Hi, Friend

La Cote D'Azur Postcard, 1953

2012-01-25T09:24:00.000-08:00

In the spirit of Lila, I'm sharing a postcard I snagged from my Aunt in Kansas during our roadtrip across the country today.

"On the right foreground of this photo you can see one of the Bikini bathing suits everybody wears here on the French Riviera - everybody, that is, except two old-fashioned girls from Kansas City..."

"The days are warm, the nights cool and the water always just right!"

I really wouldn't mind being at La Cote D'Azur today...

A Post-Holiday Road Trip

2012-01-19T12:04:00.000-08:00

Oh, friends. Do you love a road trip as much as I do? The huz and I got a chance to get the wanderlust itch out of our system earlier this month...over a whopping 13 states!

Here are a few shots from the trip.

(Can you believe we hardly even saw a snowflake? And it's JANUARY!) It seems like we've got to get out and do this at least one time a year, you?

Here was last year's trip: Sonoma.

Oh la la! Coca Cola Fashion Cans!

2012-01-18T14:04:00.000-08:00

Well, whadda know?

Coca-Cola has decided to match product design with female personas on their new fashion cans.

Sounds familiar...

We have:

Our Modern Girl Liv, Our Classic Girl Bree and Our Vintage Girl Lila

They have:

Rock Chic Irene, Fashionista Eleanor and Romantic Bernadette

Sadly, you can only get these vogue cans in the UK/Europe.

Kudos to the giant global beverage company for trying something new.

Now bring it to the US!

Here's an article if you'd like to read more.

TYIDIYFriday | Mulling Spices

2012-01-06T05:00:00.000-08:00

Hi friends!

Happy new year and cheers to another year of projects and crafts. The hi, friend gals and I surely have some fun tricks up our sleeves in 2012...free printables, applicable DIY advice, and pretty things, of course!

I've been finding myself cuddled up on the couch with a warm drink in tow lately, and I wanted to throw something else into my mug besides tea and coffee. That's where I uncovered DIY mulling spices - so easy to make, and so delicious in a winter mug.

Supplies Needed:
1.) 1 cup brown sugar
2.) 2 tsp. ground cinnamon
3.) 1 tsp. ground cloves
4.) 1 tsp. dried ground orange peel
5.) 1 tsp. ground allspice
6.) 1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
7.) Airtight jar

Step by Step Instructions:
1.) Gather supplies and ingedients above.
2.) Combine brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, orange peel, all spice and nutmeg in container.

3.) Stir the mixture.
4.) Label your jar. I purchased my air tight chalkboard container from World Market, so I could easily label the jar. I also garnished the container with some red fabric tape, just because!

5.) To use, add 3 tablespoons of mixture and 1/2 cup of water for every 1 cups of cider, juice, or wine. Bring to a boil and stir until dissolved, then reduce to a simmer. Serve immediately or simmer until ready to serve.

6.) Enjoy!

Until next month, happy crafting in the kitchen:)!

Kirsten, Restored Style

Mantras. A book.

2011-12-29T16:16:00.000-08:00

That under-wraps project I talked about a couple weeks ago? Well, I can finally share! It made the perfect pick-me-up holiday gift for many of my girlfriends.

It's a book.

It's called 'Mantras'.

Words to life you up, cool you down and get your through.

I had a girlfriend going through a divorce earlier this year. She shared with me that she would go to Pinterest to find empowering quotes and encouraging words. I decided that she needed a book of just such sayings to keep close and quick to grab. So I made this.

Inspired by Pinterest, this small coffee table book is inspirational, motivational and heart warming. With it's vibrant colors and clean type, it's the perfect handheld pick-me-up.
Recommended use: Read daily.

You can find out more (and get your own copy) here on Blurb.

A Season of Spoils / The 2011 Edition

2011-12-27T16:34:00.000-08:00

The holidays aren't all about the spoils, but they're a fun perk. And what will everyone ask when you get back to the office? "What did you get for Christmas?" Well, I'm self-employed, so you my dear readers are basically my co-workers. Oh, so you want to know what I got for Christmas? Well, let me tell you! (If this sounds familiar, it is. I reviewed my gifts here on the blog last year, too.)

Hello, huge basket! It's awesome in it's hugeness, but what's better is that it can be flattened in a split second. (Next year I'll ask for the pup in the photo.) A big, fat APPROVED on this one.

Anyone else hate buying parchment paper? It's super expensive and sort of hard to deal with, right? All good tools for the kitchen come from France in my book, so it's no surprise this SILPAT mat was made there. It's also no surprise that it ended up under the tree for me. I asked for it. Explicitly. No more parchment paper purchases needed. APPROVED, heartily!

Though I'm usually not a fan of flashing brand names left and right, HUNTER is an exception. I got socks to match my wellies this year! This Scottish company, founded in the 1800's, is tried-and-true. Their standard product line is useful first, stylish second. They're classic and comfy so I'm not bothered by the HUNTER tag one bit! APPROVED.

Breath. Take. Ing. That's the only word (even if I made it into three) that I can use to describe these chandelier earrings by Kate Spade. These will be the perfect touch for my new years eve outfit; I just know it. Super classy. APPROVED.

A supersized ceramic bowl will always have a place in my home. It's gorgeous in texture and shape. APPROVED! And THANKS, mom.

I can't wait to put these bottle vases to use. At such an affordable price-point, I may have to pick up a few more to scatter around the house. Just imagine the flowers they'll hold: tulips in the spring, roses in the summer and dahlias near the season's end. (That's a hint just for you, hubby!) APPROVED.

Not everything from Texas is super-sized. Case-in-point: this flat card wallet from Dallas. The brand is 'Death & Texas' (hehehe) and it comes in green. Lovely. It will hold just enough for me to go out of the house on-foot. APPROVED, Y'ALL!

Before you think I'm too generous in approved all my holiday gifts this year, here's one I don't sanction. It's delicious, yes, but it's oh so tempting and so not good for the ~~impending doom~~ gym classes I signed up for in the new year. It showed up in my stocking. Sneaky! NOT APPROVED!

So there you have it. My official report on the gift front. So, pseudo-co-workers, what did you get for Christmas? XO!

A few of my favorite things

2011-12-23T10:47:00.000-08:00

Hi, friends. This season is one of much anticipation and possibility. I love that. And I love so many other things this crisp, sunny NW winter has held thus far. Here are just a few.

A leisurely Saturday afternoon drive by the port.

Vancouver, WA

Unexpected holiday decor.

Downtown Vancouver, WA

Work night cocktails...

and christmas light stroll.

Peacock Lane, Portland, OR

A show: Santaland Diaries.

Gerding Theatre at The Armory, Portland OR

A night on the town.

Brewery Blocks, Portland, OR

Packages from afar...

Sydney, Australia

Tied up with a bow!

The glow of the Christmas Tree.

East Vancouver, WA

Cold early mornings. Brisk walks.

Esther Short Park, Vancouver, WA

Happy holidays, friends. xo

John & Caprial / Cooking Class, Round Two

2011-12-19T10:54:00.000-08:00

This was Round One.
It was fab-u-lous.

Round 2 took place this last weekend.
During brunch time on Saturday.
It was equally fabulous.

Our menu:

Smoked Paprika Shrimp Dip with Baked Pita

Crab Benedict with Spicy Hollandaise

Traditional Hash Browns

Roasted Spiced Carrots

Beignets with Ginger Glaze and Crispy Hazelnuts

Mouth watering yet?

Find your class here.

Under Wraps Project

2011-12-15T14:39:00.000-08:00

I've been working on a festive little project. It's not holiday-themed, but feels celebratory and will make the perfect small gift for my friends and family. I'll share it all once said loved ones have unwrapped it, but for now here's a design preview...Cheers!

The how-do: Packing it in

2011-12-12T10:13:00.000-08:00

Pop over to Shopping's My Cardio today to get some tips on stuffing all your gear into a carry-on for holiday travel. By yours truly. xo

Cheers! On a personal note...

2011-12-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

Hi, friends. Megan here.

Last week I took a big bundle of cards to the mailbox...

(Designed using a hi, friend layout and photos by Lisa Teso.)

Now that all the hard copies have been sent out, I figured it was time I give all of you beloved virtual friends a run-down of 2011, too...

Here's a personal summary of our year (and you get hyperlinks unlike all the snail mail recipients - yay!):

We'll get the sad news out of the way first: Our Great Dane Mandy passed away last December. We miss her and her huge paws, nose and ears dearly. *sigh* Now onto the happy things...
We road-tripped it down to Sonoma, CA with my sister and brother-in-law to surprise my mom for her birthday in February. And we actually pulled it off - a small miracle if you know my mom! She knows all.
Our debt snowball has kept rolling. My school loans are gone forever; we have one of my husband's left and then we'll be debt-free except for the house. Hallelujah! (We heart Dave Ramsey, by the way.)
My design studio, Clark & Co., moved offices, launched an new project (theexceptionalcreative.com) and logged it's third year of business since I've been self-employed full-time. I still love my job. Big time.
We celebrated our five-year wedding anniversary on August 25th.
We flew to the Yucatan Peninsula in September. Sun and sand galore! While there, we released baby sea turtles and saw one of the Seven Wonders of the World (Chichen Itza).
I skipped off to San Diego for a girls' weekend in November. And it was awesome.
Countless dinner parties, long evening walks, a summer garage sale and a few recreational flights out of the small airport nearby have also made our year quite fun and eventful.
And finally...drum roll, please...*BIG NEWS ALERT* We found out my husband was selected to be a pilot in the US Air Force. He starts training in January and we'll be relocating within the next six months or so. Holy smokes. Don't worry, I'll still be doing hi, friend design work (thank goodness for the internet).

Cheers! To life, love and change.

How was your 2011? I want to add your holiday card to my collection. XO

BONUS! Popsicle Stick Snowflakes DIY

2011-12-06T07:00:00.000-08:00

Kirsten is our bona fide DIY diva, but we've caught the bug!

So, here's a little bonus December DIY.

By the way, don't miss our do-it-yourself lemoncello from last week.

---------------------

What can you do with a bunch of popsicle sticks and a little time?

Make Popsicle Stick Snowflakes, of course.

I saw this idea on Pinterest and just had to give it a whirl.

You can find detailed instructions here.

It's one of those DIYs that's completely open to interpretation and creativity.

I also made some fabulous cork coasters for some family and friends.
Shhhhh....don't tell. I haven't given them away yet.

If you want to make some of your own, check out this DIY wine cork coasters from Heartmade.

Psssssst.

While you're at it, check out some of our extra festive DIYs from last year, too:

Alphabetical Evergreen Wreath

I kept my 'C' monogram wreath from last year and pulled it out again. It's back on the front door. The boxwood branches age well, surprisingly! If you held on to yours, think about painting it silver or gold to get another year out of it.

Merry Mixers

Mix up some holiday cheer with a free label download!

Brussels Sprouts Holiday Tree

A cute and much better way to sneak out of eating your veggies than giving them to the dog.

Featured! Style Me Pretty

2011-12-02T11:10:00.001-08:00

Hi, friends. Megan here.

"This just might be the most GENIUS idea in the history of party planning." That's exactly what I thought when Jen initially told me her idea of having a Maiden Voyage, or a name change party. Fortunately, Style Me Pretty agreed and chose to feature the super creative and fresh event on their blog last week.

Thanks to Lisa Teso and Kimberly Brandt of Billede Design we pulled it off. Beautifully, if I say so myself. We're so honored to be featured. Thank you, Style Me Pretty!

TGIDIYFriday | Lemoncello

2011-12-02T06:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays!

I truly can't believe this month's TGIDIYFRIDAY craft wraps up an entire year of DIY's. My how time flies! I'd like to think we've saved the best DIY for last. To celebrate this joyous season, we are making merry with lemons. In other words, we're making homemade limoncello.

Also, the hi, friend gals have whipped up FREE, downloadable tags for this month's DIY. Once you see them, you will want them. They are that lovely. With four different color options, the tags are versatile and fun, and perfectly complement the limoncello we're making today.

Supplies Needed:
1.) 10 lemons
2.) 1 750 ml bottle of vodka
3.) 2 1/2 cups water
4.) 2 1/2 cups sugar
5.) Clear bottle for finished limoncello
6.) Downloadable tags
7.) Scissors
8.) Hole Punch
9.) String

Step by step instructions:
1.) Download the tags and print on heavy card stock and gather limoncello and gifting supplies.
2.)Using a vegetable peeler, remove the peel from the lemons in long strips (reserve the lemons for another use). Using a small sharp knife, trim away the white pith from the lemon peels; discard the pith.

3.) Place the lemon peels in a 2-quart pitcher. Pour the vodka over the peels and cover with plastic wrap.

4.) Steep the lemon peels in the vodka for 4 days at room temperature.You can steep for many more days than four, depending on the amount of lemon flavor you desire.

5.) Stir the water and sugar in a large saucepan over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes. Cool completely. Pour the sugar syrup over the vodka mixture. Cover and let stand at room temperature overnight.
6.) Strain the limoncello through a mesh strainer. Discard the peels.

7.) Transfer the limoncello to bottles using a funnel (makes about 7 cups). Seal the bottles and refrigerate until cold, at least 4 hours and up to 1 month. Like most alcohol, Limoncello only gets better with time!

8.) Before gifting, cut out the tag, and tie it around the bottle with festive string.

9.) Share and enjoy with friends and family!

Finally, I want to thank Meg and Jen for letting me be apart of their inspiring business this year. hi, friend is near and dear to my heart and I'm incredibly blessed to know such driven and smart women. We've already started brainstorming and dreaming about DIY's, events, and new partnerships for 2012. Stay-tuned for more great goodies next year!

Make merry!
Kirsten, Restored Style

A short and sweet holiday giveaway!

2011-11-28T10:47:00.001-08:00

We launched a holiday giveaway this morning with Shopping's My Cardio. All the details can be found here. Enter, and quick! It ends tomorrow.

Giving Thanks

2011-11-23T14:31:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving Eve, Friends!

We have so much to be thankful for this year, a successful year, meeting new friends, people sharing the Hi Friend love, new projects and events, and a bright outlook on 2012 - to name a few.

Personally, I’m beyond grateful to Megan, the other half of Hi Friend, for all the hard work, enthusiasm and clarity she brings with her everywhere she goes. Without her, I’d be sitting around thinking how fun it would be to have a little custom stationery business.

During grade school, we probably all learned a bit about the history of Thanksgiving. A quick refresher for those of us who have forgotten some of the details courtesy of our friends at History.com: In November 1621 after the Pilgrims’ first corn harvest proved successful, a celebratory feast was held with a group of Native American allies – the festival lasted three days. My liver would hate me after a 3 day festival.

Pilgrims held their second Thanksgiving celebration in 1623 to mark the end of a long drought that had threatened the year’s harvest. In 1817, New York became the first of several states to officially adopt an annual Thanksgiving holiday. New York is such a trend setter! As an annual celebration of the harvest and its bounty, moreover, Thanksgiving falls under a category of festivals that spans cultures, continents and millennia. I celebrated Thanksgiving in Europe one year because I didn't want to miss out on the tradition. People thought I was a little nuts but they enjoyed my food!!

Tomorrow, as I’m enjoying my harvest and it’s bounty, hopefully I’ll be surrounded by items lovely as these!

Enjoy the holiday and all it brings.

Cheers!
Jen

San Diego Girls' Weekend!

2011-11-21T06:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday, friends. Megan here.

Earlier this month I got the chance to skip town and head south...all the way to San Deigo, CA. I had never been before, so a weekend away with a couple of girl friends seemed like the perfect excuse to make it a first!

We grew up together in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. You could really put us in an empty room together for the weekend and we'd have a blast; it doesn't take much. Since we weren't in an empty room (though we especially wouldn't have minded had it been our Hotel Solamar room), we had more fun that should probably be allowed. I figured you could all benefit from a momentary, make-believe getaway via my photos. Am I right?

We stayed in San Diego's Gaslamp District...

At Hotel Solamar, a Kimpton Hotel.

And it was awesome.

We visited Coronado Island...

And toured the historic hotel there, Hotel del Coronado.

Gorgeous.

Then, it started to rain.

So we found a tavern, naturally.

We kicked up our feet...

And threw back a few mimosas (each)

while we waited for the rain to stop.

(P.S. The bathrooms at Tavern were amazing.)

We went shopping...

Hit the beach...

Enjoyed some awesome food (Hash House a Go Go)

And generally just enjoyed the city and ourselves.

'Til next time, San Diego!

Batter Up!

2011-11-17T06:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Thursday Everyone!

We are getting ready welcome to add another member to our extended family, my brother & sister-in-law are expecting next month! Last weekend I had the pleasure of hosting a vintage baseball themed shower for their baby boy. Baseball is a big part of their lives, their 2 dogs are named Wrigley & Fenway and their baby boy is going to be named Easton - just like the baseball bats!

After an impromptu brainstorm with some super smart ladies (Kirsten, Kim, Lisa, Meg & Molly) I landed on these decoration ideas that included: vases of baseballs, my husband’s old pennants, vintage silver trophies, baseball prints, root beer & cracker jacks. I must say, it was pretty darn cute! I'd say that the vintage baseball shower was a success!

It was a wonderful day and we cannot wait to welcome the little munchkin into the family!

Love,
Jen

Menu:

Italian Club Sandwich - it once won first prize in a soup cook-off!

Grougeres

Savory Palmiers

Deviled Eggs

Italian Sausage stuffed mushrooms

Chocolate Cupcakes

Mini lemon bunt cakes

The Christmas Card Quandary

2011-11-16T16:55:00.001-08:00

Hi, friends. Megan here.

I need help.

Our lovely Lisa Teso came out and took our Christmas photos a couple weeks ago. But that is most definitely not where my problem lies. My quandary is what photo to choose for our printed cards this year. Help! I have narrowed it down to four options, lined up below.

Option #1 // Hello Holidays (in red)

Option #2 // Deck The Halls

Option #3 // Merry & Bright (in violet)

Option #4 // Holiday Cheers! (in red)

Place your vote as a comment, if you please!

And remember, our Early Bird Specialis still up for grabs.

It's a straight-up 25% off all holiday card orders between now and Thanksgiving day. Use the code EARLYBIRD11

*This applies to printed and electronic card orders, by the way.

xo,

Design*Sponge at Home

2011-11-09T11:15:00.000-08:00

Morning, friends. Meg here.

Look what I got for my birthday:

I had been eyeing this puppy on Amazon for a while and planned to put it on my Christmas list, but lo and behold! No need! It showed up at my PO box from a dear client. (Along with a super cute silky dress I'm dying to show you all. Clients that shower you with gifts are the best kind by far.)

I sort of love-hate it. I'm sure you understand....

I love:

the pretty cover

the consistent design elements

the glossy pages

the weight of a real book in my hands

the pop of red on my ottoman at home

that our friend Kim is featured

how the book design helps me understand the d*s website redesign

(though I still prefer the old one)

I hate:

the fact that Grace beat us all to the punch

(online and now in printed form!)

how many of the before & afters aren't impressive

the rating scale for difficulty of a DIY...optimistic!

that our DIY-licious Kir should have a book like this and doesn't yet

(Kir, you just holler when you're ready. I'll help.)

You can get a copy of Design*Sponge at Home by Grace Bonney to love-hate yourself here.

TGIDIYFriday: Rosemary Infused Olive Oil

2011-11-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

Another fab DIY for you all this happy Friday, from our DIY gal...
-------
Morning, friends.

Happy fall to you! As the days get shorter and the nights become colder, I find myself in the kitchen cooking comfort foods and treats of all sorts. So for this month's TGIDIYFriday craft, I made myself at home in the kitchen and created both a fun housewarming/hostess gift (Thanksgiving is right around the corner) and a delicious addition to any meal. So roll up your sleeves and tie your apron...rosemary olive oil is coming atcha!

Supplies Needed:

Olive Oil
A bundle of fresh rosemary (Use 5-6 springs for every 1 cup of olive oil)
Bottle(s) with sealed top(s) - you can make more than one bottle at once
Funnel
Measuring Cup
Heavy small saucepan
Optional: dishtowel, ribbon and card for gifting

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1) Gather supplies, sanitize bottles and caps, and clear off a nice workspace in your kitchen.
2) Wash rosemary and pat it dry. Let dry overnight in open-air. With fresh herbs, there is water present, and where's there's water, there's the potential for bacteria and botulism, so let the rosemary fully dry.

3. Cut rosemary into 5-6 inch springs - use 5-6 springs for every 1 cup oil you are cooking.
4. Measure the correct amount of oil for your bottle(s) and combine the oil and rosemary in a heavy small saucepan.

5. Cook oil and rosemary over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool to room temperature.

6. Transfer the sprigs to your bottle and place funnel in the bottle for easy transfer of the olive oil. Pour the cooled oil into the funnel until the bottle is nearly full.

7. Seal the lid and refrigerate. Use within 1-2 weeks and ENJOY!
Optional: For a little housewarming gift, use a dishtowel to wrap the bottle, and complete the little package with ribbon and a cute card. Voila! It's an instant housewarming/hostess gift.

This little DIY is incredibly easy and practically idiot-proof. With that said, oliveoilsource.com had this to say about making safe herb-infused olive oil at home: Flavored olive oils and dressings make great gifts but watch out; there are safe and unsafe ways to make infused olive oil. The unsafe way is to put anything in the oil that contains any trace of water or moisture. That would include garlic, lemon peel, fresh peppers, fresh herbs and spices. The oil will not support bacterial growth but the water containing herbs will. Botulism bacteria can grow in this type of environment, even in a sealed bottle. Mix all the ingredients, refrigerate them and use them within a week. This is the best way if you are using fresh ingredients such as fresh basil, fresh rosemary or garlic.

Don't mean to scare you, but being safe is super important:). I'm a personal fan of the "It's always better to be safe than sorry" motto.

And without further ado, happy cooking!
Cheers to the upcoming holidays,
Kirsten

Oh Coco, you're so wise.

2011-11-02T08:09:00.000-07:00

From The Exceptional Creative

The early bird gets the worm....

2011-10-25T10:18:00.000-07:00

But you get 25% off of our 2011 Holiday Collection!

So, we know it's still a little early but this for you super-planner, Type A, on-the-verge of OCD-ers that are just our type. We consider you kindred souls and so we put together a few specials that might be just what you need to stay on top of the holidays this year.

Without further ado:

Early Bird Special #1A straight-up 25% off all holiday card orders between now and Thanksgiving day. Use the code EARLYBIRD11 *This applies to printed and electronic card orders, by the way.

Early Bird Special #2Photo + Card Packages: We've partnered up with the fabulous Lisa Teso to offer you two holiday specials, tied up in perfect little packages as shown below. To book one of the Photo + Card Packages, click through here to our website, add one to your card and checkout. Easy as pie. We'll follow-up with you and get all your details in order.

During a 30 minute session, Lisa will capture your happy little self, along with your family and pets if you'd like. When all is said and done, you'll receive 20 final images on DVD, which is more than enough to choose from for your holiday cards this year. Speaking of, this package includes 50 hi, friend cards, printed and delivered to your doorstep with envelopes. You can browse through all our holiday cards at our online shop to choose the one you like best.

30 minute photography session
20 final images on DVD
50 customized, 5x7" press-printed cards with envelopes

(Additional cards can be purchased at a discounted rate.)

Mini Package = $180 (includes necessary shipping)

The Full Package offers you even more: a 1 hour session with Lisa, double the number of final images and printed holiday cards compared to the Mini Special. If you have a larger family, a bigger mailing list or just know you won't be able to get enough of the cute faces that will be captured, this is for you. Wrap it up and tie it with a bow!

1-hour photography session
40 final images on DVD
100 customized, 5x7" press-printed cards with envelopes

(Additional cards can be purchased at a discounted rate.)

Full Package = $350 (includes necessary shipping)

**Portrait pricing is applicable for up to 4 family members. Sessions must take place prior to Monday December 5, 2011 in Portland, OR. A contract covering further details will be provided by Lisa Teso and a signed copy will required before session.**

The Reveal: Lindsay & Andrew's Vintage Fairytale Wedding

2011-10-18T10:10:00.000-07:00

What a wedding!

We started working with Lindsay & Andrew late last year to brand their vintage fairytale inspired wedding event. You may remember seeing a couple of posts on our wedding branding process and creative progress with Lindsay & Andrew here and here. In the end their wedding suite consisted of a Save the Date, Invite, Directions, RSVP, Thank You cards, and Menu cards.

Now it's time to reveal the photos from the gorgeous event so you can see how it all came together, from start to finish! Everything was so lovely and we wish Lindsay & Andrew lots of love.

Enjoy,

Jen

Photo Credit: Gina Zeidler

Long Live Autumn!

2011-10-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

This season is so fleeting. Get out and enjoy it while you can.

xo,

Meg

Photo: Bryan Rupp

(I did his business cards a while back, too.)

Brook Farm General Store

2011-10-11T11:20:00.000-07:00

Megan here.

Holy smokes. Not sure how this gem of an online boutique has escaped me this long. I was lead to it by Lisa Golightly and her pencil sharpener yesterday via her blog.

Brook Farm General Store is based in New York, but has everything us Northwesterners could need, in my opinion. Since it's fall and time to surround yourself with practical pieces to get you through the winter, here are just a few of my picks:

xo!
Meg

Terrarium

2011-10-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

Hi friends! This little DIY has a story behind it:

Jen, Meg and I set out to do this month's TGIDIY Friday feature together, but truth be told, we blew it. We gathered at Jen's house for a night of DIY magic, and all we did was talk and talk and talk. Literally. We ate and drank the night away, and by the time we stopped to think about the DIY, it was dark! But, I am happy to report that we had a simply lovely evening in Jen's backyard, despite forgetting about the reason why we got together in the first place. It reminded me of why I love Jen and Meg so much. They are creative and fun and they aren't afraid to dream big.Okay, enough with the mushy stuff, let's chat terrariums!

Terrariums are pretty indoor gardens that are hearty and make a lovely decor piece as well. They bring the outside in, and best of all, you can create a very personalized garden - big, small, colorful, loud, simple, etc. Anything works, as long as you follow these basic instructions.

Supplies Needed:

Gravel or Sand
Moss
Ground charcoal
Potting soil
Glass container
Plants
Decorative rocks or other items (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Select a glass container of your choice (don't forget to clean it!) and gather the above supplies. When it comes to selecting plants, remember that all of the plants you choose need to have the same environmental needs. Succulents and cacti have different needs, so its not a good idea to plant them together.

2. Begin by placing drainage at the bottom of the container. Essentially, the sand will ensure that your plants won't drown in water. Gravel can also be used as well.

3. Next, add a thin layer of charcoal.This will keep the soil fresh and clean.

4. Add moss on top of the charcoal. This prevents your next layer, potting soil, from mixing in with the charcoal.

5. The last layer is soil. Add sterile soil-less potting mix on top of your moss. Add at least a couple of inches.

6. Now comes the fun part. You get to be a landscape designer! Choose plants that are different colors, sizes and textures. A diverse terrarium is often the best-looking. Break out of matchy-matchy mode and have fun designing your little indoor garden. Now, carefully arrange and plant your plants. If your terrarium has a small neck that you can’t fit your hand into, pull out chopsticks, tongs or long tweezers to arrange your plants. Also, feel free to add decorative rocks or items too.
7. Like keeping anything alive and well, proper maintenance is key. Caring for your terrarium is simple, which is why I love mine so much. Check every couple of weeks to see if your terrarium needs water and if the soil is dry, it's time to water. If your terrarium is closed, take off the top at least once a month to circulate air. Also, it's not usually a good idea to feretilize, as you don’t want to encourage growth.
8. Enjoy your lovely indoor garden.

Also, like so many DIY's, there are A LOT of different terrarium equations out there. Like hundreds. I looked at dozens of terrarium recipes for creating the most ideal soil, and they all seem to be a bit different. So, if you have your own recipe for building a terrarium, go for it!Happy Fall!Kirsten

----
We love you too, Kir! Thanks for another awesome Thank-Goodness-It's-Do-It-Yourself-Friday!

Sincerely,
Meg & Jen

feminine ephemera

2011-10-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

Found this fabulous, feminine 1951 ephemera at Camas Antiques over the weekend.

I just had to share with all you Vintage Girls out there.

Soon you'll see our "Personal Photo Christmas Card" promotion, too.

Unfortunately they'll cost more than 20 for $1 though. Our apologies.

Bring on the holidays!

Adventures on the Yucatan Peninsula

2011-09-30T09:42:00.000-07:00

Hola! Megan here.

As mentioned earlier this week when it became apparent that I can't get enough animal print in my life, I was in Cancun last week. Here are a few shots I thought to share to provide you all with a brief Mexican daydream into a land of palm trees, saltwater waves and a humid breeze.

Enjoy!

(I certainly did.)

A swim-up bar? Yes, please. And gracias!

In the Caribbean Sea. I can't imagine this would ever become dull.

I got to release baby turtles after sunset one night.

A dream-come-true!

Mayan Ruins at Chichen-Itza:

one of the Seven Wonders of the Word!

Breath-taking hotel in the middle of the jungle.

A peacock! Fancy-pants!

Jetskiing: a vacation tradition

Me and my hubs. Love him.

One of my favorite views of the trip.

wild things

2011-09-28T07:13:00.000-07:00

Hola! Megan here.

A week ago I was in the Mexican Caribbean laying on the beach, drinking cocktails by the pool, touring mayan ruins, shopping and eating. Lots. It was awesome and there are photos to come later this week. But for now, I've got to share the fashion inspiration I've come home with: wild things.

I didn't actually see many wild things...except for a few lizards, butterflies and the resident Cancun airport cat. But something about being in the jungle makes me feel like I should have an animal print as part of every outfit. Maybe a safari hat, too? Anyway, here is some fierce eye candy for all of us to enjoy, and some new ideas to incorporate.

Let's warm up with a dress.

From H&M (17.95!).

Hot, right?

Next up: Animal print scarf from MANGO ($44.90)

(I did see this in Mexico. It's luscious. Shoulda bought it.)

And another, also from MANGO ($39.90)

I die.

Speaking of dying, how heavenly are these?

From Tory Birch of course. And THEY'RE ON SALE! ($199.75)

(Semi-) matching coin case, anyone? Lepoard city ($95.00)

Here's a belt, worn by Kendi Everyday from J.Crew outlet.

Here's a similar one, also from J. Crew ($39.50)

(I can't stop!!) Isn't this sweater beautiful?

Sadly, I don't know where it's from.

Found on Pinterest.

Can't resist justifying a purchase because it's one-for-one?

TOMS it is! ($54)

Last, but not least....

Another unknown from Pinterest,

but I couldn't let you miss the talon bangles....

Rawr!

In other news: I spilled coffee on my keyboard this morning. The 'dash', 'apostrophe' and 'enter' keys aren't working, so I'm blogging from my laptop for the time being. And that's as wild as I get this week. Pretty lame compared to the Yucatan.

'Til next time...keep it on the wild side, friends.

Welcoming Fall

2011-09-23T10:39:00.000-07:00

Happy First Day of Fall!

I must admit, I love the changing seasons. I don’t want to rush Summer out the door but Fall makes me pretty happy as well. I feel like I try to cram so much into my Summer that by the time Fall rolls around I’m ready to slow down a bit - maybe catch up on a project, see friends that we didn't get to see over the Summer or turn the oven on and do a little baking. There are so many wonderful things that Fall brings. Here are some of my faves.

Cozy Sweaters

Wine tasting in the valley and picking Honeycrisp apples to bake apple crisps

Chunky Scarves!

Burning Candles in the evening - so much easier than a fire

Boots , boots and more boots.

A warm bowl soup - preferably butternut squash from the farmers market

Have a fab weekend, friends!

xo,
Jen

Bobbi Brown Blogs.

2011-09-08T10:51:00.000-07:00

Learning from the master.

One of our dear friends, Danyel, is a total cosmetic junkie with Bobbi Brown being on the top of her list of faves. She loves her a little Bobbi and, really, who can blame her?! I think she’ll be peeing her pants when she finds out what’s next up from her favorite cosmetic go-to.

Celebrating 20 years in business, Bobbi Brown, a super successful beauty guru, is entering the blogging universe with her new platform, Everything Bobbi. The blog is Bobbi Brown’s way of sharing her wealth knowledge and inspiring ideas with the rest of the world. She claims to be unedited and written by Bobbi herself.

The blog is only a few days old but it looks like it will feature multiple genres of content spanning everything from food, fascinating people, inspiring stories, fashion must-have’s, insider industry tips and, of course, beauty!

We’re thrilled to add this blog to our repertoire and I’m sure we’ll look more glamorous for it.

Xo!

When Our Girls Collide

2011-09-07T14:39:00.000-07:00

Hi Lovelies!

Hope you had a fantastic long weekend. I spent mine in the sunshine and near the water and it was exactly what I needed. While sipping a little vino and thumbing through a pile of magazines I found myself redecorating my house in my head a million times over.

I know I’m a combination of all three of our girls but I’d like to think I’m more modern than I actually am willing to commit to. I find that I’m drawn to sparse, clean, warm rooms but I know that I love all my trinkets too much to live in a space as bare as the ones that I find myself ogling. I’m sure that I’m not the only one straddling the lines of style. And then I stumbled upon this article from Houzz.com: Elements of a Modern Country Kitchen. Ta-Da! It’s me in a nutshell, modern yet homey and comforting.

modern spaces design by new york architect Robert Young Architects

eclectic kitchen design by birmingham interior designer Tracery Interiors

modern kitchen design by birmingham general contractor Structures, Inc.

modern kitchen design by new york architect Narofsky Architecture

contemporary kitchen design by denver architect Robert Hawkins

traditional kitchen design by boston kitchen and bath Venegas and Company

I love the use of textures and materials in the rooms with the barn doors, oversized pendant lamps, upholstery, beams and flat fronts. I can't get enough. These are perfect examples of how we can all be a little bit of each of our girls wrapped into one!

Enjoy the rest of your short week!

Jen

TGIDIYFriday - Apples to Apples

2011-09-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

And it's September. How the heck did that happen? Did everyone have a happy summer? I sure hope so!I'm glad to be back once again for my monthly installment of TGIDIYFriday, but I can't believe summer has come and gone. The good news is that the holidays are right around the corner, and I already have a number of fun and festive DIY's up my sleeve!I've been eyeing this little DIY since Anthropologie carried these cute little rhinos last winter:
In short, it's just mod podge + old books/magazines + any object you want to cover. It's simple, fun, and truth be told, a little messy!

Supplies Needed:
Any object you care to cover with paper (I chose apples and pears)
Metallic spray paint
Paint brush
Mod podge
Old books or magazines
Scissors

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1.) Gather the supplies.
2.) Begin by spray painting the leaf and steam of the apples and pears with metallic gold spray paint. Of course, you might be working with an object that spray paint would be not be appropriate (like the rhino above), but I thought the gold steam and leaf would add an unexpected element to the apples and pears.

3.) While the spray painted pears and apples are drying, begin cutting out pieces of text from old magazines or books. Cut a number of different widths and lengths, as you'll be organically placing these on your object. Cut out many, many pieces - you'll need more than you think!
4.) After the spray paint has dried, it's time to mod podge! Using a paint brush, liberally apply the paste to the back and front of the magazine/book pages. Strategically place the cut pages on your object and repeat. And repeat. And repeat. The design should be clean and collage-like. Continue placing the page pieces onto your object until it is fully covered and heavily covered in mod podge.
5.) Let the object dry and wash your hands - they will surely be sticky from all that mod podge action!

6.) Enjoy!I decided to create nearly a dozen of these apples and pears and place them in a big bowl on my table for an unexpected centerpiece that will never rot or get old like real fruit. Also, I must mention that I picked up the apples and pears at The Dollar Store for $1.00 each. I had everything else laying around the house, so this was a fairly inexpensive craft. Love those!A big thanks for Jenn and Megan for letting me stop by the blog again. It's such a treat to say hello to the hi, friend readers!

See you in the Fall,
Kirsten

Well, hello Portland.

2011-08-29T10:43:00.000-07:00

The secret is out - Portland is big time now. We’re talking New York Times, big time. They can’t seem to get enough of our lovely little city. Any why shouldn’t they? What’s not to love?

The bustling foodie community, the NW bounty of local ingredients, the craft movement, and the booze. It probably doesn’t hurt that the weather in Portland is gorgeous right now, it’s no wonder that we love our summer.

It’s nice to see our city get some national love, deservedly so.
My heart swells with pride.

Xo,
Jen

All images Basil Childers for The New York Times, Copyright New York Times.

Pretty picture of the day

2011-08-25T14:47:00.000-07:00

Megan here.

I've been on the hunt for a sun hat. I know it doesn't make sense to start this process (proving to be difficult) as summer nears its end, but I have an exciting excursion out of the country planned for next month that will require it. (Eeeee! I know.)

I like this one. Anyone know where I can find it? I'll take the scarf, jacket and sunglasses while we're at it. (Image from here.)

In other news, I've got a photoshoot tomorrow. Hopefully I can pull off as pretty a smile as the glamour girl above. Wish me luck!

Marigold Vintage Event Rentals

2011-08-17T07:38:00.000-07:00

Morning, friends!

You know that show American Pickers on the History Channel?

One of my clients is like them, but much better-looking. (What!? You really think Mike and Frank would want me to call them pretty? No way.) She's from our area, too, although Grants Pass, OR where her warehouse is located may be as rural as most of Iowa where the celebrity pickers reside.

Here she is: Kelle Hill of Marigold Vintage Event Rentals.

P.S. Her site's not quite done, yet.

It will be soon!

In the meantime,

subscribe to her blog to see all her finds.

Only Kelle could be so glamourous while she picks.

She loves coffee and hates laundry and mean people.

(Who doesn't feel the same?)

And her family - are you kidding me? A-dor-a-ble.

Marigold was founded on the idea that everyone should be able to enjoy beautiful vintage things without spending a fortune. You want a fun, creative, vintage setting for your event, but that's hardly justification for spending a month of weekends and half your budget buying furniture and accessories…Pass on the hassle.

Kelle's one to keep your eye on, and someone who's number you might need on speed dial if you're in the wedding business.

Side note: I was surprised and happy to see that she recently worked with our very own Wedding Trend Expert, Kim of Billede Design on a very Twilight-esque inspiration shoot…until I remembered that the referral for the work came from Kim in the first place. Ha!

All images copyright Tonya Poitevint Photography // Banner design by yours truly