Heart and Craft

loving confetti

2012-02-16T17:49:00.006-05:00

Jenny's amazing confetti table cloth for Oh Happy Day reminded me this afternoon of my deep love for this simple party supply. The colorful paper pieces instantly make you smile and throwing some in the air makes you feel as giddy as a kid. Really, try to frown while your tossing confetti, just try.I think when it comes to confetti, keep it simple and colorful. Circles are classic, a mix of shapes, is super fun, and metallic is glamorous. Use it to decorate a gift, to dress up a simple invite, or just to add a little fun wherever it lands.top photo from decor8, middle photo from Oh Happy Day, bottom photo by my husband.

confetti card diy and a printable

2012-02-14T18:36:00.006-05:00

Lastly today I wanted to share a confetti valentine's day card I designed and sent to my sweet little sister. I created the banner design and simply printed onto a glassine bag. Then I cut out a simple heart-shaped card from silver card stock and added a message.

Next I filled the the bag with festive confetti,
folded down the top flap and secure with heart stickers,added a stamp and address to the back of the bag and voila- a valentine ready to mail!
Best of all, if you are in a last minute rush on this busy holiday, I created a card template of the same banner design and you can download it here. Simply download the template below, print this baby out, cut and fold and you are ready to share the love with someone in your life. Enjoy and Happy Valentine's Day!!

valentine's day diy at Hank & Hunt

2012-02-14T16:50:00.004-05:00

Hello loves! I hope this Valentine's Day is full of sweet treats, kisses, and wonderful moments for you. I am so thankful to Jenny over at the ever-inspiring Hank & Hunt for sharing my diy secret message in a glass and ice cream sandwiches today. Hop on over there to read all of the details. Thanks Jenny!

I'll be back later to share some of the valentines I created to send out today and will have a free printable for anyone in need of a last minute love note!

valentines DIY: love catcher

2012-02-09T17:42:00.004-05:00

Hello loves! Today I'm super excited to share a little craft I came up with last night. Inspired by a beautiful photo of a dream catcher I decided to modify the idea for Valentine's Day. I used a few things around my studio to create this little guy that will be a gift for someone who it made me think of. It was simple and quick and best of all- I didn't even have to plug in the hot glue gun. Read on for all of the instructions.

The supplies are simple, here's what you'll need: some sort of twig or bendable vine (mine was from the craft store), a couple embroidery floss or string color options, scissors, paper hearts (I used my heart punch but you could cut them by hand, a few feathers, and a hole punch. (I didn't end up using the lace pictured.)
Start by bending your vine around itself to form a circle shape, then secure that with a bit of your string.
Start with that same color and begin wrapping across the middle of the circle to create a spider web sort of shape. Wrap around the outside circle a couple of times on each pass to secure the string in place. Finish that string off with a knot. If you want add a second or third color across the circle, just until it seems full enough to you. I used two colors for mine. Add a little extra string at the top for hanging the hole thing up.Then make your pieces to hang from the love catcher. I used the same string, cut to different lengths, and tied on a couple of feathers and a few of the paper hearts I had punched a small hole into. Secure those to the bottom of the circle (opposite side from your hanger string).
That's really it- now hang up your love catcher and enjoy!

bloffice sneak peak

2012-02-07T17:44:00.001-05:00

It's been a bit of a strange start to the week with lots of projects going on, one art show ending and another beginning immediately after, one car down in our house and me relying on the sweetness of friends and family to get around. I find myself doing a lot o sitting on porches, toting laptops, being without the right keys or a change of clothes after work but all in all just rolling with the punches.

So while I wait I thought I'd post a sneak of the room in my sisters house we are currently converting to what we've coined as the new "bloffice.". This has a little to do with the secret project I posted about last week. I can't wait to share more about all of it...but in due time. So far she's painted a chalkboard wall and I've moved in an extra utility table. While we've got a lot of work left to do, we christened the space a couple sundays ago with mimosas, cheese and homemade crackers and some delicious pineapple. Even the light in this photo is dim, the bloffice future looks bright. Cheers!

valentines day inspiration palette: neon&neutral

2012-02-06T18:46:00.003-05:00

It's taken me a while to accept the neon craze that has hit design and fashion but for the upcoming day of love I am embracing it all. Bright pops of pink against a neutral brown and white make a modern statement about romance that I can't help but fall for.

Clockwise from top left:
Good Will Bunting in Hot Pink and Neutral by Heidi Adnum on Etsy.
He Loves Me flower hair comb by ban.do.
Pink Triangle Clutch by Falcon Wright.
Neon Bowls by Maison Sauvage.
Pink Spot Pillowcase by Castle.
Ampersand Screeprint by shop ampersand on etsy.

I'll be sharing more Valentine's Day inspiration and DIY ideas this week so stay tuned. xo.

palettes and projects

2012-01-25T18:31:00.004-05:00

I am working on an exciting (and still secret) new venture with my sister and a good friend and I am finding loads of inspirations from these lovely color palettes.I can't wait to share more about this little project.

All amazing images from Color Collective.

twenty seven.

2012-01-23T14:04:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday to me.

I am enjoying my day at home being crafty (my ideal way to spend the day) and only leaving the house for a lunch out, grabbing a glass of wine later on, and meeting my husband for a downtown dinner. Last night we spent with my family who threw me the most fabulous birthday dinner complete with inspired decorations, a custom menu, absolutely delicious mini butterfinger cheesecakes, and the most exciting gift ever-- a cricut expressions 2. I think I squealed like a child upon opening this. I will be busy crafting while my cricut is busy cutting out my designs today!!

26 was a magical year; I got married, worked really hard on the shop and what felt like a million side projects, tried to get my head on straight for future projects, and enjoyed lots of time with my husband, family, friends, and sweet pup. I have big plans and big hopes for 27 and I have a feeling this year won't disappoint.

rocks and gems

2012-01-20T18:00:00.003-05:00

Some seriously gorgeous statement necklaces available at Anthropologie right now.

new in the shop: for valentines day

2012-01-19T20:40:00.002-05:00

Some love-inspired heart cake and cupcake toppers now up in the shop. Treat yourself to something sweet.

gifts to myself

2012-01-17T18:00:00.004-05:00

Just in time for my upcoming (27th) birthday next week I was excited to see that this top was back in stock on ModCloth... so I ordered it for myself. I have never been one to gift myself but this year it seemed appropriate. Instead of going out looking for a sparkly birthday outfit I will just sit by the door and hope this gem gets delivered in time.
Oh and here are a few more things I'd love to gift myself this year.five golden rings from etsy seller Fork Whisperer.honeycomb large tote (unfortunately sold) by Jenna Rose.

top: cake pom collection by Potter+Butler.

ode to helen

2012-01-16T16:10:00.003-05:00

I was sad to hear of the passing of American painter Helen Frankenthaler last month so I wanted to do a wordless tribute to her and her beautiful work today.

happy birthday dad!!

2012-01-13T17:49:00.004-05:00

Happy Birthday to the guy who is the most grounded, secure, and comforting man I have ever met while still managing to also be the life of the party. You some how survived raising three daughters and a son and imparted your wisdom on us all along the way- but in your quiet approach of actions over words- which I appreciate more than I can ever say.

You have taught me the important things like the joys of hard work and the ways of finances, home-ownership, and keeping a bank account in the positive (after forgiving a few overdraft notices in the early years). And the fun things like how much cooler vinyl feels and sounds than a cd or ipod; that you will always play better in a yard game like bocce if you are balanced out by a beer in the other hand; that ipa's might just be better than pbr's; and that you're never too old to start the dance party. But most importantly the little things like sometimes it is okay to say no when you feel like you're running in a million different directions at once; and that sometimes its also okay to forgive and forget, even when you don't know how things will turn out.

Thank you for all of the lessons, spoken and unspoken, but most of all- thank you for loving us and our mom so. damn. much.

fog inspired

2012-01-09T18:51:00.005-05:00

Inspired by today's fog and rainy weather here in North Carolina, some white and grey etsy finds. This type of weather calls for some tomato soup and grilled cheese, and getting cozy on the couch.

porcelain twig, hanging planter, tote, calendar.

birthday month and little treats

2012-01-04T18:35:00.003-05:00

January is my birthday month and with it falling right after the holiday season it is sometimes hard to get excited about, so I was pleasantly surprised last week when I received this little treat in the mail from Anthropologie. Even though I may not actually get around to spending any money on myself this month, I always love the packaging and design from this company. Its like unwrapping a gift just opening the envelope, sliding the little cardboard insert out and seeing how it was all put together. Well done again, Anthro.

Meditation in the Park

2012-01-03T14:17:00.003-05:00

Today I wanted to share a poster design I created for a local event that took place on New Years Day. It was a community meditation in one of our downtown parks. For the poster I wanted to go completely illustrative and hand drawn. I did a watercolor background and then designed a graphic that was supposed to be kind of a cross between a snowflake and a mandala- to represent the season and the idea of meditation all in one. I didn't make it to the event (I spent the first day of the year lounging on our couch...) but I know it was a beautiful, sunny day here in NC so I hope it was a huge success.

why hello there, 2012

2012-01-02T16:16:00.008-05:00

Two-thousand and eleven was a big year for us. In addition to several trips with friends and family, some major work to the shop and our brand, participating in four craft markets, and work and school we also got married! It's been a whirlwind of a year with lots to do and very little downtime in between, but we wouldn't have had it any other way. It's been fun looking through some of our memories of the past year and here are a few of my favorites:

I am proud of where we've come and what we've done in the last year. I am starting this new one with a clear head and a clean studio space, all while being healthy, happy, and loved-which is more than I could ever ask for. And just like I did for 2011, I will not make a list of resolutions and goals for 2012 but will go forward with anticipation and excitement for some big changes, big work, big fun, and big ambitions. Bring it on '12!

new years eve diy's

2011-12-30T13:17:00.008-05:00

I've been busy crafting over the last couple of days to help a friend get ready for her new years eve bash. I came up with a few different party hat styles that I wanted to share with you here.
The first was quick and easy and used dollar store cardboard party hats, vinyl stickers, silver spray paint, and colorful wire garland- all of which I already had at home. I simply placed the stickers "2012" on the center of the hat, painted silver, and hot glued some garland around the bottom. How easy is that? Initially I had wanted to take off the stickers and let the colorful hat pattern show through but after painted I loved how the silver numbers looked so much that I kept them.

The second hat style took a bit longer but was equally easy. For this one you'll need card stock, scissors or an x-acto knife, spray adhesive, glitter, hot glue gun, tape, elastic string and some sparkly tinsel. I took one of the leftover pre-bought hats and took it apart to make a template (I will add it here later for your use!) Here's what I did next (click photo for a larger view):

Trace your pre-bought part hat onto the card stock of your choice. If you are using a 2-sided paper make sure to trace on the back- mine was shimmery on one side. OR you can download my pdf and print the party hat image directly onto the back of your cardstock.
Cut out hat shape. The "x's" are where you will tape your elastic onto the inside of the hat so don't cut those.
Fold (roll) the hat into shape and slide the tabs on the left side into the opening on the right. I then applied some tape to the inside to hold it together and then added a few dots of hot glue under the seams.
Apply spray mount to the very top of your hat for an ombre glitter look or all over for more sparkle- should probably do this outside.
Sprinkle on your glitter and shake excess off onto a piece of paper.
Use your hot glue gun to add tinsel around the bottom of your hat.
Party and enjoy!

I also made some sparkly drink stirs (seen at top) with the leftover tinsel by simply wrapping small sections of it to bamboo skewers and securing with a dot of hot glue. I hope your New Years Eve is full of fun and sparkle!

gift diy: monogrammed ipad sleeve

2011-12-29T16:56:00.007-05:00

I wanted to share with you guys one of the diy gifts I made for some friends and family. I adjusted the ipad measurements to also fit a kindle for each of my sisters- super easy and everyone loved them! I somewhat followed the instructions from this tutorial but simplified materials and added the initial stencil for each of the recipients. Here's what you'll need:

Adhesive-backed felt sheets (mine were 9"x12" packs from Wal-Mart)
Lightweight material for inside lining
Rotary cutter or scissors
Cutting mat and ruler
Matching thread
Letter stencils
Gold (or any color) paint and stencil brush
Sewing machine

Here's what you do (following the photos clockwise):

Cut all of your pieces to size (leaving the inside lining material slightly smaller). Your felt and lining should be cut to about two inches larger (length and width) than the device you are planning to fit into it. I simply googled the dimensions for each of mine.
Pull the adhesive paper off the back of the felt BUT it works best for sewing if you leave a small strip of paper on the two sides and bottom. This way the adhesive won't stick to your sewing machine- unfortunately I learned this the hard way.
Place lining fabric face up on the back of the felt and smooth down to the adhesive. Leave about an inch of room at the top for folding over for a seam. Now fold that seam over.
Repeat this with your other piece of felt and lining to create the back of your sleeve.

I didn't get photos of the actual sewing process, which is probably best due to my severe lack of skills in sewing anything except paper garlands. Here is what you'll do for the sewing portion:

Sew each of the top seams over.
Place your front and back pieces together FELT to FELT side. This will make your bag inside out. Sew the two sides and bottom together.
Flip this inside out and viola- your sleeve is made! Pull the corners out square, cut any loose strings, and flatten (or iron if your patient).

Lastly I added a stencil monogram onto the front of each for a personalized touch. I used a gold paint that is supposed to mimic gold foil but you could really use any craft or fabric paint. (The photos below are from a different set of bags so the colors/fabric are different)

Tape your stencil down so it won't move.
Use your stencil brush to apply paint and allow to dry before trying to move the stencil.
Admire your work!

You can easily make one of these in under an hour or quite a few in an afternoon. My loved ones really liked theirs so I will probably be making more in the future. Have fun crafting!

tis the season to sparkle!

2011-12-28T19:42:00.003-05:00

As New Years Eve gets closer I am getting excited for the sequins, glitter, and sparkly decorations to come! I have already started on some of my own shimmery diy's and here are a few of my favorite inspirations for the occasion:shimmery garlands from martha stewart
a classic top hat in glittery gold.
cone party favors from you are my fave.tinsel numbers also from m.s.

top image: confetti invitations, also from you are my fave.

sneak peak: gifts

2011-12-27T16:24:00.003-05:00

I have the best family and this year they really outdid themselves on gift giving. About half of the gifts given and received at my parents house this year were handmade and that really made my heart smile. I'll share some of the diy gifts I did later this week but for now here is a little peak at some of the goodies I got to take home.
1. an amazing set of packaging and crafting supplies from my mr. that I mentioned here, 2. handmade feather arrows by my lovely older sister, 3. handmade amazing nc art by my lovely little sister and parents, 4. a cookbook that I can't wait to use- it follows the best local foods by season!

Thank you so much to my family for the sweet gifts, but even more for the time we got to share this Christmas!!

happy holidays from the jacksons

2011-12-26T16:59:00.004-05:00

Happy Holidays! Merry {day after} Christmas! Seasons Greetings!

It has been a hectic, busy, frantic, crazy, overwhelming, and insane holiday season for us. We packed in more with orders, shows, work, and school than ever before and now know that we will have to do a little better with time management next year if we want to be so involved in so many things! Lesson learned! That said, it's been a great time with family, friends, projects, and products, and our FIRST Christmas as a married couple was awesome!

Here is the card we sent out to some of our nearest and dearest:
Now that the busiest days are over I am looking forward to a few days off to do some major cleaning and organizing around our house (which is a wreck), relax a bit, and clear our minds and agendas in preparation for big plans for 2012. Cheers!

happy anniversary mom and dad!

2011-12-22T16:52:00.003-05:00

Happy Anniversary to the two people who showed me how great a marriage can be, how special family is, and how fulfilling life can become with a supportive, loving, rock of a spouse. You two are each others perfect match, that puzzle piece, and you guys are the reason I was so excited, so confident, and so full of joy on my own wedding day! Thank you for showing me, through your own example, how it is supposed to work, I love you!

weekend: rockin and shoppin

2011-12-19T17:56:00.003-05:00

A busy Saturday meant the last of our markets for 2011 and man was it a big one! We spent the day in Durham, NC at the lovely Motorco Music Building selling our wares for the Rock & Shop Market. The venue was great (they also had vendors in the Trotter Building and Fullsteam Brewery), but the best part was all of the great locals we met and chatted with and getting to spend the evening with some friends in Durham.

After the show we hooked back up with Andy and Nicole from APK Printworks and Un Original Americain and Sarah and Alec of Shed Letterpress. We got to kick it at Sarah's studio, see her Heidelberg in action (amazing!) and then had dinner down the road at Geer St. All in all the day was a huge success and ton of fun and I actually woke up on Sunday relaxed because I realized I could clean and wrap gifts-- finally. Success!MotorCo.Set up.After party.Heidelberg beast.

gearing up for Rock and Shop

2011-12-15T18:04:00.003-05:00

Things are getting busy (ok they've been busy) around here and we are gearing up for the Rock & Shop Market this weekend. We'll be selling our goods in Durham along with 100+ other artists, listening to some great music, and hopefully enjoying a beer and taking in the rest of the sights at the market. I was reminded by another blogger's post today that it is easy to get wrapped up in the craziness and complain about being so busy this time of year so I am vowing to be EXCITED about all of the work we've been getting, the projects we've been involved in, and most especially the opportunity to celebrate with our friends and family. It really is the most wonderful time of the year!

wednesday wishlist: scents

2011-12-14T17:34:00.003-05:00

I have been wearing the same fragrance since high school, sadly enough. It is the much loved White Musk from the Body Shop (that's a little embarrassing to admit) and while it has been a tried and true favorite of mine for all this time I have thought about updating. I ordered a few trial scents from an etsy seller this summer but was disappointed by the floral, sweet smells of each and they didn't have much of the musky undertones I was hoping for. I don't wear perfume, don't want to smell sweet or sugary, and don't want to be overwhelmed by a powerful scent (you know the kind that makes everyone want to leave a room for fear of choking when that person walks in). All that being said, I am tempted to try out this classic musk oil from Kiehls. If the scent is anything as pretty as the packaging I am sure it will be great.

Scents are tricky, though.

pretty pairings: cubism

2011-12-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

Golden love for this necklace by a merry mishap and these futagami-imono pendant lamps.

weekend

2011-12-12T10:03:00.004-05:00

It was a busy weekend around here with gifts, crafts, and holiday parties all gearing up. But somehow my photos of the past couple of days only show the quiet moments, undisturbed seconds of soft lighting and a break in the action. It's nice to remember things this way.Prepping for crafts.
Loading and editing.
Thrift store finds.More crafts for Christmas.

Evening drive and fleeting light.

winter white: diy holiday round up

2011-12-09T17:55:00.006-05:00

Here a some of my absolute favorite holiday inspired, winter-white themed craft tutorials from around the blog world this week. I am finding constant inspiration these days and I hope you are getting psyched for holiday decorating too! We are hanging icicle lights, crafting a glitter wreath, and getting started on some diy gifts this weekend. Have a good one!
Above: shimmery swizzle sticks from Odessa May.
Modern Perforated Trees from Babble.
Festive topped jars from You Are My Fave.
Paper whites from A Subtle Revelry.A gold dipped bowl on Curbly.

heart & craft holiday in a box

2011-12-07T18:21:00.003-05:00

Friends, I am so excited to share with you the handmade gift I put together for the Handmade Gift Swap hosted by FreshlyPicked and ArdorBlog that I participated in this month. Besides getting wonderfully handmade gifts from five other bloggers, I got to put together and send out my own little creations.

For my handmade gift I put together the "holiday in a box" full of little treats for holiday decorating. I included a small glittery garland for wrapping around gifts, a large garland for decorating your walls or tree, shimmery cake flags for adding some sparkle to desserts, our 'this if for you' gift tags, a set of holiday banner greeting cards, and a golden-painted little deer figurine just for fun. In addition to designing the cards, inserts, packaging, and contents I had SO much fun packing and sending of these little gifts! I hope they brought a smile to someone's face and I can't wait until next year's gift swap!Find my greeting cards, gift tags, garlands, and flags all in my shop.

Happy Birthday Mom!

2011-12-06T00:17:00.003-05:00

Happy birthday to the woman who gracefully manages to juggle the role of teacher, mother, principal, creator, and wife. You taught me how special it is to cook a meal for the ones you love, to celebrate birthdays for a week straight, to find the positive in the dreariest of days, and most importantly to always keep creating. You've been the rock for our family in hard times, the cheerleader and biggest fan to four children, and a perfect role model of what a strong woman really is.

I love you and am so thankful to call you my mother, happy birthday!

pretty pairings

2011-12-05T21:54:00.003-05:00

Don't this patterned scarf and this iphone cover just make the sweetest couple?

See more on my pinterest.

wednesday wishlist: glitter and gold

2011-11-30T18:45:00.003-05:00

This time of year brings out an untameable love in me for all things glitter and shimmer. After the new year this love quickly turns to disdain so I will fully embrace the sparkle in all its glory for the next few weeks!

Clockwise from top: warm wishes fringe banner by nice, diamond band from catbird nyc, rose gold sparkle clutch by scout&catalogue, glitter dart by somethings hiding here.

Sparkle on!

pretty pairings

2011-11-29T18:06:00.004-05:00

Loving the combination of this spoon and well by up in the air somewhere & this hand printed napkin set by Namoo. Both on etsy, both under $30. Hello, gift giving season.

thankful for

2011-11-28T21:35:00.003-05:00

After a wonderfully family filled, relaxing yet productive, long holiday weekend it was a particularly trying day back at work. Let's just say teachers are not always appreciated.

But, this evening I am looking to the positive and counting my blessings. Tonight I am thankful for...my sweet husband who keeps me grounded and focused on our goals. That and our Christmas tree with decorations that remind us of home,
glittery holiday decorations,
and my sister who knows exactly when I could really use a glass of wine.

I am thankful.

give thanks

2011-11-24T11:14:00.004-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving all! Today's post is short and sweet because we are off to two thanksgiving celebrations and are sure to be full, happy, and feeling blessed all day. I hope yours is sweeter thank pumpkin pie (my favorite part of the day) and full of good food, good friends, and good cheer!

wreath doliy via martha.

wednesday wishlist: supplies

2011-11-23T14:21:00.003-05:00

You guys, I think I'm in love. In love you absolutely everything from online shop Olive Manna. Their crafting, decorating, and general making supplies are just perfect. Simple and understated, practical and pretty. I'll take one of each, please.

PS. I am completely aware of the ridiculousness of my love for craft supplies. It is becoming a problem.

thanksgiving favorites

2011-11-22T17:55:00.007-05:00

It seems like the blog world has already passed by this week's holiday and has jumped on to Christmas festivities. But Thanksgiving is my absolute favorite holiday (no gift-giving pressure, best food ever, etc) and I want to highlight some of the great things I have been seeing around the web that celebrate good ole' turkey day.

First up, I absolutely love this modern thanksgiving table design by Melanie of You Are My Fave. The color scheme is unexpected and I adore the stripes and pops of gold.

I am also adoring this guilded Thanksgiving set up spotted over on Oh Happy Day.

Lastly I would calm things down a bit with this lovely farm table Thanksgiving set up by Jane Reaction.

However you choose to decorate this year, I hope you get to enjoy all of the gifts of food, family, and friends.

season kick start

2011-11-22T00:16:00.006-05:00

Things are starting to get B.U.S.Y. (in the best possible way). Of course things always start speeding up this time of year but 2011 seems especially crazy. Between family visits, holiday fare, and our normal work and school schedules we are so excited to be involved in some creative things this season. Because I am kind of running all over the place and have been a little absent around here lately, here is a little update on what we'll be up to over the next couple of months.

Super excited to be a vendor at two amazing holiday markets that are anything but your grandma's church craft fair:
First up is the Hand-to-Hand Holiday Market here in Greensboro.
Followed by the Rock and Shop Market in Durham, NC.
I also can't wait to share with you what I am crafting for the Handmade Holiday Gift Swap hosted by Freshly Picked and Ardor Blog.
And lastly, I am so thrilled to be a part of A Subtle Revelry's holiday season. Can't wait to see what magic Victoria has put together for next weeks holiday craft and gift guides. (where I'll have a special coupon code for holidays at Heart&Craft).

I will try to keep you up to date as we navigate through this busy season of fun, cheer, crafts, food, and festivities!

wednesday wish list: portland collection

2011-11-16T18:51:00.002-05:00

This week's wish list is all about the Portland Collection from textile masters, Pendleton. Known for the beautifully patterned wool blankets and throws, Pendleton came out with an updated line of clothing, bags, and accessories this fall that is to die for. The structure, designs, and shape is spot on and I think these cozy textiles would easily get me through the chilliest winter season.
Photos from Need Supply Co.

important conversations

2011-11-14T20:42:00.001-05:00

me: you have glitter in your beard.

mister: why is there glitter in my beard?

me: because you're my husband.

image from a subtle revelry.

built by wendy

2011-11-10T17:29:00.003-05:00

The Built by Wendy site is so fun to view. The clothes move as you scroll through the page and I had a bit too much fun creating brady bunch-esque designs with the model. Plus, I would pretty much wear anything they've got. Fashion is fun.

mill adventures

2011-11-08T18:35:00.005-05:00

This weekend I rode along with the mister while he was on a job getting some shots of the mills around our town for his work. The story was covering the rundown buildings left from an industrious time in our city's past as well as looking at how some of the mills have been reimagined and renovated into new business, academic, and social venues in a revitalization effort. The juxtaposition of new thriving business in such close proximity to areas that looked like they hadn't seen a human in decades was eerily beautiful. As we passed by the No Trespassing signs and ventured around the muddy lots, peering into broken windows grown over by years of encroaching nature, I found myself taking dozens and dozens of photos. We live in a fairly bustling, thriving city but it is always nice to find those quite places that take you immediately into the past, wondering what it was like for the people who lived, worked, loved, and struggled to get by- just like we are now- in that same spot so many years ago.

heart&craft holiday 2011

2011-11-07T19:03:00.003-05:00

Introducing the first items in Heart & Craft's Holiday 2011 collection. Our new "this is for you" tags are my absolute favorite! The metallic garland is actually from last years holiday goods but I hope to have some over the top glitter garlands listed soon. Its funny how much I bash my students for using glitter on their projects when I secretly fall in love with it this time every year (I still hold my stance in high school art class that glitter+fine art painting usually does not mesh well). Either way, get yourself over to the shop and stock up for the holiday season!

ban.do holiday 11

2011-11-03T18:07:00.003-04:00

Chances are you have seen these beauties floating around on the web this week but I had to share some of the greatest picks from ban.do's latest holiday collection. From the designs to the styling and photography, these girls always get it right. And I am pretty sure I could happily rock that top outfit to every holiday party this year.see it all here.

wednesday wish list: print and pattern

2011-11-02T19:26:00.002-04:00

It's November and that means it is time for my yearly Wednesday Wishlists to start again! (You know, in case anyone is out doing some Christmas shopping). This year's first edition is inspired by all of the lovely prints and patterns out there right now. Enjoy!clockwise from top left:
get dotty Madewell sweater, nell&mary geometric dot pillow cover, J.Crew heart intarsia sweater, Lulu striped leggings, pattern rugs.

impromptu costumes

2011-11-01T17:49:00.004-04:00

So the mister and I planned our costumes this year (Mary Poppins and Bert) and were really happy with how they turned out- and then forgot to take any photos while we were dressed up on Saturday night. That seems to be a trend around here, right?
Last night we got a last minute invitation to dinner and passing out candy at my sisters house and headed over sans costumes. When we got there she had crafted the loveliest rag-doll costume and I had to come up with something quick because I can't not be a part of a diy party! So, inspired by the ever-incredible Kathleen, I threw on some dia de los muertos inspired facepaint. It was easy and once draped in my sisters shawl I felt completely in character. Sometimes those last minute ideas are the best.

ladies of halloween

2011-10-31T17:48:00.004-04:00

Here's hoping your holiday is as stylish and awesome as these haunting ladies.

a birthday board

2011-10-31T08:00:00.000-04:00

So I totally failed on taking photos at my sisters birthday. That's why it is a week later and I am just getting some sort of excuse for a post up. After all of the crafting, planning, baking, and partying we did I am pretty disappointed by my lack of photo documentation. That's how it always seems to go though- the more you plan the less you remember to take the camera out!

Here is what I could scrounge up to share with you- believe me though- this party was much more epic than what you see here.
Above: the birthday girl in all her hippie glory, the most incredible salted caramel cupcakes by my other talented sister (read about them here), the sisters in our crafted head gear, and the pinata I put together.

**Not pictured: facepainting, whiskey drinking, donut eating contest, pinata busting, tarot card reading in an sheet-tent, crafting with feathers, buttons, herbs, and twine, beautiful flowers, golden pumpkins, a mantle adorned with branches, and lots and lots of food.

The night was wonderful and the smile on my sisters face (for 6 hours straight) made all the work worth it. Love you rabbit.

a birthday and a giveaway

2011-10-26T18:19:00.005-04:00

Hello to any readers who are visiting from A Subtle Revelry where Victoria is featuring a giveaway of some of my work today!
I adore the blog and am so excited to be a part of a fun giveaway! You can win $40 to spend on anything in my shop just by leaving a comment over on her post. I also want to offer 20% off to any ASR readers in my hop this week. Just enter code "giveaway" at checkout! Happy shopping!

Now on to business- a very very HAPPY (belated) BIRTHDAY to my lovely sister! I didn't get this up yesterday because I was having to much fun celebrating with you!
Tomorrow I'll be sharing a few shots from my hippie-princess-sister's birthday party this past weekend.

weekend recall part one

2011-10-24T19:20:00.005-04:00

As I shared last week, we had a pretty action packed weekend. One of the highlights of it was that on Sunday afternoon we drove up towards the NC mountains to watch the mass ascension of hot air balloons at the Carolina BalloonFest. I have had a long running obsession with hot air balloons so this was pretty magical to me.
The weather was perfect and we ate a greasy bloomin' onion as we watched about thirty hot air balloons inflate and take flight all around us. I was amazed at how close the spectators were allowed to be to the balloons and was mesmerized by some of the really beautiful designs. (This is not including the huge advertisements or 200-foot tall US Constitution). We took what seemed like a million photos but here are some of my favorite shots on my phone. Gotta love those apps.

weekend invites

2011-10-21T18:26:00.003-04:00

It's been a busy week that is leading into an equally busy weekend. Tomorrow we head to a wedding before going to celebrate my older sister's birthday! We have more fun events planned for Sunday but I'll wait and see how they pan out before sharing.
I did want to share the invitation I created for my sister's birthday party though. She decided at twenty-eight that she wanted to throw herself a real birthday celebration. With games, crafts, face-painting, and fortune-telling. It is going to be a bit of a vintage-inspired fall festival. As I said before, we are having quite a hard time pinpointing a description for this so hopefully I will get some great photos that will explain it a little better. Happy Birthday (weekend) Sister! Love you!

shop update

2011-10-19T19:39:00.005-04:00

A few weeks after my preview, I finally have new work listed in the shop! It has been oh so busy around here and this update is certainly overdue but I am just happy to be able to share them with you!
triangles print
chevron gradient cards
feathers

We are working like mad on lots of different projects, designs, parties, and future plans and it is an exciting time to be heart&craft. And of course we wouldn't have it any other way.

first image: modern aztec print

boot call

2011-10-18T19:07:00.003-04:00

It seems like this is the time of year that my boot lust sets in big time. This year my the cravings have taken on many forms, from colorful details and sweater trim, to plaid and straps, to color blocking and heels. I have found so many different styles and options this season, and this is just the tip of the iceberg folks.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.

party pins

2011-10-17T21:43:00.004-04:00

It seems like we are in full party/wedding season around here and we are excited to now be planning and creating for my sisters upcoming birthday party. Since we have yet to coin an appropriate name for the event (our pinterest board is named hippie vintage fall-fest dead people party, if that gives you any idea), here are some of our inspiration pins. I am so excited to see how it all comes together this weekend.
outfit inspiration via contributor magazine.
snacks like roasted pumpkin seeds.
hair crafts.
games.
and the scene that might just pull it all together.

see the entire board here. first image.

fall engagement party

2011-10-16T18:02:00.002-04:00

This weekend we had the honor of hosting an engagement party for our dear friends, Jordan & Stacy. We loved having them in our wedding and are so excited to help them get ready for their own!

The theme of the party was simply inspired by the colors of fall. We are smack in the middle of that perfect North Carolina autumn weather that is perfect but so fleeting. We got to light up the fire pit, pull a table of food outside, and wrap up in warm sweaters while we all celebrated. Here are a autumn inspired details we put together for the party.
Fringed garlands and hanging paper decorations.
Golden pumpkins that were so simple and so pretty.
A floral gradient.
Candy corn favor bags that I made after falling in love with these.

home printing

2011-10-11T18:44:00.002-04:00

I have seen this amazing diy twice in the last 24 hours- glassine bags printed on a home printer. So what did I do on my sick day? Go to the store and buy glassine bags. We are hosting an engagement party this weekend and these will make the perfect favor bags. I still have lots of styling and crafting left to do for the party but will share some of the highlights here once it all comes together!
Pretzel tots bag by the amazing melanie of youaremyfave.

confetti bags by the equally awesome jordan of oh happy day!

sick day

2011-10-11T10:07:00.003-04:00

I am home sick today which means I may actually be able to catch up on some work around home. But let's not kid anyone, my main goals for the day really include wrapping up in a big sweater, drinking tea, and possibly making some lentil soup- if I feel up to it, of course.

I should be back later with real blog stuff.

photo- sorry I can't find original credit for this one!

be still my heart

2011-10-06T17:57:00.003-04:00

My hand-painted-flag-loving-heart that is. These new pieces by Jeff Canham for The Standard Hotels make me weak in the knees. The series is 26 nautical flags, inspired by his time as a surfer, one for each letter of the alphabet. This is what happens when craft and graphic design have a baby- and I love it. Read all about them here and buy them (for me) here.

*Seen on design*sponge.

autumn at zara

2011-10-04T18:41:00.003-04:00

I know I've been posting a lot about fall fashion lately but I can't stop being inspired by the cozy knits and thoughts of layering up. I have always found, however, that it is much harder for me to feel cute, fashionable, etc in the colder months because all I want to do is throw on an oversized mens sweater and my moccasins. Its not as easy and effortless to feel put together like in the spring and summer when all you have to do is put on a colorful skirt and paint your nails. But these outfits from Zara have done cool weather dressing right- all the way down to the elbow patches.Do you have any cool weather dressing tips you'd like to share? I'd love to hear your ideas.

fall shop preview

2011-10-03T19:32:00.004-04:00

We had a wonderful response to our work at the market we did this weekend and met some amazing, inspiring local artists as well. Such a refreshing weekend after a lot of prep work! We debuted some new prints and cards that I hope to get listed in the shop soon but until then here is a little preview of what fall has inspired us to create. I will let you know when the shop has been updated. We are excited about what is ahead.

craft time

2011-09-28T18:18:00.004-04:00

Lost of inspiration floating around right now. Including this simple, pretty, embroidery floss-wrapped hair comb.
And this hex nut bracelet that I may or may not have posted about before. Funnily enough I should really be in my studio right now getting my own craft on and getting ready for this weekend.
All sources also on my pinterest. First photo.

pinning fall

2011-09-26T20:07:00.003-04:00

Friday was the official start to autumn and while the temperatures are still close to 80 here in NC, I have found myself drawn to tons of fall outfit inspiration over on pinterest. I am excited for light-weight scarves, ankle boots, and obviously lots of mustard, camel, navy, and some hints of teal. Follow me and find all of these links on pinterest here.In other news, I may be scarce around here this week as we try to get the kitchen (close) to finished and get ready to have a booth at a local market/fest this weekend. This chaos is what I thrive on, right?

ribbons and happy things

2011-09-21T18:34:00.004-04:00

ribbons are yummy, from the new ribbon garlands in my shop.
the styling for these doily dream catchers is just as dreamy as the craft itself, from the etsy blog.
galaxy nails have just made it to my to-do list, from a cup of jo.

thankful for an inspired wednesday.

ba-na-nas

2011-09-14T17:23:00.002-04:00

Rachel Zoe makes me laugh. Her show is not highly intelligent or thought provoking but she does wear some amazing outfits and have some pretty great Zoe-isms. While her new collection didn't blow me away, there are a few items in her Spring 2012 rtw line that I kind of die for. Sorry, I had to.

spotted: house illustrations

2011-09-13T18:36:00.003-04:00

I have been seeing lots of lovely home illustrations on etsy and pinterest as of late. Like the print our friend just produced, I am loving the hand drawn details of these.

1. james keniston. 2. claudia pearson. 3. jens kelley.

pumpkin and goldenrod

2011-09-11T21:50:00.005-04:00

In addition to adding some new work to the shop, last week also included working on some custom designs for an Autumn wedding. This is my favorite kind of work.

Every weekend for the next two months is booked solid for us and I am excited for the hustle and bustle of fall to start. Several of these days involve styling and design for some fun events that I am excited to work on; as well as a beach trip, baby shower, birthdays, engagement celebration, and a wedding to attend. I'll do my best to share our adventures with you here. Bring it on, Autumn.

birds of fall

2011-09-10T14:13:00.005-04:00

Some new work inspired by my favorite palette for this autumn. I am glad color is still being embraced for this upcoming season. Should be up in the shop soon.

out with the old

2011-09-09T08:50:00.000-04:00

goodbye summer,
hello fall.

via color collective.

inspired

2011-09-08T17:30:00.004-04:00

Anabela's post on planning, designing, and putting together packaging over on Fieldguided was truly inspired. Everything in the shop she runs with her partner Geoff is lovely, her design for business cards, thank you notes, and labels are divine, and her photography is always sublime. Reading about the care and time she puts into her packaging materials was wonderful and made me not feel so guilty about spending so much time on my own (because this time essentially goes unpaid and in some cases unnoticed). It is nice to see the care and attention that goes in to every last detail of their work.I also hopped over to one sleepless night to read more behind the scenes details from Anabela's work and was pleasantly surprised to find someone else that loves these details so much that the words "I have to fix my new logo" may take precedents over social time or relaxation. And, lastly, are you not just dying for that floral postcard with the magenta haze?

Styled Issue 2 is here!

2011-09-07T19:23:00.002-04:00

I just spent an hour truly indulging in the latest issue of Styled by A Subtle Revelry's Victoria. It is a beautifully curated collection of autumn entertaining, cooking, and styling ideas. It is truly lovely. Bravo, Victoria!

see the both issues of Styled here.

long weekends and letterpress

2011-09-06T18:07:00.004-04:00

I hope everyone enjoyed their long labor day weekend (for those of you in the US). We enjoyed a cookout, a baby birthday party, tore out sheet rock in our kitchen (in anticipation of new shelves and tile), cleaned all of the windows at our house and got to hang out and help at a friend's print shop.
The shop is just down the road from us in High Point, NC and belongs to one of Justin's professors. He was printing a new set of three-color screen print show fliers before letting J print a three-color set of one of his own designs. It was so much fun! Besides the screen prints he has amazing letter press machines, plates, and parts. I kind of just walked around in awe for a few hours, opening drawers filled with type, hoping not to get in trouble. It was a great way to spend an afternoon and I really hope we can get back in there soon!iphone photos by me

hair files

2011-09-01T17:59:00.004-04:00

Getting back into work has been hard, hence the lack of posting here. But after looking back on my recent posts I realized that I have been pretty negative. This place is supposed to be a reprieve, a happy place, and a little bit of a getaway. So I am vowing now not to air all of my negative laundry here on my blog. I will never be one of those sugar-coated, life is peachy kind off bloggers that always has perfectly plated dinners or exquisite outfits to share but I promise to keep it real, in a positive way. It's a good feeling to be focused on what's right.
So my first positive post to share is about hair. After seeing this amazing Month of Hair on Refinery 29 I was inspired by the great style and got to thinking about my own hair. My hair is the longest it has ever been since I was about 14. I have been growing it out for the last year or so and am lucky to have a good friend who is also an awesome stylist. All through college I had short, cute, easy to be artsy kind of haircuts but that look doesn't really transfer into long hair the same way. It seems to take a little more work to feel put together and creative with long hair. I have always been low maintenance about my hair but over the summer I started having a lot of fun playing around with more hairstyles. Here are a few of my favorite styles/tips for my newly longish hair.

Braids. It is the first time in a loooong time my hair has been long enough for braids and boy are they fun. One loose side braid, two french braids combined into a low, messy ponytail, hippy braids pulled back around hair hanging down, all sorts of braids.
Dirt. Yep, the dirtier the better. This summer my hair routine went something like this: Day one, hair clean, down, and air-dried to a natural wave. Day two, a braid or a high, messy bun- the more hairspray the better. Day three, higher and messier bun with a scarf tied around to hide the ever-growing, a little bit dirty-looking do. Day four, wash and repeat. Three days is about as long as I can go without washing it but the texture and size on those last two days is pretty phenomenal.
Twists. For working out I found the easy style has been a low, loosely twisted bun at the nape of my neck. This way I can workout and then take my hair back down without the pesky hair-tie crease you normally get from a ponytail. I have read this is also a great way to style you hair if you like washing it right before bed. Twist into a low bun and take out in the morning for lovely waves.

That is about it for my hair expertise and while I am in great need of a trim, I have had some fun with my new found locks. So I would love to hear, what are your go-to or new favorite styling tips?

PS. They also have the must-read Lazy Girl's Guide to Hair.

Photos from Refinery 29.

finding the balance

2011-08-27T16:00:00.003-04:00

Ok this post is really not about balance at all. Because right now my life has none. We started back to school (work) this week, started tearing down cabinets and tile in our kitchen, and now I need to get back to my shop. It is busy and hectic and messy and feels like running in several directions at once. Usually I thrive on being super busy and having my hands in several projects but right now I am barely treading water. I know in a few weeks once the routine has set in it will all be much easier, so for now I am letting things like this make me happy. One of my custom garlands being used at an opening press party for adorable jewelry shop, Viv&Ingrid at Oxford Hall. Isn't that the cutest name ever?

ReBloomed

2011-08-23T17:28:00.004-04:00

My crafty momma recently opened her own etsy shop named ReBloomed! She is using new and repurposed fabrics to make the sweetest flower clips and brooches! I had so much fun helping her with the photos (with my lovely sister modeling) and it looks like these little gems won't be staying in the shop for long! Get yours here while they last!
PS-- My mom is pretty awesome. In addition to starting her shop she also started her new job as an assistant principal this month!

something to look forward to

2011-08-22T16:50:00.003-04:00

A long day of classroom scrubbing and only a one hour break before I am back at school for open house night. The return of the school year may be a bit of a bummer (I promise to stop bitching about it soon) but at least I have the autumn weather and wardrobes to look forward to. Loving all of these ensembles from the Madewell Fall Lookbook. The rest of the collection is just as exciting and I think the best part is that most of these outfits could be easily put together on a thrift store budget. Very nice.

this week

2011-08-20T11:18:00.004-04:00

Well it is here, I officially went back to work yesterday. It is nice to be busy but bittersweet to be ending my summer. On a lighter note though, I had some work featured on GlitterGuide this week (love that site) AND we got some new original prints up in the shop! Trying to move into some more art and design so this is a fun first step.
Also this week, I shared my inspiration for decorating with vintage letters over on PS. AND the most exciting news of all--- our wedding was featured on Grey Likes Weddings! I am giddy!
Happy weekend everyone!!!

autumn hues

2011-08-18T09:00:00.004-04:00

It seems like peach, coral, aqua, mustard, tan, and grey were my go to colors throughout this past spring and summer. See here, here, and here. So I was pleasantly surprised to see this palette elevated and fittingly adjusted for the fall months over on the always amazing Coco+Kelley yesterday.Though the outfit may be a bit out of my comfort zone, the color combination is glorious. My spring shades have been deepened to emerald green, deeper brown, and a punch of black. Amazing. I found a lovely black, wispy, maxi skirt at the thrift store this week and I can see these color accents pulling a fall outfit together.

I know I shouldn't be speaking of fall too soon, and I swear I'm not wishing summer away, but this was just too good not too share.

a little lens flare

2011-08-17T12:56:00.002-04:00

Both the end of summer and these lovely photos by bri inspired me to do a little photoshopping of my own today. It is always fun to play around with your photos, especially when the end result is not too achieve a perfect image. Plus I am getting really good at not getting started on those back to school responsibilities.

weekend: trailers and barns

2011-08-16T10:05:00.003-04:00

This is where we spent our weekend. More details on that later. Busy busy busy this week getting ready for back to work, back to school. I promise to spend more time here when I get a chance!

PunchFork

2011-08-12T11:51:00.004-04:00

Have you guys seen PunchFork? As soon as I saw it I thought of my little sister because not only does is it an archive of the newest recipes to hit the web from all of the best cooking blogs, sites, and magazines- but it is meticulously manicured and well-organized. This site tracks the mentions and publicity that new recipes are getting from facebook, blogs, tweets, and other social media sources and then gives them a rating number based on their popularity. You can see the photos, descriptions, ingredients, and rating and then link over to the original source for any recipe you wish to make. It seems to be updated frequently and has become a constant source of inspiration for my own (not always so creative) cooking over the last couple of weeks.
So far I have made the summer squash soup, and pea pesto linguine. I think next on my radar are the eggplant caprese, zucchini and spinach gratin, ginger raspberry ice cream , and brioche french toast with asparagus and orange beurre blanc (even though I have absolutely no idea what half of those words are.)

marriage equality

2011-08-11T11:49:00.005-04:00

I was really moved by the photos Joanna shared a few weeks ago of some of the first couples to get hitched in NYC on July 24th, the first day that same sex marriage was legally recognized in the stated.

Then last week Kathleen shared a really lovely design she created for an upcoming event, YAY New York! which is basically a mass reception celebrating marriage equality. Not only is her design the perfect representation of this event and this idea- but they are also doing a giveaway of a tote featuring her logo! Tomorrow is the last day to enter so go ahead and make the move now and then rock this logo on your blog or other social media for the world to see.
Having gotten married this year is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. Creating a family unit with the person you love, the person of your heart's choice, that is not a privilege that should be limited to a particular population. I believe in love and I believe in Marriage=Equality.

napkins and cases

2011-08-10T15:24:00.004-04:00

Today I am sharing my favorite cloth napkins for dressing up your dinner table over on PrettySouthern. There are sooooo many cute and colorful choices out there, absolutely no excuse for a boring table scape at your next dinner party!
I am also loving these quirky, graphic iPhone cases from Indie Cases. I am waiting for the new iPhone to come out so I can make a major splurge.

throwback

2011-08-08T19:12:00.005-04:00

My current obsessions for the summer include playing words with friends (highly addictive), dipping anything I can find in homemade tzatziki sauce, and shoes. I have looked at/bought too many pairs of shoes this summer and have more on the radar. Right now I am crushing on these throwback keds- aren't they adorable and perfect for a late summer bike ride?

And I am not sure if these are men or womens but I would certainly rock them. Nice job keds!Also crushing on these and these.

friday already?

2011-08-05T13:35:00.003-04:00

I guess everyone counts down to the weekend, so Friday is usually a welcome sight but I am starting to feel the summer slipping away. For a few weeks I get to lose track of the days, hours even, submerse myself in projects that I can put my heart into, and enjoy so many lovely moments without feeling guilty about everything I am not getting done. And even though it is a few weeks away I can feel that looming work date creeping up. It is time to start thinking about curriculum and syllabi once again and I am just not ready. Not yet. I need more late dinners on the deck under twinkling lights, more midday coffee dates, and more afternoons spent swimming in the Durham rock quarry like we did this week.
Summer, please stick around a while longer.

The NotWedding

2011-08-04T16:13:00.002-04:00

Have you heard of The NotWedding? Basically it is a super cool, modern take on the traditional bridal show. It takes place in Atlanta, Orlando, and San Diego and guests get to witness an awesome {not}wedding with everything from a {not} ceremony to catering, decorations, music, and cakes. Vendors get to show off all of their awesome talents and brides and grooms to be get to experience a totally rad idea of what their wedding could be.
I am honored to be the featured vendor this week on their Snag The Swag feature where you can get vendor's talents for huge discounts. I am offering $80 worth of custom paper decorations for $40 all this week. If you (or someone you know) is planning a wedding I would love to work with them on custom garlands, cake toppers, or paper goods! I am also really excited that I may be going down to Atlanta next summer to be a part of the whole event! Aaah!

Check out the deal here.

dream home

2011-08-04T13:47:00.002-04:00

from here.

playing dress up with your cake

2011-08-03T11:28:00.008-04:00

Just listed my new cake flags in the heart&craft shop! This idea came about when creating toppers for our wedding cheesecakes and I finally got around to making some to sell. Unfortunately ours never actually made it to the cheesecakes on our wedding day- technical error of diy wedding I guess!

For the shop, I recreated some of my original styles and added some new ones as well. I love how tall these sit on top of a simple cake and they look especially fancy if your cake is on a pedestal stand. Ooh la la! Get some for yourself right here.
Oh- and I am excited to be the newest vendor over in the directory of CatchMyParty.com! Fun!

chalkboard party hats

2011-08-02T10:05:00.006-04:00

For our friend's birthday celebration over the weekend I created some impromptu party hats and decorations with some supplies found in my studio. I was pleasantly surprised when I came across my chalkboard paint when trying to find the right color to paint some old party hats. Chalkboard party hats! Genius! These came together with a couple coats of chalkboard paint and a few feet of colorful tinsel wire, all in under ten minutes. I shared a tutorial of this diy over here yesterday. Super easy and super fun to make your friends wear party hats with their initials on them when you go out to celebrate!

weekend moments

2011-08-01T11:43:00.003-04:00

This weekend started off with a bang- a birthday and surprise engagement in one night. It was so exciting to celebrate these big moments with some of our closest friends. After that the rest of the weekend was really nice and quiet. We watched a few movies, ate pancakes, drank wine with my mother in law, had tacos and strawberry-basil margaritas with my family, and generally did not do too much. The sun light coming into our house on Saturday was a perfectly still, soft, warm tone that matched my lazy mood and I had to snap some photos before that rare occasion passed. As much as I love our house, the one downfall really is the lack of natural light, I guess that comes from being in a mid-century home with high, horizontal windows. Here are some of the stolen moments from our weekend:natural light and an old bowl that I made and that reminded me how much I miss ceramics.
yard flowers, new perfume oils ordered from here, strawberry lemon bars for birthdays.

top image: couches, new lamps, and sunlight on the ceiling.

paper products

2011-07-28T17:48:00.004-04:00

Last month I shared with you a digital file of my new business cards designed by the best husband in the world. Well yesterday, inspired by the amazing works over here, I decided to take some proper photos of them in the flesh. Sexy, huh? I love the way they came out, am happy to hand them out to potential clients or contacts, and am trying to decide if I should submit them over there for possible exposure? Can't hurt to try- that is the motto of this year I believe.

ikea??

2011-07-27T17:57:00.003-04:00

My sister and I are heading to Ikea tomorrow for a quick trip that may or may not help me finish my kitchen makeover (we're going on a year and a half here, folks.) I know that Ikea is really hit or miss and a lot of people don't support that cheap price/questionable manufacturing of it but I'm in my 20s, my husband and I don't have much expendable income, and we choose to put our money into the things that really matter in our kitchen (like our LG appliances and Heath Ceramics tile). So some Ikea shelves and organizers are right up our alley at this time in our lives. And today while I was browsing the new items on their website I was pleasantly surprised by some of the lovely new wares, like these vases and champagne flutes.Oh well, we'll see how it goes and maybe eventually I will have a redone kitchen to share with you!

shop update

2011-07-27T09:15:00.003-04:00

New in the shop: lots of summer inspired garlands!! Also some new products (surprises!) should be listed by the end of the week!

weekend and babies

2011-07-26T15:02:00.003-04:00

This past weekend started early on Friday afternoon and included impromptu pool parties with champagne and sushi, pizza at the best local spot, record release shows for a friend, bonfires and housewarmings, and another trip down the river. Oh and no photos, not a single one, sorry. I guess I got carried away with all of the activity and I think that is exactly how summer should be.

Yesterday I took a mini road trip to visit a dearly missed friend and meet her little man, Ollie. He was just as sweet, playful, and cuddly as I had imagined-but he would have to be with the two amazing people who are his parents- and you guys, he is a little mozart!
Moving a little slower today, adding some new work to the shop (yay!), sipping pink lemonade, and soaking in every page of this. I think it is the best way to beat the heat around here. Hope your summer week is lovely!

bright and lively

2011-07-22T10:25:00.004-04:00

I have been finding lots of great things on etsy lately and since it has been awhile, here is a round-up of some of my favorite bright items this week.(clockwise from top left) color angles brooch by jewiseha, oh carmen by peggy wolf design, forever fringe banner by nice, at the races necklace by urban legend.

happy friday everyone!

tomato tales

2011-07-21T11:18:00.005-04:00

Two years ago our garden did great- mostly due to the fact that my sister created the entire thing for us as we were moving in. Last year was not so great, possibly because of the lack of rain, early heat, and my short attention span for weeding. Either way, it was discouraging and I was determined to do better this year. We tilled the soil, reorganized our planting strategy, and got the sprinkler just in the right spot. And things have been betterish. I still have an extremely bad habit of not weeding or deadheading regularly and lately it has been hot- just like the rest of the country. We have harvested peppers, squash, and cucumbers already but the real joy comes with the first tomatoes. I adore tomatoes, all sizes colors and shapes, so this year we planted five different varieties (I can remember black cherry, juliette, and purple cherokee). So this week when we got back from the beach and saw all of these little beauties ready to be picked my heart was happy. I have been picking them a day or two early and letting them sun on our window sill in order to save them from pesky (yet adorable) wild rabbits. I never got around to putting up a fence around the garden this year (another example of my gardening downfalls) so as soon as the tomatoes get a bit of color the rabbits start to feast. BUT- I kind of don't mind sharing with bunnies. I'm just happy the tomatoes are here.

simple gifts

2011-07-19T19:11:00.009-04:00

We wanted to get some small gifts while at the beach for the friends that looked after our house and pup for us while we were gone. I found these adorable vintage-style taffies at a shop there and had to get them for my friend Ashleigh who looks like Betty Boop and loves all things quirky and retro. I wrapped them up in a scrap piece of card stock adorned with washi paper tape stripes for a simple thank you for a sweet friend.

beach scenes

2011-07-19T18:29:00.003-04:00

Beach week is my favorite week of the entire year- if you hadn't caught on to that yet. It is a week of family and friends who are like family, incredible food, beautiful views and if we're lucky equally as beautiful weather. It is a week of pretty much no responsibilities, no alarm clock, no house to clean and no pressing tasks except to enjoy yourself. And my family is good at that. We barely leave the beach the whole week, we don't go out to cheesy seafood restaurants or tacky beach stores, we spend 6+ hours on the beach each day, cook and eat all of our meals at home, and we couldn't be happier. So with that, here are some of my favorite beach moments from this year. I don't think they require much explanation.
blue sky over our favorite coffee drinking spot
perfect beach symmetry, salty hair, and seashellskite-flying & perfectly worn in cut offs that are the base of every beach outfit and provide the perfect anchor for throw-back crafting
and sunset over the sound.

Thanks for letting me share- I hope you're summer is absolutely stunning!

back home

2011-07-18T17:27:00.004-04:00

Although I am still sad that beach week is over I am happy to be home and busy. I have lots of orders and projects to catch up on as well as friends to revisit and I thrive on a busy (somewhat slower) summer schedule. Getting back into gear today meant packaging orders, some housekeeping, restocking on groceries, and a much enjoyed trip to the gym after a week of little physical activity- save bike rides, bocce tournaments, and ocean frolicking.
Tomorrow I would love to share some of my favorite shots from our trip.

happy friday and going home

2011-07-15T18:17:00.003-04:00

Today is our last day at the beach, probably the saddest Friday of the year as we head back home tomorrow. But I am excited about the work, projects, dinner parties, and crafts I have planned to work on next week. It is good to be busy to recover from the depression of leaving the beach. I also have lots of photos from our time here to share with you. Hope you all have a great weekend!Photos from my iphone, of course, and my lovely sister is in the first.