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April 02, 2010

Saint Thomas

Picture 2 One of the nicest and most thoughtful designers I've had the opportunity to meet is the incomparable Thomas O'Brien. It is interesting to note that highly creative people seem to fall into one of a few camps. You have the butterflies: those bubbly types who seem to flit with ease from one topic, specialty and interest to the next without so much as a moment's hesitation. As I write that I realize I should admit that I fall into that camp, as do most of interior designers I have met. We tends to be lively and fun but lack much interest in pesky things like paperwork and other things that can slow us down. This does not mean we lack attention to details - we pay plenty of attention to visual details. But words, rules and parameters tend to make us feel pinched and uncomfortable so we avoid them like the plague.

There is also the "artiste" that special breed of creative who sleeps until noon, is suspiciously calm at all times and seems to feel it is there moral duty to be true to their art, their passions and themselves. I've worked with these intense creatures from time to time. They take their art very seriously and are typically not motivated by worldly possessions or critical acclaim. It is all about the art, and that shows in their expansive collections and large body of work. They tend to be painters and sculptors and it is their life's mission to express themselves.

Picture 3 And lastly, you have the rarest of types. The intellectual designer. They might just as easily have pursued a career in academia as art. They share a love of books, have an affinity for words and are whip smart historians who bring much more than just a creative eye to the design table. These are great minds and make for fascinating conversationalists at parties, as there seems to be no end to their vast encyclopedic knowledge.

Thomas, the great Thomas O'Brien, is easily one of the shining stars of this category. If you doubt this, I challenge you to grab a copy of his fascinating book, American Modern. In it, he discusses the back story, motivations, considerations and implications of many of his amazing projects. And while it is rich in text, he is affable, approachable and engaging throughout the entire book. I found myself mesmerized by his stories and thoughtfulness. If compelled, you could easily just flip through page after glorious page staring at photos of beautiful pieces and spaces, but there was something about his warmth and intensity in the writing that had me glued to this book. 

With Thomas, there is a generosity of spirit at work. He wants to you be more informed. He hopes to encourage you to understand the how's and the why's of design. He invites you to uncover the very reasons that you're attracted to certain styles. And he wants to help get you there. And if you're paying even light attention you can't help but walk away from this book more knowledgeable and more curious about how design and form shape the way we live and breathe. 

Do yourself a favor, grab a copy of this beautiful book in hardcover and add it to your design library. But go a step further... read it, consume it, digest it and absorb it. Thomas is inviting us into his world and generously offering us a glimpse into his razor sharp mindset as a designer. You'll never think of furnishings the same way again and you'll certainly fall in love with the talented and warm Thomas O'Brien.

Posted at 10:55 AM in Books, celebrities, designers, furniture, great people, interior design | | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0)

February 09, 2010

My Essential 10

Il_fullxfull.118436544 Paloma of La Dolce Vita blog has been doing an amazing series on her fabulous blog. She's been asking various people to name 10 things that make their lives rich and worth living. Participants have included Eddie Ross and Erin of Elements of Style just to name a few. The answers are as varied as you'd expect from such a diverse group. Pop over to see 10 things I can't live without.

Editor's note: If you aren't following her yet on twitter or reading her blog you're really missing out. She's a wonderful blogger and a warm personality in my tweet stream. Get to know her better by reading the ten at the top of her life list. Thank you for including me in your series, Paloma! XOXO!

{print courtesy of The Love Shop}

Posted at 10:26 AM in great people, interviews, venti favorites | | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0)

November 10, 2009

Rhymes with Boom Boom

Picture 8 Interesting to see Heidi on the landing page of Ann Taylor. Is there nothing this supermodel is incapable of doing? Picture 11
While we're here... if I were choosing an Ann Taylor item I had to have... it'd be this nearly sold out jacket. Shame I wasn't lurking on the site sooner as my size is long gone. Heidi... if you're suggesting the "new Ann" is uber hip and super chic (and I think you are) I will need to start paying more attention to the brand.

Posted at 03:41 PM in celebrities, fabulousness, great people | | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0)

October 28, 2009

Your Honor, May I Approach the Bench?

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So there seems to be one major glaring detail I'm leaving out of the High Point trip... my encounter with Margaret Russell at the Elle Decor cocktail party. Truth be told, it was a book signing and she was holding court in a tent as adoring fans lined up to buy the book in hopes for a moment of her attention. We arrived... poked our heads into the tent, saw her and went about our business. After all, it seemed a bit odd to wait in line just to meet someone. It just didn't seem like the thing to do.

So we chatted amongst ourselves on the patio and killed time before dinner. But as the evening wound down and the line subsided I decided I'd go take one more peek at the glamorous editor. After all... I'd come so far and she was mere yards away. So into the tent we went....

As luck would have it, the line had dwindled. Her assistants were quickly wrapping things up and there was just one person left in line. At the prodding of my girlfriend I stood in line as she paid for my book ("an early Christmas present"). I began simultaneously offering a hasty "no, no... I feel silly!" all the while removing my cardigan so I could reveal my arms and dress in the photo. Before I knew it I was up on stage mugging for the cameras and vamping for a good angle to showcase my "better side." LOL!

Picture 6 So yes... like a silly schoolgirl, here I am hamming it up with the fabulous MR herself. And yes, she's every bit as adorable and chic in person. It's a lousy photo, what with me smiling too hard and us each looking at opposite cameras. (Isn't that always the way?) You may go ahead and laugh. I'll giggle too every time I crack open my signed copy of Style and Substance. After all...it was a Christmas gift from a fabulous friend. And who could refuse an offer like that?

And Margaret... dear Margaret... thank you for your graciousness and for allowing me to impose upon your personal space after what must have been a taxing evening. While it was my distinct pleasure to be the last in line, I vaguely remember squeezing you and pulling you in tightly for the photos. It's hard to say... it was all such a comical blur. However, I'm almost certain I was a bit too enthusiastic. My apologies for not considering your ankle. And if I didn't mention it... it was a pleasure to meet you. :)

{Editorial note: afterward, I announced to our group that I've added "book signing" to my list of necessary life achievements. Bergdorf Goodman was the location we uniformly agreed offered the caché we felt necessary for the affair. So there you have it... "author at least one book" has been added to my Things to Do Before I Die list. Who knows... maybe Margaret will pass by during my signing and remember me as the girl who squeezed her way too tightly! (Obviously if she wants a copy, she won't have to wait in line :) }

Yours truly,

future best-selling author, Franki Durbin.

Posted at 04:34 PM in Books, celebrities, fabulousness, great people, life, things to do before I die | | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0)

October 26, 2009

Suzanne Kasler's Effortless Glamour

Picture 30 I've been giving it more thought and come up with a great way to describe the three designers from the Hickory Chair event. Here goes: Thomas O'Brien is the designer you want on your team for Trivial Pursuit. Although I did not quiz him, I'm certain he could regale you with detailed stories of historical events just as easily as he could recite Yeats without a moment's hesitation.

Picture 35 Alexa Hampton is the girl you want on your Pictionary team. She's bold, vivacious and wouldn't think twice about performing in front of a crowd. I adored her energy and her contagious laughter. Alexa is a girl who knows how to enjoy herself, and it shows. Having said that, she, Suzanne and Thomas could go head to head on their exhaustive and comprehensive knowledge of the origins of design and the history of furnishings. Each of them shared such a rich passion for design and the classical references of each piece in their collections at Hickory Chair. It was beyond impressive. (more on Alexa in an upcoming post!)Picture 32But let's talk about my favorite girl's girl of the bunch: Suzanne Kasler. Where do I begin? Suzanne is a woman blessed with radiant warmth. She's gracious, feminine and absolutely charming. Standing in the midst of her gorgeous collection in the showroom, it was clear that the sheer beauty of the pieces themselves was a direct expression of her inner glamour and her ability to translate that sophistication into three dimensional forms.

So if I'm continuing my theme of games I'd play with each designer, Suzanne would certainly be my partner for a game of dress up - as silly as that sounds. She's so warm and inviting that you immediately feel you could spend a full day weaving through the cobblestone streets of Rome in search of the perfect dress. You'd laugh at yourselves as you tripped on the cobblestone along the Via Condotti. Inevitably, you'd find yourselves losing track of time as the afternoon passed. You've chatted so much and admired cultural surroundings so much you'd nearly forgotten to shop. The two of you would share stories as you sipped your afternoon espressos at Sant'Eustachio (the best espresso in Rome, in my opinion!). And you'd continue the fun through dinner and well after dessert at the most quaint local restaurant, barely noticing the waiters who would no doubt be trying to catch her attention. Yes, she's that approachable and that remarkably beautiful. You meet her.. you feel you've known her for ages. She has a sort of quiet charisma that pulls you in and akes you take notice.Picture 31If you haven't familiarized yourself with her work, I recommend you take a peek at my post from the spring, peruse her recent collection for Hickory Chair and most certainly pick up a copy of her latest book, Inspired Interiors. I've still clinging to my signed copy (woohoo!), thinking it might be nice to read over coffee on a quiet afternoon. (Rome, anyone?)

In spring I was overcome by the sheer beauty of her icy blue color palette with gold accents. A chinoiserie inspired look. This season's palette featured an invigorating orange, perfect for fall, but timeless on it's own accord. I can hardly stop thinking about this stunningly simply orange leather chair. It strikes me as the ideal perch from which to write - espeically if paired with one of her sexy desks. Yowza!

As I look back on my experience with Suzanne, I can't help but feel that she has altered my view of the typical successful businesswoman. She embodies a certain quiet confidence and graciousness I haven't often encountered. As I observe all that she has achieved and the body of work she has produced, I realize that never for a moment was she anything less that generous with her time and sincere in her interest of the talents of others.Picture 36It's that same grace that can be seen in her work. Her furnishings are lovingly designed and exude quiet elegance. They are feminine without being frilly. Warm and approachable without being casual. Elegant and wise without losing that fresh edge. Full of authority without the use of any visible force. Much like the woman herself, the pieces feel inviting, as if they're good friends you can't wait to spend more time around. If you have the opportunity, be sure to go to a Kasler book signing near you. I promise it will be an experience you won't soon forget. You'll meet a fascinating woman and acquire a fabulous book at the same time!

Thank you, Suzanne, for serving as such an inspiration!

Posted at 05:52 PM in Books, events, fabulousness, furniture, great people, interior design, observations, style, success | | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0)

October 25, 2009

Thomas O'Brien: The Thinking Man's Designer

Picture 70 Funny how certain people strike you as extraordinary. Persons teeming with so much star quality that they'd have been famous whether they drilled oil or worked in a paper factory. Thomas O'Brien is certainly one of those rare individuals with "change maker" written all over him. He enters the room and the energy shifts. It's a wonderful quality and I found his frenetic energy quite refreshing.Picture 65
Last Saturday night I had the rare opportunity to share a meal with Thomas and a small group of other bold-faced names in a private dining room in High Point, North Carolina. (For the record, what he ordered looked far better than my choice.. but I digress...) As you surely know if you've read Paloma, Heather or Cassandra's posts, we enjoyed the company of Suzanne Kasler, Ron Fiore and the impossibly fun Alexa Hampton. And while it seemed the entire room was abuzz with conversation, I suspect our table might have been the most rambunctious of the bunch. Between me, Ron, Thomas, Karen (Thomas's PR guru), Keith (Thomas's right hand man) and my husband, I can safely say we were not a quiet bunch! To say that we had a great time would be an understatement!Picture 66
The thing about Thomas that stood out to me was how he simultaneously embodied such precision and absolute chaos. Everything about him is a study in contrasts. His perfectly tailored clothing, masterfully tossed on with a devil may care attitude. His mathematically precise furnishings that somehow still ooze laid-back ease and comfort. His freshly cut hair that's haphazardly coiffed - making you suspect he only had moments to fix it, but it looks great regardless. Anyway you look at it, Thomas enjoys the dichotomy of his (and my) Gemini personality. Fully controlled, drawn to precision, a total perfectionist - and yet a total riot and easy to be around. Spend a moment in his company and you'll find yourself laughing hysterically. His quick wit and sheer breadth of knowledge makes him a powerhouse personality. Trust me, you notice when this guy walks into a room. And you'd better be prepared. Picture 67
Back to my story... dinner was amazing. The group of us laughed so hard we nearly cried. And the next morning Thomas and the other designers walked us through the Hickory Chair showroom discussing their respective collections. It would be difficult to overstate how well informed Thomas is about design. He understands scale, historical significance, functionality and attention to detail in ways many of us can only dream. Much of his influence comes fro his New England upbringing. He recalls the furnishings of his childhood home and appreciates quality pieces that can be passed down from generation to generation. This all very clearly translates in his work. Each piece easily can stand on its own and could be repurposed in near limitless arrangements in almost any room of the home.Picture 63
Clearly, the collection is beautiful. A classic settee covered in a tweedy menswear fabric was completely modern and fresh in a strangely familiar way. A geometric sectional finished with touchably plush upholstery straddled the line between masculine and feminine design perfectly. It was all absolutely flawless and just slightly "off" in that uniquely TOB way. If you can imagine staying with well-heeled friends in the Hamptons for the weekend in a house that exudes relaxed elegance - that's how every piece of the Thomas O'Brien collection reads. Utterly fabulous and over the top in a completely approachable and familiar way... much like the man himself. Genius. 

Many more tales to come.. stay tuned!

Posted at 04:15 PM in designers, events, fabulousness, furniture, great people, interior design, style, success | | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0)

August 19, 2009

Interview with Brent of Card Sharks: Part One

Picture 16 In the midst of his busy season, I was able to score an interview with Brent of Card Sharks. He is both owner and one of the creative designers behind these playful greeting cards. Find out what makes this active mind tick:
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Every graphic designer I know (self-included) has at some point thought the idea of designing greeting cards would be a wonderful way to express their creativity.  What inspired you to begin Card Sharks? What's the story behind the brand?

"I have been designing cards for my wife for years. I try to create cards for her that are unique and capture the feelings I have. Our friends and family who would see these cards would often tell me that they would love to be able to buy cards like them. My son began working with me several years ago and we got to talking about greeting cards and thought why not give it a shot. There just wasn't that much out there, in a greeting card kind of way, that appealed so we began working on concepts and designs. We prototyped a bunch if these ideas, showed them around and things just kind of took off from there."


Picture 24 The Card Sharks look is very different from any other card products I've seen. How would you describe the "look" of your products? 

"Well, I have worked with some amazing illustrators over the years. I thought why not see if they would be interested in partnering with us in this business. That was critical in my view. Great art coupled with crisp, clean design. We have been so fortunate to work with these talented artists. They produce beautiful, clever, and unique pieces that capture the attention and tickle the fancy. We design around these images to complete the card and package, hoping to create something that would be just as artistic."  


Picture 25 Creative types are all just a little different. I tend to need to see new things all of the time to draw inspiration. Magazines, new locations, shoes... you name it. Where do you go for new ideas? Are there things you do? Places you go? Sites you visit online?

"Our inspiration comes from the world of art and design - books, catalogs, magazines, web sites, blogs, museums, art events, and our own imaginations. There is so much wonderful art out there that there really is no end to great ideas." 


He's right. There is so much available in our surroundings to inspire great ideas. Never underestimate a stack of magazines, a change in your normal routine or a drive through a new area to spark your imagination. Stay tuned tomorrow for the rest of the interview with Brent to discover how he collaborates with other creatives and how the green movement is impacting his business.
You have until Friday to enter the Sippy Cup / Card Sharks giveaway. Or shop now and save 20% off your entire purchase just for entering promo code VENTISHARKS

Posted at 07:27 AM in art, design, designers, eco-friendly, graphic design, great people, illustrations, interviews | | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

August 12, 2009

Shark Attack

Picture 68Picture 62 Picture 61  Picture 59 Picture 58 Months ago Card Sharks got my attention. Their cards are edgy, cool, colorful and...well, just different. I can't quite put my finger on what makes these so unique, but they serve as evidence that creativity in our culture is alive and well.

It is my great pleasure to announce to you that they are partnering with Life in a Sippy Cup for a truly incredible giveaway. Two lucky winners will win a box of their wonderfully clever cards. One happy contestant will win a set of Little Beasties and the other proud reader will run off with a set of Animal Alphabet cards.

Swing by Sippy Cup to enter! {At this point I must confess that I'm a wee bit sad I can't enter myself. These are just so impossibly cute!}

Also...Stay tuned for an upcoming interview with the creative minds at play behind the designs.

Posted at 01:51 PM in contest, designers, eco-friendly, entrepreneurs, graphic design, great people, illustrations | | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

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June 25, 2009

Ron Fiore Interview. Part Deux.

Picture 23If you missed yesterday's post, pop over and see what Ron Fiore, creative director for Hickory Chair, had to share with us about style, muses and the influence of fashion on the way we live in our homes.

Already up to speed? Enjoy part deux of the interview.

Picture 57 On collaboration:
Hickory Chair has teamed up with some amazing designers to create collections. Suzanne Kasler, Thomas O'Brien, just to name a few. It takes confidence to invite the disruptive force of outside ideas and opinions. Is it challenging to ensure the capsule collections relate the "whole" of the company's furnishings? How does the collaboration process work? What is it about these designers that make them ideal for collaboration?

The collaborations between Mariette Himes Gomez, Alexa Hampton, Suzanne Kasler and Thomas O’Brien are amazing. These are real people. Each one of these designers brings something unique to Hickory Chair that complements the other and the architecture of our merchandising philosophy. They are family…………..family with great style.

Picture 59 On getting away from it all:
In my mind it would be a dream come true to design beautiful pieces of furniture. The concept...the sketches, the revisions, the finished work. It is an amazing profession. But we all need to get away once in a while. Where do you go to relax and refuel? Do you love to travel? What does Ron Fiore do to recharge his creativity?

It’s great when it all works. At the end of the day though, it’s most gratifying when you get an order……you know what I mean?

Honestly, I have traveled all over the world and have worked in amazing, amazing places. Never in my life would I have thought I would have been allowed such a life. But, I actually love to stay home, clean, move things around, read, watch sports on TV. I’m kind of boring, really. Books allow me to recharge and refuel. I am able to travel in my mind. Been there, done that.

I was at an event recently (you know I am not going to tell you where or what) and was told the event was designed in the Belgian style. Unfortunately my response was “Have you ever been to Belgium?” Travel makes you honest.

Picture 61 On playing favorites:
I must know... what are some of your favorite pieces and why?

Hands down it has to be the Hallings Secretary from the Thomas O’Brien Collection. That piece just works……..with anything.

And finally...just what are you drinking in that venti cup?

I am typically sipping an Americano with WHOLE milk and REAL sugar OR I drink an espresso doppio with sugar………not in the Venti cup.

Ron's take on coffee pretty much sums up my view of him as a designer and by extension, the essence of the Hickory Chair brand. The focus is on top quality ingredients and authenticity. There are no shortcuts, no substitutes, no quick fixes. Start with the best and the results speak for themselves.

Thank you, Ron, for taking time out of your busy schedule. We look forward to seeing what your next muse inspires you to create!


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June 23, 2009

Delicious New Diversions

Gum Don't you love it when you discover remarkable gems online? I've found a few such wonderful blogs lately. All of them were discovered either by a great little email or comment from the editors or just happy accident of web surfing. Saying thank you simply doesn't cover how I feel. It's happy and inspiring sites like these that make me smile every day. I hope that you'll enjoy them too...

Where the Sidewalk Begins is the latest discovery. Authored by Sarah, who has an eye for charming details, a passion for stylish spaces and clearly an eye for stylish footwear. I particularly love the images she chooses for her Happy Friday posts. She has a way of reaching out and touching the most delicate of imagery and pulls me into her magical tales and descriptions of beautiful things I'd have overlooked without her.

Next up...Ramblings of a Fab Brunette. Wow. Where do I begin. Here's a girl who pours her culinary-loving soul into every post. Take on look at her list of things she's learned and you'll feel an instant connection. Or if you've got a few moments, read this post on boredom and you'll be sure to cure yours. 

I often feel like a hit and run blogger. My post are often riddled with typos, I don't often cite sources for images. Rarely will you see a well-researched, lengthy post from me where I've culled information from many sources and outlined that data for you to read. It just isn't what I do. But it is what you'll find at Blueprint Bliss. Here's a design observer who will lead you on a well documented tour of whatever her latest obsession happens to be. Witness her post on wheeled serving carts and you'll agree. I admire her commitment to the blog and what appears to be painstaking effort to create each thoughtful post. (She and Joni make me wonder if I shouldn't just stop and slow down.)

I hope you'll enjoy this select group of recent discoveries - and possibly share a few of your own hidden gems.

Posted at 11:13 AM in great people, Weblogs | | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

June 01, 2009

Boutique of the Week: Dawn Easter Events

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All summer long I'm striving to feature one boutique firm a week. This week, we're dishing all things fete with maestro event planner Dawn of Dawn Easter Events. Pull up a tufted ottoman and eavesdrop on her tips for a swanky soiree of your own...

Continue reading "Boutique of the Week: Dawn Easter Events" »

Posted at 07:04 PM in designers, events, Food and Drink, great people, interviews, life, style, success | | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0)

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May 22, 2009

Loud & Proud in LA

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Hey, peeps... if you're blogging (or desperately wish to begin blogging) in the LA area, be sure to show your pretty face at the Blog Out Loud event coming up June 4th, from 7:30-9pm at Patio Culture.

Naturally, there's a blog with all the deets you'll need. But I know what you want. You want to know who's on the VIP list, right? You're in luck. The panel of five of our beloved peers will boast Rebecca, Richele, Megan, Audrey and Jonathan. They'll dish about their experiences and help facilitate a lively discussion about the current state of blogging.

Still need motivation? Seats are limited... so be there or be square.

Posted at 02:02 PM in events, Food and Drink, great people, technology | | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0)

May 14, 2009

Crashing Kasler's Pad

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One of the most drool worthy moments inside the High Point showroom tour was when we stepped into Suzanne Kasler's gorgeous chinoiserie room at Hickory Chair. It was like stepping into a jewel box. Your eyes could barely stop looking at the impressive center arrangement of quatrefoil chairs beneath a hulking yet appropriately delicate light fixture. The architectural detail of both the space and the furnishings was truly the centerpiece of the showroom for me. Of the many rooms we toured, this one begged to be lingered in more than any other.
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Suzanne, the famed interior designer from Atlanta, worked with the brand to create a refined collection of glamorous furnishings. The chair, which Cassandra has written about previously, will is perfectly proportioned. Nothing quite explains how well balanced the design is until you see it in person. It seems so often that when a chair back veers too far from the normal rectangular shape that you lose the comfort of the piece. Nothing could be further from the truth with this chair. It sits like a dream, and that gorgeous decorative back offers just the right *oomph* when seated. I need several of these in my home. Perfection.
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And everywhere you looked, stacks and stacks of books every girl I know would love to have on her coffee table or bedside. Chanel, Vogue, Louboutin, Jacobs, Dior, Lanvin...a fashionista's dream dream. It was such an exercise in storytelling. That we'd stepped into someone's private dressing room. That somewhere nearby, the woman who lived here had a collection of designer gowns, fun frocks and (surely) an admirable collection of Chanels to accompany these glam pieces of furniture.
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And my new BFF Cassandra La Valle of Coco+Kelley and I just couldn't stop swooning over the feminine perfection of the room. At one point we were begging people to take our photo in the space, just so we could remember what it felt like to live - even for a moment - with such design perfection. Umm... yeah, I'd say we got a bit carried away with our personal pix. But can you blame us? Look at the stunning surroundings.
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Suzanne Kasler nailed glam with this collection. Honestly, I think we were both overwhelmed by the magnificence of the brand as a whole. But when you entered this room you knew you were in the midst of something tremendous. The lighting, the placement, the slight shimmer on the walls. It was heaven.
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You'd just entered a new level of furnishings. The drawer pulls, the curved leg of an ottoman, the added flourish on a divan, the timeless design on a chair back. This was no ordinary designer and these were far from ordinary furnishings. 
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The furnishings begged to be touched, sat upon, admired and - yes, blogged about. It all just felt so perfect. And just when you thought the room couldn't possibly get more gorgeous, you walked a bit further and found something else that made you stop in your tracks. Honestly, I think we both felt that this room was pitch perfect. Feminine without being frilly. Elegant without a hint of stuffiness. Rich and relaxed. There was just a confident ease to the space you could not possibly ignore. And isn't that what style really is at the end of the day? Ease?
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So I leave you with these lovely, dreamy photos of the furnishings (and a few silly ones of us living the luxe life for a few moments, imagining this was our home).

Be sure to check out Cassandra's coverage of the tour as well!

Posted at 05:58 AM in celebrities, design, designers, events, furniture, great people, interior design, style | | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0)

May 09, 2009

A Bit of Beauty for your Weekend

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Thanks to the amazing posts from my guest bloggers (I should really leave it to the pros more often!) I enjoyed a week of mental relaxation. Along the way I discovered some truly amazing blogs, images, ideas and inspiration.
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If you have not visited Bits of Beauty, swing by and see Jenn. She wowed me this week with these unparalleled images by photographer Christian Coinbergh. Consider me a new loyal fan of both. And...as always....enjoy your weekend! XOXO

Posted at 06:46 AM in beauty, celebrities, great people, leisure, life | | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

May 02, 2009

A Mental Vacation...

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I'm going to take a few days away from my blogs to let some other brilliant minds take over. I have no clue what they'll be writing about and I can't wait to read the posts. I've given no guidelines other than to have fun. Well... have fun without cursing or being raunchy. If you want you shot at the blog yourself, let me know. We have a few more spots open. Sippy Cup is up for grabs, too.

Are you up for the challenge?

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April 24, 2009

Seen and Heard...

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Here's a roundup of posts I hope you didn't miss this week:

Tata for now, everyone. Go enjoy the sunshine this weekend!

XOXO!
Franki

{photo via 100layercake}

Posted at 08:54 AM in celebrities, culture, Current Affairs, designers, great people, interior design, interviews, life, observations, style | | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0)

April 16, 2009

A Little Therapy

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Heather's post about the Kips Bay Decorator Show House had me thinking of Brad Ford's delicious designs this week. Even though I've blogged about him before, I couldn't contain myself.
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Isn't his work just yummy? He turns four spare walls into a respite from the world. Your own private retreat. Isn't that what home should be? The answer is yes.
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I want my spaces to inspire great thought. They should welcome you home but encourage you to be an adventurer. An artistic canvas for your own great story.
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If you look closely, it seems Brad's secret is neutral background elements (walls, furnishings, etc) and vibrant transient objects. Think how easily you could swap out those silk pillows and flowers and adjust the room for seasons or changing color palettes.

And he's clearly a designer who understands that the art you've invested in should be allowed to assume center stage. The furnishings never outshine the art. That, and his use of fresh floral arrangements gives it a warm "I had no idea you were coming with a camera crew" appeal. LOL.

I'm on to your wise ways, Brad. I'm definitely on to you. I hope you're still hip to decorate my next home. It wouldn't be the same without you! Be sure to check out his blog Design Therapy.

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April 14, 2009

Fabulous Finds

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As I got my blogging on this morning, I stumbled across a few posts I wanted to be sure the rest of you didn't miss...

Posted at 07:58 AM in architecture, design, fashion, great people, interior design, observations | | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0)

April 09, 2009

I Can't Stop Thinking In Pink

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I'm blaming Julia at Belle Vivir for sending me into a pink frenzy this morning. Pop over to Belle Vivir to see the rest of the glorious imagery.

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April 08, 2009

Entrepreneur of the Day: Rick Jesse of Wall Glamour

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If you follow me on Twitter you know I love my UK creatives. There are throngs of endlessly brilliant Brits online, some of whom have become quite good friends. One of my favorites is Rick of Wall Glamour, Interior Wall Art.

Like Blik and a variety of other companies, Wall Glamour creates unique, adhesive designs for the wall. But what I love about Rick's company is that they stay away from traditional or overdone designs. No matter how hard you look, you won't find a chandelier decal in their catalogue - but you will find light bulbs. A tongue-in-cheek twist on the trend. Ahhh, those crazy Brits!

Without further adieu, here's the interview...

Continue reading "Entrepreneur of the Day: Rick Jesse of Wall Glamour" »

Posted at 04:38 PM in designers, entrepreneurs, great people, interior design, interviews | | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0)

March 29, 2009

Time to Celebrate...You!

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It's time. Time I updated my blog roll. With so many amazing new blogs, bloggers and commenters I've been sorely lacking in the reciprocal link category.

To be fair, this has been keeping me busy. And... in all honesty I owe you all an apology. So many of you are so amazing at popping by and commenting on this blog, but I've been so busy (with the above mentioned role) that I've found it tough to jump in to your blogs. I want thank you all so much for your patience, your persistence and your willingness to swing by. I love you guys!!!

But.... I miss you. I love the new people I've met and new bloggers who've stopped by. If you don't know the world According to Nina you're missing out. Chocolate, Pizza, Stiletto Love... there's a girl with a great eye for new finds. And I love the Moggit Girls. I also just discovered A Balancing Act in Heels. (Where have I been?)

So while I've made mental notes of a few of you to add, this is your chance to shout out and say to me "hey you! visit my blog! follow me on twitter! You need to recognize that I am FABULOUS!!!

Don't hold back, I know I'm missing out on some great new relationships.

Posted at 11:55 AM in great people, life, observations | | Comments (10) | TrackBack (0)

February 25, 2009

Casting Call for 2nd Best Job In the World

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Sadly, if you haven't already applied for the best job in the world you're out of luck. One lucky soul will be responsible for living it up and blogging about all there is to see, do and experience at the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. I'd have jumped at the chance to do this a few years back. And (sorry, other applicants) I'd have won! LOL.

I have a sneaking suspicion my friend will win. His submission video is nothing short of hilarious. And, let's face it, he's already kicking out that island vibe. Go, Khayyam!

But you, dear reader, are in for a treat. I know the blogosphere is teeming with talented web designers. And I know someone... a big someone... who is looking for you. Hallmark. The industry leader in greeting cards. The creator of the annual White House Christmas card (such a thrill). Hallmark is looking for you. Yes you, talented designers. They just need one. Is that you?

If you can genuinely say you "get it" and have a portfolio that speaks of your myriad visual talents, please send me a note ASAP. The opportunity is going fast. Don't live in Kansas City? Doesn't matter. They'll pay the right person to move. Great salary. Amazing environment. For someone, this is a rich opportunity to be a shining star at a fantastic company.

If you missed my previous post where I gushed about the amazing creative culture at Hallmark you should absolutely go back and read it. I've worked in many, many wonderful creative environments. But never one that celebrated the creative class in the same way that this company does. The real stars of the company are the designers. Your work is truly celebrated. Your entire environment is designed to foster good creative vibes. You are encouraged to play, to create, to dare, to dream. It's ridiculous.

Seriously, if you want your chance at the second best job in the world, send me a note, asap. I'd love to help you out.

Posted at 01:29 PM in design, designers, great people, success | | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0)

February 03, 2009

Entrepreneur of the Day: Tamre Sutphen of Shi Shu Baby

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Next up, Tamre Sutphen. We "met" on Twitter (like so many others coming up). And as I enter this post I realize that the first two self-starters sell baby products, but that's not going to be the theme of that series. But what that does tell you, is that there is always room in the market for a product that fills a void. And often (very often) new moms discover that what they are looking for either doesn't exist or is difficult or impossible to obtain.

Without further adieu, I will let Tamra of Shi Shu Style share her tale from idea to reality...

Continue reading "Entrepreneur of the Day: Tamre Sutphen of Shi Shu Baby" »

Posted at 07:53 AM in designers, entrepreneurs, great people, success | | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0)

January 30, 2009

Entrepreneur of the Day: Heather Nolte of Glamajama

As a new mom, I can absolutely relate to the story that unfolds below. For the most part, fashion for children is ..well, it's not a pleasant sight. Some of us feel compelled to go one step further and take matters into our own hands. Heather Nolte of Glamajama is such a person.

I hope you enjoy her story and tune back in to read many others in this brief series on amazing entrepreneurs changing the landscape and not taking "no" for an answer. HeatherNolteBioPicSmall
Most successful small businesses begin because you realized you couldn't find what you were looking for on the market. This seems to be the case with you as well. What's the back story?
As a 25 year old first time mom, my world changed overnight with the birth of my son. I had been working at an investment firm and knew I couldn’t go back to working 50 hour weeks without him. I just couldn’t go that long without hugging and kissing on him! 

Over the next couple of months, I brainstormed ways to satisfy both my personal goals of being a good mom and my professional goals of feeling like a success in business; in other words, "have my cake and eat it too".  Nothing seemed to be the right fit so I busied myself with caring for my newborn and more domestic endeavors like re-decorating the house and sewing up special pieces for my little "Rock Star".  I had been desperate to find unique and creative clothes for him that showcased his personality and that were easy care.  When I couldn't find what I was looking for at the boutiques, I took the "do it yourself" approach and designed my own clothes for him.
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A couple of months later, I had my "a-ha!" moment.  Strolling around town with my little one dressed in his mommy-made tee, I was approached by other moms wanting to know where they could buy the shirt.  A-ha!  The perfect fit was right there all along and I didn't even realize it.  With my newfound direction, I sat down and drew upon my creative experiences growing up in a crafty household, business lessons learned from a career in investments, and finally a healthy dose of patience derived from my many years working at a psychiatric treatment home.  The result was the business plan for Glamajama and the birth of a lifestyle brand of glam-studded fashions for baby, toddlers, women, and even doggies.
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So... how did it go from being just an idea to a thriving business? How did you start getting word out about your products?
The best marketing tool I had was my son. I’d make sure he was wearing one of my creations as I went to the grocery store, playground, salon, etc. I put together a very simple website (VERY simple) and gave the website address to the people who seemed interested. Soon I was asked which stores carried the line. I would then ask them, “which store should carry the line?” After hearing the suggestions I mustered up the courage to show up at a local store and asked for a meeting with the buyer. That just about ended the dream right then and there!

With my heart on my sleeve and butterflies in my stomach, I broke into my best sales pitch. About 60 seconds later she started texting on her phone, talking to her employees, and then at one point called her Mom on the phone. I offered to stop and come back when she had more time. Her response? “No, you’re fine I don’t mind.” I was humiliated and tried to fight back my tears.

I managed to get through the ordeal and kept smiling long enough to hand her my sales sheet and business card. Needless to say, I had a couple glasses of wine that night! I had a major “gut check” the next morning and wondered if I should keep going. I mean, I had no clue what I was doing…just an idea and a dream.

As I was sitting there feeling sorry for myself, the fax machine rang. In came an order for $1,000 worth of merchandise for the store. They needed it ASAP. They wanted to have it on display for a media party they were having in two weeks. I about passed out! I called immediately to thank her for the order. Her response, “Yea, I knew I wanted the line the second I saw it….but I figured you needed the practice so I just let you keep going.” Oh. That was a big lesson for me…most of the time the person holding you back is “you”. I swore to never let that happen again-no more second guessing myself!
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Can you pinpoint one amazing breakthrough moment? (Um... besides Oprah!!!) 
Besides Oprah…Okay, okay, let’s see. We’ve had a lot of moments…probably one of the more memorable ones was when I reached out to Lisa Rinna. I had met her husband, Harry Hamlin, at a Golden Globes swag party. I say “met”, but it probably was a little more like “grabbed”. Anyway, I told him that I knew how much Lisa enjoyed being a Mom and asked him if he could give her one of our “mommy” tees for me. He posed for a picture and agreed. I didn’t really think anything would come of it, but hey-I tried!

A couple days later my phone was ringing off the hook, Lisa Rinna was wearing the shirt on Entertainment Tonight. I couldn’t believe it -and it didn’t end there. She wore it on Access Hollywood and during her practice on “Dancing with the Stars” all that same week. She also bought some to put in her two stores in California. It was a complete whirlwind.

About a week later Harry Hamlin ended up calling me on my cell phone one night telling me he couldn’t believe how well the clothes were selling. They always saw a spike in sales when Lisa wore our clothes on TV, but were shocked that sales were still growing steadily a week later. He wanted to make sure I could keep up with the demand. It was pretty amazing! I kept his number just so I could reminisce a little every now and then. Almost three years later, Lisa still stocks the line at her store, Belle Gray.

I know firsthand that running a business can be both thrilling and trying. What keeps you going?  What's the best part? What do you thrive on?
Yes, it can be hard. Especially when things are hectic and I feel like I’m being impatient with the kids. The trial and error of finding your personal work/life balance is always the hardest part. I think it took me almost two years before I finally figured out what worked best for both the family and the business.

Even now I still I have my moments when I wonder, “Why am I working this hard?” That’s usually when I have to remind myself that I am my own boss. I canto take a day off. After a day or two spent doing nothing but spoiling my three kids, I’m usually back good as new. All the hard work is worth it in the end. I think the best part is that there is always a new adventure. Each and every day is different and full of unique opportunities. I thrive on seizing those opportunities.

And finally... a little shameless self promotion is good for the soul. What's next on the horizon? Any news you can share? :) 
Honestly, my biggest goal for 2009 is to just have more fun with the brand. I’m really loving the whole social media phenomena and interacting more with our “Glamajama Moms”. I’m active on on Twitter and just launched our Facebook page. I’d love to get some tweets from everyone  and be sure to friend us on Facebook!

We’ve also updated our newsletter to include more glam friendly articles and a special “Glamajama Mom of the Month” feature. The Mom of the Month receives one of signature “mommy” tees and a $100 gift certificate to boot. To sign up all you have to do is join our Facebook page.

Posted at 10:13 AM in coolfinding, entrepreneurs, fashion, great people | | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0)

January 22, 2009

Winners Make Their Own Luck

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If you've read long enough, you know that I study self-made successes. The only way to master anything is to learn more about it. And I genuinely believe that if you study successful people, that you too can be (and will be) successful. Study shoes, and you'll have a closet full of them. Study how money is made, and you will find yourself with a healthy bank account (and more shoes! How 'bout them apples?).

Say what you will about him, but Sir Richard Branson is an absolute inspiration for me. He thinks it. He dreams it. He does it. He succeeds at it. That is the Branson way. If you need a kick in the pants this year to get motivated, pick up his first book. I pretty much read it in one night, I was so enthralled by his adventurous tale.

So why am I telling you this again? Because I'm going to run a brief series of posts on entrepreneurs I've met online. These are people who demanded more out of life, reached out to achieve it on their own, and know a thing or two about making it happen on their terms. These are the people I gravitate towards. And I'd like you to learn more about what makes them tick.

Keep your eyes peeled, people. It's coming! In the meantime, don't take no for an answer!

Posted at 01:23 PM in entrepreneurs, great people, success | | Comments (11) | TrackBack (0)

December 26, 2008

Happy Birthday, Mom!

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I'm off with the girls for a day of light post-holiday shopping. It's my mom's birthday today, so we're declaring it "girl's day out" in celebration of the event. Hard to say if anything is left out there to buy, but hopefully we'll stumble into some super terrific post-Christmas sales. So, this is just a blatant shout out to my mom: Happy Birthday! I love you! XOXO!

I'll let you know if I find Louboutins priced at the "dangerously low" level. And if I do, I'll be sure to post photos.

Posted at 10:58 AM in great people | | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0)

October 19, 2008

Sunday's Feast For the Eyes

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Patricia Gray (in my opinion, one of the modern greats of interior design) has a gorgeous post on her blog of photos taken on what appears to be a leisurely Sunday in Milan. Milan is one of the major city centers in Italy we still have yet to tackle. (somehow Southern Italy keeps stealing our attention...)

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And while she captured some of the most astonishing photos, the city seems to be devoid of anyone else out and about (if I know my Italian friends, it's much too early for them to be up and about... last night was Saturday night after all ;)

While you're there, be sure to read Ivan Meade's interview with Patricia. What is astonishing and refreshing, is that Patricia considers it a delight to be among the many greats Ivan has interviewed (including Thomas O'Brien and Kenneth Brown). But Patricia truly is a force to be reckoned with in the interior design field. And best of all, she's one of the nicest people I've spoken with. To see what she was up to just a year ago, here's a link to an interview she graciously offered me last fall.

She has had an amazing year, and has added new accolades, travels and projects to her list of accomplishments. But if you're just looking for some stunning imagery, be sure not to miss her tour of Venice. Between Pucci storefronts and stunning architecture, there's something there for everyone.

Enjoy your Sunday!

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September 15, 2008

Not a Stencil In Sight

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I just have to point out something marvelous to all of you. Do you see what appears to be a mural/wallpaper above? Maybe some fabulous, albiet mass produced, wall coverings from Brunschwig & Fils or Scalamandre? No... hand painted. Yes... this was painstakingly done by hand. Let me introduce my reader Zelda to all of you.

Who she is: Zelda is a French designer living in Kuwait.

What she does: she created amazing designs for palaces and royal families

Why you'll love her: this quote says it all... "elegance has no limit and no budget, it's a life style"

Where to find her: Domain Design

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August 26, 2008

Sprinkles

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Seems so many of you had birthdays this week. Some good... some not so good. Whether yo want to hug them or dance with them, don't miss the chance to share the love (and a cupcake!) with your fellow bloggers as they blow out a few new candles.

Erin needs some love and support...Jen isn't too excited about hers...our resident diva is doing great as Kay reflects on her ever-transforming mane... swing by and share the love, baby!

Happy birthday, ladies!!!

Photo courtesy of Sprinkles...

***UPDATE*** Cutest little cupcake blog has been discovered: Cupcakes Take the Cake. But you'll see some bad press for Sprinkles there, too. Oy! Much thanks to the unstoppable Felicia for pointing me to this "sweet" little blog ;)

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June 17, 2008

Stuck On You

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I spied these last week over on a Merry Mishap and keep going back to her post to admire them. It's kind of like the ever popular wall decals on steroids. Something about their three dimensionality really strikes me as ideal. They'll cast shadows and change in appearance throughout the day - and yet still require very little commitment. Just lovely.

Oddly enough, they are magnetic, so they would work on my refrigerator far better than my wall. But they also come with tacks, so you could use them on the wall as pictured. I can't say why, but I really like these.  All this for $40.

Posted at 05:49 AM in great people, home accessories, interior design | | Comments (12) | TrackBack (0)

April 27, 2008

Lara, Is that a Hookah in Your Hand?

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You absolutely must pop over to Instant Native to see Anne's fabulous interview with Lara Dunston. For those of you who don't know, Lara has authored many, many travel guides and is now quite the blogger. Anne is a luxury travel concierge who lives and breathes travel. So, as you can imagine, this is quite the discussion.

See what these two globetrotters have to say in Anne's lovely interview. Enjoy!

Posted at 05:47 PM in culture, destinations, globetrotting, great people, interviews | | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0)

March 20, 2008

Up, Up and Away!

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Travel is such an important part of my life. One of my favorite quotes is this one by St. Augustine:

"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page."

I couldn't agree more. Add chapters to your life by planning the trip and buying a ticket. Most of the people I know who do not travel fail to take that final step. They dream of "someday" doing this, "one day" going there. Listen, the tourism board is very unlikely to come knocking on your door and pack your bags for you. You must take it upon yourself to travel. It is your right as a free person and your duty as a citizen of the world to explore this lovely marble we all live upon.

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But even seasoned travelers wrestle with where to go and what to do once they select a location. Enter my good friend Anne Lindell Herndon of Instant Native Travel. She's the maestro of the stress-free getaway. Whether your next trip is Mumbai or Manhattan, Anne has a magical way of taking all of the pressure off of you and handling the details herself. All you'll need to do is pack your bag and hop into the town car as you head to the airport. She'll handle airline arrangements, book your hotel and arrange the best itinerary for your mode of travel. I can't say enough good things about her personal service and her ability to understand the level of involvement you prefer.

Need to get away? Visit Anne's site to learn more about her personal concierge services. She says it best: "If you can dream it, I can plan it!" You know what? I believe her. her business is booming, and it is no doubt due to her expertise and consistent commitment to quality. I've never seen anyone delve so deeply into their area of expertise, and it clearly shows in her work.

And while I'll be delaying any far flung summer trips this year, I can assure you that the next vacation we take will be planned by the lovely travel concierge herself. And I have no doubt it will be fabulous. Keep up the great work, Anne!!!

Posted at 10:54 AM in destinations, globetrotting, great people | | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0)

March 16, 2008

Just Saying Hello... and Thank You!

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The best part of blogging is the discovery of new and wonderful people. This past week I had three new people swing by to say hello, and their blogs were so noteworthy I had to take a moment to share them with all of you.

First up is Michelle who authors Just Imagine. Her blog has no shortage of incredible imagery, but it's her enthusiasm and eye for the unique that will keep me coming back again and again. Michelle, I'm so glad to 'meet' you!

Next is a blog sure to make your mouth salivate. I'm completely enamored with Meg's take on life. A little food, a little family, a little fashion. What more can a girl ask for? Her blog, Dolce & Nutella, is just as sweet as the name implies. Thanks for stopping by to introduce yourself, Meg!

Finally, you haven't seen beauty until you've seen the collection (endless collection) of stunning photos on display at SimplyGroove. Something tells me this chic little blog is going to help me find plenty of ideas for design projects in the near future. Even her "have a nice weekend" image had me making a wish list. You've got a good thing going, darling. Keep it up!

If you've been lurking here and haven't said hello yet, I'd love to meet you! Leave a comment or send an email! Have a great week, everyone!

Posted at 09:11 PM in great people | | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0)

December 03, 2007

Designer Interview: Michael McHale

Picture_1 Michael McHale's incredible chandeliers are much like his career: a study in contrasts. And like his gorgeous creations, it's that juxtaposition that makes it so marvelous. So without further adieu I bring you an interview with the illustrious designer himself...

Michael, your designs are so innovative. The juxtaposition of the refined with the rough. Old with new. How did the idea for your chandeliers come about?
By chance, really.  I had spent most of my professional life as an entertainment lawyer, but had been unhappy with that choice for some time and was casting around for different things to do.  At one point I was an agent for a speaker’s bureau; at another I started a book on yoga (which was a lot of fun and got a lot of very enthusiastic rejections from publishers).   

In the middle of this search I needed to get a light fixture for my house, so I headed to a high-end furniture store here in New York to purchase something.   It just occurred to me that a lot of the materials were a bit ephemeral, and that there was a sort of show-off quality to what I saw.  I was interested in something which was substantial from a materials point of view, and also had a clean design which would stand the test of time. So when I left the store I thought that I could do something myself. So this whole thing started as a craft project – nothing more.  But what I got was something much more interesting than I had intended.

Continue reading "Designer Interview: Michael McHale" »

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November 30, 2007

All Hail Michael McHale

Picture_9 It's coming. Monday. A terrific interview with Michael McHale. Until then, catch up on him at Michael McHale Designs and the New York Times. The Brooklyn Heights blog anxious awaits the upcoming interview.

Have a great weekend!

Posted at 06:20 AM in designers, great people, interior design, interviews | | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0)

October 15, 2007

Bella Modern of Los Angeles

1375_1 Last week was a wonderful week. It was one of those blocks of days when everything came together on several projects like 'buttah'. Color palettes came to life, the perfect chairs presented themselves and (lo and behold) the items I needed were in stock when I popped into my favorite retail spaces. Those weeks don't happen often, but when they do I like to say thanks to the parties involved.

One of those gracious lifesavers was Tisha from Bella Modern.If you're in need of Eames era pieces, modern lighting, gorgeous contemporary rugs, perfectly priced seating, Tisha Lacey is a name you need to know. She takes great care to seek out great items at marvelous prices and serves them up weekly on her eBay store.

I myself was able to locate this great pair of chairs that perfectly squeezed into my project's already tight budget. But they will be just right in the space where I need them.  My gracious thanks to you Tricia!
 

Posted at 06:47 AM in furniture, great people, interior design | | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0)

October 01, 2007

Soaking it Up

1468416493_38c3d12f1bI'll admit, I don't read Design Sponge anymore. Correction, I didn't read it anymore. It had grown so large (due to her overwhelming popularity) that I fell in love with other smaller, seemingly more personal blogs. But Grace just redesigned her blog, her home life and her idea of what blogging can be. So I have to say, I'm adding D*S to my daily reads again immediately.

For those of you who missed it, she introduces her readers to her new home, her pets, her man...and if I do say so, the Grace we all know and love. And she's just as adorable as her newly designed home.

Grace, keep up the great work. And congrats on your many new beginnings!

Posted at 06:42 PM in great people, home accessories, interior design | | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0)

September 28, 2007

Suzy Sends Me off On My Weekend

Larrylaslobed2Before we head off (early) today for our long weekend, I noticed Suzy from Studio Annetta featuring a bed begging to be slept in. It's an upholstered number see in a promotional brochure for the fabric collection from Larry Laslo for Robert Allen.

My current bed boasts a high padded headboard, but this one has a softer look, begging me to sit up and read on lazy afternoons. Beautiful. And I think (sans the lavender, satin bedding) most husbands and partners would be tolerant of it's warm taupe color. And Suzy agrees:

"It's got just enough deco-inspired details to make me sleep easy, not too feminine - so my husband will be happy, and I love the upholstered headboard. I usually like a matching endboard, but I love the feet and base on this design."

As for me, I'm really eying that lovely tufted x-form bench at the foot of the bed. Gorgeous! Truly gorgeous.

So to all of you, have a lovely weekend. I'll be in Chicago taking in some culture, extra sleep and the good company of our friends. I'll return next week with new acquisitions, memories of the Baptistry doors, images of the Mies van der Rohe Farnsworth House and of course, new tales to tell!

Ciao, bellas!
   

Posted at 06:03 AM in great people, interior design, leisure | | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0)

September 26, 2007

Looking at My Blogroll It's About That Time

Fenetre For whatever reason, my blogroll is not accurately reflecting some of the better blogs I frequent. Rather than silently add them I thought it best to share in case you yourself have not taken note of these lovely bloggers (although by the looks of comments you've all been visiting them for some time). Either way, here we go...

Brilliant Asylum. How in the world did I overlook adding you, sweetheart? One of my favorite blogs. It's fun, peppy and always on point. One of my daily indulgences, and my apologies for the oversight. Such a keeper.

Cote de Texas. Now here's a woman who throws her heart into each post. She's no stranger to you, it just took me a while to add this to my list of daily reads. Once I discovered her true passion for design I was hooked. Her posts must take ages to put together. I admire that. Keep up the great work - and thank you for the time you put into your blog. It shows.

Beach Bungalow 8. Another blogger having way too much fun. Sorry it took me so long to add you to my sidebar! I consistently admire how much thought goes into each of your carefully crafted posts.

Jackie Von Tobel of Jackie Blue Home. Here's a woman with a keen eye for detail and the desire to explore all facets of design. Don't miss her latest controversial post. Too much fun for one girl to have by herself. Keep it up Jackie. We love you for it.

Design for Mankind. Such an egalitarian name, isn't it? Here's a blogger that really takes time assembling a collection of images to tell a story in each post. A great eye for fresh design and a nice addition to my daily reads.

The Paris Apartment. No introduction necessary. Oui, Oui mon cherie! (from whom the image seen above is from...)

Style Saves the World. Eco-chic, baby! Her mantra is "Saving the world, one stylish day at a time." and as far as I can tell she is on pace to do so. Very fun. Very on-trend. Love her!

So that's my latest series of updates and I highly recommend you take time to look at all of these blogs. I can't believe how much fun we're all having as our group of design-centric blogs grows. It's thrilling to be a part of such a smart, highly-observant group. Let's continue having this much fun, shall we? :)

Posted at 02:18 PM in great people | | Comments (9) | TrackBack (0)

Interview: Habitually Chic

Kim_2 A favorite hobby of mine is getting to know great people. From the moment I found Habitually Chic I was convinced it was written by someone very similar to myself. She's curious, energetic and genuinely enjoying herself. All qualities I love in a person - and adore in a blogger. Since we write about such fun topics like style and design, why not have a grand time doing so?

Without further adieu, I offer you an interview with Habitually Chic. A blogger with great style, a keen eye for observation and the uncanny knack for running into the rich and fabulous. And before you decide to feel jealous of her for her proximity to fame, I'll let you in on a secret: she's as sweet as can be.

Continue reading "Interview: Habitually Chic" »

Posted at 07:45 AM in great people, interior design, interviews | | Comments (15)

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