SO much more than cabinets
Welcome to A Few Loose Screws
Because the remodel world isn't always square, level or pretty
Hi, I’m Samantha — the designer, chaos coordinator, and human behind My Cabinet Girl.
After nearly a decade in the industry and a wild first year running my own business, I figured it was time to share the things that don’t always fit in a pretty Instagram square: the behind-the-scenes moments, real advice from real projects, and the random but helpful “why didn’t anyone tell me this?” stuff that comes with designing and remodeling homes.
So Why “A Few Loose Screws”?
Let’s be real: if you’ve ever renovated a kitchen, a bathroom, or even just tried to hang a shelf — you already know. Nothing goes perfectly. Walls aren’t square. Cabinets show up missing a door. Tile gets backordered. And somehow, even the most buttoned-up project leaves you muttering “this would be so much easier if I just didn’t have a few loose screws…”
This blog is for you — the homeowners dreaming big, the builders trying to keep it together, the DIYers second-guessing their grout, and the people who just want cabinets that fit.
What You’ll Find Here:
Design advice without the fluff (we like function and pretty)
Real remodel stories — the good, the bad, and the sawdusty
Tips for surviving renovation life with your budget, sanity, and relationship intact
A little sass, a lot of honesty, and maybe even a margarita recipe if the mood strikes
Thanks for being here. If you ever feel like your project (or brain) has a few loose screws… welcome. You’re in the right place.
One Year, One Blog, One Big Box Store Collab Announcement!
One Year, One Blog, and One Big Lowe’s Announcement
Well… we made it. My Cabinet Girl officially turned one year old, and honestly? That milestone feels both wild and well-earned. This first year has been full of learning curves, backordered tile, late-night layouts, and the kind of off-site problem-solving that would make HGTV cry.
But here we are—and what better way to mark the occasion than by launching this very blog?
“A Few Loose Screws” is officially live, and this is the first of many posts where I’ll be sharing the good, the gritty, and the stuff no one tells you about remodeling, designing, or working with real-life people in real-life homes. If you're new here, scroll back to the top to get the full scoop on what this blog is all about.
Now, on to the fun stuff...
💥 We’re Officially a Lowe’s Creator!
That’s right—My Cabinet Girl has joined the Lowe’s Creator Program!
Don't get me wrong- we still urge you to shop local and support your local Mom & Pop shops! But This is an exciting opportunity that lets us share some of our favorite tools, products, and materials directly with you—not just because they’re pretty, but because we’ve used them in real homes, with real budgets, and real clients.
Here’s what it means:
We’ve got our own Lowe’s storefront where you can shop our curated collections—think tools our installers actually use, vanities we’ve specc'd on recent projects, and stylish, functional upgrades that won’t wreck your budget.
When you shop through our affiliate links, we earn a small commission—which helps support this business and keep the content flowing.
We’ll be regularly updating our picks with seasonal finds, client favorites, and behind-the-scenes product shoutouts.
👉 Check out our current Lowe’s product board here: Shop Our Lowe’s Creator Page
You’ll also find product roundups on Pinterest and Instagram, where we’ll be sharing favorites and honest reviews.
🛠️ Stay Tuned...
This is just the start. In the coming weeks, I’ll be posting behind-the-scenes peeks from recent projects, sharing unfiltered design advice.
So whether you’re here as a homeowner, contractor, DIY enthusiast, or someone just trying to figure out what to do with a weird corner cabinet—we’re glad you're here.
Cheers to year two, full hearts, full inboxes, and yes… still a few loose screws.
– Samantha
Founder of My Cabinet Girl
7/19/25
Renovating This Summer?
Here’s What to Know Before You Order Cabinets
Thinking about tackling a kitchen or home renovation this summer? You’re not alone—this is one of the busiest seasons for remodels. But before you hit “order” on those new cabinets, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.
☀️ Heat + Humidity = Handle With Care
Painted cabinets are beautiful, but they can be sensitive to extreme temps and humidity. If your delivery will sit in a garage, driveway, or unconditioned space, make sure your contractor has a plan to keep them protected. Moisture and heat can cause warping, swelling, or finish issues—especially if those boxes are sitting for a while.
🔥 No Kitchen? No Problem.
Summer’s the perfect time to be without a kitchen. Fire up the grill, eat outside, and stock the cooler. Bonus tip: now’s the time to fill that propane tank before demo day hits!
💨 Don’t Let Your Budget Fly Out the Window
Literally. If your contractor will be removing walls or windows, ask how long the space will be exposed. Open framing in July heat means your AC unit is working overtime, and that energy bill can spike fast. It’s also a great time to consider reinsulating while the walls are open—you’ll feel it this winter and next summer.
💧 And One Last Thing…
Your install team is sweating it out—be the client who puts out a case of water or Gatorade. Hydrated teams work better and safer, and trust us, they’ll remember it!
7/19/25
How to Start a Kitchen Remodel on Long Island Without Losing Your Mind
Thinking about remodeling your kitchen but already overwhelmed just trying to figure out where to start? You’re not alone. At My Cabinet Girl, I work with Long Island homeowners every day who are excited about their kitchen remodel—but quickly find themselves buried in Pinterest boards, product samples, and contractor confusion.
Here’s the truth: a kitchen remodel doesn’t have to drive you nuts, if you start with a smart plan and the right support.
Step 1: Know What You Actually Want
Before shopping for tile or choosing appliances, ask yourself:
- What’s not working about your current kitchen?
- What’s your ideal layout or flow?
- What’s your realistic budget?
This is where real kitchen design help makes all the difference. I walk clients through everything from spatial planning to style choices, based on how you actually live—not just what’s trending online.
Step 2: Get a Real Design Plan (Not Just an Idea)
Every successful kitchen remodel on Long Island starts with a real, professional layout—one that considers your existing walls, plumbing, electric, and the million little details a contractor will ask for. At MCG, I create detailed design packages that act like a playbook for your whole renovation. This saves time, money, and a lot of headaches down the line.
Step 3: Build the Right Team
Your cousin’s friend who once tiled a bathroom isn’t who you want running your job. Whether you’re hiring a general contractor, a cabinet installer, or working with multiple trades—make sure they’re licensed, experienced, and willing to collaborate with your designer. Trust me, your project will go smoother when everyone’s on the same page (and using the same drawings).
Step 4: Plan for Surprises
Here on Long Island, many homes come with "character"—and sometimes that means hidden water damage, old insulation, or funky framing. Always keep a little emergency budget on the side, and expect something to come up. It’s part of the process.
Final Tip: Ask Questions Early & Often
Your remodel shouldn’t feel like a mystery. I always encourage clients to speak up, get involved, and lean on me for answers along the way. Good design is collaborative, and I’m here to help guide you every step of the way—from floor plans to final install.
8/9/25
Expect the Unexpected (Seriously, Please)
No matter how many times I tell homeowners to brace for the unexpected—no matter how many real-life examples I share—somehow, every project still finds a brand new way to throw a curveball. That’s just the reality of remodeling. Once you open up walls, you open a can of worms. It’s the unknown. And as much as designers and project estimators try to anticipate every “what if,” the truth is: we don’t really know until we get there.
Working with a designer or contractor doesn’t guarantee a bump-free ride. Even after doing this for 10+ years, something new always pops up. What I can promise? I’ll be right there with you when it does. I don’t disappear when the drywall dust hits the fan—I dig in, come up with solutions, and help you pivot when needed. Renovations aren’t always pretty behind the scenes, but having someone in your corner makes all the difference. I’ve got your back—even when your project becomes the next “one-in-a-lifetime” surprise.
So, how do you prepare for the unknown in construction?
Here’s my honest advice:
- Ask Questions Early.
If something doesn’t make sense, say something. The more you understand your plan and what to expect, the more confident (and calm) you’ll feel when hiccups happen. We’re here to guide you, not keep secrets. - Stash an Emergency Budget.
Have a small buffer—$1,000 to $5,000—that you don’t touch unless absolutely necessary mid-construction. Too often, clients spend every penny on finishes and furniture, then get hit with a hidden mold issue or old electrical behind the walls. You’re not being overcharged—you’re just hitting reality. We can’t see through drywall, I promise. - Pad Your Timelines.
If your GC says three weeks, plan for four. You’ll be pleasantly surprised if they finish early, and mentally prepared if they don’t. Delays can happen from backorders, inspections, weather, or unexpected fixes—and giving yourself a grace window helps keep stress in check. - Expect Imperfection.
We’re all human, and so are the people shipping your materials. Things arrive wrong. Broken. In the wrong color. Sometimes it’s our fault, sometimes it’s the manufacturer’s, and sometimes it’s just the universe. But setting your expectations from the start can help you breathe when the wrong cabinet door shows up on week six. - Don’t Schedule Movers or Parties Right After Your “End Date.”
Seriously. Don’t book a housewarming the day after install is supposed to wrap. Give it time to breathe—something always runs over. And honestly, you’ll want a minute to clean up the construction dust before showing off your new kitchen.
Bottom line? Construction is messy, unpredictable, and never perfect—but it’s also transformable and exciting. Just go in eyes wide open, with a little flexibility and a lot of trust in your team.
And as always, MCG’s got your back.
8/30/25
Why Your Pinterest Board Isn’t a Kitchen Design Plan
(And Why That’s OK)
We love a good Pinterest board—seriously.
If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, bringing a board full of dream kitchens is a great starting point. Hell, I request it from my clients to help get a real sense of the wishlist/ goal/ vibe your trying to achieve.
But let’s be honest—a Pinterest board isn’t a kitchen design, and it won’t replace working with a real, experienced designer.
Most of those beautiful kitchen photos? They’re staged. They don’t show the funky ceiling height, the crooked walls, the budget, the plumbing stack right where you wanted to remove a column or soffit. At My Cabinet Girl, we take your Pinterest kitchen ideas and translate them into real, buildable plans for your home—plans that work with your space, your budget, and your lifestyle.
Because here’s the thing: design is more than choosing pretty finishes.
It’s about layout, function, flow, and reality. Its about how you and your family use a space throughout the day, what your routines are, and how to make the space work for you- not against you.
And that’s where a real designer makes all the difference. We know what questions to ask. We know how to spot potential problems before they become expensive ones. And we make sure your dream kitchen still looks good after install day, not just in filtered photos.
So bring your inspo—we love it! But also bring your questions, your dimensions, and your goals.
Let’s build a Pinterest-worthy kitchen that actually works in real life.
9/13/25
Design Done Right: Plan, Check, and Take Responsibility
Cabinets don’t install themselves—and pretty boxes mean nothing without accurate measurements and a solid plan. At MCG, we don’t just “eyeball it.” We double-check clearances, appliance specs, trim details, and measurements/ site conditions before anything’s ordered. A few inches off might not sound like a big deal… until your fridge won’t open or your crown hits the ceiling fan.
Every project starts with a proper design package, because no one wins by winging it. And yes—we measure, hand draw, create computer mock ups, mark, tape, and even visit the job site, because nothing beats seeing it in person.
Recently, I worked up a kitchen design and my team caught a mistake in my numbers right before we finalized the order. It was my boo-boo—and I owned it. No excuses, no finger-pointing. I corrected it as quickly as possible because that’s what professionals do. In this industry, too many people try to pass the blame down the line. Not MCG. If it’s my mistake, I’ll say it out loud and fix it. if its not my mistake- i hold those accountable and keep my name clear. Good design isn’t just about style—it’s about strategy, accountability, and a healthy respect for the tape measure & math.
9/27/25
Your Finish Choices Matter More Than You Realize
That dreamy faucet you saw on Pinterest? Backordered. The perfect custom tile you finally found? Discontinued. And that trending hardware finish everyone’s using? It just doubled in price.
Welcome to the wild world of finish selections — where what looks perfect online doesn’t always align with what’s available (or affordable) in real life.
Why It Matters
Your finish selections — think plumbing fixtures, cabinet hardware, tile, countertops, lighting — might seem like the fun “final touches,” but in reality, they can make or break your project timeline and budget. Product delays, discontinued lines, and sudden price hikes can all stall your install date or force last-minute substitutions that change your entire design direction.
The Tariff Twist
Adding another wrinkle to the mix, new import tariffs on goods from overseas (including cabinetry, hardware, tile, and plumbing fixtures) are already starting to affect lead times and pricing. Even a small percentage increase on imported materials can cause price jumps across multiple vendors, especially for custom or specialty finishes.
Translation? The longer you wait to finalize your finish package, the more vulnerable you are to price shifts and product delays.
How to Stay Ahead
Working with a designer (hi 👋) can help you avoid those pitfalls before they happen. At My Cabinet Girl, I help clients:
- Choose finishes that look beautiful and are realistically available.
- Source alternative options when preferred materials face delays or price hikes.
- Lock in selections early to protect timelines and budgets.
- Stay informed about market and tariff changes that might impact your project.
The Bottom Line
Finishes aren’t just “the pretty stuff” — they’re critical pieces of your project’s schedule, budget, function, and final look. Making smart, strategic choices early on keeps your dream kitchen (or bath, or mudroom) from turning into a waiting game.
Ready to talk finishes that won’t let you down? Let’s get started.
10/11/25
5 Things No One Tells You Before Renovating Your Home
You’ve watched the home shows. You’ve scrolled Pinterest. You’re ready to start your Long Island home remodel—until reality hits. Suddenly, things are delayed, dusty, loud, or way more complicated than you expected.
As someone who’s been in the trenches of remodeling for over a decade, I’m here to give it to you straight. Here are
5 things no one tells you before you renovate your home—especially on Long Island.
1. Something Always Comes Up
Old homes = surprises. And building on top of a swamp doesn’t make it any easier! It could be outdated electrical, mold behind the walls, or a weird plumbing reroute. Even the best designers and contractors can’t see through drywall. That’s why every smart homeowner sets aside a “just in case” budget.
2. Permits Take Time (and Patience)
Depending on where you live in Long Island, the town may need permits for more than you think—especially if you’re moving plumbing or altering walls. Your project could sit for weeks waiting on paperwork, so build that into your timeline from day one.
4. You’ll Question Everything Midway Through
There’s a weird moment in every design process and mid reno where everything looks worse before it gets better. That’s normal. Your staring at 2 small color swatches for weeks that you’re unsure about, Walls are open, floors are unfinished, and you’ll wonder, “What did we do?” Don’t panic. Trust the plan, and trust your team.
5. It’s Not Just About the Contractor—It’s About Communication
Hiring a contractor is just one piece of the puzzle. You also need someone who can translate your ideas into clear, buildable drawings, answer questions along the way, make site visits, and keep everything moving smoothly. That’s where a designer like me comes in. My role is to bridge the gap—catching potential issues before they turn into costly problems and easing the stress when your home already feels like a construction zone. Remodeling is tough enough—having the right communication and design support makes all the difference.
Final Thoughts:
A home remodel can absolutely be worth it—but only when you know what to expect. My goal at My Cabinet Girl is to prepare you, guide & support you, and make sure no one’s left guessing.
11/8/25
Should You Remodel During the Holidays?
The Pros & Cons of an Off-Season Renovation
When the weather cools down and the holiday lights go up, most homeowners
hit pause on their remodeling plans. But here’s a little secret: the off-season can
actually be one of the best times to tackle that kitchen or bath project—if you plan it right.
At My Cabinet Girl, we’ve seen both sides of holiday remodeling. So before you grab your
pumpkin spice latte and dive in, here’s what to consider.
The Pros 🍂✨
1. Easier Scheduling
Contractors, designers, and tradespeople usually have more open calendars once the busy summer rush dies down. That means faster start times, more focused attention, and better flexibility for site visits and changes.
2. You’ve Got the Perfect Excuse Not to Host Thanksgiving
Renovation chaos = automatic holiday hosting pass. No dishes, no prep, no 20-pound turkey stress. You can just point to your “under construction” sign and relax (maybe even sneak off for a weekend away).
3. Show Off Your New Space by Christmas or New Year’s
Start early enough in the fall, and you could be ringing in the new year in your brand-new kitchen. Nothing says “fresh start” like sparkling countertops and that first champagne toast in your new space.
4. Potential Cost Savings
Some suppliers offer end-of-year discounts, inventory clearance, and holiday sales on cabinetry, appliances, or fixtures. Fewer projects in production also means you may get your orders faster—before the spring rush hits.
5. Indoor Season = Planning Season
You’re home more, which makes it easier to focus on the details—samples, layouts, finishes. Plus, the slower pace of winter can make the process feel a little more manageable.
The Cons 🎄🚧
1. Holiday Closures & Scheduling Gaps
Between Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s, many suppliers, fabricators, and delivery companies shut down or run limited hours. A missed part or a simple backorder can push your completion date.
2. Missing Parts = Delays
Even a small item (like a hinge or molding piece) can hold up a completion date. During the holidays, replacements take longer to arrive—so patience is key. But the silver lining is, we can usually have your space functional again- depending on the part needed, so your not completely without.
3. The Weather Factor
Need to cut tile outside or sand wood trim in the garage? Bundle up. Cold temps can slow down certain parts of the job—and make outdoor tasks downright unpleasant. Nothings worse than a frozen wet saw!
4. Temporary Kitchen Life During the Holidays
If you’re mid-reno, you may be microwaving your Thanksgiving dinner or using the grill in 30-degree weather. Not exactly festive—but it’s temporary!
5. Disrupted Traditions
If your home is usually the holiday hub, construction dust and limited access might mean shifting those family traditions somewhere else for a year.
Bottom Line:
If you can live with a little extra chaos and cold weather, remodeling during the off-season can be a smart move—especially with the right planning and design support.
At My Cabinet Girl, we help homeowners navigate these challenges so your project stays on track (and maybe even wrapped up in time to show off for the holidays).
Thinking about tackling a winter renovation? Let’s talk timelines and strategy before the new year rush kicks in.
11/29/25