I'm in the South too, so cool and rainy but pretty mild compared to most places. (I grew up in Minnesota, so I know how spoiled I am now)
So Kate, it seems like you have an issue with being comfortable in your own skin too... you seem to be projecting this idea/feeling that you and your way aren't good enough or as good as some alternative. I think when it comes to something like decorating, it's a very individual thing and subjective... whatever way YOU like and makes you HAPPY should be good enough. It is YOUR space.
I am glad to see your H seems to have realized that when you are the one putting in the work, it's easier to let go of some of those crazy expectations we might put upon someone else when they were filling the role.
me-35 WAS-37 T-16 1/2 Son-14 (HF Aspergers) BD,ILYBINILWY,"I met my soulmate": Oct5,2013 "Letting go because I love him, holding on because I love him."