Life of Style

Color Story

2012-01-17T08:59:00.000-05:00

Oh there is no better way to end a productive holiday weekend than watching a little eye candy on the red carpet in the comfort of your bed while eating some Ben and Jerry's with your 7 year old. Yes, that is how I watched the Golden Globes this year, no champagne girls gathering (will save that for the Oscars) or glamorous outfit of mine own, just bedded down enjoying the beauty of the evening with one of my favorite little persons...my how times have changed.

I am working with a new client on her new baby girl's nursery and a new big boy room for her son to transition into upon his baby sister's arrival. I have mentioned before but I will say it again, children's rooms are one of my favorite spaces to create. There are so many fun elements that you can incorporate into a little ones room not mention the array of colors that can be used.

Needless to say it has me seeing the world through rainbow colored glasses. No, not in a pyschedelic Pee Wee Herman kind of way (well maybe), but rather "a pop of color" here and there, make the world a better place to play.
I have this Matthew Williamson peacock scarf I adore as much as I do a peacock, the designer with his brilliance, and his use of splendid color. I wear it to pep up my blah winter blues and it makes me oh so happy. Maybe one day it will make me happy in my stairwell too, sigh. The kaftan an Elizabeth Taylor stunner too would do the trick, oh to have it all.
Hope this puts a little color in your otherwise monotone day.

Reese and Laura Dern got it just right with their red and emerald colors, simply stunning!

New Year

2012-01-08T23:26:00.000-05:00

Megan Young

Happy New Year friends!

It is hard to believe we are 8 days into the year 2012. I am considering tomorrow my first day of the New Year seeing as last week was a wash with no school until Tuesday, re-entry a little harsh, and a case of the holiday blues...as in for the first time in the last couple of years I was sad to see my children go back to school, husband to work, because we were having such a nice time together. Now it is alarm clocks, schedules, meetings, and packing lunches. I do a lot of running around town, so much in fact I sometimes make myself car sick with my own driving...hmm.

Something I need to work on this year, slowing it down a bit, finding balance, and peace within. I have to wonder what this year will bring? With all the attention over the weekend surrounding Catherine the Duchess of Cambridge's 30th birthday tomorrow it just goes to show you exactly what can happen in one person's life over the course of a year.

We will see, I already have a few little princes that have my heart and I like to think of myself as the queen of the house so what will be next...

A Touch of Rose

2011-12-30T09:26:00.000-05:00

"You either have a flair, or you haven't"

Rose Cummings

Rose Cummings, Unknown, Caroline Robert, Marc Jacobs, and Windsor Smith

Christmas Wishes

2011-12-24T10:22:00.000-05:00

The best of all gifts around any Christmas tree: the presence of a happy family all wrapped up in each other. ~Burton Hillis

Merry Christmas Eve friends. The big day is upon us, family will be arriving soon, time to take a rest and enjoy all my little blessings.

We decorated 2 trees this year, one for the children with all our collected ornaments, and one for me with all my decorative ornaments...I call it my bird tree as it somehow turned into that and this year the theme was the peacock. While Tory Burch as seen above and Mary McDonald have peacock tree decor I aspire to, my little colorful birds and colored ribbon will have to do this season.

From my home to yours, Merry Christmas, Happy Holiday!

Checking In

2011-12-22T01:31:00.000-05:00

Happy Holidays everyone, hope your season is merry and bright!
I can hardly believe Christmas and the New Year are upon us. Are you ready or possibly to the point where I am in throwing my hands in the air to surrender?

Sorry for the radio silence on the blog...I have taken a bit of an unintentional hiatus as you may have noticed but I have been lingering around in blog land, not totally absent, just too caught up with life to post something of my own.

While I was away my business has grown, (hence no posting) and I couldn't be more excited! I have amazing clients and have added some fun ones to the mix, 2012 is looking good. With that in mind, I am putting out feelers for a young intern starting in January. If you or anyone you know night be interested message me, let's chat.

It would be next to impossible to catch you up on all the goings on of the last month and believe me there are some stories to tell... promise to post in a more timely manner, no excuses

Call of the Wild

2011-11-11T21:53:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday Friends, what a beautiful, crisp, fall day it is! So sad that I haven't even posted a single time for the month of November, I have been very absent from this blog although it is never far away from my mind. Work has definitely been keeping me busy so that is the positive and my family life has had no shortage of excitement.

We celebrated my son's 5th b-day with Dan the Animal Man and he was absolutely amazing!

If you haven't heard of him, he is worth a look see and I believe he travels. When I booked him I had no idea the guy was an animal celebrity, he has been on Regis & Kelly something like 8 times and flown first class with his animals to entertain George W. Bush. I mean how lucky are we to have him in Raleigh? My little guy was in heaven holding alligators, snakes, lemurs, owls, and a bonus... one giant tortoise.

Next on the agenda was my daughter's 7 year old birthday party where she and 16 of her closest friends took over The Painted Butterfly. They painted peace signs on canvases in little children's art smocks, with child size chairs and tables in a whimsical setting. Nancie Norvell the owner was wonderful and assured me that they were completely fine even though I was about to jump out of my skin because they were so crazy! All in all 2 unique parties and happy children one year older.

So I expressed my animal love in decor, namely the cheetah and it so happens everyone else is loving it this season although in my belief it is truly timeless. My other animal obsession which easily perks up any room whether it be on the floor, wall, or on a chair is a zebra

print. You see a ton of zebra hides gracing the floors of the chicest abodes in magazines and I love using them layered over natural rugs. So it seems that I am not the only one with the love for the zebra and after going through my collection of images there are some pretty amazing spaces with a hint of this animal.

Perch

Wallpaper

Hides

Fabric

Client Updates

I just finished up a conservatory for a client and we found the most amazing Jute rug custom by Stark dyed to look like a zebra print. This rug is probably one of the most beautiful I have ever seen and it makes the space!

Below is the space when I first laid eyes on it...

Here it is today, refreshed, renewed, and ready to entertain!

2 of the chairs were reupholstered and plumped up in this indoor/outdoor.

Another chair covered in a giraffe indoor/outdoor inspired by a recent trip to Africa.

A set of glazed lamps with lucite bases were added in this rich burgundy/wine color.

We added an array of Aubusson pillows to the sofa to keep it up to speed with all the other items that had just been recovered.

This glass coffee table was quite a find and I would love to have one for myself. The 2 ends are glass but the sides are open, very unique.

We are so pleased with the end product and the process of finding all these goodies was such a delight!

Another project that involves a zebra is in phase 2 and we are ready to roll, completion set for the end of November. I have said before I love before and after pictures so here ya go...only if I was only a better photographer.

Before, a 1950's kitchen with wood cabinets that are a little dated...

the breakfast area with wallpaper that has seen its day.

Our focus for the breakfast area, these bamboo chairs found at an antique store, stripped, painted orange, and covered in a zebra print fabric that has been laminated to protect their beauty from sticky, tiny little hands.

Cabinets that have been painted white are a breath of fresh air in this space and this colorful Turkish rug adds a punch of color that ties in the orange from the breakfast area.

The colors in this rug are a theme throughout the home and orange is my client's favorite color! I will keep you updated with pictures when we hang the window treatments, and light over the breakfast table.

Mirror, Mirror, On the Wall

2011-10-19T22:12:00.000-04:00

Happy Day friends, I hope this week is treating you well. A busy one as always here...full speed for a client who we have been working months to prepare her home for a party she is having next weekend. Things are starting to come together, chairs being reupholstered, chandeliers hung, and accessory shopping until I drop!

It is b-day season around here as well with my 2 oldest children having birthdays 2 weeks apart in October and November. I swear every other commercial is can I have that, I want that, really? Me too, including those pajama jeans that seem to pop up pretty frequently...maybe they will help with the bulge that is developing from taking down all the Halloween candy.

The Furniture Market in High Point begins this weekend and while I sometimes dread the thought of going, once I am there it is always a nice inspirational get away. I have quite a few items on the books I am looking for this market so hopefully I will have some luck this fall.

In my world of design antique mirrors are one of those items that I love finding when shopping. The right one can add a certain old world or vintage look to any room. What I love most is not limiting this antique mirror to a small frame but rather a whole wall. I have had this on my wist list for quite some time with a wall in my dining room in mind and I look forward to one day having my own mirror on the wall. There are so many wonderful elements that these mirrors add but the main one being the illusion of space. How fantastic are these images ranging from living spaces to kitchens with walled mirrors? Oh which one is the fairest of them all?

Pinterest, Elle Decor, Lonny, and Elizabeth Bauer

An Evening Away

2011-10-07T11:43:00.000-04:00

Yippity skippity, yes I said that, the weekend is here!

I am so excited to go to bed tonight without packing a lunch and wake up tomorrow at my leisure.

I am not going to lie, it is obvious, getting a post out is hard these days. After sitting down with a life coach this week there is no wonder? Going over my schedule as I am sure with any busy mother, who works, husband travels, and runs the show at home, keeping everything in check is a full time job itself.

She asked me the question, how important is this blog to you? Is this something we can give up to make your life easier? Well no, not exactly...

I am so appreciative everyday of what the blog has done for me that I cannot possibly imagine turning my back from it at this point, it has come so far. I have met amazing people, had opportunities that would not have been presented otherwise, and it has given me a little voice of my own. So to keep it attainable and in perspective without disappointing myself or my lovely readers, for now I am going to post once a week which happens to be what has been going on for sometime, I am just getting real with it myself).

My dedicated day will be Wednesday as of now, and I will hope to bring you something wonderful and inspirational, even if it is just a snake skinned wallpaper that I am dying for!

My family is headed to a friends farm for the afternoon/night to take family pictures. It is such a beautiful place with an old home place surrounded by rustic barns, fields as far as the eye stretches, and lots of special memories.

If I had a farm house which is my other dream besides the "Island Life" I may look to some of these images I have been saving for inspiration.

A room for all the muddy boots

Perhaps a fantastic china cabinet

to house all my blue and white china.

A phenomenal kitchen to have all our friends

over, while admiring my beautiful floors and farm house sink.

A few gorgeous knotty wood doors

leading into my hallway of wild things.

A stairwell to shelve all the memories of fun times.

A claw foot tub to soak

and a country chic room to relax in with amazing bed linens would be divine.

Happy Weekend

Spot on

2011-10-01T13:32:00.000-04:00

Tory Burch

What an amazingly beautiful day here in NC. A little storm came through last night and voila perfection revealed itself in the form of a sunny, crisp, fall day. Although I am a little under the weather of which I am blaming the flu shot not the tasty strawberry infused basil vodka cocktails I had last night celebrating a friend's 40th. My children are at the farmer's market enjoying the day with my sweet husband who is letting me relax, enjoy some alone time, and tend to my blog for which a post is long overdue.

All the animal prints I am seeing around are too much for me, I love in particular a tasteful leopard print. It is timeless, classic, yet fun, it adds that extra oomph to any room. I love to incorporate an animal print in every home I work on. It is also something I work into my wardrobe here and there, really I could go on and on about my somewhat animal addiction!

I have been rocking these Sally Hansen stick on leopard nails for weeks now and I seriously talk about them no less than 5 times a day to friends, strangers, you name it. They are my new fall favorite and I had my girl put shellac over them so they will stay a little longer. I feel like I shouldn't keep this a secret and want to share it with all my dear friends. If you want a touch of animal these go a long way!

Here kitty kitty

Please only rock these on short nails, no claws...

Touches of leopard, I for one want my very own sofa just like Aerin Lauder's, it is really divine against those beautiful walls.

Now on to my fall wist list...I adore these but those wedges would send me to the pavement. Mr. Louboutin can we scale this height down a little for the moms and my poor calves?

Oh Rachel Zoe, your new collection, and new season make me so happy, especially on a day like today.

These are beautiful pillows we used to perk up a client's study, just the perfect touch.

My newest obsession is the antelope rug, it makes such a statement and is gorgeous. Here it is on a roll at Eatman's Carpet and Interiors ready to be custom cut.

This is what the antelope looks like all rolled out in my clients home and it is just magnificent!

Happy Weekend

2011-09-24T00:00:00.000-04:00

Woohoo for the weekend, I am ready to let loose! This week has been incredibly long but a lot of great things have evolved...I am excited for a weekly wrap-up to share all the fun things I have been working on and hope you will find inspiration in them. I know for me the inspiration keeps coming for me...I have been glued to the latest issue of Veranda this week and seen some beautiful pieces around town.

Oh to be a part of Windsor's World which is featured in the pages of October's Veranda magazine, it would be truly be a dream come true. I mean I would been happy to have just bought a ticket to tour the 8,000 sq. ft designer home much less to live the dream of ever being in the realm of the designers that decked its halls, Martyn Lawrence Bullard, Kathy Ireland, and Windsor Smith herself to name a few...it is truly delicious Mr. Bullard.

From the moment I saw the office/study designed by Peter Dunham I was smitten. Here we have 2 of my favorite elements, animal and green, boldly used in this space...amazing!

It just so happens I received this email from a local antiques dealer this week with this image

and my Peter Dunham sample came in...really, who needs a new office area?

Working on a project is so exciting when everything finally starts to come together for a little girls room, stay tuned...

Everyone have a lovely weekend!

Sticker It Up

2011-09-19T23:37:00.000-04:00

So I hope everyone had as lovely a weekend as I did...a little snap of fall weather, no scheduled obligations, and a little flea market therapy. Oh and let's not forget the skinny pumpkin spice latte with light whip, mmm my favorite time of the year for certain.

We all were a little creative around here including my husband and daughter who sewed together their Indian Princess vests. They then added a few patches and selected their tribe names. My daughter, flying peacock, (she came up with this on her own, her mother's daughter for certain) and my husband, growling bear. They then took a small peacock feather we had from a friend's farm cut it down to the eye and sewed it to my daughter's vest. Needless to say I was very impressed...

I am always inspired and encouraged to try something out when I see a creative idea that is whimsical yet chic at the same time. When I ran across the wall designs by artist Payton Cosell Turner featured on Elle Decor, I was completely blown away! The image below is a room with walls designed by Turner, beautiful right? Nice colors, lovely look...

well, it is entirely made out of dime store-stickers. Bananas, shamu, Dorothy, and even big wheels are the part to this whole creation. This 25 year old has made her mark, in a big way, it just so happens to be in the form of stickers and the wallpaper company she founded with her fiance' Flat Vernacular.

Now if I can figure out a way to use this idea to cover the markings my daughter (aka graffiti artist) has made on the walls in her room then all would be good in the world.

Images courtesy of Elle Decor and New York Magazine

Rich and Skinny

2011-09-17T10:39:00.000-04:00

I think I have mentioned here how I love a rainy Saturday morning, sleeping in after a long scheduled week...what could be better?

Well add the whole family cuddle bugging to cartoons while I catch up in the blog world, now that is just almost perfection!

It was such a refreshing day here in NC yesterday. The temperature, low 60's, slightly overcast, and humidity noticeably absent. Welcome back Fall, you have been missed.

This week I have hosted my dear friends trunk show, Fleming Clothing, and she has the chicest prints for your little one. She is now doing trunk shows all over the United States so if you are interested in doing one in your area don't hesitate...there are more fabrics than shown online and the new ones for fall are amazing!

I also attended a fashion show this week, you can see all the looks here. It really inspired me with all the rich colors, textures, and fall trends...it looks like with the forecast we will be able to wear these items sooner than later. I can't wait to pull out my blazer (although on my wist list is the Celine one) with some skinny pants, one of my favorite looks.

So I am off to catch up on the newest House Beautiful which finally looks inspiring but I will leave you with these images of designer Meg Braff's home from a previous issue. The colors, chinoiserie wallpaper, and the wooden chandelier are spot on. It makes me reconsider my whole look.

By the way, if there is anyone out there reading this who knows how to turn my blogger from Spanish back to English, can you please send me an email with instructions?

Little fingers, little hands.

Happy Weekend!

Images courtesy of House Beautiful and Style.com

Photography by Simon Upton

A Girl's Best Friend

2011-09-09T18:39:00.000-04:00

There are few things in this world that make me really ecstatic other than the obvious no brainer, kids, husband, pets, and time with family...the kind of joy that one experiences day in and out.

It so happens that one of my guilty little feel good pleasures is a great pattern or print. No, not the wall kind although they do make me happy, I am speaking of a beautiful print on a fabric, wallpaper, or piece of clothing...it is sometimes enough to make me squeal out loud with delight. I know this may sound silly to some but for those of you, and you know who you are, there is nothing like seeing a divine print for the first time.

It recently came up with a client about using an existing print she has in her home in another room with a different color way? I just have to say, there are too many beautiful ones out there to limit yourself...I want to use them all!

One such print that I have squirreled away for the perfect project is this Orchid wallpaper by

Cole and Son. It is certainly nothing new and has been around but like a fine wine ages with time. I pull it out every now and then as I do this image with the orchid paper in model/actress Molly Sims office by designer Kishani Perera.

What a lovely combo, a gal's personal space with a fabulous paper on the wall, something everyone should have if at all possible.

Other color ways available

The orchid makes a nice background for a collection of black and whites in this San Francisco Designer Showhouse

Another print that is getting some consideration for a project is this chic animal print Sabu by Rose Cumming. It is available in 4 cotton, linen, and outdoor...really what else could you ask for? I am ready to wrap myself up in Sabu and put my party shoes on!

Speaking of party shoes, it is time to put mine on to hit the town this evening with the hubs. Elation is setting in because we are home alone all weekend and fun times are on the horizon.

Check in next week for my pattern of the week and a fun home giveaway.

Hope you all have a good one!

Two for Tuesday

2011-09-06T23:19:00.000-04:00

Hello all my dear friends, hope Labor Day weekend treated you well. I was able to have an end of summer rendezvous at the NC coast while celebrating the wedding of my husband's college roommate. There is definitely something to be said for having a Friday wedding, we still had 3 days of lounging on the beach once the wedding festivities were over. I will say good times were had by all, and that might be an understatement.

I have this collection of twin bed images that I have collected and thought to share today. The last image I just found over on Made By Girl by Texas designer Libbie Grove. If you have a chance check out Libbie's blog to see her step by step process in creating her daughter's adorable space...I especially love the box springs wrapped in fabric, great idea!

Mary Mary Quite Contrary

2011-09-01T09:19:00.000-04:00

Mary Mary, quite contrary

How does your garden grow?

With Silver bells and Cockle shells,

And pretty maids all in a row.

I am always fantasizing about my yard looking like an English garden with luscious beds of flowers rolling with wild abandonment yet tame enough to put a perfect little walk of stones through it or a beautiful paved path like Stella McCartney's above. Although my yard looks nothing like any of these because for some reason my husband keeps missing the memo of my intentions and we live in the city therefore we have very little land to create my Secret Garden.

There is a little cottage style home around the corner that I have always admired from afar with its climbing roses, white picked fence, and charming English look. They seem to have achieved this look in the city. I can't even get my jasmine to properly grow up and around my columns in the front of my home, how will I ever coerce roses to look like the ones on the gorgeous front doors below?

Currently I am also on the hunt for a tiered table to place plants on in my screened in porch area. Last weekend after the storm we spent hours cleaning every rung, mopping the floor, and cleaning up that darn space. I love this image of a collection of pots with greens in varied heights.

While we are at it, in my dream home, I would like a container closet like the Bunny Williams shown below. I mean really how great is this space, linens, containers, all organized? It is just the best!

Vogue, Pinterest, House Beautiful, Eclectic Revisited, and Bunny Williams

Island Chic

2011-08-26T10:06:00.000-04:00

I am back, sorry to be away so long! I promise with school in session there will be some time in my life to dedicate to the blog.

Where to start, earthquakes, broken bones, 1st grade, and now a monster lady looming over the Atlantic named Irene ready to tear some you know what up?! Really what is new in your life?

Living a few hours from the NC coast hurricanes are always an imminent threat during the season. Our coastal communities have been rocked in years past and today in the calm before the storm I am saying a big prayer for all those along the Eastern coast.

8 years ago this September my husband and I dodged a bullet with hurricane Isabel when we were married in Atlantic Beach, NC. It was all such a blur to me, seeing the storm on the radar, having the wedding, thankfully not having to reschedule our honeymoon because the hurricane had already passed through, but while in the French West Indies (St. Barths) of all places there was the Atlantic Beach pier being rocked! Thankfully everyone was okay back home but whew, I bet some bride is having the same crisis about her wedding tomorrow, poor thing.

I just picked up this copy In the Spirit of St. Barth's by Pamela Fiori and have enjoyed flipping through the pages and reminiscing about the time we spent there...oh I would love to go back! Yes, it gets a lot of celebrity hype but we definitely were not there during peak season and its charm was still like no other. It is that place I think of when I imagine giving it all up here and living the island life although my French might need a little work.

This cottage high on a hill above St. Jean Bay, designed by Barry Dixon is not too shabby. What a wonderful view.

Photography by Tria Giovan for Coastal Living

All my friends Happy Friday and Batten down the Hatches!

Dogs Days

2011-08-17T09:55:00.000-04:00

Anyone else feel like these pups? I think I have a case of the summer blahs...is that even possible? After 2 days of client shopping I am feeling a tad frustrated from not finding the perfect pieces and my head is spinning from all the "things" I have seen... or not I should say. Not to mention another day of what are we going to do today, it is only 90 degrees?

Maybe a relaxing weekend away (no kids) or a long pruning soak in the tub might be in order.

Green is good for the soul.

Pinterest and Christina Murphy Interiors

This and That

2011-08-15T09:41:00.000-04:00

Happy Weekend my friends, the days are so long, and years are becoming shorter. Where does the time go?

My practically brand new MacBook is driving me bananas this week, maybe I have too many images saved, and an imminent crash is near... wouldn't surprise me. Time to take it to the Genius Bar for some tlc and some understanding as to why I am unable to get out a post to my peeps in decent time.

We just returned from a weekend at the Chesapeake Bay of VA. I was hoping to score a few finds and gather some inspiration in my travels and I feel somewhat successful. I just love that area, full of history, charm, and tranquility.

Here are some random goings on that are on my platter keeping me busy and turning my wheels. What has you busy or should I say keeping you sane these last weeks of summer? Would love to hear!

First of all I wanted to share the new man in my life, well he is not really new but I have brought him out of hiding and given him a new head of hair, even my husband likes him, so all in all a win for the Mr. in the house.

Isn't he stunning? Ferns do him justice.

Caroline of Perch in NOLA has her own Mr. too and he looks lovely with lavender...

it seems has she has many of them and don't even get me started with the degree of envy I am feeling about the antelope rug she has too. Some women they have it all!

A new project involving these 2 lovely prints. I just can't get enough of Katie Ridder and am eagerly anticipating the release of her first book.

Elle Decor

The window treatments were installed in my project we have been working on and it is so exciting to see everything come together...the evolution of a home. Unfortunately I took pictures and the chevron ones did not come out like I hoped but the eggplant dining room turned out so here out some snaps.

The green really pops against the eggplant walls and makes the space. It is divine...

I am off to shop with a client today, who doesn't love shopping on a Monday, and to work on flowers for a friends small intimate wedding on a farm Friday...beyond ecstatic about this! Looking for inspiration and it just so happens another stylish Brit was married recently and her flowers are sweet, simple and might be just perfect for the setting.

Happy Monday all!

Mario Testino for Vogue

2011-08-07T10:48:00.001-04:00

Hello rainy Saturday morning where have you been all summer? It was so nice to lie in bed this morning and listen to the sounds of thunder and rain while fading in and out of my sleepy slumber.

I have had a rather eventful week involving a little work and a whole lot of fun!

Mid-week we surprised my 6 year old daughter with tickets to see Selena Gomez in concert. She was beyond thrilled and relished the idea that she was an only child even if for only 24 hours. Our road trip took us to the Queen City, Charlotte, NC which included her losing a big front tooth, a much anticipated stop at Ikea, and a few wrong turns. All in all one for the books.

Before I left Charlotte we popped into women's clothing boutique Capitol for a design fix. Yes it is gorgeous women's clothing but the interior is amazing and it along with owner Laura Vinroot Poole have been featured in several publications. It so happens that Charlottean interior designer Barrie Benson helped Poole with Capitol as well as her home which was featured in an issue of Domino Magazine back in the day. A month or two after Poole's home was featured, Barrie Benson popped up on the cover too with a glimpse into her mid-century ranch style home.

I have had a design crush since that time and have been unable to find anything about Mrs. Benson. Although I was pleasantly surprised to find her in this month's Garden and Gun magazine (that I picked up at Barnes and Nobles right before we went into Capitol) in an article with other lovely women as "Redefining the Southern Belle"...strange how things like that happen.

Great inspiration all around. Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend...enjoy!

Capitol

Style.com, The Beauty-full Life, and The NY Times

Laura Vinroot Poole's home

Domino Magazine

Barrie Benson's home

Domino Magazine

Charlotte home by Benson

Charlotte Home and Garden

Photography by Chris Edwards

Fresh Flowers for your Day

2011-08-01T08:34:00.000-04:00

Good morning, Monday is off to a good start. I finally feel back in my groove, recharged and ready to go. I picked up these beautiful purple roses last week at the wholesaler, appropriately named Ocean Breeze. In my blue porcelain pot these are my 2 favorite things in my home right now. Fresh flowers can brighten any day and home so if you have some in your yard bring them inside or pick some up at the market, it will make your week special!

I always love shades of purple but lately I just can't get enough, with accents of orange it is so fresh, and earth tones make it mature.

Images unknown, Madeline Weinrib rug, Katie Ridder, and Angie Hranowsky

More Paint on the Floor Please

2011-07-29T23:59:00.002-04:00

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Well here we are Friday already, where do the days go? I can tell you it is not so fun playing catch up from being away on a relaxing vacation. My daughter has been at a Spanish camp this week and it started at 8:00 each day, hello reality and early mornings again. I came back committed to posting on the blog a few times a week but barely have had time to look at my blogger dashboard..I know, can I get some cheese with that wine, don't even get me started about the sweltering 102 degree heat!

On the other hand I was able to catch up with a few of my clients, make some head way on my website, and even the ole office got a good cleaning.

I have been contemplating painting the floor of my screened in porch but I just can't decide if solid or pattern is the way to go for that space. After watching Mary McDonald on this season's Million Dollar Decorators I have been inspired to go a little more bold in my flooring options. Mary's signature look is glamour but she is also known for her bold use of pattern on the floor as shown in the images above and below. In my collection there seems to be more paint on the floor in kitchens and a color favorite, green, excellent choice.

Mary McDonald, Elle Decor, Miles Redd, Windsor Smith, Coastal Living, and Tory Burch

Before and After

I thought I would share a few photos of a project I am working on. This project is phase 2, we are moving right along and marking off our list. It is amazing how much fresh paint livens up any space! I can't wait to show you the finished work it is so exciting when a plan comes together.

Before a 1960's living room in need of a little TLC.

After, a fresh coat of paint, beautiful seagrass rug with zebra hide overlay. 2 gorgeous purple ikat pillows that were made from a custom shower curtain in her previous home. Next week we will be hanging the stunning chocolate chevron panels that I just picked up...can you get the picture?

So chic

Before, a severely outdated dining room adjacent to the living room, love a challenge.

After, luscious eggplant with the most magnificent light fixture! Reminds me of Ruthie Sommers' dining room light...can't you just imagine beautiful gold up there too?

Ruthie Sommers dining room as seen in House Beautiful

The foyer which my camera does not even hardly do justice is hand painted by local artists Klutz Thompson Designs. A few years ago when we were working on another home I showed my client the below image from wallpaper company Fromental. She stuck it in her idea folder and when planning for this home came about, the look was perfect for the foyer.

The bamboo stalks, hydrangea, lemon tree, birds, and butterflies are lively, colorful, and help bring together all the colors she is using throughout her home.

Fromental Chinoiserie Wallpaper

I am really looking forward to updating you on the progress of this beautiful home.

Island Life

2011-07-25T23:06:00.000-04:00

Good day friends and happy Monday to you!

It has only been a little over 2 weeks since my last post but it seems like eternity...I suppose when you start documenting parts of your life on a blog it helps to remind you each day what it is that exactly you do.

Now what have I been doing the last couple of weeks?

Well, I am not entirely sure and I didn't intend to take such a long break but after a weekend at the beach I returned home and felt like my family and home needed a little extra TLC. So I put away my computer, wrapped up the work week, packed the family, and headed back east for a nice, long, much needed vacation. It was wonderful visiting with out of town friends we hadn't seen in quite some time, relaxing, swimming, and eating... a lot!

Any time I spend an extended amount of time at the coast with my kids I pledge my allegiance to moving to some small Caribbean island where the boys can run around with their shirts off, shoes are only for special occasions, the water is a crystal color of bluish green, and everyone is on island time. I tell myself it seems just dreamy but I suppose the grass is always greener. Maybe one day that dream will become reality, who knows?

India Hicks, British model, designer, author, hotel owner, and daughter of famed designer David Hicks is the quintessential island "it" girl for me. In fact I turn a split pea soup shade of green when I see images of the impeccable colonial plantation style home, Hibiscus Hill she shares with her husband David Flint Wood and 4 children in the Bahamas. India has a worldly, chic, yet relaxed style and the use of white with rich woods, is absolutely delicious...yes too much Million Dollar Decorators and Martyn Lawrence Bullard.

So for now I will keep island dreaming and continue to be inspired by India from afar.

Weekend Away

2011-07-08T12:20:00.000-04:00

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Finally Friday and thank goodness for a weekend at the beach with the family! I am hoping for a little ocean breeze to cool me down...it feels as if my face is melting off every time I walk outside.

Hope you all have a lovely one!

Country Living

2011-07-07T23:42:00.000-04:00

Well hello there, I honestly cannot believe it is already Friday eve again. My family has been on a bit of a stay-cation this week, as my husband likes to call it... a vacation at home. It has been rather enjoyable although I cannot wait for the real deal!

I can't let the week get away without posting some shots I took last weekend at a friend's farm for their son's birthday party...it has given me inspiration this week.

I fell in love with Sarah and Craven Bridger's slice of heaven just outside of town and have been daydreaming since about my own green acres. Together they have created a whimsical abode capable of keeping you entertained for hours on end. A pond to fish in, gator to get you there, chickens to chase, vegetables to eat, pretty flowers to pick, and plenty of beautiful places to relax...hmm, what else do you need? I am realizing more and more everyday not much else. Thank you Bridgers for sharing!

Let Freedom Ring

2011-07-04T11:01:00.000-04:00

Happy July 4th all, enjoy your Independence and your Day!

Images courtesy of Pinterest, Bippity Boppity Boo, Martha Stewart, and Anthropologie

Stripes for You

2011-07-03T22:40:00.000-04:00

A star is full of whimsy but a stripe precise with such exact definition. I have embraced stripes in fashion but have been a tad hesitant on the interiors forefront. Why is that? I can't say for sure except that I have never been one to walk the line although all of these images are encouraging me to go bold with a stripe or 2...

Star light

2011-07-02T23:48:00.000-04:00

Star light, star bright

First star I see tonight,

I wish I may, I wish I might,

Have the wish I wish tonight.

Happy Independence weekend all, what a fun holiday to celebrate. We stayed in town this 4th weekend and I must say I was a little down about not traveling to the beach this year. Although this evening I have a quite different perspective after a fun day of bike riding, followed by a fun farm party with good friends, and more festivities to follow...technically tomorrow is Saturday all over again, yay!

Stars and stripes are the theme of the days to come and who doesn't love either? It is a toss up for me, I adore both. So today we have whimsical stars and tomorrow we will see chic stripes...together in regal red, white, and blue they signify our Independence.

Moravian Star

Images courtesy of Pink Wallpaper, The Estate of Things, Domino, Betsy Burnham, Decor Pad, Osborne and Little, and House Beautiful

Chic in the Heat

2011-06-29T09:04:00.001-04:00

Some of my all time favorite images are from famed photographer Slim Aarons. His way of "photographing attractive people doing attractive things in attractive places" really appeals to my senses. I love how everyone looks so refreshed and chic while relaxing by the pool or lounging seaside.

I showed my husband the image above of the car in the water and got good chuckle because it looks so much like our family and reminds me of 4th of July last year being stuck in the sound...if only I would have had an umbrella although I can guarantee we didn't nearly look this cool.

You can see more and purchase Aarons images here.

They look amazing in a large scale image for your home like the one featured over the mantle in Lonny.

Stay Cool...

Backyard Bash

2011-06-27T23:09:00.000-04:00

Hello my dears, I hope you had a lovely weekend and were able to do something you enjoyed. I for one did and in my last post mentioned my little guy's 2nd birthday, our trip to the beach, and the party we were looking forward to celebrating over the weekend. Thankfully all went well, the party was a success, and I have some great memories for the book.

I can't resist sharing a few pictures from the fun afternoon which included a Monster Backyard Bash theme, a rootsy children's band, cupcakes in ice cream cones my mother made, and some of my favorite people...I love a good party!

It all started with this little invitation I found on Etsy at Party Box Design. Cute,

inexpensive, and they even sprinkled a little glitter on top.

The birthday boy just waking from his nap to see all that was created while he was in la la land.

The Sandbox Band was a huge hit for everyone, I love Skip to my Lou and they played it twice per my request.

I love this picture and that sweet little face, the one to the left too, that is my daughter.

Look at that little posse of 2 year olds, wonder what this picture will look like in 16 years...

Some of my favorite girls.

I love you little man to the moon and back

Surf's Up

2011-06-24T23:54:00.000-04:00

The weekend is here and it couldn't have been a better week so here is to carrying on with the fun ...

My baby boy, the last of my 3 children as in there will be no more babies, turned 2 on Wednesday! He is such a sweet little guy with white blonde hair, a predisposition to danger ( should have been his middle name) and he truly makes me laugh out loud everyday. We had a little family celebration on his special day but tomorrow we having friends and family over to whoop it up for the little man. I am a firm believer in celebrating your birthday for weeks, it is your 1 special day! I will do a special Sunday post for my sweet Gray and his Backyard Bash.

To start our weekend early, the children and I received a special invitation to visit a friend with her children at the beach last night and it was the perfect getaway. The weather was perfect, breezy, and beautiful! Ahhh sweet summer.

My trip made me start thinking about beach interiors, coastal living, and my desire to learn paddle boarding.

I would really love to be a cool surfer chic but let's face it that won't be happening in this lifetime so paddle boarding seems like an excellent alternative. The only thing I might be doing with a surfboard is using it to decorate my dream beach house or possibly a client's. I love these images and the dual function the surfboard serves in them...catching waves and home decor.

Happy Weekend my dear friends, enjoy!

Okay I just have to throw this one in here, no home decor just inspiration...

Images courtesy of Pinterest, Inspire Me, Design Manifest, Coastal Living, House Beautiful

Juju Make Me Happy

2011-06-20T15:29:00.000-04:00

Table Tonic

Good afternoon friends, I hope the weekend treated you well.

We had a lovely one here celebrating my mother's birthday and Father's Day. I decided last week to do something that would make my whole family happy in honor of the occasion...camping! For those that know me, especially my husband, I don't camp, so this was a special treat for Father's Day. I will say there is a little hitch to this adventure seeing it was 97 degrees on Saturday, a pop up air conditioned tent. All in all the State park was beautiful, lake refreshing, and camping very relaxing. Glad we did it, score one for mom.

These Juju Hats make me so happy and I would love to have one. Even though they have become a bit trendy I believe they will outlast the fad and be a piece to cherish forever.

Go here for a little Juju background.

Although I am not sure which color I would choose?

Elle Decor, Odi et Amo, Kronbali

In other happy thoughts for Monday, remember the awesome blue chandelier?

Well, combined with this rug from West Elm...

equals this awesome fitting room for trying on clothes

in this super chic Store.

I adore this F Schumacher fabric we used to cover the banquet/ love seat.

Bohemian Rhapsody in Cinnabar

Happy Monday Everyone!

"If we'd stop trying to be happy we'd have a pretty good time."

Edith Wharton

Kitchen Made

2011-06-15T11:07:00.001-04:00

What a splendid week I am having! The cooler temperatures make everyone happy around here.

It is our first real week of summer vacation with all 3 at home and I have already sent my 4 1/2 year old back to a 3 day summer session today. He did jump with excitement knowing that a few favorite friends would be there but the little guy would lay around in his pj's all day watching Power Rangers if I didn't set up some kind of organized activity for him...maybe that goes for me too, Bravo all day long in my pj's, sounding good right now.

I am doing a light cleanse this week, not the Gwyneth Paltrow Clean Detox but more of a 7 day rejuvenating GNC chocked full of goodies, liquid cleanse. GP's detox has more willpower than I will ever have...repeat ever!

Hence this cleanse is making me feel wonderful, kind of like a domestic diva in the kitchen that has been a little dormant for the past couple of months. My husband and I are always cooking, preparing wonderful food for our family and friends but I have been feeling a little blah in the preparation department. I have scoured the the online recipes, pulled out my favorite cook books, and renewed my vow for healthy living this week.

While I think it is so important to eat healthy and serve delicious meals to your family. I also think it is of the upmost importance to sit down together at the end of the day and enjoy that time together. Here are some fantastic kitchen breakfast areas that have been in my favorite files. I hope you enjoy them too!

Birds of a Feather

2011-06-11T12:30:00.003-04:00

Brenda Higginson

Hello friends, it is a beautiful hot Saturday morning here in NC and I am doing everything possible today to stay indoors. I spent 3 hours yesterday afternoon at the pool with the kiddos for my daughter's last day of kindergarten and the heat left me with a huge headache and put me in bed by 8:00 last night. On the flip side I feel rejuvenated today and ready to tackle all my projects...if I could tear myself away from the DVR of Thursday's Real Housewives of NY, geez ladies!

A mother bird built a nest, then laid eggs 5 tiny eggs in it underneath our covered porch in one of our lanterns some time ago. For weeks we have watched as she made many trips, brought items from all over to make a new home for her little babies, and she sat in her nest along while we played outside never seeming to be bothered. This morning while having coffee I heard a little cry coming from the area and lo and behold the eggs had hatched and a little baby bird was crying out for it's mother.

Such the sweetest moment to see a new life with a little beak looking for food very much like our babies do when they are born. It has just made my day and warms my heart that this mommy bird chose our home to to start her new family.

Happy weekend everyone!

Richard Sexton

Thoughts for Today

2011-06-07T23:59:00.001-04:00

Source

Wow, it is hot out today!

Not that it hasn't been for the past few weeks or won't be for the next couple of months but really, 96 on June 7th is too much. We are in for a loong stifling summer, what is a gal to do?

Well, if I had a super swanky pool like the one in the image above... I can assure you friends I would be happy as a clam, swimming like a dolphin (mermaid) and performing tricks for all of you!

In the meantime I will have to settle for my plastic pool from Wal-Mart and the tricks my children never cease to amaze me with, hence the helmets...safety first!

I have been out and about the last couple of days, seen a few treasures, ordered some lovelies for clients, and came across a few delicious finds. It is only appropriate for me to share all my splendid goodies with you.

Lovelies I have ordered

Yes turquoise chandelier I adore you and am so glad I have found you a home!

Regal and sophisticated, just perfect for a guest bedroom fit for a king.

Currey and Company

This handmade beauty is too much for me, glitter antlers with lashes as sweet as the baby girl it is for, mi amore!

Tamar Mogendorff

Treasures around town

Uuum yes, a great adorable side table...less than $50

Steal

This guy is awesome, a wooden carved turtle, unique, statement piece, and needs a home.

Bargain!

Dropped by the local J Crew and fell in like with this for my little love...every girl needs a caftan of sorts.

Delicacies from the web

How awesome are these prints from Etsy and yes they even have little ole Raleigh, NC. What a great gift.

My friend Kristen over at Summer in Newport dished in a recent post on the recent availability to purchase illustrator Caitlin McGauley's chic prints. The signed limited edition illustrations in Giclee on watercolor paper are gorgeous and I for one would love to have one. You may recognize Caitlin's work from Lonny magazine's blog feature Watercolor Wednesdays

The most exciting news I have to share with you and Beth I apologize for not posting this sooner...

The design artist team of Beth and Chris Van Collier from NC, my Friday Feature with Van Collier have been featured on Vivre and their extraordinary pieces are available for purchase.

Congratulations Beth and Chris, your story and talent is so inspirational, thank you!

To see their story and available items on Vivre click Here

The Ginkgo Collection

Refreshing Friday

2011-06-03T22:55:00.000-04:00

Happy Friday my dear friends, I do hope this week has treated you well!

I am officially ready for the weekend and summer break. Packing lunches, which is down to 1 a day, and having my kindergartner to school every morning by 8 while the other 2 are woken from blissful dreams is starting to wear on the family. In my household we do enjoy our pajama time, not much about planning, and I for one love to fly by the seat of my pants...this is how we roll.

I thought I would sign off this week with a chic pool house that I have had dog-eared in my April issue of Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles by designer Phoebe Howard.

Such a charming space and exterior...I just want to put some icing on it with gum drops, a perfect life size ginger bread house!

Gorgeous window treatments in F Schumacher's Chenonceau, natural wood accents like the fabulous light fixture and beams make this another retreat I could seriously spend some time in having a little r&r.

Happy Weekend, hope it is wonderful!

Photos Courtesy of Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles

Relaxing Retreat

2011-06-01T23:11:00.000-04:00

I am back from a relaxing weekend retreat to a friend's lake home with my family and boy did I need it! One morning I actually slept until 10:00 am and I honestly can say when I came out of my coma I felt like I had slept the day away but man sleep does the body good.

There are not enough wonderful things for me to say about the couple that hosted us this past weekend...their generous hospitality, fun loving personalties, mad cooking skills, but namely their unique laid back style in interiors always leaves an impression on me. Betsy and David Hooper live in Burlington, NC and a few years ago purchased a 2nd home on Lake Hyco in NC. When I say 2nd home I mean (respectfully) a cozy little 2 bedroom shack on the water with some much needed TLC. Flash forward a few years with Betsy's artistic influence, David at the helm of construction , a vision, and voila a peaceful family retreat.

Betsy's parents, Don and Shelley Marlowe since retirement have relocated from Georgia to the lake house and have incorporated a dynamic touch to the interior with their belongings as well.

Don Marlowe is a charismatic artist with a former career in carpet design and consulting. Don references a favorite artist when he refers to his love of watercolors saying "they like to misbehave and this makes it exhilarating and exasperating." Many of Marlowe's watercolors are landscapes which "have a spirit of their own" and also attribute to his passion for art. I do always look forward to visiting the Hooper's because their vast art collection and I am constantly in awe of the talent shared by Betsy and her father.

All in all a relaxing weekend surrounded by artistic beauty and design inspiration. I will look forward to my next visit, thank you!

Sunroom/Dining Area which was originally a covered porch.

I adore the floor with the rugs. So easy to keep clean when you have a crowd or when the mud gets tramped inside.

A large work of art by Don created in the 70's.

Some of my favorite artists and what great reading material as well as decoration.

Isn't the piece of furniture magnificent?!

A long view of the family room, kitchen with terra cotta floors. This part of the house was original but has been updated

The beloved bunk room, bunks painted in BM's Hale Navy.

The ladder built between the 2 beds is safe and sturdy, always my concern when bunking.

The guest room we stayed in which was oh so cozy and please take a look at those coral sconces...

Here is a closer look. Betsy made them herself and yes I am after her to make some more, for me! Details, details, these really make the space.

Honeycomb terra cotta and portrait art on the wall by Don Marlowe.

The master bedroom addition is simply serene overlooking the lake. The wall above the bed is full of empty hooks once occupied by Don's art work now on exhibit at the Kirby Gallery in Historic Uptown Roxboro.

The master bath addition.

I love how they used a gallery of mirrors instead of the standard 2 mirrors over the sink.

A second floor guest room with my favorite color of green. The oversized monogram on simple white shams looks great.

The outdoor fire pit, perfect for roasting marshmallows or a chilly fall evening.

Don Marlowe's work is currently on exhibit in Roxboro, NC at the Kirby Gallery for you locals and for more information or to purchase please contact www.donrmarlowe@yahoo.com

Lowcountry

The Orchid

The Rooster on Paros

Sea Island Golf Course

Lake Time

2011-05-27T17:22:00.000-04:00

Happy Friday and holiday weekend my friends! After a fun couple of days hosting the Rikshaw Design trunk show with girlfriend (the stuff is seriously so cute) and a few tasty sangria's, I am off to meet my family for the weekend at the lake. Seriously who could ask for a more relaxing, fun holiday than being with great friends, family, and relaxing by the water! Say no more, I am off.

Enjoy

Images courtesy of Pinterest and Tumblr

Take Me Away

2011-05-23T21:38:00.000-04:00

Take me away or find me a copper tub... I am home alone this week with the 3 kids while the Mr. is away and things around here are already off to a pleasant start, the baby has croup. Sure enough, my husband pulled out of the driveway and that baby started barking like a seal, par for the course when I am solo.

Although, I am getting ready to host a Boho trunk show for Rikshaw Design and couldn't be more thrilled! If you haven't checked out the hand block-printed designs by Catherine Fitzsimmons then you are certainly missing out. The line includes yummy bedding, tunics, for momma and baby in the softest cotton voile. If you are in my area stop by on Thursday evening 7-9 or Friday from 10-4 and if not go Here to see the collection.

Here are some more fabulous tubs that I could spend some time in. I can imagine my skin beginning to shrivel up from having a long evening soak in one of these.

Have a lovely evening friends.

Images Courtesy of Source Unknown, Lonny, Design Manifest, and Christina Murphy Interiors

Sweet Serenity

2011-05-18T23:57:00.000-04:00

My family had such a lovely evening tonight...gorgeous weather and a relaxing dinner outside, Spring and Fall nights are my favorite. With our busy lives it is easy to get wrapped up, missing out on these little occasions that I for one so desperately need. Sometimes it is nice to just take a time-out, sit in the grass, glass of wine in hand, and live in the moment.

I realize I have all I want and need.

This time of year I savor every second outside before the summer heat, humidity, and insects of the South take over. These images are some of my favorite with their serene simplistic beauty. A little inspiration to possibly start planning a dinner party?

Images courtesy of Elle Decor, Lonny, Inspire Bohemia

Details

2011-05-13T17:04:00.000-04:00

Hello my friends, happy day to you and thank goodness for Friday! It has been a looong week but great one at that. My blogger has been down the last day or two, so I have been out of the loop and will have to catch up on all the latest buzz over the weekend. I am also looking forward to flipping through the pages of the newest issue of Lonny Mag...so much to do so little time.

I am very much looking forward to hitting the town tonight with the girls to celebrate a special friend's birthday!

I have been working on my portfolio and am in the process of actually doing something with my website...other than having a holding page which has been there for a year or so. I mean really Rome wasn't built in a day so like I tell my clients these things don't happen instantly they take time, right?

My friend, colleague, Marie of Phreckles Photography was so so wonderful this week when I needed photos in a jiffy and came to my rescue, thank you, thank you!

She did some shots of my home so I thought I would share a few with you. I am really into detail oriented photos and always enjoy seeing them on other blogs and publications.

Hope you enjoy, I am off to paint the town...

Photos by Marie Cox of Phreckles Photography for Elizabeth Goodwin Interiors

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T07:00:00.004-04:00

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Happy Day all my dears and Happy Mother's Day to all you mothers and the most stylish special, talented, fun-loving, and inspiring women in my life...I love you!

Motherhood is by far the most rewarding experience and I am so thankful everyday for the oppurtunity to have these little miracles, to help guide them and find their own unique ways in this world...what a unbelievable experience as well as blessing!

I am at the coast this weekend enjoying beautiful weather, feet in the sand with family and my own lovely mother who is the best mom and nana in the world.

I have been reflecting on our past (with my mother), thinking about her sacrifices for me, and the challenges we faced. Believe you me being a single mom, living with a temperamental child like myself, whew!

It is so remarkable to see where we are today and the full circle of life. I cannot thank you enough for taking that leap of faith as a young 18 year old girl. My life is fulfilled, happy, I can only hope to measure up to my mother with her unconditional love and that my children will love me as dearly as I do her.

Enjoy your day!

The 5th of May

2011-05-05T06:41:00.000-04:00

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Buenos Dias my friends and Happy Cinco de Mayo. My daughter goes to a Spanish magnet school and one of my favorite things is walking her to school in the morning where everyone greets us with Buenos Dias, love it! I also love any excuse to down a margarita and have some chips with guacamole...maybe queso too.

I have been crazy busy this week helping a client spruce up her gorgeous home for a party she is hosting tomorrow evening and this evening we are planning all the outdoor decor for the party. Fingers crossed for beautiful weather because we have beautiful rugs we are rolling out to create an outdoor living area with a nod to eastern decor. I will try to snap a few pictures to share with you on my next post.

Enjoy your day, Hasta luego!

The Sweetest Occasion

Monday, Monday

2011-05-02T07:25:00.000-04:00

Happy Monday all, welcome to the week! I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend, it was a beautiful one here.

I am working in my office this morning and doing all the things I dislike at the first of the month, bills, invoicing, and cleaning up...no bueno.

These offices give me a little inspiration for my own and they all seem to be so clean?

Images courtesy of Vogue, Angie Hranowsy, Kim Ayers, Molly Luetkemeyer, and Racel Zoe

The Princess Bride

2011-04-29T10:17:00.000-04:00

Just breathtaking, a moment in time to be remembered for a lifetime! Finally, the gown by designer Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, absolute perfection. As I sit here this morning having my coffee and scone I can't shake the chill bumps of this momentous occasion. Happy Friday everyone, that is all I am going to say about that, next week back to regular scheduled blogging!

London Calling

2011-04-29T00:13:00.001-04:00

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Hello my dears I hope all of you are well and having a marvelous week! It is Thursday evening and I am awake much later than I anticipated seeing as my plan is to wake early in the morning for all the Royal Wedding festivities.

Whether you are over it, have no idea what I am talking about, or bursting at the seams with excitement (like myself) you have to admit it will be a truly spectacular occasion. Somewhat of a welcome distraction from the world's problems, if only for a few hours.

I will say the dress speculation, comparisons to the late Princess Di, and baby talk are a little much...really, let the bride have her day.

So for all the enthusiasts I have found a few little odds and ends of interest to share with you. I didn't have enough time to prepare a history lesson but there are several posts out there with some fantastic information. The first being This is Glamorous with a background on Royal tiaras...which one will she wear, if any?

If you would like a little piece of history and didn't receive an invitation, why not indulge yourself in your very own letterpress commemorative print from Etsy.

Didn't we just celebrate Earth Day? I know my daughter's school is doing everything this week to help out mother Earth and this might be a tote that would be adorable going to Whole Foods...not sure how the other shoppers there would feel about it?

You can find this and other British accessories at Decorative Things.

Move over Barbie there is a new princess in town and you can grab a mini Limited Edition Princess Catherine Here

Fancy Kate's Fascinators (that is fancy for hats)?

Check out a recent post over on Highstreet Market to see more beauties and where to purchase them. I wish I would planned more appropriately, one of these would be darling while watching in my living room.

Okay friends, that is all the fun I have for this evening. It is time to get some shut eye.

I would love to hear from any of you tomorrow and hear your favorites!

If you want a Royal insider and are on Twitter follow India Hicks at IndiahicksStyle.

For a little background on India, she was one of Princess Diana's bridesmaids and second cousin to Prince Charles, visit Habitually Chic.

Lonny

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T15:48:00.001-04:00

Tamar Mogendorff

Hello chickadees and Happy Easter to all!

It is a gorgeous day here in NC and I just thought I would share a few pictures of my holiday table with you for a small family lunch today. Really simple, decorated with help from my daughter, and last minute, seeing as we just returned home late Friday evening from our week long vacation. My tulips were smiling so beautifully this morning for me that I couldn't resist taking their picture.

The theme of our table is edible...you can eat everything including the grass, eggs, and M and M's.

Enjoy your day!