June 2008 Entries
Trois Femmes et Un Coussin imports and distributes high quality dinnerware made for restaurants, hotels and gourmets. They sell to the public too.
I am showing you their line of custom designed tableware. This modern series feels so much like summer. These items are pricier but not over the top. This is a place to shop in Montreal for wedding gifts.
The Candide oval platter (top left picture) sells for $120 CAD. The square dinner plate is $31.50 while the salad bowl is $34.50. This stylish breadbasket by Ferran Adrià costs $80 CAD.
I plan to stop by their showroom to get some plates and bowls for my prop collection.
3 Femmes et 1 Coussin
783 Gilford (corner Saint-Hubert)
Montreal, QC H2J 1N8
p 514.987.6807
Opening hours: Mon-Wed. 10-18 o’clock, Thu-Fri 10-19, Sat 10-17
>>> Sourcing:
Learn more: 3 Femmes et 1 Coussin
Categories:
ALL occasions
BIG events
TABLEWARE
ENTERTAINING
DINING
GIFT IDEAS
posted @ Monday, June 30, 2008 2:57 PM | Feedback (3)
If you are still looking for ideas to celebrate Canada Day tomorrow, do not despair. I got an easy solution for you than is sure to impress your friends and family.
Simply read the casual and relaxed guide prepared by Cheryl Chan for The Vancouver Province. The owner of Bright Ideas Event Coordinators, Sharon Bonner and I share party ideas to help you organize a fun Canada Day party.
The story covers every elements of your party from venues, décor, food and drink menus, activities, and settings. I wish to thank again Cheryl Chan for this interview.
Traditional Dessert
Pouding chomeur is a classic, comfort food dessert in Quebec. Adults and kids love the taste. I will prepare and showcase the three most typical recipes. You get to see the difference between the original pouding chomeur recipe up to an upscale version served on individual ramekins.
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
PARTY ideas
HOLIDAY
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Monday, June 30, 2008 2:21 PM | Feedback (0)
If you travel to Chile's southern coast, make sure to stop by the San Alfonso del Mar resort to swim in the biggest swimming pool according to the Guinness Book of Records.
At more than 1,000 yards long, this saltwater man-made lagoon covers 20 acres of land. It goes down 115 feet deep and holds 66 million gallons of water.
Canoeing, sail boating and scuba diving are amongst the several water activities available at this amazing swimming pool.
A Manmade Lagoon
The need to build a huge swimming pool next to the ocean comes from the fact that the seashore is not always hospitable for safe swimming. The water temperature may too cold; the tides may be too strong.
This pool is the mastermind of Fernando Fischmann, a biochemist and Chilean real estate developer. He imagined this pool back in 1997 when he planned San Alfonso del Mar resort. In a Reuters’ video, I learned that seashores in Chile are notorious dangerous due to rough tides and strong rift currents.
Categories:
OUTDOOR
TRAVEL
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Sunday, June 29, 2008 1:20 PM | Feedback (1)
This story is just in time for Canada Day. Who can resist these amazing teepees?
A green living trip to Yukon offers us a chance to go back before the start of our country, to explore our wilderness while enjoying all the convenience of the best green travel experience.
It is fun to be able to indulge in luxury when we travel. I know I do. I would like to explore the natural beauty of the Canadian North someday.
It is now possible to visit Yukon in style and live a unique eco-tourism experience. This is a green vacation spot for people with a good budget. If you are planning a trip to Yukon, take a look at the amazing green resorts from Perfect Earth Tours.
Unique Accommodation
You can stay in a cabin suite but the ultimate experience is to stay in a teepee. The teepees are custom made with organic canvas. Each hardwood floor teepee features all the amenities that you find at a luxury hotel room.
Categories:
HOLIDAY
TRAVEL
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Saturday, June 28, 2008 4:51 PM | Feedback (0)
I am not a fan of magnets on the fridge unless they are really special. On that point, the Dorogaya magnetic calendar clearly qualifies.
This is a great improvement over the typical paper calendar that you see on so many kitchens. Better yet, you will feel great opening the fridge door if you hang a reusable calendar.
The magnetic calendar can have a prominent space on the central message board of any household. You can place one in your home office.
How it works?
Every month is represented by a 3-letter abbreviation chip. Special chips, like Deadline, Arrival, Departure, Drink Day and Don't Drink Day, keep track of important dates and appointments. It seems that the Ukrainian graphic artist Serhiy Chebotaryov created his Dorogaya magnetic calendar with students in mind.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
HOME decor
ALL occasions
ENTERTAINING
GIFT IDEAS
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Friday, June 27, 2008 1:54 PM | Feedback (0)
The Summer Lovin’ card collection designed by Megan Nutley of Silhouette Blue really puts you in the mood for a summer party.
I like Megan's summer collection because these icons evoke simple pleasures. The basic youth charms still seduce us.
My favorites are the bike, the lawn chair and the Popsicle. The greeting cards of the Summer Lovin’ collection are also sold individually on the Silhouette Blue’s Web site.
The Hula Hoop is available as a fill-in invitation set.
>>> Sourcing:
Buy online: Summer Lovin' Card Collection by Silhouette Blue on etsy – price: $10 for set of 6 cards
Buy online: Float Personalized Stationery Set by Silhouette Blue on etsy – price: 25 for a set of 20 note cards with envelops
Buy online: Hula Hoop Party Invitation by Silhouette Blue – price: $10 for 8 fill-in invites
Buy online: Summer Lovin' Individual Card on Silhouette Blue – price: $3 each
Categories:
PAPER goods
FAMILY style
ENTERTAINING
KIDS + BABY
posted @ Friday, June 27, 2008 12:17 PM | Feedback (1)
Last week, I went to the 40th birthday party of a friend. P. was the DJ for the night. He played tunes that were significant to the several epochs of his life. Although these vintage illustrations are way before his time, these drawings inspire me.
All the cards designed by Kai of Kootie’s Closet are available on etsy as personalized note cards, hello cards or thank you cards.
Living in Florida, Kai works as a graphic designer specializing in mid-century & modern illustrations, vintage inspired patterns and vintage graphics restoration
Her gift tags would complement well a kitsch party theme. Use them for your party favors.
The 50s bicycle is adorable. I really like the details of the drawing. Why not organize a ride in the country with your friends this weekend?
Categories:
EVERYDAY
PAPER goods
ENTERTAINING
posted @ Friday, June 27, 2008 10:06 AM | Feedback (0)
Kat Nouri, the founder and creative director of Modern-Twist, informed me today about her latest products. I am a huge fan of Modern-Twist ever since I first lay my eyes of their products.
Modern-twist brought silicone to your table with placemats, fun coasters, napkin rings and wine tags.
This time, Kat introduces a new collection of modern and food-safe doilies. So no more paper lace cake dollies that you throw away at the end of the party.
Available in two patterns, Doileez deliver the same soft touch feeling and ease to clean than their reputable placemats. I owned several placemats than I totally adored.
The food-safe, hand-silk-screened Doileez are not just for decorating food presentations at parties. Doileez fit well under vases and centerpieces to protect fine wood furniture. The hardest thing will be to choose which one to buy between the Clusters or the Loop patterns.
Categories:
HOME decor
PARTY supplies
ALL occasions
DISHING tips
TABLEWARE
CAKES
ENTERTAINING
DINING
GIFT IDEAS
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Thursday, June 26, 2008 6:12 PM | Feedback (0)
My final post as a guest blogger for Style Sheet, the blog by HGTV Canada, is up.
This time, I wrote a Steal versus Splurge post about bathroom accessories. Take a look at three indulgences that will enhance your bathroom experience.
Via: Steal vs. Splurge: Bathroom Accessories [Style Sheet]
Categories:
HOME decor
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Thursday, June 26, 2008 4:40 PM | Feedback (0)
Having a small table when you go for a picnic adds comfort. You can use it for the food, your radio or a lantern. These two models are easy to transport.
The Adirondack folding side table is a cute option if you travel by car. Target sells in an impressive 14 colors. Prices vary with the colors. I am showing you the moss, the middle range price at $39.99.
I bought a modern version at IKEA a few years ago. I put it next to my terrace door to deposit bags and plates. I tinted with outdoor wood stain. It does not seem to be available anymore.
The Nacho Portable Folding Table is super easy to transport. It is ideal for camping and hunting trip. Available in several in several cloth colors, the only downside is that it lacks panache. Check the Folding Camping Picnic Tables department for more models and colors.
Categories:
OUTDOOR
TRAVEL
FAMILY style
KIDS + BABY
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Thursday, June 26, 2008 1:37 PM | Feedback (1)
Literal party themes are not my thing. You do not need to fill the room with maple leafs or over saturate the space with the flag patterns like it is suggested by the mass produced dinnerware and party supplies.
You can still show your patriotism at your party by doing it on a more subtle way. Deconstruct the element of the flag, reinvent the color palette by adding a trendy accent color. The idea is to create a unique modern and more sophisticated party scheme.
If you look closely at these styled pictures by IKEA, you can devise around the Summer IKEA collection a beautiful scheme to celebrate either Canada Day or the Fourth of July. At least, you will be able to enjoy the stuff the rest of the summer.
Dining On the Lawn Setting
Do a picnic in your backyard. Lay down several eating areas with DYNING, a beach mat available in red and light blue.Fill the floor with red and white HEMÖN rugs, SOMMAR table runners and GRENÖ round cushions.
Categories:
PARTY ideas
PARTY supplies
HOLIDAY
KIDS party
FAMILY style
ENTERTAINING
KIDS + BABY
posted @ Wednesday, June 25, 2008 3:00 PM | Feedback (2)
You will use these 4 items over and over this summer. They will add style, function and a punch of color to your outdoor parties.
Jewel Flatware
I really like the four colors of the square enamels mixed together. Placing the four colors creates a more festive table than using a single hue. The magical number is to own 12 or 16 settings. So, it fits to buy a flatware set in each color.
Hot Buffet Station
If you already built an outdoor kitchen, the next thing is to set up a hot buffet station in your backyard. The brushed stainless steel BroilKing Buffet Servers come handy if you entertain a lot. The base can be used as stand-alone warming tray. Bring the set inside for an all-year long usage.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
PARTY supplies
DISHING tips
TABLEWARE
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Wednesday, June 25, 2008 12:48 PM | Feedback (0)
Like many women bloggers, I carry a small camera on my night handbag.
The Facts
You need at least a better than average small point-and-shoot camera to take decent pictures. The only purpose of the phone camera is to send a picture to Facebook right away or to photograph people for your address book.
My smaller camera was outdated. Last year, I bought a small digital movie camera, the Sanyo CG6 to make videos. I thought I could use my small movie camera to take pictures but it produces washed off pictures. It is fair to say that I was due for a new sleek and thin digital camera.
How To Select The Right Point-and-Shoot Digital Camera?
I did some researches on the Internet and talked to people about my needs.Have a clear idea of what, when and where you expect to photograph. Taking pictures of food at a restaurant plus being able to photograph people at events summarize my needs.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
ALL occasions
OFF topics
ENTERTAINING
GIFT IDEAS
posted @ Tuesday, June 24, 2008 1:42 PM | Feedback (1)
When I entertain at home, I prefer to cook easy to make but tasty recipes. The hostess should plan her event so she can enjoy the presence of her guests. This is why I like the latest book by Gordon Ramsay.
Entertaining Philosophy
A quote from Gordon Ramsay's Fast Food says it all:
"However amazing a dish looks, it is always the taste that lingers in your memory."
The stylish hostess makes an effort on food presentation. But we must accept that we are not Chefs either. My priority for easy entertaining is to design a stunning tabletop, cook a delicious meal and after, try to plate the food more beautifully.
About The Book
I do not really follow Gordon Ramsay on TV. I bought Fast Food because his cookbook provides tasty recipes built around menus and types of food plus some essential cooking tips.
You get recipes for fast soups, appetizers, antipasti, salads, sandwiches, eggs, working lunches, pasta, shellfish, fish, meat, vegetarian, side dishes, fruity desserts and creamy desserts.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
PARTY ideas
HOSTESS gifts
ENTERTAINING
DINING
GIFT IDEAS
posted @ Sunday, June 22, 2008 2:48 PM | Feedback (1)
This story is born of two needs. I wanted to showcase the best from the Boating Party and Picnic board by Snippet & Ink on {frolic!}. The second need was to help you plan your Canada Day party.
Let's start with the latest cookbook by Anita Stewart. I bought my copy at Costco a few weeks ago. Anita Stewart's Canada is a culinary experience that mixes the traditional cooking of our grandmothers with the modern Canadian cuisine. It also celebrates the regional differences from coast to coast.
Whitewater Cooks by Shelley Adams is another Canadian cookbook. Reading the reviews, convinced me. I just bought online my copy. Everyone says that the recipes are really tasty and simple to make.
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
PAPER goods
PARTY ideas
HOLIDAY
DISHING tips
FAMILY style
ENTERTAINING
DINING
KIDS + BABY
posted @ Saturday, June 21, 2008 2:15 PM | Feedback (3)
Heather White and Lori Joyce are two best friends who grew up together in Victoria on Vancouver Island. These two girls founded Cupcakes. They gathered a team of talented cake decorators.
Heather and Lori sell cupcakes in their Vancouver cake shop. A cool interface enables you to build online your own cake for a birthday celebration, a baby shower or a holiday party.
I wish the Cupcakes shop was closer to home. This year, I want an outstanding cake for my husband's birthday. I made a note to taste their cupcakes on my next trip to Vancouver. Their collection looks delicious.
Their portfolio of wedding cakes is filled with modern aesthetics and a touch of romance. I posted my favorites later on.
Scrumptious Cake Decorations
Every decorative detail is hand sculpted in gum paste, a kind of flexible sugar dough. Yes, the flowers on these cupcakes are handmade and edible. Another breathtaking creation is a wedding cake with a cascade of orchids. The flowers look so real.
Categories:
PARTY supplies
CAKES
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Friday, June 20, 2008 1:47 PM | Feedback (2)
This time around, I wrote a quick guide about what is hot in swimming pools.
From the upscale water park theme pool to the chic vanishing edge swimming pools up to the affordable cedar above the ground pools, get a glimpse at the options available in Canada.
I will gather a collection of the most upscale recreation center pools and negative edge swimming pools I spot while writing the post for Style Sheet, the blog of HGTV.ca. Stay tuned; I should publish that board next week.
In the meantime, gather some ideas on how to make your backyard more fun this summer by reading my guest post.
Via: Pool Design Trends for Summer 2008 [Style Sheet]
Categories:
HOME decor
OUTDOOR
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Friday, June 20, 2008 11:31 AM | Feedback (0)
Products from Fruits and Passion always make an appreciated hostess or birthday gift. So take this chance to save up to 40% on selected products during the Summer sale.
I am a fan of their Cucina line. I used the Cucina Dish Detergent to clean my kitchen sinks. I want to try the Cucina Countertop Cleaner next. All my girlfriends love the Cucina Purifying Hand Wash with Olive Oil. So this is a sure bet.
Anything from the Art Home collection would be great for a housewarming party.
In stores, you will receive a cute free handbag with every purchase of $45 and more. The Summer Sale occurs until July 21 or while quantities last online or in stores across Canada and United States.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
ALL occasions
HOSTESS gifts
ENTERTAINING
GIFT IDEAS
posted @ Thursday, June 19, 2008 11:48 AM | Feedback (1)
This is the last week to get a chance to win a trip for two to sunny Mexico.
The rules are simple to play the Meet Me in Mexico contest:
- head on over to Glam.com and
- guess the destination in the photo for your chance to win.
Do not wait anymore to enter the Meet Me in Mexico contest. Good Luck!
Categories:
TRAVEL
posted @ Thursday, June 19, 2008 2:49 AM | Feedback (0)
If you or your children participate in a sport team, a party is certainly taken place at the end of the season. Or you may organize an alumni meeting this summer.
You typically want something special yet affordable. Get inspired by these adorable event design ideas.
Photo Display
The photos hanging by clothes pins on a twine is a concept that can be applied to so many events in so many ways.
From a graduation party, an engagement party, to a first year wedding anniversary or the first birthday of your baby, displaying photos creates a connection. Your guests feel more inclined to share memories.
For a baby shower, create a family tree line. The center will be filled by a few photos of the pregnancy and the happy couple.
Drinkware
Serving food and cocktails in mason jars is favored by cool bars, bistro restaurants and caterers. The details of this real wedding designed by Rebecca Stone of Duet Weddings are featured on Style Me Pretty.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
PARTY ideas
BABY showers
DISHING tips
BIG events
ENTERTAINING
DINING
KIDS + BABY
posted @ Thursday, June 19, 2008 12:23 AM | Feedback (2)
Tired of always serving the same old Cosmopolitan to your friends? You need to get inspired on how to serve drinks or dig cocktail recipes. The latest site by Jean of NOTCOT / Tastespotting is here to help you with fresh ideas.
Done with the same frame than Tastespotting, Liqurious is dedicated to drinks instead of food. I learned about it last Friday but waited until I see some traffic actions on my blog statistics. Now it does.
I submitted my Guitar Hero cool cocktail ideas post over the weekend. A few of my previous cocktails stories where migrated as well.
Cold Sake
I became a fan of cold sake since I ate at Gonpachi during my trip to Los Angeles last winter. Cold sake tastes so much better than warn sake in my opinion.
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
DISHING tips
DINING
posted @ Wednesday, June 18, 2008 11:23 AM | Feedback (1)
Young boys and girls adore playing with a cardboard house. My nephew made his own from big appliance boxes, like we used to do when I was a child.
If you throw a kid birthday party or are having a play date, decorating a plain white cardboard house would be a playful activity that will occupy the kids for a while. It is a creative and social game.
Craft House Party
Mothers can be crafty too with cardboard houses. Imagine creating an entire village in a kid playroom.
Artists decorated these houses. They illustrated the extent of the possibilities. These artist houses were auctioned for a Unicef project.
Kidsonroof House has the typical house shape with windows, doors and letterbox. Based in Amsterdam, Kidsonroof produces toys for creative and playful kids. Their cardboard houses should be available in the United States at Wallcandy pretty soon.
Categories:
PARTY ideas
KIDS party
FAMILY style
ENTERTAINING
KIDS + BABY
posted @ Tuesday, June 17, 2008 2:38 PM | Feedback (0)
As I read the outline of this amazing culinary event integrating art and design every steps of the way, I felt some envy for the NOTCOT team that went to Monkeytown for the Dine on Design event.
I wrote down this address for my next visit on the Big Apple. Monkeytown is in Brooklyn, New York.
The most intriguing is the Back Screening/Dining Room where Monkeytown hosted performances with a meal. The back dining room has 4 large screens connected to a surround sound for multimedia performances. Communal seating for 50 persons adds warmth to the place.
Ultimate Integration Of Design And Performance In A Meal
Dine on Design paired dining and design in short-lived gastronomic events where designers, artists, chefs and performers are able to present new and event specific work in a dynamic setting.
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
DINING out
TABLEWARE
DINING
posted @ Monday, June 16, 2008 11:23 PM | Feedback (1)
An impressive 24 countries in 38 towns celebrated the Apéritif à la française on Thursday, June 5th, 2008!
I really enjoyed my night at Apéritif à la française in Montreal. I was not alone. The evening was a big hit with 1,500 guests attending. This number includes industry insiders and the general public.
What Happened?
We tasted great food, flavorful cocktails, tasty French wines and dance to the beat of DJ Gregory from France.
Several activities besides food and drinks tasting were taken place. In front of the entrance, a series of vintage French cars were parked. There was a Citroën similar to the one lieutenant Columbo used to drive.
It was possible to book an appointment with the hairdressers to get a black tie event hairdo. I wish I did. A photograph then took a souvenir picture with your girlfriends.
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
PARTY ideas
DINING out
BIG events
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Monday, June 16, 2008 1:54 PM | Feedback (0)
Robin and Patches (the owner’s cat) of Lookability produced these cute flipbooks. When flipped properly, this book shows the joys of a primitive animation technique.
The Father-Daughter Robot Dance is so a propos with yesterday's post. It also demonstrates that the robot theme applies as much to a girl than a boy. Remember it for a kid birthday.
You can read the story behind the making of these two flipbooks on Robin’s blog also called Lookability.
It is late to give that to your dad for Father’s Day but I think these flipbooks were cute gift ideas. I forgot to tell you that Sharman Yarnell interviewed me last week about Father’s Day gift ideas for her radio show Showtime on CJAD 800 AM in Montreal.
Categories:
PAPER goods
ALL occasions
HOLIDAY
FAMILY style
ENTERTAINING
KIDS + BABY
GIFT IDEAS
posted @ Sunday, June 15, 2008 12:30 PM | Feedback (0)
Everyone who saw the fabulous robot cupcakes by the talented Hello Naomi is impressed. You have to admit her vintage robot cupcakes are hard to resist.
Most people think of the robot theme in terms of a young boy party. I can tell you that robots are not just for kids. Science-fiction fans love them too.
When my husband saw the cupcakes and the robot tabletop designed by Hostess of the Mostess (middle right pictures), he told me that he would be thrilled having a robot birthday party. Obviously, his version will be more grown up. I still have a few months to make it happen.
Based on the cupcakes by Hello Naomi and the tabletop by Hostess of the Mostess, I decide to scout for more robot party inspirations.
Categories:
PARTY ideas
ALL occasions
KIDS party
ENTERTAINING
KIDS + BABY
GIFT IDEAS
posted @ Saturday, June 14, 2008 6:42 PM | Feedback (0)
A few minutes ago, I went to Tastespotting. I wanted to submit my story about Hiring a Chef for a dinner party. I prepared my 250 pixels square picture hoping that I selected the right shot to impress the Tastespotting editor that will see my submission. Then, I saw that message.
I am sad today because Tastespotting was the site to discover food related blogs. NOTCOT still operates a few other sites under the same business model.
I do not want to get involved into the politics but I feel sad for the blogging community in general. We lost a great way to discover great food related stories.
Categories:
OFF topics
posted @ Friday, June 13, 2008 4:23 PM | Feedback (3)
Last weekend was the birthday of a friend. Cooking an elaborate dinner for 10 persons is very demanding on the host, unless you hire help. His girlfriend opted to hire a Chef for the night. A wise choice!
Food and Wine Pairing
No proper meal should be served without harmonizing food and wine.
The Chef can suggest a list of wines that you can buy. For the no-hassle entertaining experience, let the Chef bring the wine. This way, if the menu slightly changes due to produce availability, the Chef can adjust the wine selection.
Dinnerware and Cutlery Rentals
No dishwashing for you. The Chef and his aid clean up the kitchen before they leave. For that reason, the fees will vary whether you use your own dinnerware or if you rent the dinnerware. By renting the dinnerware, glassware and cutlery, the Chef team has less cleaning to do.
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
PARTY ideas
DISHING tips
MANNERS
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Friday, June 13, 2008 3:01 PM | Feedback (3)
More and more men cook at home and organize parties. Obviously, they are looking for a different aesthetics. If your dad is one of those men, read this.
After the fact, the housewares list I gathered would also make perfect wedding gifts. Tell me what your think?
Flower Vases for Centerpieces
The first product is the Lichen’s new eweTUBE Felt vase made from 100% merino wool felt. This kit comes flat-packed, with two glass tubes.
Grab a few vases. Be creative on how you display them on your table. Spread the bases sitting upright with one vase on each felt base; stack a few to create a long line. When the base rests on the side, the two tubes fit into a base.
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
FOOD + drinks
TABLEWARE
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Thursday, June 12, 2008 2:42 PM | Feedback (2)
This week photo is available for one more chance to enter the contest. Want to win a trip for two to sunny Mexico? The rules are simple to play the Meet Me in Mexico contest:
- head on over to Glam.com and
- guess the destination in the photo for your chance to win.
Come Back for More Chances To Win
Remember that a new photo will be posted every week. Do not forget to return every week for more chances to win.
Each weekly correct answer will enter you in a pool where a winner will be chosen at random at the end of the promotion.
Do not wait anymore to enter the Meet Me in Mexico contest. Good Luck!
Categories:
TRAVEL
posted @ Thursday, June 12, 2008 10:24 AM | Feedback (0)
I am very thrilled by this new housewares collection made of reclaimed wood. It made me regret that I was not at the International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) in NYC last week.
More than just a pretty face, the culture of Domestic Aesthetic revolves around sustainability. They use responsibly harvested materials and low impact processes. Naturally, their production methods eliminate hazardous chemicals so you and your family can feel better eating and cooking with their products.
Domestic Aesthetic aims to produce well-designed, affordable eco-friendly housewares. I feel that they deliver on their "Live well, Live right" motto. Nike Foley designed pieces that appeal to the senses of both men and women.
The Certified Salad Bowl Set comes with porcelain edged plates instead of the typical salad bowls. I like the usual shape of the large serving bowl. It harmonizes with the Certified Salt and Pepper Shakers.
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
ALL occasions
DINING
GIFT IDEAS
posted @ Wednesday, June 11, 2008 12:28 PM | Feedback (2)
Summer is here. The last two issues of Domino magazine featured amazing outdoor rooms and lighting.
Outdoor entertaining requires more than a cool outdoor kitchen. The new essential is an outdoor lounge. Here are a few ideas to create an incredible outdoor space.
Modern Bonfire
No one can deny how much fun it feels to sit outside around a bonfire. This modern version mixes with classical touches. You can see a more ornate version of the green glazed ceramic table I shown you in my Moroccan Dinner Party theme.
Three oil lamps with the same shape as the fire pit show an attention to details. This is a great example of the art of repetition.
Categories:
OUTDOOR
TRENDS
REVIEWS
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Tuesday, June 10, 2008 11:53 PM | Feedback (0)
I planned to discuss something else until I got a Facebook wall message by Janick of Creativadoration. Amongst other things, Janick informed me that she posted something this morning that I will probably like. Janick was right.
These napkins are lovely. The pictures by Jennifer Causey make these table textiles even more desirable. It was the perfect way to wake up.
The Secret Behind Plait Textiles
With savory names like Chocolate Wasabi, Cherry Clafoutis, Salted Raisins and Salted Caramel, Plait Textiles stimulates our appetite.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
LINENS
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Tuesday, June 10, 2008 1:43 PM | Feedback (2)
I already told you about purple and blue being the color of the moment earlier this year. The trend continues this winter. For Koziol, passionate purple and mysterious midnight blue are setting the tone.
I am happy to get a scoop and introduce Koziol’s Winter 2008-2009 True Blue collection. My preference goes to the five items I am showing you.
Multi-duty
Forged in a single piece, CAMILLA can be a watering can, a vase or a bag. It depends on how you feel and what you need.
Serving ware
LEAF-IT enables you to serve hors d’oeuvres, sushi, antipasti or tapas in style. It is available in a transparent violet and blue material.
Categories:
ALL occasions
TRENDS
TABLEWARE
DINING
GIFT IDEAS
posted @ Monday, June 09, 2008 11:26 PM | Feedback (1)
You can read my third guest post on Style Sheet, the blog produced by HGTV.ca.
This time, I share decorative tips to freshen up your bedroom this summer.
I feel it is important to get two looks for our bedroom: a winter look and a summer look. To accomplish that, a few decorative changes are often enough. Read my post on Style Sheet to discover my tricks.
Via: Bedding and Accessories for Bedrooms [Style Sheet]
Categories:
HOME decor
TRENDS
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Monday, June 09, 2008 11:50 AM | Feedback (0)
Watching the first episode of the third season of Take It Outside gave me the idea of a Moroccan outdoor dinner party.
I give a high mark at Kelly Deck for the way she divided that backyard. Eight people easily sit on her custom made bench. It would be cool to have the space to build one on my own backyard.
The Décor
Stock plenty of cushions on the sofa and lay down a few large round cushions so people can sit on them.
Create a vibrant tabletop full of jewel tones. Prefer the earthy feeling of ceramics. Mix mosaic patterns with solid plates and bowls. As you can see from the tea picture at the bottom, you can mix lots of rich hues.
If you cannot find any Moroccan inspired dishes, I propose you check out the Sausalito dinnerware collection. Despite its Mexican influence, the colors of the collection harmonize well with this theme.
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
FOOD + drinks
PARTY ideas
OUTDOOR
TABLEWARE
ENTERTAINING
DINING
REVIEWS
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Monday, June 09, 2008 12:30 AM | Feedback (2)
Last night, we went to Costco. Every time we go there, I stop at the book sections because Costco typically sells the book cheaper than the bookstores.
I find it easier to buy book at Costco since we drive to go there. I do most of my shopping by foot; so weight is an issue.Otherwise, I buy my books online.
You probably noticed by now that Apartment Therapy is one of my all-time favorite blogs. To show my support, I bought yesterday Apartment Therapy Presents. I enjoy it! Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan wrote a book filled with inspiring decoration ideas.
What is inside the book?
Like his blog, the book showcased real apartments done by real, talented people. Interior designers created a few apartments. Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan mostly selected amazing spaces done by homeowners. You will be surprised that most homeowners have an artistic or design background.
Categories:
HOME decor
ALL occasions
GIFT IDEAS
REVIEWS
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Saturday, June 07, 2008 2:47 PM | Feedback (0)
These fabulous tablescapes were designed by a group of event planners for their association conference. They look too great that I could not resist showing you.
The party theme was Alice in Wonderland. The results are stunning.
My Favorite Elements
The inside of the huge drum shape fixture features drawings inspired by Alice in Wonderland. The Perfect Petal created these fantastic tabletops.
The cutlery planted on the gold tumbler glass adds an unconventional touch. The plates were gorgeous.
The metallic bird with the artificial rose is so pretty. Your guests feel important when every guest has its own flower. Doing it this way serves a double and even a triple du