thanks for the encouragement and your lovely video.
That was absolutely adorable! I had tears in my eyes. I loved everything about it…Jen, the music, the dresser, the paint color and the message! I know I could apply that message to so many things in my life. And Jen really resembles you! Awesome idea & video!
Perfectly simple and inspiring in every way Marian <3
I don’t know how my above comment got so wrong; however, this is how it was meant to read:
Perfection! Model, Music and Faith of a Mustard seed can move Mountains. Thank you for such a beautiful way to encourage us all that have doubts about our talents.
You nailed it!!! Love working with my hands and being creative! Your video conveyed that “you can do it – just try and enjoy the process!” It will be an encouragement for those who are anxious about trying something new!
OMG you are awesome. I do things all the time and never feel I can’t. I always say paint changes everything. But I am surprised by the number of people who do feel this way – this was absolutely awesome. Brought tears to my eyes. Her reaction is priceless. Love it.
I. LOVE. IT.!!! Totally awesome in every way. Nailed it, girlfriend!
i feel kinda silly because i got all teary-eyed upon reading your closing comments of the post. so very wonderfully encouraging! thank you jen and marian, for sharing your hearts.
ahhh…. you really nailed it. I just did this to myself last week. I had my Mom’s childhood bureau to paint. I sat + I thought + I thought + I thought some more. I went to bed instead.
I finished it yesterday. It looks fabulous!
Thank you for this site, you give me so much inspiration. : )
Hi all! I am one of those people who reads everyday, but seldom comments because it takes soooo long to load and I quit.
Your model is just beautiful!
Today however, I will see it through.
On every aspect, every emotion, every level of talent, every choice, every plane of conveying a message I have one thing to say;
You Nailed It perfectly! Bravo!
I started painting furniture about 4 years ago. I have NO artistic ability. As a matter of fact I can’t even draw a good stick man.
Since starting to paint I have done pieces to sell, done pieces for other people, done pieces for my kids, done pieces for our house and on and on. For some reason it has brought a side of me out that I didn’t know I had. Your video truly captures that spirit. I loved it.
By the way, I am 65 years old and an ex football coach and teacher. Found a totally different part of me that no one knew I had. I am so proud. 🙂
Well done! You sure nailed what it feels like and the thoughts running through MY head when I get ready to start a project. Just awesome Marian.
Love, love, love it! Great message…
It’s perfect! I’ve felt that way a thousand times – with every piece of furniture I paint. You brought it to life in that short video. Perfect!
Have followed your blog for years now and am always inspired. I am getting ready for my first project with an old server. I visit PA often as my son lives in Coatesville and has worked in West Chester for 20 years. Where do you find a “few” pieces every time you go out? Will be visiting in August and would love to find a “few” or even a “couple” of pieces to work on? Any suggestion along Route 30? Looking for a smallish chest with interesting carved handles.
perfect vision! made me smile. 🙂
How timely to watch this video! This past weekend, my daughter and I painted an old cabinet at our cabin. It had on that sprayed on dark finish of the 70s (or 80s) and we painted two layers of green with the lighter paint going on first. We lightly sanded the edges and then used beeswax on it. Throughout the entire project I was seconded guessing myself. I wish I took before and after pictures because it truly looks so much better. And it was a great mother/daughter project – I hope she learned she can change things with confidence. Your video conveyed it perfectly!!!
I love it all! Perfection. Now please give us the details of this wonderful piece, paint color with bond or without and please don’t change those pulls, they are gorgeous.
This is a beautiful ad – and it really expresses how I feel too! If I had a dollar for every time someone has told me that they wish they could be creative like me. I’m just willing to try and maybe fail, and try again, at least with crafts/diy
And that is exactly why this is my favorite blog. Thank you…and congratulations on your new commercial.
Tear in my eye after reading that. Thanks!
Okay. This has inspired me to finally use the MMS milk paint I bought months ago to paint my table top. Eek!
What a great video. I have spent my career in PR, but you just come by it naturally. This video is perfect! A good leader has a vision and is able to make others see and share in their vision. That is you — and why you have been so successful.
Perfect!
LOVE it! We just shared this on our Facebook page. I can’t tell you how many customers have expressed their fears and hesitation about tackling a piece themselves. This is wonderful inspiration for them (anyone, really) and supports our beliefs as shop owners and furniture painters. We would rather empower our customers. It’s makes what we do much more joyful and gratifying! Thank you Marian! You took the words (the music helped too) right out of our mouths! Oh, and great choice using Jen. Her smile is contagious!
Well, now I need a tissue!! You nailed it.
Marian,
Awesome commercial. Jen is the all American girl next door. The text, applicable to all new things in our life. I agree with the person who said they got teary at what you said in the final paragraphs. Think how awesome the world would be if that was everyone’s goal. As a former manager I wanted to encourage and inspire the people who reported to me. Applicable in non-creative settings also. Really love your message.
You are so wonderful. I have never felt artistic when it comes to painting things and that has stopped me in my tracks on more than one occasion. This commercial featured the doubt that plagues me (and many others, I imagine). Thank you! I will tackle the wood tray that I’ve wanted to paint forever.
xo,
Karen
What a beautiful commercial! Very inspiring.. You know, a great leader is always trying to make her followers better people and inspire them to be the best. YOU nailed it!! At first I thought Jen was you…and I’m thinking….”Gosh! how did she get her hair to grow so quickly?” 🙂
Keep up the great work! Always look forward to reading what you have to say or have done.
Thanks for this video! I watched it as instructed (haha) -& it spoke to me. The same way your book ” Inspired You” spoke to me. I CAN move mountains in my home, my life.
Thank you!
God’s perfect timing is amazing! I have just pulled into the driveway with 3 pieces that were too good to pass up. They need TLC (and MMSMP) and, I’ll admit that my “treasure pile” is encroaching on where my husband’s hockey & fishing equipment reside in our garage. He opened the door & gave me a disparaging look & then he closed the door. He hasn’t talked to me since.
I allow others to repeatedly suck the joy out of me and stall my creativity because I seek approval for my inspirations before I begin. After watching your video, I think I understand that I need to still the negative self talk and simply start creating. God gave me a vision that allows me to look at stuff in a dumpster, the side of the road, a thrift shop & yard sales, and turn them into usable, pretty furniture. Other people actually buy some of this “junk” so, perhaps, I should work on that pile & allow my gift to shine…and give my sweet husband’s hockey equipment some breathing space.
Wow! This is just about a dresser (and soooo much more). I almost cried watching it. So good.
Beautiful!
Bravo! Thanks for the push…I have a piece to finish for my new home & I’m battling that voice even on a daily basis. ❤️ And, she has a sweet contagious smile! Ali
This video and your words were profoundly timely for me. I am a novice at painting furniture. A few months ago I attempted painting this awesome apothecary cabinet that I just love. Unfortunately, it turned out awful! The paint didn’t just chip, it peeled off in large strips, and every time someone in the family would brush up by it or even breath in the same room, more paint would fall off!! I was disappointed and not very excited about redoing it all over again. But this week I decided it was time for “take two”. I prepped with a light sanding and used a paint with a better bonding. It stuck! And out of great determination to not have to paint a third time I added a poly sealer. Despite the joy of the paint sticking, I was disappointed in all of the flaws. It wasn’t perfect. There were little bumps everywhere that I sealed in, from being over anxious to finish. I apparently even sealed in a piece of my own hair that of course won’t come up. This morning I was examining every square inch of the piece with critical eyes, about two inches away from the cabinet. I felt defeated but not ready at all to tackle it again. I hauled it into the family room. Attached the new hardware, styled the top, and then stepped back… I stood from a perspective that most people will look at it and was astounded! It was great! It looked awesome! It was a great improvement over my first job AND the original version I bought!
Immediately, I thought of the parallel to my own life. I often get so fixated on looking at myself from two inches away… I find a bump or flaw and feel defeated and fool myself into thinking that every inch of me is the same quality. Yet, when I step back, and look at myself as a whole, from the proper distance to see the big picture, it’s awesome!! I can’t help but think that that is how God see’s us… He see’s us as a “whole”. Always, He see’s the whole. He doesn’t fixate on the small bumps and magnify them while missing the big picture–the way I have done. It was such a neat experience to realize how much more beauty there is when I step back and see the progress, take in the whole picture, and feel confident and happy that most all things in life are more beautiful when you observe from further back.
Oh the things you learn from furniture 🙂
Thanks for sharing!
Love your story and perspective! Totally identify and agree!
Obviously your viewers find this video (SO much more than a commercial) touching. Yep, I’m one of the ones with tears in her eyes at the end. This is just absolutely lovely in every way. Thank you!
She looks a lot like you…..great ad!!!!!
Awesome, and inspiring.
I tell my students that I don’t want to hear “I can’t…….” but as adults, we do it to ourselves all the time. Maybe we don’t even realize it.
Nice job, thanks for being an inspiration!
This was wonderful!! A gift to many of us:). Well done!
Great videographer you! Enjoyed watching the piece.
Very inspirational. Thank you!!
AWESOME!
Where is the love button when I need it !!! Love the video and all that you do Marian. Thank You
Although I like most of your painted pieces, I NEVER would have painted this dresser. Felt like it was ruined by the paint job. Well, i guess if you’re happy with it.
You DO cause us to move mountains in our home!
I’ve attempted other diy projects before and have never been pleased with them …maybe because they didn’t really speak to me or they weren’t my style… they looked very diy… However, I’ve been so surprised and happy at how I feel after I try something you’ve shared and taught and it’s allowed us to decorate our home with personal touches that don’t look so arts and crafty. It’s also helped me discover what styles I personsally like and you are just the sweetest.
Thank you for that. If you didn’t do what you do, I don’t think I would’ve developed as much as I have and I wouldn’t have discovered the passion of making our home…and my husband likes this for me too! You’ve equipped me with all sorts of tools under my belt! I feel like I’m becoming more like a Proverbs 31 woman!
Great video! I loved it!
Anne.
Loved the video
Learned a lot from it
brought tears
Thank you ………
that dresser is beautiful either way….
art is in the eye of the beholder that appreciates
…..makes us all the same ~and different too !
positive thoughts = more graceful thoughts
Moved mountains and moved me to tears! This is SOOO much more than a video about a dresser and paint….wow, I’m verklempt now, as this was a timely message for me especially on this particular day… I truly got it! My very favorite part… at 1:12 …. a smile and then a single piano plink☺️. You, Marian, are an instrument of HIS work!
Inspiring!
Thank you for bringing your vision to life and giving it wings. I am yet again benefitting from your candid experiences.
Thanks for trusting us with your honesty .
Brenda
You nailed it. I’m sending this to my sister and sister in law.
She does look a lot like you! It’s beautiful!
Loved this post and video! This is just what I needed today after struggling to complete a color dipped dresser with detail on the sides – I really didn’t think I could do it. 🙂
As long as I have followed your blog I had no idea that you painted right over the original finisj. Is this true? Your video was great. Your many talents amaze me!!!!
I loved it! That was a beautiful story. Certainly inspirational. Thank you!
Excellent inspiration. Been there, done that. Thanks!
It came out perfectly. Don’t change a thing. I love it!
Those thoughts delivered to you in the shower were Heaven-sent. That commercial will be most productive; it just has to be. Thank you for being alert and available for those messages. Keep it up!
Her joy brought tears to my eyes it seemed so real! What an inspiring commercial!!
Excellent! Simple, moving and so, so encouraging. I thought you had let your hair grow, I etched the video twice thinking it was you. Beautiful smile. Can I buy the dresser? I’ll come get it. Bravo, Ms. video Director.
Ditto, ditto and ditto – it was the push I needed to tackle a dresser almost exactly like this one, didn’t know how I could work with the carvings, eww and yuck and everything in between. I need some Farmhouse White and . . .
Loved this! I just write a post on my decorating fails, just accepting yourself and not being too negative. It is the fun of trying!
Oh, this is so much more than a commercial for your paint….I love it!
Beautiful ad with a really beautiful message. Thanks again for the inspiration and encouragement.
Beautiful, beautiful video! The message and spirit you conveyed …. wow! Thanks so much for sharing this — I really do feel inspired and uplifted. I love it!
Perfection!
It’s not about the paint, it’s about the believing in yourself. Great marketing concept!
Just like many others, I have shied away from beginning projects because of fear. I usually would just read your article and skip the video BUT I gave in and watched. You did ask me to, right?! It’s a beautifully accurate video of what I feel. You made me want to take a leap of faith! Thanks for sharing we all have those feelings of inadequacy, guilt, fear. Let’s all move mountains girls! <3
Very inspiring and well-done video, Marian! Just right for what you wanted to express. Here’s something funny, though: not knowing what the video was about, when I began watching it I thought who is that young woman? I’d never seen Jen before and I really thought I was watching you with a different hair-style when you first started your blog or something. Honestly, I kept thinking is that Marian or not. She looks a lot like Marian, but the hair….it must be Marian, who else could it be?
Then, when I read the rest of the post and saw the following photos, I got it! But you two do look very much alike–you could be sisters. I’d like to see the two of you together, then I might be proven crazy! But for now, I’m stickin’ to my first impression.
By the way, the dresser is quite lovely even tho’ I had misgivings about you painting it as it really was beautiful in its natural wood state. I’m one of those people who always argues with myself about whether a nice wood piece should be covered with paint. But most of the things you have done I have really liked painted.
(Can’t wait for the third landscape dresser!)
Here is my reaction in three parts:
1. This heartfelt and relatable ad will bring in LOTS of new customers.
2. Seriously? Marian can produce a professional ad without help from a professional ad executive, AND in less than 24 hours? Amazing, really.
3. It shocks me that you, of all people, can still have doubts about the outcome of a furniture makeover!
You have found your calling, girl!
I cried! It reminds me of me and several others that are afraid to start something!! Thank you and I loved it!
Your commercial speaks to the inner voice many of us have and hear on many areas of life. It is easy for us to allow that inner voice to guide or lead us in our decisions and our progress.
I have worked on many pieces of furniture. It takes me time, I wait for the furniture to speak to me on what it needs to become. Sometimes my piles of projects become overwhelming.
I receive many compliments on the work I do and have had many girlfriends ask me to teach them how to refinish furniture and much of what your commercial shows in self-talk, is many of the messages I have heard my friends say out loud to me as we embark on a project.
I always encourage them to wait and allow the project to unfold. I hear alot of “Oh, I wrecked it“, “I messed up“, I say “wait, wait until you are done. What may seem like a mistake now comes together“.
When we are finished I see women that are so proud of themselves and what they have accomplished. It is amazing not only to see the transformation of the piece but more so the transformation of the woman who took on something and achieved their own success!
Such a beautifully, well-thought out commercial that is going to speak to so many women on so many levels!
Very well said….I think it’s perfect to use this to encourage those who feel this way towards decorations or diy projects…I always say…I’m good at it but sometimes I suck at it…not everything turns out as planned.. Some things are a total fail…but..I keep going…enjoy the process…the good…the bad..and the ugly….
God’s perfect timing, the perfect idea and the model all unfolded beautifully. I love this commercial! I love her smile and the music too.
Love it! I thought it was you with hair extensions for most of the commercial.
I LOVE everything about this Marian! The commercial, the music, the feelings, the message… and also the dresser! x
This struck a chord! Really lovely!
“WOW”!!!! NUFF SAID!
Perfect. Really, just perfect. I remember being sooooooo scared the 1st time I tried milk paint. And, it didn’t come out great. But, a second and third coat and some antiquing wax rescued it, and now I love my tricycle red gardening table. Since then, I’ve painted a bookcase, blanket chest, desk and am working now on a desk chair. Each one has been a learning experience. Every time I was scared to start, and a bit discouraged at some point in the project. But, I pushed through and now love having these pieces in my home. This video perfectly captures the joy that comes from overcoming fear and pushing through to finish a piece. Thanks for all that you do. I look forward to reading your blog every day, and find so much inspiration in your work. Oh, and I really, really want to buy one of your landscape dressers one day, and maybe one with some of your gorgeous free hand stenciling. I’m tempted to rent a trailer and drive up from Florida to PA. 🙂
I’m sorry to say. I have tried MMSP on just about every piece of furniture I bring in the shop and followed the directions word for word. I CAN NOT GET ONE PIENCE TO CHIP!!! I don’t think that stuff likes me very well, however I am not giving up. Maybe the heavens will open and the Milk Paint gods will look down on me.
Love it!!
Simply, lovely. Thank you.
I love this post! I have been trying to muster the courage to paint some furniture. I love the look of milk paint. But I’ve always felt those feelings…it won’t look that good, you’ll mess up, or can I really do this? Thanks for giving me modivation to at least try. And thanks for sharing your talents!
You nailed it, Marian!
Brilliant, Marian, just brilliant!
Okay, this is probably silly, but this made me cry!! So, so perfect for how people really feel!! I can see myself in that very spot when I first painted! You nailed this.
Love everything about this post and video!! ???
Absolutely love it. I paint lots of furniture in my home but sometimes even I feel ‘overwhelmed/doubtful’ etc. I think your video is very inspiring x
Brought tears to my eyes!
Love your commercial!!! I felt exactly the same way when I tried chalk paint for the first time. Milk paint is my next adventure!
What a beautiful smile!!!!!!! I loved this.
I loved the video and the encouragement to try something new.
This is how we all feel at times! Great video!!
Wow. You told the story beautifully. Well done.
This is so on point!!!! Love it and love the message….
I actually dropped by the blog today before I go downstairs and paint my mom’s old chairs that nobody likes but I can’t give up without trying to breath new life in them.
Your video actually made me well up because it convey’s exactly how I feel about getting this project- and others- accomplished. And it’s not as if I’ve not done anything that turns out well before, but self doubt always lurks.
Good job to all of you- and thanks.
such a GREAT message! I’m an art teacher for K-12 students and I’d say after 3rd grade, this self doubt about creating, is the number one trait I observe in the classroom. After every project, I ask students; Well, what do you think? and they always, ALWAYS are proud of themselves and what they have learned/accomplished. We never stop learning and we never stop surprising ourselves. The power of what we can do w/ our hands is there everyday. 🙂
Very nicely put together… I especially liked when you edited in a few candid snippets.
You have good instincts in casting. The talent really was perfect for the role of Nervous Furniture Painter.
You might consider shooting more candid footage in your next project, to open up the possibilities for B-roll. With a non-professional actor, you’ll probably be happier with the results. Here’s why: Even with brilliant casting, when a non-professional acts, it’s It’s almost impossible for her not to look like she’s acting.
Overall, a beautiful job.
I always remind myself …it can be repainted
Did I miss the name of the color? It’s just perfect. Love the video and yes, I agree with Bshane…the casting was excellent, and conveyed the message convincingly.
I haven’t been to visit your blog for a while and this one made me cry. This is how I felt when I first started and how I feel when I stand back and look at a piece. More importantly I think it expresses how so many of us feel about other aspects of our life as well. Beautiful.
You captured the thoughts that go through people’s heads when they are trying something they have never done before. Before they start a project they ( me ) have usually talked themselves out of even attempting it. Thanks for the inspiring video!!!
Love love love
I have painted several pieces of furniture, however, I have not used your milk paint….after seeing this, I will look for your product. I loved the piece of furniture and, the finished product was STUNNING. I am curious as to what she applied to the top, and how much sanding had to be done before applying…if any.
This is real. I live this moment over and over again when I plan to start a project. Capturing her laughter at the end beautiful. It is the reward I give myself when I can step back and see what once was only a vision.
Love this!! Even though I have done several home projects over the years with great results, I still second guess myself every time I start something new … This video is a great reminder to just “go with it!”. I love the finished dresser and Jen was the perfect person for the video. Thank you for the inspiration!
I think I needed to hear this today. As a mom trying to decorate a home and run a furniture painting business I am always finding myself “stuck” creativily. I have a vision but can’t always seem to bring it together. I doubt my skills and creative abilities. I want to give up. Thanks for reminding me of the joy and beauty of the creative process with all its ups and downs. It isn’t about making something “Pinterest perfect”, it’s about doing what I love and that sense of accomplishment. Someone will fall in love with my projects and my salvaged furniture will find a new home if I keep at it. Thanks