hamptontoes

NYIGF

2012-02-02T02:13:00.000-05:00

Here is your tour of the New York International Gift Fair...

Merben International had a colorful line-up of mohair throws with "rescued" pieces of yarn for the fringe. How wonderful that instead of tossing excess yarn pieces they've added them to the mohair for a playful looking throw.

Oh how I would love to see this lighting fixture from Oly in a beach home!

This monogrammed dining chair by Tara Shaw Maison was stunning! I would love to use it for a ladies desk/writing area. The monogram on the center medallion makes it extra special.

The faux florals by Diane James Home are for clients with a discerning eye. They are beautiful and will have your guests thinking you've got the best "green thumb!"

Dunes and Duchess was bursting with color and beauty! The sconces, candlelabras and lamps are the perfect "wow" piece!

This chair by Design Legacy (shown in two different colorways and bases) would make for striking host and hostess chairs or an area where you need a comfortable statement chair.

Worlds Away is one of my favorite sources for chic offerings for the home. This new marble top table is striking!

I am smitten with Ro Sham Beaux! I am now itching to use some of their fabulous lighting fixtures in my work.

I blogged about Tritter Feefer here in my all American post for Tobi Fairley...love this vendor! They added several new items to their line-up that had me taking a second look.

The Lizzy Deux

The Greta Desk

The Lido (the top table)

Sea Island

I hope you have enjoyed your "visit" to the NYIGF. Happy Thursday!

A simple wallpapering tip

2012-01-25T09:59:00.003-05:00

When hanging anything on top of wallpaper, I recommend you don't put the the nail through the wallpaper. You will create a small whole in the wallcovering that can not be fixed or hidden in the event you want to move the artwork or frame. Instead, using a utility knife, cut a small upside down V, pull the wallcovering back gently and then put the nail through the drywall.

If you ever wanted to move your hanging you could just dab a little wallpaper paste on the drywall (V area) and pull up the wallcovering to make it whole again. This works well if you are "fixing" an area where you had one or two frames, the repair will usually go unnoticed. A simple tip that works like a charm!

Another closet transformation

2012-01-23T11:34:00.001-05:00

Over the weekend I completed the closet transformation in my five year old daughter's bedroom.

Here's a transition photo, notice the difference between the area I applied wallpaper and the areas that had yet to be done?

I keep walking into her room and looking at her closet. She asked me "Mom, what do you keep looking for in my closet?" Oh, nothing dear, I just wished my closet looked this good. I'm itching to do my closet now!

The little hooks on this sliding piece are meant for belts and ties...we are using them for her necklaces.

Do you believe that an organized closet makes for a happiness?

Here's the skinny

2012-01-13T10:41:00.010-05:00

Switching gears when it comes to careers takes guts. Even more guts when you are thinking of starting a family. It isn't easy to walk away from something comfortable and pursue the unknown, even if it is your calling. Yet in 2005 that is exactly what I did. Why? Because I believed in myself.

I landed a coveted internship with one of the greatest, Bunny Williams and worked hard, very hard. Going to Bunny's office every morning was a dream to me. I was eager to learn and willing to listen.

In 2007 (while home with my firstborn) I got a call from one of Bunny Williams former proteges, Todd Gribben. Todd spent a decade with Bunny and was now branching out on his own. He thought I had a great eye and offered me part-time work as his design assistant. I jumped at the opportunity. Besides his own design firm, he owns Gris - an antique shop , he's part of 1st Dibs and was a tastemaster on One Kings Lane. Class act and very talented.

After my stint with Todd, I formed my own corporation and branched out on my own. I have been mindful to build my business slowly, but steadily with quality work. I have been determined to balance motherhood with working, even if limiting projects up until now. Being a doting mother is important to me, and so is following my passion.

Why all of the sharing? Traditional Home is asking bloggers to nominate the next top 10 New Trad designers! Nominating yourself is not an option, so I'm asking my blogging friends...who wants to see images of my work (that aren't on my blog) and if you think I'm worthy, nominate me? I'm ready...are you ready to be a guest editor at Trad Home if we are both chosen?

Image property of Trad Home, with permission it's shared.

I'm putting myself out there. I'm okay with taking chances. I support whomever is picked as the the new Trad Home designers, good design is good design...whether mine or some elses. Good luck to everyone who nominates and is nominated!

Happy Friday!

Is there a grandparent trend?

2012-01-09T06:30:00.005-05:00

Nowadays, little ones are getting their own special spaces and toys when visiting grandma and grandpa.

Here I blogged about grandparents who created a stylish bedroom for their two grandsons. The same set of grandparents created this pirate ship for their grandsons in their backyard! The grandfather designed and created this impressive backyard toy with his own two hands. Wow!

I'm currently working on a bedroom for two little granddaugthers. The grandparents ordered this headboard and toybox before contacting me to assist on the project.

Do you think there is a grandparent trend? Are you a grandparent who is creating spaces in your home for the grandchildren? Are you a parent who has seen your parents or in-laws transform spaces for your children?

Swinging into the new year

2012-01-03T00:08:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year! I hope your 2012 is filled with great health and much happiness!

I find interior swings especially charming when incorporated into children's spaces. Since this room isn't in a full-time residence I was able to push boundaries and do something truly fun that I wouldn't typically design for a day to day space. Weekend whimsical.

Swing: the Home Port Collection (to the trade)

Rug: Pottery Barn

Dresser: custom

The key with swings in spaces for kids is to not hang them where they can become a "swing," but rather closer to a wall where they become a fun place for a kid to hang out and read a book or play with a small toy. I had this one professionally hung into the ceiling beams about ten inches from the wall.

Have you used swings in interior spaces?

Merry Christmas & Happy Hanukkah

2011-12-25T00:10:00.000-05:00

Whether you are celebrating Christmas or lighting the menorah (or doing both), I hope your day is filled with much love, much happiness and many magical moments.

Leaving milk and a cookie for Santa, carrots for the reindeer and a gingerbread train for the Elves was exciting for my five year old daugther and three year old son...

Seeing the note my daughter wrote to Santa was magical for her, and me.

This blog has been a wonderful gift in my life, thank you for being a part of Hamptontoes by reading my blog, stopping by for a visit, leaving comments, sending e-mails...all of it, I love! Happy holiday!

Looks like wedding cake

2011-12-20T08:07:00.002-05:00

"They look like wedding cake." That is what I was told when I received the call that my daugther's window treatments were completed and ready for installation. This Catania Silks Indian silk is stunning.

Carpeting: Patterson, Flynn & Martin (to the trade)

Window hardware: Kirsch (sold through the trade/dealers)

There are rare times when my search for the perfect textile takes me in another direction than the D & D Building in NYC. Catania Silks is to-the-trade only offerings, but is a source for designers to keep on hand for Indian silks that are made beautifully and priced well. I needed twenty-one yards of textile for my daughter's window treatment. I was not into spending a king's ransom just for the textile yet I refused to compromise on beauty or quality so I went with Catania Silks.

This Catania Silks cotton animal print is adorable! This is a choice I'm eyeing for a space I'm designing for two one year old granddaugthers.

Do you have a gem of a source (aka designer secret) that you are willing to share for sourcing textile, whether it be to-the-trade or not?

Hooray for C Wonder

2011-12-19T06:00:00.007-05:00

C. Wonder has knocked the "ball out of the park!" I was thrilled to have stumbled upon C. Wonder last week while at The Westchester Mall. Instantly I was drawn to the color palette of the storefront, the huge C's on the doors and the bold graphics inside.

C. Wonder is the vision of a brilliant man, J. Christopher Burch, who has created magic in the world of fashion before. I'm sold on the offerings of his newest venture. To shop for clothing, shoes, housewares, home decor, hostess gifts and monogrammed items under one stylish roof is pure bliss...meet my new hangout!

If you don't see me in the store, you can find me in the luxurious dressing rooms listening to music of my choice and to the volume of my liking...shoppers control their own dressing space!

These orange skinny leg cords have Hamptontoes written all over them (wink!)

Need to grab something for the little ones too? I could not resist these thumb print paint kits...adorable!

Every design detail was considered...even the lavatory was stylish!

Santa, just in case you read my blog, I am not picky...anything and everything from C. Wonder would be great! Has your Christmas list just changed? Are you as smitten with C. Wonder as I am? Happy Monday!

Closet transformation in the works

2011-12-15T06:30:00.004-05:00

It is known that I love wallcoverings, can do the installation of wallcoverings (mine only, never a client's) and I especially love wallpapering the inside of closets, here are some samples of taking a small space from drab to fab: sons's closet, chic hallway, small Hamptons closet , a pantry and my daughter's dollhouse bookcase.

This weekend I'm going to work a little magic in my daugther's walk-in closet. Here are some of the elements of her soon to-be new space.

The World's Away lighting fixture

She picked this Sonia's Place (to the trade) wallcovering. I just realized how much it resembles my blog design!

My daughter has a ton of hair accessories that were once tossed into the bathroom drawers. It was messy, the bows/flowers were getting squashed and the ones on the bottom were never worn. To solve the problem I purchased an inspiration board and instead of using it for images/memos, it is hung on the inside of her closet door and used to hang her hairbands. It is a $10 fix that works like a charm!

Little touches, big rewards! Are you sprucing up any little areas in your home?

Holiday Tradtions

2011-12-14T06:00:00.001-05:00

This is the time of the year that conjures up warm memories of holiday traditions.

Decorating the Christmas tree to Elvis Presley holiday music is a childhood memory of mine and still an on-going tradition. When my husband and I first started dating we created the tradition that the only ornaments on our tree would be from our travels. Decorating the tree has become a celebration of our life commemorating the places we have traveled as a couple and as a family.

PARIS - APRIL 2011

SNOWBOARDING AT WHISTLER IN CANADA - 2002

SNOWBOARDING IN STEAMBOAT, COLORADO - 2005

HONEYMOON - SOUTH AFRICA 2003

Every Christmas and Hanukkah, with this being the fourth year, I hostess a holiday cookie decorating playdate for my children and some of their friends. I premake the cookie dough and then have the children cut and decorate their own cookies.

Some show restraint with sprinkles...

Others, not so much...

Our traditions are one of the elements that make a house a home. What are some of your holiday traditions?

Two's Company Warehouse Sale!

2011-12-05T09:29:00.001-05:00

I've missed all of you during my short blogging break. I'm glad to be back!

Do you want to score wonderful deals on to-the-trade offerings? Tomorrow kicks off Two's Company warehouse sale! If you live in the NYC metro area here's your chance to gather some goodies for the home and the holidays!

The only caveat to shopping at a sale this good is that there will be a crowd (but that didn't stop me at their last sale!) If you won't be able to attend the warehouse sale you can always shop for their merchandise via the Zhush. Happy Monday!

Ikea's Billy bookcase

2011-11-11T12:50:00.003-05:00

In my home office I needed a little more shelving. I went with Ikea's Billy bookcase for $40.00.

I wallpapered the back of the bookcase with Christopher Norman's Bambu Treillage.

I'm thrilled with the results.

Chinoserie inspired bookcase: Two's Company

Gold debris tote: Beeline Home by Bunny Williams

Kelly Wearstler Treillage wallcovering: Schumacher

Here's to a wonderful weekend. What's on your weekend agenda?

When a Friend Decorates

2011-11-09T11:20:00.000-05:00

This week's When A Friend Decorates is the home of a friend with great style!

I love the zebra print bench in the foyer, functional and chic. The tray keeps the family's shoes organized and in one spot.

I like how she used eight inch wood blocks to spell out her son's name. The space can handle the size and the wood chunks look quite boyish. Great touch!

The red and cream plaid wool carpeting existed in the room prior to her son's birth. By keeping the rug and working the wenge (dark wood) furniture into the space she pulled off a timeless, handsome room.

Such a stylish ceiling fan and light for this little guy!

A partial view of the seating area in the master bedroom. A soothing spot for husband and wife to unwind after a busy day.

Her little girl's bedroom is so sweet.

All of the furniture in the daughter's bedroom was my friend's from her city days. She painted the furniture white and placed it in her daughter's space. Resourceful and sentimental.

I LOVE pom pom trim and find it especially wonderful in a little girl's space. The floor to ceiling window treatments are beautiful.

The savvy homeowner ordered additional trim when pulling together her daugther's bedroom so that she could use fabric glue to attach it to the lampshade.

Isn't it inspirational and fun to see how people pull together spaces? This former NYC fashion buyer really knows a thing or two about creating stylish spaces that are functional, clutter free and appealing.

If you have a space that would be great for a When A Friend Decorates post, e-mail your images to me at lisa@hamptontoes.com.

When A Friend Decorates

2011-11-02T12:00:00.000-04:00

This week's When A Friend Decorates features party planner extraordinaire Kate from Party Resources. Whether Kate is planning a party, pulling together an ensemble or decorating her bedroom, she has a sophisticated sense of classic style with a hint of modern day lady.

I was immediately drawn to the symmetry and lack of clutter in Kate's bedroom. The mongrams, the foo dogs lamps, the pop of color on the bed and the black and white image makes for a wonderful place to unwind before calling it a day.

The lamps are fabulous and add visual interest to the space. Love how she adds beauty to her bedside tables in the form of flowers.

I'm a huge fan of mixing a little animal print into every space. Phyton plus tray equals perfection. Don't you think orchids add sophistication to a room?

Thank you to Kate of Party Resources for sharing her lovely space.

If you have a space that would be great for a When A Friend Decorates post, e-mail your images to me at lisa@hamptontoes.com.

Power outage lights

2011-11-01T06:00:00.001-04:00

I live in a community where if you sneeze the power goes out, so it was no surprise that we lost power on Saturday with the 8 to 10 inches of snow we received...yes, in October, just outside NYC.

Thought this would be a good time to share one of my "tools" for keeping a home. I have power outage lights in every bedroom,every living space and the foyer in my home. When the power goes out these lights turn on automatically and become flashlights for me to get around the house safely. Highly recommend!

Google power outage lights and select from the various ones offered. They aren't attractive, so I plug them into less conspicuous areas...behind sofas and chairs, in the kitchen behind the Keurig coffee maker, behind the dresser in my foyer and other out of sight spaces.

What tip can you share that helps to keep your home running smoothly?

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T06:00:00.003-04:00

Happy Halloween! I love blogging...thank you for being "treats" in my life!

Last night I baked four dozen cupcakes for my children to share with their classes. I signed up for snack duty in September not knowing I'd be without power due to a snowstorm! Despite the snow, I got the job done.

I'm hostessing Halloween dinner for ten, these Two's Company candles will add a festive vibe to the table.

Bags were filled so that my children can give their classmates a special Halloween treat. The Two's Company python tray is available through the Zhush.

Every year I set a special place setting on Halloween and Valentine's Day for my children. A place setting that isn't elegant like at Christmas, but rather kid focused with stuff that won't have me invited to the queen mum's for tea, but will have me receiving huge hugs and kisses from my kids. The "bat banana," skeleton straw and wind-up toys are joy, for kids!

My son and daugther will have a special note waiting for them at breakfast.

What's on your Halloween agenda? Have a fun filled day!

When A Friend Decorates

2011-10-27T06:00:00.001-04:00

This week's When A Friend Decorates features fabulous elements of a Manhattan apartment belonging to a friend with a super cool job in television.

When she first spotted this chair, she loved the clean lines but not the original textile, so she had it reupholstered to give it this fab look. The chair, the textile and the rug...city chic all the way!

This city gal was resourceful in taking two old bench seats and recreating them...love the textile and the nailheads, not to mention the herringbone hardwood floors.

The picture rail adds detail to the space. I like how she pulled together the colors in her apartment through the abstract artwork she showcases in matching white frames. Such a clean, crisp look.

Anyone who has resided in NYC knows that maximizing space is essential, often times by tricking the eye. She customized her Parsons table with the same stone as her kitchen countertop, creating a seamless flow from kitchen to eating area. The bright red cafe chairs are a perfect punch of color!

I am especially fond of how her space is practical, functional and clutter free (and she has two kids!) What are some of the ways you've revitalized old furnishings?

Want elements of your home to be featured in a When A Friend Decorates post? E-mail me details and images of your space.

Nature Center Carnival Birthday

2011-10-25T06:00:00.001-04:00

One of my son's absolute favorite outings is to visit the nature center. It was without question that his third birthday party be all about turtles, chincillas, lizards, ferrets and bearded dragons!

A nature center carnival made for a fun and festive theme. I used a red textile for the tablecloth and for the polka dot runner I rolled wrapping paper right down the middle of the table. The bumble bee, snake, spider, butterfly, ladybug and frog face masks were enjoyed by all! The table was set with lizards, frogs and all things creepy crawly. Party gifts were given in red and white striped gable boxes.

My favorite son (and my only son!) is already talking about his next birthday party. While he considers whether his next theme will be airplanes, robots or Dino Dan, I continue to wonder where the time goes?

Stickable wall art as framed art

2011-10-24T06:00:00.004-04:00

With my son having recently turned three, it was time to take down the baby photos on the wall in his room. Keeping in mind that little kids have fleeting interests, I wanted to do artwork that looked good yet was affordable enough to switch as his interests change.

I took wall art (the stickers that you peel and put on a wall) that I purchased at HomeGoods for $7.99 and framed it to create this new artwork catering to my son's love of robots!

To give it a clean, crisp look I took remnant wallpaper (from the Ralph Lauren wallcovering that I used below the chair rail) to affix the robots to and then framed it all together.

I am a firm believer in it taking a lot of time, effort and energy to design spaces. I like to create spaces that grow with the child instead of the child growing out of the space. Over the years these frames will play host to my son's various interests making it the perfect transitional aspect to his room.

I think it is very important that a child's room have elements that allow one to believe that a child happily resides within. What are some ways that you incorporate your child's hobbies/interests into his/her room?

Friday Fun - South Africa

2011-10-21T11:35:00.002-04:00

What is your dream travel destination? Have you gone? My dream travel destination was South Africa, and still remains my favorite place ever visited. Here I posted about how one's sense of adventure can correlate to their sense of pushing boundaries/thinking out of a box/being bold in their interior design choices.

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge is a study not only on indigenous animals, but in being environmentally aware of one's surroundings...being "green." The very long dirt road through the bush to arrive at our lodging, no paved roadways, instead respect for the environment.

Look how the accommodations are built into the side of the landscape.

After walking around the small hill and seeing this, I immediately had respect for how Sabi Sabi seamlessly mixed the lodging with the environment.

A fallen tree made into a headboard in the presidential suite. Fabulous!

Look at how the counter and column are made out of fallen trees from the bush and the Sabie River.

Besides the grand size of the bathroom, I love how the large the window is above the tub.

Here's to an evening sans electricity. Al fresco dining, candlelight and hoping a lion isn't on the other side of the hill!

It was amazing to visit Sabi Sabi, a place where nature has not been ruined by infrastructure and superstructure. In what ways are you "green" when designing/decorating your interior spaces? Have a wonderful weekend.

The outdoor armoire

2011-10-20T08:05:00.003-04:00

Kids have lots of stuff, and lots of stuff for playing outside. Our Hamptons yard generally looks like there has been an explosion of toys. Since we have an area with a covered (not enclosed) porch, I placed an armoire outside to stow of my kids "outside toys" to eliminate the need to run in and out of the garage.

Inside the armoire I store hula hoops, balls, trucks, t-ball sets, a box of bubbles, a box of little explorer toys, a box of kiddie gardening gloves/tools, kites, pop-up tunnels and the list goes on...

I was not willing to try this "experiment" on an expensive piece of furniture, so I purchased this solid wood armoire from Craigslist. The armoire is indirectly exposed to the outside elements, so it does not get rained or snowed on which has kept it in good condition.

Where do you keep your kids outside toys? Do you have a spot where you could place an "outdoor" armoire?

When a Friend Decorates

2011-10-19T06:00:00.002-04:00

When a Friend Decorates series continues with one of my favorite bloggers, Elizabeth of Pretty Pink Tulips! Through blogging, Elizabeth and I have become friends. She has a discerning eye that allows her to edit the details of her home wisely, thus creating a beautiful home.

What I love most about Elizabeth's formal living room is how she mixes pieces together to create harmony and intrigue. She combines silk and velvet pillows with the jute rug under the Moyer cow hide rug to perfection. She tosses in scene-stealing floor lamps, but then grounds them with an antique settee so that each play off of one another. She created a feeling of comfort with symmetry. Lovely space!

No ho hum, been there, seen that kind of floor lamps for Pretty Pink Tulips residence.

I love how she left the gift tag on her orchid. A beautiful touch that says a lot about how she not only values the gift, but the meaning behind the gesture. The gold bamboo tray is perfection!

I always think good design should "suggest" things to do, and this seating vignette does just that....sit, relax, enjoy my home and take a look at Preston Bailey's book.

I can't rave about Elizabeth or her home enough, both are beautiful! Do you find yourself gravitating towards symmetry when decorating a room? Did you notice how she skillfully created a neutral space but then added punches of color? Thanks Elizabeth for sharing your home!

Send me an e-mail if you'd like me to feature your space in a post on When A Friend Decorates!

Trim Enhancement

2011-10-18T08:04:00.000-04:00

As you know, I'm a huge fan of enhancing some of my retail/to-the-trade finds with trim. Here, I added trim to this lamp shade to sharpen its appeal. I used fabric glue and attached the trim in about ten minutes. Highly recommend trim enhancement!

Have you enhanced furniture or furnishings with trim to give it a more tailored look?

Friday Fun

2011-10-14T08:47:00.000-04:00

People always ask me what it is about the Hamptons that I love so much. It is simple...the natural beauty captivates me. The greenery, the ocean, the hundred year old farms that sit on the ocean blocks, the woods, the bay, the harbors...all of it I find appealing.

Here's are some aerial views of the Hamptons, with Sag Harbor in the foreground of the first image.

If you've been to the Hamptons, what is it about the locale that you love? If you haven't been, did you realize that it has so much green? Does nature inspire your design and decorating? Here's to a weekend full of happiness!

My kitchen helper

2011-10-10T09:43:00.001-04:00

If there is one thing that says home, it is the smell of food cooking in the kitchen. I am a stickler for homemade meals for my family. There are days when I count on my "helper" to assist with a slow cooked meal. Five years ago I bought my first Crock-Pot, I've been using it ever since.

What's for dinner tonight? The Silver Palate's Chicken Marbella. I've tossed all the ingredients in the crock pot to cook on low. We'll be back in the early evening for a homecooked meal that required about twenty minutes of prep time this morning.

Here are some of the meals I like to prepare in my Crock-Pot:
A whole chicken with one teaspoon of butter and seasonings.
Italian sausage, fresh red peppers, green peppers, yellows peppers, sliced onions, olive oil and Italian seasoning.
Brisket with onions, one beef buoillon, a hint of water. It pulls apart into shredded pieces, my family devours!
All the fixings for a good pot of chili.
Ina Garten's beef bourguignon
Homemade million dollar meatballs. If you want the recipe, I'll share in comments.
And, the list goes on...

Do you own a slow cooker? Want to share some recipes? Here's to a house smelling like "home" when you open the door. Happy Monday!

When A Friend Decorates

2011-10-05T10:16:00.003-04:00

When A Friend Decorates series continues with a friend who flawlessly marries family heirlooms or thrift store finds into her family's stylish home. She has an amazing eye for pulling together the old with the new to create a home that is rich in history and quality of furnishings, yet evokes modern day living. She has talent!

Just to enter her home through the antique door is quite a treat. I love the arch! Adore the knocker!

The gold gilted mirror and console were inherited treasures. They are antique, gorgeous and super heavy.

She inherited three of these chairs, all were dark wood and upholstered in a different textile. She loved the pieces and the fact that they were once a beloved aunt's, so she gave them a modern day freshness by having them painted an ivory and enhanced them with a stunning textile find from Calico Corners! Perfection!

The details, close-up.

This antique sofa had her swooning when she saw it in a thrift store. She recognized a quality piece when she spotted this gem and immediately purchased. She then had it reupholstered prior to delivery at her home. There is a special spark about a home that has furnishings that aren't all massed produced. She excels at mixing the old with the new. This sofa will soon be flanked by two Worlds Away end tables.

I love this room, it is flooded with natural light, has furnishing that are rich in family history and yet, the space feels like "her" family's home.

Are you a fan of mixing antiques with the made today furnishings? Do you have an eye for spotting quality antique pieces, but having them updated to fit into your modern day home?

I'd love to feature your space in my series, When A Friend Decorates. Whether your space has a show stopping vignette, a closet that has been given the royal treatment or a room with style send me an e-mail with your images!

From closet to playroom

2011-10-03T06:00:00.001-04:00

In our Hamptons home I converted this basement level closet into a playroom for my children. This image was taken during the demolition. The back wall was replaced with drywall, a ceiling was installed, the carpet was removed and the doorway widened to create a cozy and fun spot for little ones to play.

My kids are loving their new space! Simple, organized and functional!

The Dalmatian hanger is perfect for my son's fireman costume. Cute, right? Notice the Ikea dog tail hook? I hung six on "her side" and six on "his side" when you enter to the playroom providing an practical place to hang their costumes.

Sometimes good things come in smaller packages! Happy Monday!

Friday Fun

2011-09-30T14:52:00.003-04:00

Friday Fun is about kicking off the weekend with a little fun, a little of the unexpected, a little about what makes me tick, a touch of fashion and all things happiness that aren't necessarily design related.

Where you a Girl Scout (Boy Scout?) I was too! In the spring as we started to prepare for kindergarten (interview and paperwork) my daughter started to hear the buzz about becoming a Girl Scout Daisy. The Daisy experience (kindergarten & first grade) is the first phase of being a Girl Scout. Once my daughter expressed an interest in wanting to join the organization, I set out to explore and complete the steps needed to become a Daisy troop leader.

(My sashes from when I was a Girl Scout.)

This week will be our first troop meeting! I will have twelve kindergarten girls under my wing every other week as we explore the Girl Scout journey together. I have an AMAZING year lined up for the Daisies!

I am happy to be giving back to my community by being a part of an 100 year old organization that fosters self respect and respect of others.

What's on your agenda for the weekend? Happy Friday!

Gorgeous blues

2011-09-28T08:13:00.003-04:00

Navy blue, light blue and Louis XVI chairs are used to create a timeless and sophisticated dining room in a client's home.

In a home with three young children, the back of the dining room chairs were the only practical place to use silk. The combination of leather and silk on the chairs is striking.

The window treatments show off the intricate design of the textile.

Blue and white porcelain makes an elegant statement.

Leather: Edelman Leather

Silk: Kravet

Window treatment: Stark

Louix XVI chairs: Sedersi Inc.

Wallcovering: Sonia's Place

I find blues to be soothing and have a richness that always looks stunning and classic when used in interior design (and fashion.) What is it about blue interiors that you fancy? Have you created spaces in your home using blues?

Tickle the ivories in style

2011-09-26T06:30:00.002-04:00

When it comes to designing a space in a home that includes a piano, I like to replace the standard issue piano bench with one that is aesthetically appealing.

Using a Kravet outdoor textile I called upon Sedersi, Inc. to create this Greek key bench for a client's living room. The detail of the double self welt for the trim, the subtle touch of yellow it adds to the room and the high gloss black bench to match the baby grand makes for a striking piece of furniture.

There is something special about a home with a musical instrument being played. Do you play an instrument? Here's to a wonderful week!

When a Friend Decorates

2011-09-21T09:28:00.004-04:00

Do birds of a feather flock together? Perhaps it is why so many design bloggers and followers have such an affinity for one another?

I did a post titled When A Friend Decorates. It generated a lot of comments and e-mails. People love seeing how others live. I thought it would be fun to run When A Friend Decorates as a regular series.

I'm kicking the series off with a show stopper of a room! This room is proof that a small room with lots of obstacles and a tight budget are no match for a gal with a desire to create a chic bedroom for her niece!

Professional photographer, Traci, stenciled the damask onto one wall of the bedroom!

This aunt made the headboard out of a piece of wood, she drew the shape, had it cut and then painted her creation! The dog bed was a yard sale find that she recreated with a new coat of paint and a custom made cushion to keep the adorable pooches comfortable!

The adorable little girl who resides in this jewel box of a space has a love for displaying her photos. To keep the images contained this aunt created an inspiration board.

An old armoire was given a new lease on life with a paint job and a striped textile installed inside the doors. The professional photography on the walls is her own, Traci Giles Photography. The little girl rides horses making the horse head on top of the armoire a nod to her interest.

The stencil up-close...gorgeous pattern and love the color!

This little girl's bedroom was an office space in the home when this family moved in, yet their needs dictated it become a bedroom. There are three sets of a doors in this bedroom, plus the closet doors! To create a private escape for this little girl they hung six sets of Ikea white drapes! The result...gorgeous!

This "junk" jar is filled with all the little treasures a little girl always seems to have trouble parting with it...it is her own original artwork for the room. This is a "looking" piece, not a "playing" piece.

Way to go Traci! What an AMAZING space! I think it is safe to say you win "Aunt of the Year!"

What elements do you love about the space? Don't you love how despite challenges the room is chic, youthful and impressive?!

Submit your spaces to be featured in a When A Friend Decorates post!

Buzzing around

2011-09-19T15:56:00.000-04:00

Today I'm over at Simplified Bee along with Tobi Fairley, The Decorista and Effortlless Style. Stop by to see the little girl's room I designed using this Serena & Lily piece, as a bedside table.

It is fun to see how we each pulled very different rooms together using the same piece of furniture!

Ikea chaise, enhanced

2011-09-13T10:05:00.007-04:00

When it comes to Ikea furniture, I'm a wild about two pieces. One being the Ektorp chaise which has been in my daughter's room for three years. For a $300 price tag this chaise offers a cushion cover that is removable and washable, a slipcover, a comfort level that is high and it reclines completely flat to accommodate a snoozer.

Last week I ventured into a Jo-Ann Fabric for the first time since I was seven or eight years old. I found this gem of a trim! The deep rich pink, the inverted pleats with ruffles and the $1.99 a yard price tag made for a real winner for my daughter's chaise!

Armed with a permanent and washable fabric glue, it took me thirty minutes to enhance a basic white chaise into a little gem.

I'm usually one who believes in spending good money on high quality furniture, yet there are instances where I disregard that mindset. This being one of them, this piece is used excessively, still looks fabulous and is perfect for a little one's room.

Have you tried trim enhancement on a retail find?

Remembrance

2011-09-11T06:00:00.007-04:00

Today I remember the sadness, heartache and fear I had living in New York City on September 11th one decade ago.
Today I remember the bravery of the NYFD, NYPD and all first responders running into burning buildings to save strangers lives, only to give their own. Who thought the buildings would fall to the ground?
Today I remember what it was like to walk out of my NYC apartment and feel truly afraid, for the first time in my life.
Today I remember the fear I felt walking into my apartment not knowing if home was safe.
Today I remember what it was like to walk on the streets of the city and not be able to see a place that wasn't covered with signs and posters asking have you seen...my daughter, my son, my husband, my wife, my mother, my father or my friend? Faces of innocent people.
Today I remember the tractor trailers that drove down Broadway in a convoy. I remember the tears that fell down my face when I realized their purpose while I stood waiting to cross the street.
Today I remember solid, good people I knew who perished, yet I'm mindful of all who lost their lives.
Today I remember the smell of burning rubble that lasted for months after the attack.
Today I remember the nightmares I could not shake for quite some time. As an American, I felt violated. As a New Yorker, I felt attacked. As a human, I felt extreme sadness and disbelief by my species.
Today I remember being impressed by President Bush who pulled our country together in the face of adversity. A President who started the first month of his term confronted with the worst attack on our country in history.
Today I remember what it felt like being "trapped" on an island. Manhattan is an island.
Today I remember the unity and toughness of New Yorkers bonding in a difficult time.

Today I am reminded how lucky I am to be an American.
Today I am reminded that the most important place in life is being home surrounded by those we love.
Today I am reminded that I love creating homes for people that feel safe and happy.
Today I am reminded that I have not forgotten a single element and how I felt this day ten years ago.
Today I am reminded that I was changed on 9/11.

Today I hope you are celebrating life without fear, yet with remembrance. God Bless America.

Smitten with Summer

2011-08-23T06:45:00.003-04:00

Summer is my favorite season, so when one of my favorite bloggers, Debby of Inspired Design, asked me to guest post on her Smitten with Summer series it was without hesitation that I glady accepted! Inspired Design is always full of inspiration. Debby's images are amazing and equate to happiness for me, making her blog a regular read of mine. Join me at Inspired Design to see what makes me tick during the summer.

Hamptons Designer Showhouse

2011-08-22T10:02:00.001-04:00

Last week, I made one final trip to the Hampton Designer Showhouse. The Traditional Home sponsored showhouse runs through September 4, 2011. Do you love visiting showhouses?

Lillian August created this living room using a very soothing and calming color palette.

Eileen Kathryn Boyd Interiors designed the lower level of the two story pool house interior with such style and finesse! Quite frankly, the pool house is worth moving into...it's fabulous!

Brady Design designed the upstairs level of the pool house with this eye catching artwork and comfortable seating area. I have a love of using orange accents in the home, so the popsicle artwork caught my attention as being whimsical and fun for this pool house.

Bakes and Company creates superb kitchens with their quality workmanship. What a brilliant design to stow the huge trays into the side of the island. It is this kind of detail to function and practicality that I appreciate. I find many times large trays are on the bottom of a cabinet or pantry with stuff piled on top.

It is known that I'm a lover of wallcoverings, especially in small spaces. It seems Meg Braff Interiors LLC echos the same sentiment. The square footage of this butler's pantry is not grand, yet the space is due to her wallpaper and fabulous lighting. Did you know Meg Braff has her own amazing line of wallcoverings?

I love this lighting fixture in the guest living room created by Eddie Lee, Inc.

When it comes to painting walls black or brown, many homeowners steer clear. I love seeing dark colors used in design! Here's Joy Tribout proving that black on the walls is chic in this guest bedroom. I also love her nod to the equestrian lifestyle in the Hamptons.

Have you been? Are you local? Will you be attending? There's nothing like seeing the spaces in person!

Your tour of the NYIGF

2011-08-15T06:00:00.037-04:00

The New York International Gift Fair (NYIGF) is a to-the-trade show where vendors showcase their offerings to interior design and retail related individuals. I attended the show over the weekend and was eager to share some of my finds with you.

Go Home Ltd. is a company that always gets my attention for fun and interesting products for the home. This horse head sculpture is an artistic creation that immediately reminded me of the Hamptons. What a whimsical nod to the equestrian culture on the East End!

Asian Art Imports is a "green" company that uses reclaimed and sustainable woods for their creations, including their version of a horse's head. Do you like the shadow that this piece of art creates?

JM Piers creates these gorgeous trays! This trio storage set is such a chic and stylish way of stowing necessities. These elegant containers could be used in a bathroom for such items as cotton balls, Q-tips and elastic hair bands or in an office for paper clips, staples and business cards.

Look at the beautiful choice of colors and the various sizes. Where oh where, would I not use one of these sturdy trays in my home?

Mariska Meijers creates high quality pillows that are vibrant and certain to zhush up any neutral decor. Her silk pillows are truly remarkable, not only visually, but to the touch. A top notch product indeed!

Hamptontoes & Mariska Meijers

Markisa launched her new scarf line at the show. I think this plum and chic yellow piece would be fabulous paired with a plum wool coat this season.

I have spread the word about Dunes and Duchess candlelabras and lamps in previous posts. It is their passion, their American made quality products and the uniqueness of their offerings that I find attractive. At the show they launched their floor lamp and table, adding to their product line-up.

The Duchess is as nice as she is stunningly beautiful!

Do you want a gorgeous floral arrangement to greet you when you walk into a room? Regardless of season, Diane James Designs has an "in season" beautiful floral to suite your needs creating ease of living for clients with discerning eyes.

I hope you have enjoyed your visit to the NYIGF!

Roberta Freymann Rocks!

2011-08-11T17:05:00.005-04:00

Roberta Freymann not only rocks frocks, she has an impressive assortment of prints in a variety of items for the home. Recently, Suysel of Tilton Fenwick and I, along with her daughter and my children, attended a Baby Buggy charity event held at Roberta Freymann. Roberta Freymann, Divalysscious Moms and Imagination Playhouse all partnered together for the success of a shopping event where a portion of the sales were donated to Jessica Seinfeld's charity...a win win situation for everyone!

Hamptontoes, Roberta Freymann, Suysel of Tilton Fenwick

Roberta Freymann's prints are fresh, colorful and look great whether on the body or in the home. She creates fashions that are comfortable, chic and eye catching. She has a wide range of items for the home from table linens to curtains from bedding to throw pillows. She also makes great items for a baby nursery!

The colors, the pattern and the largeness of these towels makes them perfect for beach and poolside visits. Heading to someone's beach house for the weekend? Tie a big ribbon around one of these towels and you've got a great hostess gift!

How striking is this pillow? Love the print and the contrasting piping! Order this one fast, as the 18", 22" and 26" sizes are on sale!

I love the print and the trim tape along the bottom of this tablecloth. I would use this when designing a foyer, a bedroom or even for an extra tablecloth when entertaining.

I took a liking to this frock! The detailing is stunning.

Roberta Freymann is located in New York City, East Hampton and Southampton, NY. There's also a summer pop-up shop in Montauk through Labor Day. If you won't be able to visit a location in person, there is always on-line shopping at Roberta Freymann. When I think of Roberta Freymann I think of easy stylish living!

Hampton Designer Showhouse

2011-07-26T10:00:00.002-04:00

The design duo, Tilton Fenwick, stole the show in the "basement" of Traditional Home's Hampton Designer Showhouse. Designing a basement in a showhouse is probably not the first choice of most designers, nor was it their choice...it was assigned. However, what Suysel and Anne accomplished is a testament to their interior design prowess. Way to go ladies!

The pagoda lanterns are amazing! Tilton Fenwick did not miss a beat, every detail is stunning!

Both images: Michael Rodenbush Photography

I am in awe over this room. Their color palette is sheer perfection, the room is inviting, the details are eye catching and most importantly, it is a liveable space. The Jules Cozine painting on the right is a winner.

The bold yellow National Geographics look so chic lined up across the Hickory Chair "Peony" console. The Spitzmiller "Garniture" lamps add a rich splash of color to the room and compliment the Eric Cahan artwork quite nicely. The Phillip Jeffries wallcovering is so amazing that it has me planning my early August visit to their showroom. This room is truly bursting at the seams with fabulousness!

Tic tac toe anyone?

I met the Tilton Fenwick ladies at Kravet's 2011 Blogfest in May and since then we've been hanging out together. They are as nice, down to earth and beautiful as they are talented!

Suysel and Anne ventured out on their own with the formation of Tilton Fenwick less than a year ago and have already designed a space in the coveted Hampton Designer Showhouse! Traditonal Home is the proud sponsor of the Hampton Designer Showhouse which is open daily from 11am to 5pm. Are you planning your visit?

Hampton Designer Showhouse

2011-07-25T06:00:00.005-04:00

Saturday night I attended the opening cocktail party for Traditional Home's Hampton Designer Showhouse.

Tobi Fairley knocked the ball out of the park with her interpretation of a guest bedroom! Her use of color, her attention to detail, her fearlessness to push boundaries yet still create a classic, timeless, beautiful and functional space drew the attention of everyone who entered her room. I was impressed and captivated by Tobi's space.

If you follow my blog you know I'm a stickler for details, one of which is paying attention to ceilings. I love how Tobi drew the eye up the walls with her painted stripes.

Tobi looked stunning in her gorgeous yellow dress!

The dresser was another example of Tobi's attention to detail. Look at the Kelly green trim complimenting the Schumacher textile used on the headboard, the window treatments and the bergere.

Love the chic color of the dress and isn't the bow just fabulous?

The details on the dresser...don't you just love the mineral element infused into this space.

I spent a significant amount of time haning out with Tobi in her room. Every single person who walked into her room went absolutely ape over Swank Lighting's recycled glass lamps, including Tobi's friend Jamie Drake.

Since I mentioned Jamie Drake let me just say that he has a personality larger than life and is such a nice, likeable man! He is also funny and why you see me laughing in this photo.

I'm a huge fan of using desks as bedside tables. In my daughter's room you'll eventually see where I paired a custom desk with a lucite bamboo chair. However, Tobi did something with this desk that I loved. She wallpapered the top of the desk and then had a custom piece of thick lucite made to go over the wallcovering...genuis! Such a striking element that fetched many compliments too!

To really appreciate Marjorie Skouras Design's chandelier you need to see it in person. Absolutely gorgeous! The jade stones with the gold was magical!

Tobi, congratulations on all of the local press and rave reviews you are getting in the Hamptons! You deserve it all! You are an asset to our industry and I'm proud to call you a friend.

I highly recommend this year's Hampton Designer Showhouse located at 1224 Scuttle Hole Road. You can visit Monday through Sunday from 11am to 5pm July 24th through September 4th. Do you love going to showhouses? Will you be making a visit to see this one?

Visit me at Tobi Fairley

2011-07-19T14:59:00.001-04:00

In May I met the talented interior designer Tobi Fairley at Kravet's Blogfest 2011. Tobi is one of those people you meet and instantly like, she is a gem!

Tobi Fairley, Hamptontoes, Pretty Pink Tulips

When Tobi asked me to guest post today on something All American I jumped on the opportunity to showcase a to-the-trade vendor that always peaks my interest, visit me at Tobi's blog.

Tobi and I are getting together this week in the Hamptons! Tobi is designing a space for the always fabulous Hampton Designer Showhouse. I will be her date to the opening gala this coming Saturday. I look forward to sharing photos of the showhouse with all of you, but for now visit my all American post.

Barefoot Contessa

2011-07-11T12:25:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was the perfect Hamptons day! I woke at 6:30am, took my children to the beach from 8:30 until 10:15, from 11 until 12:15 I hung with (wink, wink) the Barefoot Contessa and went wakeboarding with my family and friends from 1pm until dinner. That's "Hamptons" happiness to me!

Nothing quite says home like amazing aromas from the kitchen. The Barefoot Contess gives us the tools to create a home where good food is always being served. She has sold more than ten million of her seven cookbooks.

East Hampton's Guild Hall is a treasure for diverse cultural experiences. Yesterday the Guild Hall hosted Ina Garten who chatted with Stephen Drucker in a session called Conversations with Culinary Celebrities. The dynamic duo captivated a sold out crowd before Ina signed books.

Did you know this about the illustrious Barefoot Contessa?
She was born in Brooklyn, but grew up in a very modern home in Connecticut. Her father was a doctor and her mother a cook that never used butter or salt in her cooking! Stephen said to her "you cook with salt, butter and cream" yet they are right up there with "smoking!" You aren't backing down...why? Ina said she believes in cooking with real, non-processed food. I feel the same way. You too?

Am I the only one who did not know this? Ina worked in DC for the White House dealing with nuclear energy policy. At night she loved to cook wonderful meals. In 1978 she saw an ad for a specialty shop that was for sale in Westhampton, New York. She and her husband, Jeffrey, took a ride to the Hamptons to look at the shop. She made a low bid offer thinking it would give her time to think about this career change she was contemplating. The very next morning the woman who owned the Barefoot Contessa specialty shop called to tell her that she accepted her offer! That is how she got started and that is how she became known as the Barefoot Contessa. I always just assumed that she gave herself that name! Fascinating, right?

Ina Garten is not a trained chef, she is self taught. Her cookbooks offer using ingredients that are easy to buy and she writes so that one can hopefully duplicate her dishes. Perhaps that is why so many relate to her?

She believes in using really good ingredients, fresh food and doing as little with it to make it yummy.

She offers this advice to anyone wanting to entertain. Get pass the idea that everything needs to be hot, that idea takes too much time and can result in a frazzled hostess. Serve one hot dish straight from the oven/grill, one warm dish and one cold dish. Also, when it comes to appetizers do only three and again, keep it simple otherwise you will spend as much time making them as you do the dinner. Ina likes to keep a dish of cashews, a bowl of potato chips that are store bought, but super delicious and some salami for guests to nosh one before dinner. She is also a fan of making a good dish the day before, allowing the flavors to mingle and then serving the next day.

When entertaining she loves to keep an intimate setting with six people making for the perfect dinner party.

If you are lucky enough to ever entertain Ina you'll want to omit cilantro from the dish, as she isn't a fan at all. She believes it over powers dishes. (Hmmm. I love cilantro.) Her cocktail of choice is a whiskey sour. Stephen asked what someone should cook for her if she was going to be a guest in their home! She responded with meatloaf or any of the recipes from her book...they are what she loves! An ice cream favorite of hers is vanilla!

Ina measures everything when cooking. I found that to be interesting, as I rarely measure whats going into a dish. Perhaps that is why it is hard for me to give out recipes. I add a dash of this, a pinch of that and whip it all together...and this is how I write down my homemade recipes! How do you cook? Ina or Hamptontoes style?

Since bloggers and blog followers are savvy technology individuals, you'll be happy to hear that she is working on an App!

She uses kosher salt in baking and cooking and sea salt to finish a dish before serving. Have you always wondered which one to use when?

Her Friday night staple dish is usually roast chicken. She loves her husband to walk through the door after a long work week and smell a good chicken roasting in the oven. I love that she creates traditions with her cooking.

Consumer Reports awarded her best brownie recipe in America! Stephen Drucker mentioned the article said to cut small pieces or one could over indulge. Ina, with good humor replied one should cut whatever size brownie they would like to eat!

Her favorite comfort food is good 'ole chocolate chip cookies!

You may be wondering why she no longer writes her column for House Beautiful. She told us that she used to love going to the farm stands in the Hamptons alone. It was fun for her. At one point she was in the car with a camera crew on their way to a local farm stand and she realized that it distracted from her happiness. Good for us, she writes cookbooks!

Stephen Drucker told Ina that she is the most discplined business woman he knowns. He admires how she maintains boundaries between her career and her personal life. She is known to say "no" to many opportunities that come her way, as they distract from the core of who she is and what she wants. To that, I will toast!

I think Ina is super impressive, she is a woman who followed her dreams. She walked away from a high profile career and ventured into unknown territory to follow her dreams. Kudos to you Ina and thanks for spending an hour and fifteen minutes with me yesterday (wink!)

Ina's books are amazing, not just the recipes but the tips in the back of the books. Her At Home book has an entire section about visiting the Hamptons, where she resides full time. Ina's How Easy Is That book offers an entire section with sixty eight tips for the kitchen, her In Paris books gives insider tips on where to dine...invaluable resources. I'm studying the books and not just for the recipes!

Do you know your way around the kitchen? Do you have a favorite Barefoot Contessa recipe? What did you learn about Ina?

World's Away lighting

2011-07-06T07:00:00.002-04:00

I'm a huge fan of World's Away (to the trade) lighting options. Here are a few of my favorites! The Leona G has been waiting in my office to be hung, sadly for far too long!

The Moderna lantern would be fabulous in a foyer.

The Greek key motif is a classic and always a winner.

The pagoda lamp is a departure from an expected look, yet it is refined and stunning. I love the Chinoserie nod so much you'll see it in upcoming images of my master bedroom.

The gold wire wrapped lamp is striking in person. Still waiting to use a pair of these in a space!

I love the subtle sophistication of this gold bamboo lamp, it's elegant. It will be going into a client's home!

I adore the "O" lamp...it would be a nice addition to a library, living room or master bedroom.

Which lighting fixtures strike your fancy? Where do you score great lighting fixtures?

Happy July 4th!

2011-07-04T06:00:00.001-04:00

I am proud of many things in my life and being an American is high on my list. Happy Independence Day America!

I'll be flying our American flag quite proudly today, spending time on the boat, grilling with my family and friends; and watching fireworks tonight! How will you be spending your day?

What's under your cushions?

2011-06-20T06:30:00.002-04:00

A lot of time, effort and resources go into creating and purchasing an upholstered piece of furniture. Under all of my cushions I keep a small, white terry towel laid flat so that in the event of an accidental spill I can grab one quickly. Spills never occur when we expect or when we have something appropriate to wipe up a textile. I've seen stains on furniture that were not the result of the initial spill, but rather what was grabbed first and use to blot up the liquid.

I use these Ikea towels and at $.49 they are the perfect size (16" x 24") and the perfect price for "rags."

What simple tip do you have to share?

Wild Horses

2011-06-17T06:00:00.005-04:00

Last night I attended a reception for notable photographer, Roberto Dutesco, at the fairly new Samuel Owen Gallery in Greenwich, CT.

Roberto Dutesco spent time on isolated Sable Island off the coast of Novia Scotia, Canada photographing feral horses. This particular image was my favorite!

Leaf

Not only has Roberto photographed these gorgeous creatures, he has been behind the lense shooting images of Linda Evangelista, Christie Turlington and Naomi Campbell, hence the name of this piece.

Linda, Christie and Naomi

Run

Fury

Pride

Hair

Equestrian or not, one of these images would be quite stunning in a home. Lee and Cindy Milazzo are the married duo who run and own this upscale gallery. Next time you are in Greenwich stop by the gallery!

Hamptontoes, Lee Milazzo

My take on artwork is raw, very organic...does the artwork speak to me, does it engage me in thought and do I like the piece regardless of its intrinsic (or lack thereof) value or worth? What is it that you look for when shopping for artwork?

Printing quality photos inexpensively

2011-06-15T09:10:00.003-04:00

Last weekend I took my children and my daughter's friend to the beach. The girls were walking in front of me and my son. Unbeknownst to them I snapped this adorable shot! Because of this image, I just placed an order to freshen up the photos in our Hamptons home.

5 year olds - Amagansett, NY

Photos tell a story about the homeowner. Who they are, where they have traveled, who their circle of friends are, family vacations they've experienced and priceless captured moments.

People often ask me where I get photos printed. I upload my images from home and for a cost of $1.49 per 8 x 10 image I grab them on my next visit to Costco.

Do you have a few quintessential photos that always stay framed, otherwise updating others? Do you have an inexpensive source for getting images printed?

A day in the life

2011-06-09T10:05:00.001-04:00

When it comes to creating interior spaces, I use a wide range of resources but lean heavily towards to-the-trade offerings. The D & D (Design & Decoration Building (to-the-trade) offers 18 stories of showrooms to fill the demands of any assignment. Here's a behind the scenes look at the inspiration I get from a day at the D & D.

Edelman Leather is always my first stop for an amazing selection of luxurious leathers. The offerings are almost endless.

Kravet is known to always have eye catching vignettes. Love the upholstered wall!

Ralph Lauren is always a treat to visit. His interiors are as timeless, sophistication and chic as his fashions and his own sense of style.

Love the gold pillows and throw paired with the classic blue and white. Very striking!

Zoffany is one of my absolute favorite resources for wallcoverings, but their textiles and lighting are just as amazing! I like the subtlety of the female and male lamps, they would be amazing on bedside tables - sort of marking his and her side of the bed!

Schumacher wallcoverings are another favorite of mine!

Since the D & D is to-the-trade only, I know that not everyone can go to there, so my next Day in the Life post will be about retail favorites. Do you have go-to favs when you are creating an interior space?

America's Largest Home

2011-06-02T06:00:00.009-04:00

Recently I was in Asheville, North Carolina and no trip there is complete without a visit to the Biltmore, America's largest single family home. George Vanderbilt's 250 room French chateau was completed in 1895 and it's still owned by the Vanderbilt family, although not occupied by them.

Can you imagine this as your vacation home?

Mrs. Vanderbilt's bedroom.

Mr. Vanderbilt's bedroom.

The breakfast room. The ceiling is stunning! I'd love a fireplace in a dining space!

All of the above photos are from the Biltmore library and are used with permission by the Biltmore.

The Biltmore makes a visit with youngsters enjoyable with their "I spy" game throughout the home. My five year old loved it so much that I had to make up an "I spy" for every room, even though there wasn't really one for each space.

Afterwards, the gardens and sculptures were admired. I felt like I was visiting a world class botanical garden. Amazing!

This place is a gem in our history, I highly recommend a visit! I've been four times and each time I leave inspired by a new discovery. It is never the same experience twice. Have you been to the Biltmore? What is it about grand old homes that inspire you?

A visit with Eddie Ross

2011-05-25T06:00:00.001-04:00

Yesterday Eddie Ross hosted his one day pop-up shop in Greenwich, CT. I attended, I was delighted!

Eddie has impeccable taste. I was thrilled to peruse his offerings and purchase some of his gathered treasures. I bought eight of these amazing vintage glasses that are in mint condition!

I adore this vintage set of English steak knives, they came home with me. Now, I'm on the hunt to find six more.

Eddie Ross & Hamptontoes

Pretty Pink Tulips, Hamptontoes & The French Tangerine

The Entertaining House, Hamptontoes, Pretty Pink Tulips & Quintessence

Where do you find vintage or unique items for your home? Are you ready for al fresco dining?

A country wedding

2011-05-24T05:53:00.002-04:00

When it comes to designing spaces I am truly inspired by nature and my travels. Over the weekend I was in Asheville, North Carolina for a wedding. The bride and groom are outdoor enthusiasts who chose Claxton Farm, a premier destination for weddings as their venue. Located fourteen miles north of Asheville in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this 500 acre farm was dreamy!

The bride is the kind of gal we want in our court, she is a scientist who worked for several years in a lab doing breast cancer research. Impressive!

I love how the bride displayed the cupcakes on a huge chunk of wood...it looked fabulous!

The cupcakes were like artwork...just beautiful!

Both of their dogs were part of the ceremony and dressed for the part!

The fish was grilled and delivered right to your plate!

What inspires you when decorating a space? Are you a fan of mother nature's color palette?

Blogfest: The loot!

2011-05-23T05:00:00.003-04:00

My last post detailed Blogfest 2011. Today is all about the loot. Let me begin by saying not only did Blogfest 2011 have venues that were amazing, a stellar line-up of editors and designers that were awe inspiring, food that was presented nicely and tasted great, a schedule that was packed with pure goodness, but the loot was amazing! So good that next year they will have to pull an "Oprah" and give out cars or something!

Here's the breakdown:
Global Views - an orange vase. I'm using this vase as a pencil/pen holder on my desk!

Kravet - beautiful window treatment tie-backs.
Lilly Pulitizer coffee/tea mug.
Seattle's Best coffee (4 pouches!)
New Traditionalists look book, plus fun coasters with witty sayings.
Calligaris chair pin. I am using mine as a push pin for my cork board!
Molton Brown - two 10oz bottles of hand wash...fabulous!

A Restoration Hardware 20% off coupon.

Butter Lane cupcake...yummy! They offer baking classes that are a huge hit! Anyone want to take a class with me?
John Derian Company - floral paper weight.

Kravet - tablet/pen.
Elle Decor journal notebook & a mouse pad.
USM Modular Furniture - mini-journal.
Mayo Studios - a journal notebook.
House Beautiful Blue book. It's filled with blue design happiness...buy one!

Thank you vendors for supporting the blogging world! Isn't it fun to get "swag" that you'll actually use or enjoy reading?!

Recap: Blogfest 2011

2011-05-19T15:03:00.005-04:00

Beth Greene, Kravet's marketing guru was the genuis behind Blogfest 2011. Jennifer Powell deserves recognition too. These two ladies have an attention to detail that made for a very impressive experience.

Monday we spent the day in the Hearst Tower dynasty beginning with a kickoff lunch hosted by House Beautiful.

The Buzz Blog/Diane James Home, Hamptontoes, Pretty Pink Tulips, The Zhush

Pretty Pink Tulips and I had the opportunity to speak with Newell Turner, House Beautiful Editor-in-chief. I've long admired him, so chatting with him about design was an opportunity I enjoyed! Newell has a "no diva" policy at House Beautiful and that made me adore him even more! Great guy.

Hamptontoes & Newell Turner, House Beautiful, Editor-in-chief

An informative panel discussion with Hearst editors titled: The Importance of Blogs to the Print Magazine Industry Today was held following a Q & A with bloggers.

Mark Rozzo of Town & Country, Newell Turner of House Beautiful, Dara Caponigro of Veranda & Beth Greene of Kravet

Veranda editors talked to us about their roles at the magazine. Lets just say it takes a village mentality to put together one fabulous issue after another. Impressive group of editors!

Veranda editors: Dara Caponigro, Kate Bolick, Catherine Lee Davis, Mario Lopez-Cordero, Eugenia Sebastian-Soto

A champagne reception was hosted by Town & Country that allowed bloggers to mingle with one another followed by a presentation titled: A New View on Luxury. Yes, flowers, food and beverages were exceptional at all venues!

I had the chance to meet and chat with Town & Country editors. Mark is hilarious and Whitney is an absolute gem!

Town & Country's Mark Rozzo, Hamptontoes & Town & Country's Whitney Robinson

Hanging out with blogging buddies is always something I'll welcome!

Pretty Pink Tulips, Stylebeat, the Zhush, The Buzz Blog/Diane James Home, Hamptontoes

Elle Decor hosted a cocktail party and tour of their Modern Life Concept House located at 540 West 28th Street. Grant Gibson was the clever designer behind the idea of using take out menus as wallpaper!

Another chance to mingle with blogging friends!

Shorely Chic, the Zhush, Pretty Pink Tulips & Hamptontoes

Tuesday we immersed ourselves in textiles at Lee Jofa and Kravet. Lilly Pulitizer's space in Lee Jofa was vibrant and inviting, it had me longing for the beach on a rainy day!

Barbara Barry was certainly a high light of the day! What a gracious, beautiful and talented woman. She was so passionate when she spoke about her designs, her Asian influenced textiles, her tea line, her 40's inspired luggage line at Bloomingdales and her mindset for living a gracious life.

Barbara Barry

Barbara Barry and I...chatting about my snakeskin blouse!

I had the chance to meet, speak and spend time with Tobi Fairley...great gal!

Tobi Fairley, Hamptontoes & Pretty Pink Tulips

Hamptontoes & Stylebeat

New York Spaces Magazine announced that ten lucky bloggers will do a guest post in their magazine! We entered by dropping our business cards into a stylish fish bowl! Wonder who won?

Yesterday, bloggers were invited to Conde Nast for breakfast followed by a gathering with Architectural Digest Editor-in-Chief Margaret Russell. She spoke about being new at the helm, about her vision for the magazine's new direction while being committed to its solid roots and AD's on-line presence. Check out their iphone apps!

Blogfest 2011 was AMAZING! If you were there, will you try to attend next year? If you weren't, will you be sitting by your computer ready to go when the day/time is announced for next year's sign up?

Do you subscribe?

2011-05-16T05:30:00.010-04:00

Today through Wednesday I'll be attending Blogfest 2011, where I'll be engaged in informative sessions given by editors from the following Hearst publications:

All images taken from Blogfest 2011 website.

I'm curious, do you subscribe to any or all of the following publications: House Beautiful, Traditional Home, Veranda, Elle Decor, Architectural Digest and Town & Country? Even in a highly technical society, I still prefer to receive printed magazines. How about you? Many of you devour design blogs, like I do, has that influenced whether you subscribe to shelter magazines? I'll be tweeting and posting about the my adventures at Blogfest...stay tuned!

Friday Fun

2011-05-13T16:43:00.000-04:00

Next Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday I'll be attending Blogfest 2011 sponsored by Kravet and Lee Jofa!

I think you all know I love design, so to immerse myself in interior design, meet industry movers and shakers and to finally shake the hands of fellow bloggers I'm in for a really fun treat! Will you be there? If so, can't wait to meet you! If not, what tidbits are you hoping that I share in my posts after the daily events?

Now, the really important question...what to wear? I've got my shoes lined up, but not my outfits! Yes, sometimes I build my outfits around my shoes vs shoes around my outfits! Have a great weekend!

Nate Berkus air date today!

2011-05-12T00:19:00.000-04:00

In October I was on the Nate Berkus show featuring this room I designed!

At the show taping: Nate Berkus, Hamptontoes & the Zhush

Many thanks to Style Attic who sent me copies of Dear Doctor, a magazine she was reading at the dentist's office when she spotted this photo of us in the publication!

I'm on the show today (via remote location) for a quick ditty on how I recreated this lifeless staircase....

Into this....

Are your staircases/hallways used to get from A to B or have you transformed them? If so, how?

Loving Kravet's suzani

2011-05-09T05:00:00.001-04:00

Last week I posted about a Kravet (to the trade) suzani textile that is being used on two wing back chairs for a client. This is another suzani textile by Kravet that I love, love so much that I'm using it in my living room (living room and living room.)

This design is fresh enough to be modern day, but classic enough to be timeless. Not only is this print fabulous, but the colorways are amazing! Love them all!

I adore the color orange and it makes such a chic statement when done right! What colorway do you like?

Family office

2011-05-05T05:30:00.002-04:00

At the top of my clients' staircase...

There was this large empty space. It was my job to figure out what type of space would give this family of five great utility, be very practical, get daily use and look fabulous.

The answer? A family office. With three children in the home they needed a space where laptops could be kept, where homework could be done, where books could be stored and where family members would want to hang out. Since this room is located at the top of the landing, no one feels isolated in another room, everyone wants to spend time there! (The father has his own office and we are currently designing the mother's private space.)

The custom cabinetry keeps the space looking organized. The window seats have become a spot where the mother often sees her children lounging and reading! Under the window seats we created a storage space to stow away gift wrapping supplies. Just in case rain comes as a surprise and the windows are up, we used a Kravet indoor/outdoor textile. All details were considered!

This once "hallway landing" has become a room in the home. I like seeing spaces used and not just viewed. You too? Once the round table and lucite chairs are installed and the space is professionally photographed I will be certain to share images.

Loving this Kravet pattern

2011-05-03T06:00:00.006-04:00

Kravet (to the trade) has caught my attention with this contemporary take on the century's old suzani look. When this pattern is paired with more traditional elements in the room, the result will be a space that has a fresh modern take on traditionalism.

This textile is being used on two wing back chairs in a client's living room. I adore this design and like that I have never seen it used.

Here I posted about this vase. When the installation of this room is complete there will be a couple subtle pops of deep, bold yellow to keep the room crisp.

The other colorways are quite fabulous too!

Do you have a favorite colorway? Images of the space will follow once we complete the installation!

Master bedroom window treatments

2011-05-02T08:50:00.004-04:00

I am in love with this stunning Indian silk by Kravet. To see the pattern repeating itself from ceiling to floor will be gorgeous when my master bedroom window treatment is completed!

Remember the textiles I scored at the Brunschwig & Fils warehouse sale? I am finally having this silk velvet made into seating for the master bedroom.

My tufted master bed.

When it comes to master bedrooms I gravitate towards an overall sophisticated space that feels soothing and calming. What colors do you love to see in a master bedroom? Soon you will see the entire space!

Friday Fun - the Royal Wedding

2011-04-29T03:33:00.009-04:00

Fridays will now be about having a little fun! What better day to kick off my Friday Fun series than on the Friday of the royal wedding?

Will you be watching history be made today? Will you hosting or attending a "royal wedding" soiree?

I will be hostessing a Royal Wedding Celebration Playdate for my five year old princess and seven of her princess friends from 3:30 to 5pm! The table has been set for "wedding cake" and fresh fruit.

Are you fascinated by fascinators and hats? I have long been a fan of wearing hats and fancy hair pieces! I wore this hat seven years ago to a friend's wedding, last summer to another wedding; as well as to Bunny Williams birthday celebration when I interned for her office.

2010 Newport, RI wedding I attended July 2010

Congratulations to the Prince and his Princess! Don't you think the new Duchess of Cambridge is the epitome is elegance and sophistication? Have a wonderful weekend!

April in Paris: Part 3

2011-04-26T01:22:00.001-04:00

Last week I was in Paris for a long weekend....four full days and the morning of the fifth. It was quick, jam packed and fabulous! I've posted about our first two days in two previous posts and I'm wrapping up the final two days in this post.

Day three began with a classic Parisian breakfast with sidewalk seating at Cafe de Flore. Casually Defined had commented that this was a favorite spot of hers, perhaps she too likes places that locals hang out?

Afterwards, we took foodie blogger, Weird Combinations, advice to grab the Metro (less than a half an hour and no traffic...can't be beat!) and head directly to Versailles. I felt like it was a privilege to visit a place where kings lived. Louis XVI style furniture is my absolute favorite, so I loved seeing "the real deal" in his palace! Do you have a favorite Louis furniture style?

The Royal Chapel

I remembered studying the Hall of Mirrors, so to see it person was such a special treat!

Some furniture will always be timeless, like x-based stools.

Love this stool!

Marie Antoinette's bed

After the awe inspiring visit to Versailles, we spent time in Versailles Village before heading to

Sacre-Coeur located in Montmarte. The city wide views from Sacre-Coeur are amazing. See the Eiffel Tower in the distance? We spent into the early evening exploring this part of the city.

At the end of this day we took Barefoot Contessa's recommendation for an Italian diversion from the Parisian food and went to Marco Polo located at 8 Rue de Conde. This place was packed with locals and the meal was beyond amazing...thank you Ina Garten!

After dinner we took Heavenly Housewife's recommendation and had Grom gelato (which we devoured two nights in a row!) The Carmello (carmel) gelato with Himalayan sea salt made me realize I would fly to Paris just to eat this speciality!

On our final day we started with a stroll thru Luxembourg Gardens, so beautiful!

Then we went to Le Puces and Les Halles before walking to the Pompidou Museum which houses modern art. Have you been? Here's Andy Warhol's Liz Talyor piece.

Pablo Picasso, Femme en bleu 1944

Henri Matisse, La Blouse Roumaine 1940

Now, you have to "study" Michelangelo Pistoletto's (perfected mirror paintings) piece, Woman in a cemetery, for a few moments. All I could think was what on Earth did this person do to her?!

Our last evening was spent dining at the highly raved about Le Comptoir in the St. Germain neighborhood, again another culinary home run!

I'll wrap this with the museum pass made our experiences enjoyable. There was no waiting in long lines, along with gaining access into the various museums via a special entrance. I never once encountered a surly local, in fact we found them to be quite opposite the stereotype. I hope you've enjoyed traveling to Paris via my posts!

April in Paris: Part 2

2011-04-22T07:07:00.001-04:00

Today's post is about how we made tracks exploring the City of Lights on day two of our visit. In January I did a post asking for your Paris recommendations, we heeded your advice and you did not disappoint!

Marianne of Style for Living commented that the 7th arrondissement was her favorite, we too loved the neighborhood! As we finished our stroll along the Rue de l'Universite we were greeted by the Eiffel Tower.

A special lunch was had in the Eiffel Tower at famed chef, Alain Ducasse's Le Jules Verne. No waiting in lines, a private elevator midway up the Tower, great views of the city, a remarkable meal and a memorable ~~lunch~~ experience was had!

The dishes were works of art and did not disappoint the palette.

I'd rather be shopping commented that she/her husband walked from 9am to 7pm daily, and after our lunch I was glad that it was turning out to be our game plan too! After stepping out of the private elevator I had to stand still, look up and marvel at the inside of the Eiffel Tower...it's such an enormous structure!

We walked across the Seine and got one last view of the Eiffel Tower...isn't if fabulous?

Needing to walk off lunch, we started our stroll down the Champs Elysees, made our way through the lovely Jardin Des Tuileries and into the Louvre. Elizabeth, the Diane James ladies and Frances all suggested that they were three musts, and they were!

Some of my Louvre favorites included finally getting to see the Mona Lisa!

La Venus de Milo

Giovanni Paolo Pannini's 1759 creation, Galerie de vues de la Rome Moderne had me in awe. This creation was art within art...look at the painting and then the close up...beyond amazing detail. I was floored.

We wrapped our day of sightseeing up with a visit to Notre Dame. It was at this point that I realized I would continually be in awe over the sights in Paris.

After a day of observing details, I concluded it is the little details that add up to something grand. When designing spaces do you pay attention to little details? The trim cord on a pillow? The wallpapered closet? The monogram on a towel?

Knowing that we'd be spending our evening eating our way through the St. Germain district we decided to go running along the Seine...it made working out fun! 5th and State commented that St. Germain was her favorite district and after spending everyday there, we decided it was ours too!

Pretty Pink Tulips, The Buzz/Diane James and The Zhush gave me a Streetwise Paris map which allowed us to navigate the streets with ease! Are you familiar with these maps? I have them for several locations and just think that they are the best!

I have one final post on Paris that I'll share next week. Have a great weekend!

April in Paris: Part 1

2011-04-21T11:02:00.004-04:00

I've returned from my long weekend in Paris. April in Paris with sunny and 70 degree weather was pure bliss! We had an AMAZING time in the City of Lights (in my previous post I intentionally referred to Paris as the city of romance...as everyone calls it such a romantic city, there's so much to fall in love with and since I was with my husband, I was so happy to be sharing the experience with the man I love so much!)

The Musee d'Orsay houses world class art. It's an amazing place. I took notice to just about all of the artwork being in gold frames and hung on black walls. So striking.

Standing across the street from the Musee d'Orsay, you look at the Seine and on the opposite side you see the Louvre. We enjoyed some runs along the Seine...so nice!

Walking through the 6 and 7th arrondissements I was in awe over the architecture, the doors and the door knobs. Do you have a favorite?

This is the doorway to Ralph Lauren's restaurant and stores located on Rue de St. Germain. I walked inside and in true Ralph Lauren fashion the place was stunning.

All the cars seem to be small in Paris, and when I saw this man driving his car into the courtyard I understood one reason why. Many of these doors open to either a courtyard leading to several apartments or as a path to drive/park one's car before entering an apartment.

Dinner the first night was truly a treat, as we went to the fabulous Le Pre Catelan. With each bite I took of Frederic Anton's culinary creations, I felt like royalty!

Tomorrow's post is about the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre Dame and a few other goodies!

Have you been to Paris? Are you as smitten with the city as I am?

I'm on my way to Paris!

2011-04-14T14:26:00.001-04:00

I am leaving today for my long weekend getaway to Paris! Thank you to all of you who left comments on my post seeking your input for my trip...I'll be using your recommendations! A huge thank you to my dear blogging buddies Pretty Pink Tulips, The Buzz/Diane James and The Zhush for the Paris package they gave me with maps and books! I'm ready to explore the city of romance on my first vacation with my husband since having my two wonderful children!

http://www.world-city-photos.org/Paris/photos/Eiffel_Tower/Eiffel_Tower_orange/

Have a wonderful weekend and I'll be back next week with lots of Paris and client posts!

a Royal Wedding celebration playdate

2011-04-11T11:22:00.002-04:00

When the Royal Wedding was announced my daughter (who has been a flower girl twice) asked me if we were going to the wedding and if she was going to be a flower girl. Since it appears our invitation was lost in the mail we won't be attending the wedding of the century, so instead we are having a Royal Wedding celebration playdate at home!

I devoured this magazine last week. It's a good one!

On the afternoon of April 29th (after preschool) I will be hostesssing a playdate for my daughter and a few little friends. We will watch the nuptials while having fun! I will be wearing this tiara that I wore for my daughter's "3rd" birthday.

My daughter loves playing dress-up (guess the apple doesn't fall far from the tree!), so she will be thrilled when I give her this little bridal gown for the playdate! All the little girls will be wearing a princess or bridal costume.

We'll be noshing on fruit, along with homemade cookies and I'll be making a "bride" wedding cake! I ordered these adorable carrriage treat boxes to put on the table to add to the festivities. I'm setting the table with the "crown" plates from my daughter's "3rd," along with using the turquoise checkered placemats (which were never used as placemats, but rather as a table runner!) from her "4th" party.

We'll be decorating crowns with crayons, markers and stick on jewels!

And, finally a Royal Wedding celebration playdate would not be a party unless the Royal Family was joining us...so I took care of that too! My gal pals and I will be sipping hot tea.

Does the Royal Wedding interests you? Will you be watching? Are you hosting or attending a party? Aren't you glad that there is Tivo and DVR to capture the wedding, so you can watch in the evening?

Behind the scenes

2011-03-31T15:21:00.005-04:00

Yesterday I posted my daughter's "5th" birthday party. I wanted to share with you how I pulled together this Barbie party...perhaps you'll find a tip or borrow an idea?

The Barbie toppers for the cakes can be used over and over. Only the top portion is Barbie, the bottom half is a stick to put into the cake. For my daughter's "3rd" we used the Barbies as princesses for her princess party...

(My daughter's party posted at http://swanky-chic-fete.blogspot.com/2011/02/little-girls-birthday-party-hamptontoes.html)

And, for her "4th" as ballerinas for her tiaras and tutus party...

(My daughter 4th's party posted at http://swanky-chic-fete.blogspot.com/2011/02/little-girls-birthday-party-hamptontoes.html)

*Sidenote, because I think it's important to think out of the box...for the above party I used Ella's polka dot bed sheet for the table cloth! Under the sheet I used a thick white vinyl table protector to make the sheet look heavier! And, the table runner isn't a table runner, it's placemats that I slightly layered to create a table runner. Once I added all the goodies to the table, no one could tell that it wasn't a runner.

And, this year the toppers were used as Barbies...

Some of you asked if I truly made the cakes...I did! I made 18 Barbie cakes (17 little ones and a large one for Ella) along with 48 cupcakes for the adults. I whipped up 10 cakes and decorated them Thursday night while watching American Idol (loving James Durbin!), Friday night I made the remaining 8 cakes while my children were having a special bedtime routine with the grandparents (who were in town for the party.) The cupcakes I tossed into the oven while baking the cakes. Yes, it was all homemade! I was in bed Friday night by 10pm. Truly, it did not take me long...cupcake pan holds 24 and small Barbie cake pans holds 4!

When it comes to pinatas at parties I don't care for the ones that you need to beat with a stick...it seems dangerous to me. I prefer the ones with pull-strings. I converted this pink crown pinata to a pull string...so easy to do! It's safer and the pinata can be used over. This pinata was used for Ella's "4th" party too! I took off the princess sticker from last year and hot glue gunned the Barbie details.

(The above princess pinata from her 4th birthday, below it was reused for ther 5th.)

I filled the pinata with jewels, bouncing balls and hair accessories.

The red carpet is really a red runner that I purchased on-line from a party store 3 years ago. I paid $10 bucks for it and I've used it for three parties already! This year I added the star stickers. Every single girl was on the floor pointing to her star and giggling...it was very sweet!

The dresses I used as place settings. They were packaged with bubble gum, but I chose to not give it to the girls, instead chewing it myself!

The feather boa's were draped over the back of the bamboo chairs, one for each girl!

I ordered the lollipops/custom stickers and switched out the presentation using treat bags and $2.00 worth of ribbon! I have used the styrofoam blocks for many things, this time I wrapped them with striped wrapping paper and inserted the lollis!

The hanging lanterns were new for this party, but have already been put away for future use.

I purchased little water bottles and applied this label over the old one...it took no time at all.

I used my hot glue gun to apply the silhouettes to the straws and to the plates. The silverware is really plastic!

Traci, a professional photographer and a dear friend, called me on Super Bowl Sunday from a little textile shop in California where she lives. She told me she had something perfect for Ella's party, and that the quality was excellent and it would cost me a song to score enough textile to cover four tables. Thanks Traci for your great eye, not only behind the camera. I took the textile and cut it on site without having it sewn.

The Barbie photo box was old cardboard taped together and wrapped in pink wrapping paper. The was a huge hit! The girls loved standing inside the box and having their photo taken, so that they could be their own version of Barbie!

You may be wondering what I served the girls to eat? I bought individual yogurts, so they got to pick which one they wanted and I sliced up a huge bowl of fresh fruit...nothing was left over!

I hope this gives you a little idea how I pulled together her party! Any other questions?

Barbie cake toppers (http://www.michaels.com/)

Black Barbie silhouettes from Etsy (http://www.etsy.com/shop/Lauri57)

Cupcake toppers & water bottle labels from Etsy (http://www.etsy.com/shop/PartyPeople)

Pink polka dot straws (http://www.bakeitpretty.com/)

Star stickers for the red carpet (http://www.christmastreeshops.com/ - they were in a pack 12 for $.59!)

Doll dresses as place settings (http://www.christmastreeshops.com/ - 10 dresses for $1.00!)

Feather boas (http://www.haloheaven.com/featherboas.html $12 per dozen!)

Pink hanging lanterns (http://www.orientaltrading.com/)

Pink swirl lollipops (http://www.orientaltrading.com/)

Treat bags and ribbon for lollipops (http://www.michaels.com/)

My daughter's 5th birthday

2011-03-29T23:34:00.007-04:00

This past weekend we celebrated my daughter's "5th" birthday! Once she gave her request for a Barbie party I went to work designing every detail so that her party would be fun and memorable.

Here and here I gave little previews for what was to come. The party was held at the historical Lyndhurst Castle. The girls started off with a tour of the castle guided by Barbie and Ken's butler (wink, wink!) Each of the 18 little girls were given a clipboard containing a page of images for their castle scavenger hunt...fun!

Following the castle tour, everyone darted a few steps away to the carriage house. As the little girls entered the party room they walked the "red carpet" and were thrilled to see their name on a star!

The Barbie doll box was a huge hit! The girls loved standing inside the box and having their photo taken, so that they could be their own version of Barbie!

I made this large Barbie cake for my daughter and seventeen little ones, so that each little girl had her own cake!

Each little girl got a Barbie and Ken doll set. The boxes were quickly torn open!

Behind the Barbie play area, I set up Barbie's Beauty Boutique. The girls were able to adorn themselves with gold necklaces, jeweled rings, floral rings with lipstick inside, bracelets and pretend earrings (jeweled gems with little stickers on the back.) Using the gem stickers they were also able to have their nails done minus the nail polish.

Each lolli in the background is actually 33 ouchless hairbands in one lolli!

"Pin the sunglasses on Barbie" provided a little challenge for the girls. The activity tables allowed the girls to gather around and color Barbie books, play with Barbie stickers, decorate their own septors and even make their own necklaces!

The pinata was filled with jewels, hair accessories and bouncing balls.

When the party was over my daughter looked at me and said, "Thank you mommy for designing a pretty and fun party for me, you are the best mommy in the world!" With that said, I smiled and cried (can't believe how fast the first five years went.) Tomorrow I'll give sources and how to-do's for all the details to this party. Any questions you'd like me to answer tomorrow?

Blue + lucite + bamboo = chair

2011-03-15T10:12:00.002-04:00

This blue bamboo lucite chair by Go Home Ltd. (to the trade) is the newest addition to my daughter's bedroom. Since my daughter was 4 1/2 years old she has been a proficient reader. Each night after our bedtime routine of stories together, she loves to read on her own. We decided together that she would benefit from a desk, a chair and a lamp next to her bed. The chair has arrived, the other items will follow shortly.

This nearly 5' x 6' solid wood beveled mirror hangs on one wall creating a great impact.

Do you may remember my post about wallpapering a bookcase?

Do you fancy a little lucite in your home?

Cottages & Gardens subscription winner!

2011-03-14T23:45:00.000-04:00

Debby from the blog Inspired Design is the very lucky winner of the Cottages & Gardens magazine subscription! I'm thrilled for you Debby, send me an e-mail with your information. Let me know if you'd like Connecticut Cottages & Gardens for one year or if you'd like Hamptons Cottages & Gardens for a seasonal summer subscription. So happy to share a piece of the NYC metro area with you!