Jill Williams Grover is a well-respected designer and author with experience in designing homes all over the world. She is the author of seven books, including a new teen series.
She is known for her creativity and friendly nature and will be one of the featured guests at the 27th Annual Deseret Morning News Fall Home Improvement, Remodeling and Decorating Show.
Grover's background began in fashion design. She grew up in a large family and often the only "new" items of clothing she received were hand-me-downs from her siblings.
"When I was young I would take my hand-me-down clothing and make pillows, handbags, scarves, whatever creative accessories I could think of," said Grover. "I have always loved accessories whether for myself or for the home."
She went on to study fashion design. Her love of fashion and fabrics quickly transformed into a career in interior design.
"Many of the principles in fashion design and interior design are the same. My background in fashion has helped expand my talents into interior design," she noted.
For the past 10 years, Grover has specialized in residential design and works with prestigious interior designer Karen Butera of Newport Beach.
"Interior design is a matter of personal taste and what works for your lifestyle," said Grover. "Just because someone spends a lot of money does not mean that the design is beautiful to all people. I think everyone needs to look at their own lifestyle and what works for them. That is where personal design begins."
Her passion for design has led her to a new chapter in her career — that of an author. Not only does Grover give expert advice on design, but she also offers excellent examples of decorating on a budget; a valuable tool she learned early in her life.
"I enjoy the challenge of taking an expensive item and finding a way to duplicate the concept, but in a more economical way," she said. "Many of my favorite accessories in my own home, I have found in thrift stores or my children have made."
Her book titles include: "Scary Scenes for Halloween," "Dime Store Decorating," "Fabulous Flea Market Decorating," "Handmade Gift Wrap Bows, Cards & Tags," and "Throwing the Perfect Shower."
New this year are two books, "Throwing the Perfect Party — Fun Games and Activities for Wedding and Baby Showers" and "Tween Friends: Jewelry and Accessories."
"Throwing the Perfect Party" contains worksheets and game ideas for wedding and baby showers. All of the books are available at Barnes & Noble.
The teen series "Tween Friends" contains ideas and step-by-step instructions for making jewelry and accessories for the home.
Grover said she adores working with teens. She has two teenage sons and an older daughter. She said she received great inspiration from them.
"I really am a teen at heart," she said. Her second book in this series "Tween Friends: Room Decorating" will come out in 2006.
Grover has been featured on numerous local and national television programs and is a regular contributor on ABC 4's hit show, "Good Things Utah."
Her seminars will be Friday at 3 and 6 p.m., Saturday at noon and 5 p.m. and Sunday at noon and 3 p.m.=