August 2008 Entries
This is my daily collection of interesting stuff that I saw on the Web.
+ The stunning wallpaper & lampshades from British brand Miss Print can be ship to any global destination. A glimpse at the magnificent collection will convince you of my excitement. Via Apartment Therapy Chicago
+ Mata Hina is involved with interior styling, food styling and illustrations. This is a good source of inspirations. Via design to inspire
+ I am a huge fan of antipasto dinner parties. For casual entertaining, nothing beats serving charcuterie (cured meats), patés de foie gras, terrines and cheese. Via The Kitchen
Categories:
HOME decor
FOOD + drinks
DISHING tips
ENTERTAINING
DINING
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Sunday, August 10, 2008 12:33 AM | Feedback (1)
If you are looking for a modern bar that works for both an indoors or outdoors installation, check out the Jumbo Bar designed by Jorge Najera.
Made of rotationally molded polyethylene, the Jumbo Bar incorporates light sources beneath the surface.
You can easily vary the eye-catching glow by using colored light bulbs. It is a great way to change the mood of your party.
Jumbo Bar Accessories
From one angle, Drink Light is a luminous stool that matches the look and feel of the Jumbo Bar. Turn it upside-down and Drink Light becomes a fabulously trendy ice or wine bucket. The light comes handy to read the labels of wine or beer bottles at a night party.
SOURCING:
+ Jumbo Bar by Jorge Najera at Generate Design – price: $1499 USD
+ Drink Light by Jorge Najera – price: $379 USD
Categories:
HOME decor
PARTY supplies
ENTERTAINING
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Saturday, August 09, 2008 12:57 PM | Feedback (2)
When I received an invitation from Seven Daughters to sample their wines, the first thing I did was to check their Web site.
Let me tell you that they got my attention right away. The reason is that Seven Daughters target women, a rare move in the wine industry.
Instead of boring us with wine jargon, they emphasis on what, when or where I can drink their wines. I like their concept.
They made wine fun and exciting by suggesting party themes with my girlfriends. After all, women have always get together to talk, share and laugh. Click Girls’ Night In on Seven Daughters’ Web site to download themes for your next girls’ night in.
The Composition
The brand is called Seven Daughters because seven California grape varietals compose each wine.
French Colombard, Chardonnay, Riesling, Symphony, Orange Muscat, Gewürztraminer and Sauvignon Blanc are the main ingredients of the Seven Daughters White Winemaker’s.
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
PARTY ideas
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Friday, August 08, 2008 4:29 PM | Feedback (0)
This is my daily collection of interesting stuff that I saw on the Web.
+ Inspired from the Japanese paper lantern, Arioso Toro does not look like your usual gazebo. Add a couple in your backyard to create instant VIP seats. Arioso Toro is manufactured by Plato from Thailand. Via Gaspard Live and Moco Loco
+ A beautiful kitchen nook photographed on a sunny morning by Geninne. I like how the dishes and the fruits are displayed. Via Geninne’s Art Blog
+ Easter Yu of Muscari finds an original way to present her ring bearers that she sells on Etsy. Via The Event Essentials
Categories:
HOME decor
OUTDOOR
PARTY supplies
BIG events
ENTERTAINING
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Friday, August 08, 2008 1:57 AM | Feedback (0)
I resist a long time to talk about my adoration for Orla Kiely on my blog. The reason is that the best of her collection is not related to home décor or entertaining. That was until I discover her travel bags.
To celebrate the vacation season, I am thrilled to present her current travel bag collection. That is what I call traveling in style. The patterns and colors are so beautiful.
Luggage Essentials And My Packing Tips
I never bring black luggage because they do not stand out on the airport carrousel. Even if our suitcase meets the requirements of the a cabin luggage the content may not. So it is best to be prepared.
I prefer not to check in my luggage when I travel. Therefore, I learned to pack light. One trick is to bring clothes that you can mix and match. Since I enjoy wearing dresses and shirts, I can manage to be fashionable without carrying too much stuff.
Categories:
ALL occasions
TRAVEL
GIFT IDEAS
posted @ Thursday, August 07, 2008 3:42 PM | Feedback (0)
To be frank, I never cook an Indian meal. I eat Indian food at the restaurants. A few friends made the plunge and enjoy this adventure.
So if you do not know how to start, I suggest you stop by Hooked On Heat, a blog by Meena Agarwal. There are plenty of tasty recipes.
Newbies should read first Indian Cooking 101. To avoid frustrations, be prepared and stock the must-haves in every Indian pantry, fridge and stove suggested by Meena.
Based in the Toronto area, Meena is a cooking instructor and recipe developer so she has no problem teaching us a few tricks.
Gift Ideas for Foodies
Since spices are crucial in Indian cooking, why not buy a cute spike kit on Etsy from Purpose Design. I introduced before her brushed aluminum spice box collection. Because you will use many different spices, I suggest that you buy for yourself the large kit instead of the small one. You can store a few small spice kits for future hostess gifts.
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
ALL occasions
HOSTESS gifts
DINING
GIFT IDEAS
posted @ Thursday, August 07, 2008 10:46 AM | Feedback (1)
This is my daily collection of interesting stuff that I saw on the Web.
+ Having dinner in the streets is a public form of entertaining that is born out of necessity in a mega city. Citizens assemble temporary dining terrace in the sidewalks. Suzanne Seggerman holds “Chez L’Hydrant” dinners in front of the building where six or eight friends share a one-pot dish. Calvin Tsao is more daring; he held dinner parties on the Brooklyn Bridge. Via New York Times
+ I added a new blog to my RSS feed that I must tell you about. This Ain't No Disco (it's where we work) is blog that shows some of the best agency interiors in the world. I foresee lots of creative rooms in sight. Via desire to inspire
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
DINING out
DINING
posted @ Wednesday, August 06, 2008 11:38 PM | Feedback (0)
We do not need to speak Swedish to grasp the meaning of these styled pictures. They are so inspiring.
If you have open shelving, opt for decorative storage solutions. Look at how country chic stores display their merchandise for clues.
Then, head to the flea markets and concentrate on what you need to create a vignette for your storage needs or to put the last touches on your décor.
Images from Cosas, a retailer in Stockholm
Categories:
HOME decor
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Wednesday, August 06, 2008 2:52 PM | Feedback (1)
If you wish to make a statement, check out the exceptional wicker collection from Emu. It is nothing like you ever seen before.
The Yucca chairs were featured on an episode of Take It Outside where they were used as dining chairs. The high back means that adds lots of impact to a garden.
The chaise longue goes hip with the Alveo chaise. The semi-covered chaise spreads in a seat and a footrest. The shapes are pretty cool. The cover protects from sunrays and creates a cozy space that can be shared by two persons.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
HOME decor
OUTDOOR
ENTERTAINING
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Wednesday, August 06, 2008 1:37 PM | Feedback (0)
This is my daily collection of interesting stuff that I saw on the Web.
+ Design & Inredningsbloggen presents a wonderful idea to store magazines. The magazine storage box can be a great DIY project. I cannot tell you more since I do not understand Swedish.
+ Discover a remarkable nursery with an earthy feel. It is a staged room by Sam Moiler but it is full of inspirations. Via Emma designblogg
+ A room with 360 degrees view best describe this bachelor living at the foothills of the Chilean Andes designed by Del Río Núñez Arquitectos. One of most breathtaking houses I saw in my life. Via Apartment Therapy Chicago.
Categories:
HOME decor
FAMILY style
KIDS + BABY
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Wednesday, August 06, 2008 12:18 AM | Feedback (0)
I often complain that many cool products are hard-to-find in Canada. And the fact that many American retailers refuse to ship to Canada does not help when you desire products with a small niche.
That is why I am thrilled to introduce Ashley York. This Canadian online store shops the world so we do not have to. My first pick has to be their play house collection.
Textile Play Houses from United Kingdom
Imagine a play date or a birthday party where any of these play houses are the main activity center. You can devote little or lots of time to complete the theme.
No detail is spared in the handiwork of these fabulous play houses. A light aluminum frame forms the structure. The walls and the roof are stitched of the finest embroidered woven cotton. Decorative elements are applied. Curtained windows and doorway plus an handmade floor quilt put the finishing touches.
Categories:
KIDS party
KIDS + BABY
posted @ Tuesday, August 05, 2008 11:46 PM | Feedback (0)
Christine sent me a request for sources where to get more interesting ramekins or custard cups. The world of ramekins is still pretty traditional. But I dug a few options for you.
Mayfair & Jackson
The Pretty Petals ramekins are my favorite for a baby or a bridal shower. The soothing sage green, butter yellow, and cloud blue are always in style.
If you are looking for a more streamline design, go with the basic 4-piece ramekin set. The sets are available in blue and in white.
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
DISHING tips
DINING
posted @ Tuesday, August 05, 2008 12:39 PM | Feedback (0)
A tidy place looks better and bigger. Since it is better to be ready for impromptu entertaining, Umbra comes to the rescue with a vast collection of attractive storage solutions. Taking good habits will come naturally.
Home accessories are classic gifts to bring at a housewarming party. Just make sure to get some clues about the interior style before you buy something.
In the Foyer
We all need a designated spot to put the mail. Thea Yuzyk designed a wall mounted magnetic key and letter holder. You could have one Magnetter as an inbox, a second as an outbox. Or each member of a household can have its own. I saw the Magnetter at Zone last Friday and I like it.
William Mak designed the Cubby Organizer in order to quickly grab everything you need when you step out the door. You can get an extra one for your guests. This way, they know where to place their stuff.
Categories:
HOME decor
ALL occasions
GIFT IDEAS
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Tuesday, August 05, 2008 10:29 AM | Feedback (0)
Get inspired for casual summer entertaining with three different table linen looks.
I selected tablecloths from Simons, a retailer with stores in Quebec and Montreal. Simons sells women’s wear, men’s wear and home fashion at affordable prices. I often bought table and bed linens from their own brand.
Playing with Patterns
I cannot wait to throw a brunch with this setting. Everything starts with a china pattern. I am so glad that I selected the Chirp Dinnerware set because I can experiment with new tabletop styles.
I discovered that lots of accessories harmonize with the Asian feel of these teal and watercolor bird drawings. I did not expect that when I selected this pattern from the Simple Fine collection by Lenox. I chose this pattern because the drawings were cute and different from my own tableware. I wish to disclose that Lenox sent me a complimentary set last spring to get familiar with their line.
Categories:
EVERYDAY
TABLESCAPE
TABLEWARE
LINENS
ENTERTAINING
DINING
posted @ Monday, August 04, 2008 11:19 PM | Feedback (1)
This is my daily collection of interesting stuff that I read via my RSS feeds or that I saw on the Web.
+ A one-of-a-kind hammock designed by Karin van Lieshout in collaboration with Rachel van Outvorst. It took an immensible amount of work to produce this handmade hammock. Their monkish work also includes several pendants, a huge chandelier and a cool sea urchin chair. Via ROOM & Serve
+ Certain fabric colors for the Nurseryworks Storytime Rocker are at 50% off at Zac and Zoe. The idea to look for it came to me after reading about the best scavenger finds on Ohdeedoh. Do not bother to check the ad since the Craiglist listing has now expired. Via Ohdeedoh
Categories:
HOME decor
FOOD + drinks
FAMILY style
DINING
KIDS + BABY
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Monday, August 04, 2008 1:07 PM | Feedback (0)
From her Amsterdam design studio, Nicolette Brunklaus created an even more amazing 2008 collection than her previous ones. Her products are conversation pieces.
Nicolette Brunklaus played with a housewares theme this time. The House of Anne photos, shown in the middle, bring a homey feeling.
The City of Life line is diverse as you can see. The old world pewter jars and mugs are available in 6 colors.
Where to Buy?
The line is available across Scandinavia. Mekavi has already confirmed that it carries many items from the City of Life collection.
I have no words if the Boston retailer Lekker will carry the new collection by Nicolette Brunklaus. They are still carrying the Shady Tree Collection.
Categories:
HOME decor
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Monday, August 04, 2008 12:44 PM | Feedback (0)
I went to shop last Friday at Zone’s Westmount store. Here are a few interesting products I spotted. You probably have seen the style before but it is great to know where to find them.
The wooden tea box is adorable. If you are crafty, this is a project you can adapt to suit your personality. Fill the boxes with premium tea bags and bring it as a housewarming gift.
The white lanterns caught a lot of attention. Several were bought during while I was there. I almost grab a few for myself but I am not fond of white.
The sleek metal lanterns would fit better within my current terrace design since I already display a stainless steel top island.
Zone carries laser cut divider sheets and plenty of wall decals with drawings and text messages in French and English. Since both are easy to remove, they are a great party decor alternative.
Categories:
HOME decor
OUTDOOR
PARTY supplies
ALL occasions
HOSTESS gifts
ENTERTAINING
GIFT IDEAS
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Monday, August 04, 2008 10:20 AM | Feedback (0)
Every week, I compiled the list on Sunday from what bloggers published over the last 7 days.
+ The Los Angeles Times talked about how a 1958 Edward Fickett house hangs on to its contemporary cool. The current owners are huge fan of this architect since this is their second Fickett house. The interior is a feast for the eyes. I really like the hip sun umbrella next to the pool. Via Apartment Therapy Los Angeles
+ This pretty snack is from a collection of charming photos sent by emma to the famous Holly of Decor8 for Haug Maus, her latest blog project. Haus Maus is Holly’s diary about living part time in Germany.
Categories:
HOME decor
DISHING tips
DINING
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Monday, August 04, 2008 12:39 AM | Feedback (0)
We reached the time where outdoor furniture and accessories start to go on sale. I find you a few interesting deals.
Three models at Restoration Hardware are available at less than $280. You could opt for the modern Del Mar Fire Pit/Grill, the Provencal style of the Antibes Fire Pit/Coffee Table or the Classic Copper Garden Fire Pit.
If you like the copper look, Target sells a similar model. To save more, buy the Copper Fire Bowl online since you can save 15% when you spend online $125 or more on furniture, patio furniture and lawn and garden items. The Copper Tub available at Smith & Hawken will complement the look.
Categories:
OUTDOOR
FAMILY style
KIDS + BABY
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Sunday, August 03, 2008 1:15 PM | Feedback (0)
After my radio interview, I went for a shopping trip. Since I wanted to visit Zone, I headed to Westmount. Luckily, I discovered an adorable new store filled with an eclectic mix inspired by French style.
I talked to Danielle, one of the co-owners. The store is the labor of love of two girl friends. We even talked about our respective wedding photographers. It turns out that her wedding photographer trained with my photographer.
My wedding photographer Angela Campanelli opened the trail in Montreal for the updated style in wedding photography. Angela is so busy that she does not update her Web site very often.
What is in the Store?
Opened since May 2008, Madame de Pompadour proposes a small collection of tableware, home accessories, linens and kid clothing. Their catalog is updated frequently.
Categories:
HOME decor
ALL occasions
TABLEWARE
HOSTESS gifts
DINING
GIFT IDEAS
HOME + GARDEN
posted @ Saturday, August 02, 2008 10:04 AM | Feedback (0)
Friday morning, I did an interview for Sans Détour, a show on Radio-Canada hosted by François Bugingo. I was there as a fan of the Wii Fit. Karine Larose, a fitness expert at Nautilus Plus, participated to the discussion.
My Assessment
I am happy to have one. The Wii Fit has great value as a motivator. It is fun to see the avatars of your friends while you are bouncing the soccer balls.
Wii Fit also scores all your exercise performances. I noticed than when I did not execute well the exercises, my score is lower. Like any computer game, higher marks or playing for a certain time will open new exercises.
The Hula Hoop is quite fun and can make you sweat. I enjoyed doing the balance exercises of the Wii Fit program. The balance exercises are the most playful. The slalom ski, table tilt and ski jumping are my favorites so far.
Categories:
IN the press
OFF topics
REVIEWS
posted @ Saturday, August 02, 2008 3:55 AM | Feedback (3)
I started using a Russell+Hazel organizer when I was an event designer. Storing everything I needed in a single binder works like a charm. Every page looks and feels great.
How I used Russell+Hazel Binder in the Past
The binder collection is extensive. You personalize by putting inside accessories and page types.
I filled my own binder with a few business card holder pages, five pockets to store loose paper, brochures and invoices, the punched and perforated note pages for easy sharing or filing, the sketch pages and the to-do-list pages.
Uniting the chic modern style of Russell+Hazel with the wisdom of wedding editor Anne Chertoff of From "I Will" to "I Do" produces a fantastic wedding organizer.
What Is Inside?
It will be easy to shop and meet suppliers if all your inspirations and wedding details are stored in a single book. After your wedding, the organizer makes a great memorabilia.
Categories:
PAPER goods
ALL occasions
BIG events
ENTERTAINING
GIFT IDEAS
REVIEWS
posted @ Saturday, August 02, 2008 12:27 AM | Feedback (0)