June 2007 Entries
It started with a wonderful review published in studio wellspring blog. This is the blog of a San Francisco-based interior design.
Studio wellspring is a place where this blogger shares the menagerie of inspiration she discovers along the way. She has a good eye. Take a look at the beautiful coffee and tea serving set that she shown us on her Robin's Egg Bliss post. This is what I call entertaining in style.
Then, I got the honor to be on the Apartment Therapy – Los Angeles edition (AT:LA). I made it to this week Slinks with my post about Small Space Outdoor Entertaining. I wrote this last May.
Wow! I have been a fan of Apartment Therapy since I started reading blogs. Thanks I want to thank Gregory from AT:Los Angeles.
For the ones that do not know what slinks means:
n. (slingks) Surreptitious web links to other good sites.
July 2nd, 2007 Update:
In fact, it was almost three days in a row since yesterday on their Happy Canada Day post, Mom2Mom Lounge referred their readers to my Canada Day menu ideas.
See: how to host stylish parties, + more published on studio wellspring blog
See: June 29, 2007 Slinks published on Apartment Therapy:Los Angeles
See: Happy Canada Day! published on Mom2Mom Lounge
Categories:
IN the press
posted @ Saturday, June 30, 2007 1:36 PM | Feedback (4)
Nature is something that really defines the Canadian way of life. So why not let nature be the star of your Canada Day Party? Especially that birch tree, old wood stump and faux bois are so hot right now in the design world.
All winter, I was eager to buy the birch candles. The problem is that I did not have anything else to go with that theme. That is until now.
When I saw the genuine Canadian birch bark set at small stump, I could not resist anymore. Look at them; they can be used in so many ways for entertaining. The birch bark tube display kit at small stump. You can see that they nicely pack up their orders.
Besides the obvious cachepot, the birch bark cylinders can dress up a buffet table. Use them to hide Mason jars filled with jams, relishes, pickles or utensils.
Ideas for designing your centerpieces
You can make your centerpieces around this birch bark set. Fill them with flowers and spread them on your table. Herbs look great too. The variations in heights will create interest on your table. Play with that.
Vary the heights of the plants. Do not restrict yourself in putting high plants in higher birch tree cylinder like shown on the picture. Whenever possible, put the highest plants or herbs in the lowest cylinders and put the low flowers on the highest one.
You may have to raise the vase containing the low flowers so it fits in a higher cachepot. Hot glue is your best friend when it comes to glue together the bottom of glass container or terracotta pots.
How to set up your tabletop?
Where there are trees, you see birds. The delightful Heartbird napkins by BC-based LU Prints are just perfect. They share that same authenticity in style and materials. For this theme to work, look for hand crafted items. You want to create a genuine natural feeling. A set of 4 Heartbird napkins costs $25 CAD on LU Prints online store.
If you opt for the Heartbird napkins, I suggest you restrain the flower palette to different shades of greens. In any case, I think a single color flower arrangement looks more sophisticated. A bold or multicolor pattern will just deter too much from the natural feeling we try to achieve.
For the tablecloth, I suggest a 100% linen cloth. Ideally, select a natural cream or beige color table cloth. I am biased to the white or celadon dishes designed by Sophie Conran for this theme. Her dinnerware will look great on a table surrounded by birch tree centerpieces. Do not be afraid to serve it outside, the porcelain tableware of Sophie Conran for Portmeirion is made for casual entertaining with kids.
Put the finishing touch with Faux Bois Tableware
While I was looking for faux bois products, I found this shot on inredningsbloggen, a Swedish blog. Even though, I cannot read anything on this blog I like to visit this wonderful blog for inspirations.
Going back to this photo shot, it has all the elements to bring my nature theme to the next level. Since a picture is worth a thousand words, this simplifies my writing job.
If you wish to push more the birch trees and birds theme, take a look at this wonderful Faux-Bois tableware collection. The baby blue color creates a soothing color combination with our greens.
Available at Room Service Home, Faux-bois Tableware is hand-glazed ceramic stoneware. Its charm comes from its limb and tree lookalike design. Just as twigs and branches are never alike, Faux-Bois hand-glazed ceramics are unique. A mix of nest and bird sketches is draw at the center of the plates.
Have fun on Canada Day. This post concludes my series on Canada Day Party. I hope that I inspired you to celebrate Canada Day in style.
About small stump
small stump is the art and craft collaboration of Lia and Jill, two creative friends who share a love for the handmade. They are based in Northern California.
Sourcing:
Buy online: genuine birch bark tube display kit at small stump online store
Buy online: Heartbird Print on Grass Napkins (set of 4) at LU Prints online store
Buy online: Sophie's Conran Dinnerware Collection at Muffet and Louisa
Buy online: Faux Bois Tableware at Room Service Home (RSH)
Via: Dukning ute i det fria published on inredningsbloggen
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
PARTY ideas
HOLIDAY
posted @ Friday, June 29, 2007 12:57 PM | Feedback (6)
I received the Deluxe CD that I won on FoodTV.ca blog. Wow! I like the CD a lot.
Fans of the TV series will be pleased. The vibes of David Rocco's Dolce Vitae are all there. The style of music is broad. The selection is excellent. At some point, you feel like dancing. This is a happy album. The music is perfect for alfresco dinner parties and summer cocktails.
The album photo is splendid. If you show the Deluxe CD to someone that has never seen the show, they will grasp the spirit right away. The only thing I am missing is the ringtones, which are coming soon.
Check out the interview with David on FoodTV.ca, Cooking Fusilli with David Rocco. You can win the Olive Wood Dolce Vitae Lemon Reamer. I told you about it in my five kitchen gadgets post last week. Act now; the draw will be July 4, 2007.
Listen: David Rocco's Dolce Vitae Music CD on his Web site
Recipe: Cooking Fusilli with David Rocco on FoodTV.ca – see how you can enter the contest
Categories:
EVERYDAY
posted @ Friday, June 29, 2007 10:14 AM | Feedback (0)
While you are shopping at LU Prints, take advantage of the reduced prices through July 15th, or while supplies last!
I suggest you take a look at the set of 4 Leafy Placemats on sale at $16, the Leafy Apron on sale at $25 and my favorite, the Geese Apron. The Leafy is slighty shorter than the Geese Apron.
LU Prints creates beautifully crafted waist aprons and kitchen linens. All their textiles are hand screen-printed patterns.
The characteristics of a good entertaining apron
I suggest you wear a waist apron instead of a full size apron when you are throwing a party.
First of all, waist aprons look more fashionable because we can see your top outfit. Secondly, your apron will not appear on lots of photos. So, you will get the impression that you spend more time hanging out with for your guests.
The simple design of LU Prints aprons do not take away anything from your outfit. That is something to consider when you wear an apron at a party.
Why every hostess needs several entertaining aprons?
It is best to not wear your entertaining aprons everyday. Your apron should look fresh and new for your guests. The best hostess keeps a few entertaining aprons on her closet. Aprons are not an expansive item, so you can afford to get several.
You want to get different styles and patterns so you can complement what you wear. After a while, you recycle your entertaining aprons for everyday usage.
Made it easy for you: stock up a few hostess gifts
If you want to be invited to lots of parties, keep on reserve a few hostess gifts for unexpected invitations. You can wrap them in advance. This way you look like the perfect guests and you did not have to run.
LU Prints kitchen collection includes artsy napkins and tea towels with patterns as lovely as the shown placemats and aprons.
Any host will be delighted if you show up at their party with LU Prints artsy placemats, napkins or an attractive apron. But this does not exclude the idea of keeping one for you.
About LU Prints
LU is the first name initial of its two founders. Graphic designer Lisa Komuro and screen printer Ulla Clark come from Pemberton, British Columbia.
Founded in 2006, LU Prints strives to create fun and fresh linens and clothing for modern everyday living. Their 2007 Spring/Summer Collection is inspired by nature.
Link: Web site of LU Prints
Buy online: Kitchen collection at LU Prints online shop
Categories:
GIFT ideas
LINENS
HOSTESS gifts
posted @ Thursday, June 28, 2007 2:05 PM | Feedback (3)
When I did earlier my series on Habitat, the small fishing boat scene cut my eyes. It taught it would be great for pirate theme party for kid.
A few days after, my nephew had his birthday. My sister in law M. made the party around a pirate theme. Then, I started working on my board.
Temporary tattoos are easy to find at toy store. M. got her pirate tattoo kits at Toys R Us. Kids and adults like the idea. Most people put more than one. The tattoo was our entrance ticket if we want to go swimming. All guys grab the skull heads; so make sure to stock well.
Every party starts with the invitations. If you can, try to send the invitations by mail. I found these coaster shape invites at Aliroo, a UK stationary company. Their designs are very cool. The invites are printed on genuine 94mm diameter coaster stock. They are sold in set of 8 invitations with matching envelops. Aliroo carries a vast selection of grown up invitations; check out their entire selection for inspiration.
My board was designed for 2 age groups of small kids. Most of time, kids of different ages will attend the same birthday party so it is best to be prepared for more than one age group.
For the younger kids, I suggest a soft air-filled pirate boat. I select the Pirate Ship Play Center by Little Tikes (only $39.99 CAD at Toys R Us); it is well-priced and it looks fun for kids. The idea is to create a scenario behind your party theme. I decide that the youngest will be the pirates and the rest of the kids will play the shipwrecked people.
For the other kids, creating a realistic wrecked lifeboat required a few easy steps. Start with a little fishing boat. Make sure to include a buoy with a cord. If you can find one or if you do not mind the extra expense, a broken oar seems more realistic. Maybe, you can try a marine boat shop or a marina to see if they do not have a broken one to spare.
Any handyman should be able to secure a pole to the lifeboat. Hang on the pole a bed sheet sail or a white canvas on which you draw a watercolor or better yet, a wash down pattern. Draw something else than a pirate inspired sketch on the lifeboat sail. You can simply write down Help! on the sheet.
For a theatrical effect, try to rest the wrecked lifeboat near the sandbox or create a beach spot with sand. Putting a large rock or a large damp stump creates a dramatic set up.
My lifeboat inspiration was taken from 2007 summer mini-catalogue of the UK store Habitat. They use BEAM kid bed linen, £39 a single set. Instead of a triangular flag, Habitat stylist team hangs FASHION Monster by Christian Lacroix, the fashionista will be impressed.
You can put on the top any stuffed teddy bear or plush monkey that you like. The patched textile of the FASHION Monster reaffirms the idea of a wrecked ship. It is something to keep in mind.
Update: Fabric stuffed animals are the latest trend according to Nesting blog: Inside Cookie. Why not put a stuffed on top of your sail? And your kid will thank for this gift. I like Reddy sold for $29.95 USD or Ollie the dotted owl at $39.95. Both are available at Orange Button. The orange and aqua Zeke the Alien Giraffe from the neverenoughhours shop at etsy is just adorable. You may want to review all her collection before making your choice but be warned that it can complicate the selection process.
The parrot is a must for a pirate theme. This place is a Zoo sells realistic stuff animals, a lot are jungle animals. I select the Realistic Blue Parrot, an affordable option at $24 USD.
FISHING from Habitat and even HELLE, a rubber kid swinging loop, are fun outdoor kid toys. The 12-inch high treasure chest pinata is from Plum Party. I also spot a set of 6 child's felt pirate hat for $24 USD at Plum Party.
The pirate Bandana and the pirate Telescope come from the Amazon.com Web site. Some pirates can wear a red bandana or a plain black bandana. Give to the wrecked team tropical patterned bandanas but make sure to mix and match the look and style to be more authentic.
Finally, I want to point out this adorable homemade pirate ship cake that I found on flickr. One thing that I particularly like about this cake is the realistic sail. The writing and the burned spot are well executed. I salute the appropriate choice of the character font.
This homemade birthday cake was made by the parents for the third anniversary of a boy named Kade. It shows that with a little bit of imagination and skills, you can make a more interesting kid birthday cake than the typical models from the big chain stores. Kyleroth shares more details about the pirate cake on flickr.
I think you got enough stuff to start thinking about your pirate theme for a kid birthday party.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Coaster-style pirate invitation cards and matching envelops at Aliroo
Buy online: Pirate Ship Play Center by Little Tikes at Toys R Us
Buy online: BEAM Kid bed linen, FASHION Monster and FISHING toy at Habitat
Buy online: Treasure chest pinata at Plum Party
Buy online: Child's felt pirate hat at Plum Party
Buy online: Pirate Bandana and Pirate Telescope at Amazon.com
Buy online: Realistic Blue Parrot at This Place is a Zoo
More cake photos: Pirate ship cake in kyleroth’s photostream on flickr
Read more: Trend Watch: Fabric Stuffed Animals on Nesting blog: Inside Cookie
Categories:
PAPER goods
PARTY ideas
KIDS party
posted @ Wednesday, June 27, 2007 11:55 AM | Feedback (0)
This is a follow-up to my story about Canada Day Bash profile but this time I discuss my menu options.
One way to build your Canada Day menu starts by planning your meal around one particular region in Canada.
It does not have to be the region where you live. Your party will stand out from your neighbors and people will praise your originality. Make your décor and play music from artists that we identified with that region.
The editorial team of Food TV Canada Web site created their regional menus: the Canadian East Coast menu, the Canadian West Coast menu and the Quebec menu.
Reading them all inspired me to create my own Canada Day menus. All the recipes I proposed in this story are published on the Web site of Food TV Canada.
A fancy Canada Day Dinner Menu
You can invite your guests for the middle of the afternoon. Serve them some cocktail snacks during the afternoon. Then you follow with a sit down dinner under the stars or a gazebo tent with a chandelier.
The starter dish would be the Award-Winning Blueberry Drizzle Salad by Julie Zwillich. Blueberries are my favorite fruits so I am partial to them.
I went with style and the trend factor for the main course. Shown here in the top photo, the Tea Smoked Salmon with Sweet Potato Pancake by Mark McEwan intrigued me. You have to admit that it looks amazing. Cooking with tea is a hot trend right now.
Just last month, I received a recipe book called Du thé plein la toque filled with tea based recipes. A wonderful book, but sadly for my readers the book is only available in French. If the book is ever translated, you will be the first to know.
The Phyllo Pastry with Blueberry Filling dessert by Corbin Tomaszeski will wrap up the meal in style. There is maple syrup for more Canadian flavor. This dessert is quick and easy to make.
Serve your dessert with one or two fine blooming teas to continue to impress your guests. In Montreal, I suggest you go to My Cup of Tea. I used this brand all the time. I am satisfied with the taste and the blooming effect of their teas. Just ignore the astrological aspect of MCOT’s packaging when you make your selection.
A family-style Canada Day Outdoor Menu
I started with a recipe from Michael Smith. I selected My Favourite Clam Chowder because it is simple to make and it tastes so good. Better yet, you can make this soup a day or two in advance.
For the side dishes, the first recipe is my own creation. I broil on the oven trim asparagus spears for a total of 8 minutes. Nicely align the asparagus side by side on a middle of a cookie pan and add a few drizzles of good olive oil and a pinch of Hibiscus-flavored sea salt. At half time (after 4 minutes), turn over the asparagus. I lay down a handful of pine nuts on the side and put it back on the oven for the remaining 4 minutes.
I use FLOR DE SAL DE'S TRENC Hibiscus, a flavored sea salt made by Gusto Mundial. This salt comes from Spain. Check out your local fine food stores to buy flavored sea salts.
The second vegetable dish is boiled carrots cooked with orange quarters and butter. This is a recipe published in Jamie’s Dinner book - I know he is not Canadian. Both recipes are sublime; they are my signature vegetable side dishes right now.
But the BBQd Stuffed Lake Trout by Rob Rainford is definitely a Canadian Summer recipe. Do not forget the topping, like you see on the photo, because it adds a festive vibe to your dish.
The dessert will be Apple Crisp Ice Cream with Warm Apple Fritters by Anna Olsen. Nothing says family more than apple and ice cream. I like the way this dessert is served. It shows you that simple plating techniques can look fabulous.
I hope you like my menu suggestions. For more menu ideas for a Canada Day event, have a look at the regional menus from the editorial team of Foodtv.ca.
Sourcing:
Recipe: Award-Winning Blueberry Drizzle Salad by Julie Zwillich
Recipe: Tea Smoked Salmon with Sweet Potato Pancake by Mark McEwan
Recipe: Phyllo Pastry with Blueberry Filling by Corbin Tomaszeski
Recipe: My Favourite Clam Chowder by Michael Smith
Recipe: BBQd Stuffed Lake Trout by Rob Rainford
Recipe: Apple Crisp Ice Cream with Warm Apple Fritters by Anna Olsen
More menu ideas: Canada Day regional menus from the editorial team of Foodtv.ca - check out the related links on the right
Flavored Sea Salts: Web site for FLOR DE SAL DE'S TRENC by Gusto Mundial
Blooming teas: Web site of My Cup of Tea
Photos credits: The shots were taken from foodtv.ca
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
HOLIDAY
posted @ Monday, June 25, 2007 8:24 PM | Feedback (1)
I have been a fan of flavored salts for a while. After you tried a good flavored salt, you asked yourself how you manage all these years without it.
Flavored salts most commonly flavor a recipe and dish up a plate in no time. Use a flavored salt as a rub to enhance the flavor of a simple fish recipe. A little bit of black olive sea salt can add another layer of flavor to a recipe that has black olives as the dominant flavor. Other times, flavored salts provide an easy way to complement another flavor on my plate.
Making your own flavored salts
Ever since I saw Jamie Oliver making is own citrus flavored salt on TV, I realized how simple is it to make your own flavored salt.
I was thrilled to see on Tastespotting that Jaden from Steamy Kitchen just published three recipes of flavored salts: Szechuan Peppercorn Salt, Citrus Salt and Matcha Salt.
Steamy Kitchen is an excellent cooking blog with interesting recipes. Orange-Chili-Ricotta Frozen Yogurt was the recipe on her previous post. I like the sound of it.
Going back to the flavored salt recipes, you can use a food processor or a heavy mortar and pestle to mix together the ingredients. The Citrus salt is a must for its versatility. The fact that it turns out in a striking color adds to its appeal. Try to rub the citrus salt on fish or poultry. The taste is excellent. Season your summer salads with a hint of citrus salt and a few drizzles of olive oil.
Where to buy Matcha tea?
If you are wandering where to get Matcha tea, I suggest you visit a fine tea shop in your area. Most fine Asian / Japanese food stores carry Matcha tea. Otherwise, Jaden from Steamy Kitchen uses the brand sold via Amazon.com.
Another option is to visit the online store of Muzi (their tea bar was formerly known as Infuze). Muzi has a distribution center in Torrance, California as well as Vancouver, BC, making shipping within the USA and Canada quick and easy. As a treat, Muzi published four recipes on their site. You can make your own matcha ice cream, matcha chocolate, matcha lattes and matcha smoothies.
People often give homemade jams as hostess gifts or party favors. But giving your own flavored salt is more original.
Container options for your party favors
I prefer a jar with an attached lid instead of the basic Mason jars. Look at the Fido collection by Bormioli Rocco. These glass jars are affordable, reliable and widely available. That is what I use at home to store dry food. The top left photo is another great system by Bormioli Rocco.
Organize.com sells individually the Endurance Magnetic Stainless Steel Spice. I like the clean lines of these spice jars. They look sharp. Just add a printed custom label to personalize the look. If your budget allows it, use a commercial printer for better results.
If you do not wish a complete do-it-yourself option, browse the wedding favor stores to buy a kit. The one shown here (the food is sold separately) is from beaucoup wedding favors. They cost $12.00 for a pack of 6 spice jars. The beautiful custom labels can be ordered from beaucoup. It is $10.80 USD per sheet of 18 labels. Beaucoup.com proposes 6 designs in 10 colors. You cannot be wrong; their 6 designs are suitable for all occasions.
Sourcing:
Recipes: Making Your Own Flavored Salts published on Steamy Kitchen blog
Buy online: Ujinotsuyu Matcha Hagoromo (All Natural Green Tea Powder) with Product Brochure and Pier Mall Home Recipes via Amazon.com
Buy online: Matcha tea on Muzi – switch to US store from top menu
Buy online: Endurance Magnetic Stainless Steel Spice at Organize.com
Buy online: Glass spice jar at beaucoup wedding favors
Via: Tastespotting.com
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
PARTY favors
posted @ Sunday, June 24, 2007 10:57 PM | Feedback (0)
While looking at the fabulous culinary creations of French chef Jean-Luc Rabanel, I came across a stylish way to serve white or rose wine. I have never been a fan of the O Riedel wine glasses until I saw this picture.
O Riedel wine tumbler collection was all the rages a few years ago. But O Riedel defied the first rule of wine tasting. You must never touch the wine. That is why you got a stem.
I know, Italians defied it all the time by drinking wines in everyday glasses when they have a casual family gathering. At least, the O Riedel looks stylish. So why do I never use them before? I am something a purist.
But the way L'Atelier de Jean-Luc Rabanel used the O Riedel wine glass charms my design sense. I see the practicality of this method when the temperature rises. Put the O Riedel wine tumblers on your table Set your table with each O Riedel wine tumbler in a bowl filled with crushed ice at your next outdoor parties. Your guests will be impressed by this fresh table setting.
You do not need to buy the O Riedel wine glasses either. You can rent them with the vase underneath; most good rental party companies carry them. Just know that the Riedel glasses cost more to rent than an average wine glass.
One good reason to buy them is that the lead-free O Riedel wine tumblers are dishwasher safe. Since they will fit in any dishwasher, it will take you less time to clean up once the party is over. For a casual gathering, they still look hip and they are fun.
The price range for the non lead machine-blown glass series is half the price of Riedel Vinum glasses. Wine Enthusiast and Cooking.com both sell the set of 2 Riedel "O" Chardonnay Wine Tumblers for $16 USD. Other models are sold for $20 USD.
About French chef Jean-Luc Rabanel
He owns a restaurant and a cooking school in Arles in France. Dedicated to organic ingredients, a local farmer cultivates especially for him 100 varieties of each vegetable to obtain an infinite palette of textures and flavors. His latest restaurant L'Atelier de Jean-Luc Rabanel made the Condé Nast Travelever Hot List Table 2007.
More info: O Riedel glass series on Riedel Web site
Restaurant: L'Atelier de Jean-Luc Rabanel
Link : Condé Nast Travelever Hot List Table 2007
Photo credit: shot was taken for April-May issue of Cote Sud magazine
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
FOOD + drinks
DISHING tips
DINING out
posted @ Sunday, June 24, 2007 2:43 PM | Feedback (3)
Although I like the bold patterns, soothing environments relieve us from our daily stress. When we are taking about calm and relation, the ocean rings a bell for most of us.
This inspiration board started by looking at number 105 issue of Cote Sud magazine. A beautiful array of soft blues and greens takes place over a 10-page article. This color combination caught the eyes of others as well. I saw a few shots I was planning to use published on the style files blog before I finished assembling mine. Beautiful things never stay a secret.
So, I reoriented my board to highlight new photos. I imagined a backyard setting for casual trendy events. For this backyard, I imagine three distinct areas: the pool area, the lounge area and the casual dining space. Each space has its own personality but the three spaces share a common theme.
Design wise, I went for circles and lines and I stayed within my color palette. Lines and circles are of varying widths, weights and patterns; these slight changes create interests. You do not feel like you are always on the same room. Examine the photos; you will spot lots of commonalities.
The lounge area is absolutely fabulous. The fabric wall really makes a statement. When you are entertain, think of covering a wall or a partition with a large fabric or wallpaper. This is an easy way to update the look of your space and to create a strong focus point. Naturally, you can select a fabric that can stay outdoors and enjoy it all summer long.
Around the pool, stock up lots of cushions for people to lie down. During cocktail and night, the cushions provide extra sitting in the lounge.
When you are throwing a party, do not discard utilitarian materials. When you paint in blue, this old-style beach fence carries a lot of charms. It is easy to temporarily plant this fence on the grass. Your guests will be impressed if you create vignette like that.
The top photos are from the Cabana line and the Breeze range. They are part of the 2007 summer collection of Muti & Co. Located in Woodbridge, Ontario (Canada), Muti & Co. imports and distributes decorative items and household items.
The rectangular cushions and mattress style cushions on the left side - beach photo - are a bargain at 15 euros. They are from Monoprix, a French retailer. By going to a fabric store, you can make your own. Since Monoprix is a mainstream store, you should be able to find similar fabrics in your local shops.
The fabric wall shows off Nothing Hill pattern by Designers Guild. Made of 100% cotton, Nothing Hill fabric costs 42 euros a meter in 137 cm width. Contact the French interior designer Julia Prisca for the aqua linen FRANKI sofa. You can find something similar if you shop around.
The round cushions are in the Solstice collection by Elitis, a high-end fabric maker. This circular motif of African feathered necklaces is drawn in flock of taffetas so you have to put back the cushions inside once your party is over. Solstice fabric costs 86 euros a meter in 140 cm width. A few retailers carry Elitis line in the USA, see the Elitis’ distributors and agent locations for details.
Sourcing:
Decorative items for dining space: Cabana line and Breeze range by Muti & Co.
Collection of rectangular cushions: Web site of Monoprix
Fabric wall: Nothing Hill model by Designers Guild – I did not see it on their Web site
Round cushions: Solstice textile collection by Elitis
Photo credits: the bottom shots were taken for April-May issue of Cote Sud magazine – see Les Couleurs de l’eau
See other shots around that theme: summer has begun! published on the style files
Categories:
HOME decor
OUTDOOR
posted @ Saturday, June 23, 2007 1:00 PM | Feedback (0)
If you have pets at home, you know that like living with children pets need toys and beds to be happy. But let’s face it; what you get from the pet shops is not stylish to say the least.
If you spend a lot of time and money designing your interior, this can ruin your entire design scheme. Who wants to entertain guests with ugly cat stuff lying around?
A stylish modern brand
I dug up by reading Design Milk yesterday something wonderful for cat lovers. Do you love cats and great design? is the first thing you read when you visit cat-interiors.de, a venture by one talented married couple.
This German designer team creates a line of products which are well thought out with cats in mind and which can be integrated into any modern living environment.
Launched in 2004, Cat Interiors deals with high end products. You got great looking design, top quality materials and an attention to details like using cushion filling with special non-allergenic flaked latex mixture optimized for cats.
Cat Interiors offers a third choice beside felt and leather, it is natural shade wicker. The rattan wickerwork is colored with environmentally-friendly, water-based lacquer.
Cat Bed Collection
The cat day beds by Cat Interiors are fabulous. Five basic designs form the DAY BED collection. SCARLET and ARENA are the latest addition to BOWL, CROWN (fitted in each case with a cozy cushion), DIVAN (designed as a large cushion). HARRY is the same as SCARLET but in larger size.
The RONDO Stand with felt cover (see: green fleece and red cushion) is $1005 USD (739 euros). The felt cover of the RONDO Stand is 100% pure wool. The standing base made from brushed stainless steel is designed so that there is no danger of RONDO tipping over, even when used by larger, heavy cats. Add $136 (100 euros) for a black or brown leather cover.
You can buy extra covers to change the look or to replace a scratched one. RONDO EDITION is a printed Ornament Cover. Very chic looking.
Inside the stand, your cat can lay comfortably on a special molded upholstery foam cushion. The cushion cover made of brushed felt wood can be washed in the machine.
You can install several RONDO on the walls to build an amusement park for your cats. My husband always wanted to do that. RONDO walls cost $678 USD (499 euros) with a felt exterior. I need to find a wall first.
If your budget does not allow this expense right now, for less than $11 USD, you can get a nice felt cat toy for your cat.
For info and to buy online: DAY BED cat collection and RONDO collection at cat-interiors.de
Via: Starlet Bed on Design Milk
Categories:
HOME decor
posted @ Friday, June 22, 2007 9:19 PM | Feedback (3)
The manager of Give Simple Catherine emailed me about a great melamine collection that they got at Give Simple online store. Better yet, several products are on sale right now. So I went to check it out. What I came across was the wonderful French Bull melamine collection.
Bold and festive patterns are ideal for par ties around the pool and for family events with kids. The design industry creates wonderful affordable things these days. Wonderful patterns are found in tableware, textiles and stationeries.
When fashion designer Jackie Shapiro founded French Bull in 2002 things were different. She started a little revolution back then by making home ware products for design conscious consumers at accessible prices. Jackie Shapiro describes her company in these terms:
French Bull reinterprets melamine, a nostalgic material popular in the 1960's, with a fresh look for a modern lifestyle, bringing back this familiar and functional, accessibly priced material in graphic and modern patterns otherwise not available.
If you like to serve the food in buffet style, get the Storage Container Set. And the next time you get invited to a pot luck party, do not forget to bring your food in the French Bull containers for a stylish entrance. They have a plastic lid, they are unbreakable and they are dishwasher safe. More importantly, they look more stylish than your Tupperware.
To give you an idea of the price of French Bull melamine line, GiveSimple.com sells the Pink Paisley Square Platter for $12 USD, the Salad Server Set is on sale at $12 USD (reg. price $15) and the Storage Container Set is on sale at $26 USD (reg. price $30).
GiveSimple.com also carries the Eclectic Melamine Tableware collection. What is special about this line of melamine dinnerware is that the collection was designed and manufactured by student artists at a college of art and design. So you support the arts while you enjoy a fresh perspective on the art of dining!
The Eclectic plate collection measures 8 inches, 10 inches and 12 inches. Prices range from $6 to $12 per plate. Note that each pattern comes in a single size. The concept behind this line is to mix and match patterns to create your own tailored plate setting.
With the Eclectic collection, you can take different directions for your party themes. You can take the natural trail, almost hunting. Add birch tree candles, faux furs on the seating arrangements, serve beers in pewter glasses to complete the look.
You can go chic by taking the crown road. Invent yourself a family crest and use it as a place setting. Dine under a gazebo tent where you hang a chandelier. Change the wall fabrics to suit your party theme. Use real glassware to bring more sophistication to your event.
Buy online: French Bull Melamine Collection at GiveSimple.com
Buy online: Eclectic Melamine Tableware collection at GiveSimple.com
Learn more on: Web site of French Bull
Categories:
OUTDOOR
TABLEWARE
FAMILY style
posted @ Friday, June 22, 2007 5:59 PM | Feedback (1)
J Lee from An Eye for An I:nterior I tagged me. Thank you for choosing me.
Rules of the game:
Each player starts with 7 random facts/habits about themselves. People who are tagged need to then report this on their own blog with their 7 things as well as these rules. They then need to tag 7 others and list their names on their blog. They are also asked to leave a comment for each of the tagged, letting them know they have been tagged and to read the blog.
I was in rush this morning so I did not read the rules properly. I inverted the steps of the rules. I am sorry for my seven tagged bloggers; I may have got you a little bit confused.
My 7 random facts/habits
- I am a Formula 1 fan who is disappointed lately by the lack of form of her favorite driver, Kimi Räikkönen
---- July 1, 2007 Update: I am a much happier fan after his win at the French Grand Prix
- I am buying make up products all the time. I do not like to look the same two days in a row
- My closets need to be uncluttered. I tried to find time but there is always something more fun to do. I watched Neat and Mission Organization to boost my stimulus.
- I have a favorite brand for every product I use.
- I can become addicted to video games. In 1998, I played 14 hours in a row at Ultima Online. Last year, I was addicted to Animal Crossing on Nintendo DS. Both times, I was saved by vacation.
- I love to travel. Europe is one of my favorite destinations. Japan, Scandinavia, Australia and New Zealand are places I want to go at least once in my life.
- I like to start eating dinner between 8 and 10 pm, even during the week.
I tagged (original post)
reZenerate your space, Notes a middle child, Emmas designblogg, Brides in the City, LKS Design, Kirin Notebook, Jerome’s TOT
Jerome’s TOT is most likely a blog that will not interest you (it is about programming and technology) but I taught you can learn more about me if I add my husband to the mix. It sounds like a good idea at the time.
August 4th, 2007 Update
I have been tagged again by Toast and Tables three weeks ago and by Liberty Post yesterday. Their game asked for 8 random facts / habits instead of 7, so I feel that it is only fair that I add one random fact to my original tagged post.
8. I just started reading Harry Potter books in ancient forest friendly paperback format. I started the first one in French many years ago but the translation lost me. :) I did see all the films at the movie theater.
I tagged Yuko from PataPri as my additional blogger.
Categories:
OFF topics
posted @ Thursday, June 21, 2007 3:00 PM | Feedback (7)
New more efficient food preparation tools pop up constantly. If you are invited by someone that like to cook and you do not know what to bring as a hostess gift, why not take a look at the best of the crop in specialized kitchen tools. My hostess gift ideas are all under 30 dollars.
I select Sur La Table online store because they got a nice selection. You can also stop at a local shop that specialized in fine cooking. I like to support my local independent retailers because these small shop owners are often passionate and they bring us more innovative and well designed products.
Vegetable brushes are often awkward to hold. This one called Chef'n Palm Vegetable Brush let you slip your middle finger so that the head rests in your palm. At $4.95 USD each, you can stock up a few Chef'n Palm Vegetable brushes and get helpers at the food preparation station.
Invented by a surgeon, Van Vacter Avocado Knife is neat. You can do it all with this avocado multiple blades knife. The serrated stainless steel blade cuts through tough peel, the sharp spikes quickly remove pit, the rounded tip quickly slices and dices while the flat side of blade removes the peel. The Van Vacter Avocado Knife is sold for $19.95 USD.
The Avocado Slicer by Progressive is another great tool. It is a must to nicely plate your avocado for a salad. If you make your own guacamole, the avocado speeds up the process because it slices and removes the peel in one movement. This product is widely available in stores for $14.95 USD.
I took the Avocado Slicer picture from Cooking.com, an online store that I recommend because I always got a great service from them. Customers of Cooking.com wrote lots of product reviews to help you make your choice. Sur La Table carries the same Avocado Slicer but their picture was not as nice.
These colorful die cast aluminum squeezers let you neatly press out pure juice and leave behind seeds and pulp out of citrus halves. I do not know about this particular brand but I know that this technique is appreciated by many cooks. There is one for lime, one for lemon and one for orange. These citrus squeezers start at $12.95 USD. Because you need three, I will give these to someone with a large kitchen.
If you are looking for a high-end hostess gift, take a look at David Rocco’s Dolce Vitae Olive wood collection. The Lemon Reamer got my vote of appreciation. There are many wood lemon reamers out there, many that are a lot cheaper but the Dolce Vitae Lemon Reamer has an authentic look and feel that makes it a first-class hostess gift.
The David Rocco’s Dolce Vitae Olive wood Lemon Reamer retail price is $29 CAD. This collection is only available in Canada for the moment. The products are imported from Italy. I located two shops in Montreal and Toronto where you can find the DRDV olive wood collection:
Cuisine Gourmet – 2 locations in Montreal:
- 2005 rue Drummond 514.845.0372
- Centre Rockland 514.344.6190
Junors at Bayview Village Shopping Center , Toronto 416.223.0910
Buy online: Chef'n Palm Vegetable Brushes at Sur La Table
Buy online: Van Vacter Avocado Knife at Sur La Table
Buy online: Citrus Juicers at Sur La Table
Buy online: Avocado Slicer by Progressive at Cooking.com
Get info on: David Rocco’s Dolce Vitae Olive wood Lemon Reamer on David Rocco’s Web site
RELATED POSTS:
+ Blown Glass Kitchen Tools
+ Comfort Food Christmas Gift Ideas
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
GIFT ideas
HOSTESS gifts
posted @ Thursday, June 21, 2007 10:59 AM | Feedback (5)
I told you earlier about my participation on a Canada Day Bash Profile written by Nadine Anglin for the Web site of HGTV Canada. The Canada Day Parties newsletter edition reached my inbox this morning.
You also get a Canada Day party menu that was prepared by the foodtv.ca Editorial Team. You will find the recipes on Food TV Canada Web site.
I will let you discover the complete Canada Day menu. The recipes are all great so take a look. But I cannot wait to tell me my preferences.
I will start with the Ahi Tuna Sashimi and Green Papaya Salad with Chile-Lime Dressing by Vancouver-based Lumière Restaurant chef Rob Feenie.
For the main course, I selected a recipe created by Robert Clark from C Restaurant in Vancouver. The Citrus Salted BC Sablefish with Chanterelles and Smoked Salmon Risotto Cakes looks absolutely delicious. Christine Cushing made the recipe in the Fish episode of her TV show Christine Cushing Live.
The Herb Crusted Ontario Rack of Lamb served with Whipped Potatoes and Blueberry Mustard, also from Christine Cushing Live, is a good option if you prefer a meat dish.
Since I am crazy with blueberries, I will finish with the Wild Blueberry Flan by Elizabeth Baird. I would prepare the filling of the flan with small local fresh blueberries instead of the frozen ones. The small blueberries taste the best because their small size concentrates the savor.
I hope you get fun celebrating Canada Day in style with your friends and family. For readers outside Canada, you got a little help in planning a nice dinner event.
Newsletter: Check out HGTV.ca's Easy Ideas for Canada Day Parties, Plus: A Great New Interactive Tool for Gardeners - You get a link at the end if you like to subscribe
Entertaining idea: Party Profile: Canada Day by Nadine Anglin on HGTV.ca
Recipes: Canada Day Menu by the foodtv.ca editorial team
Photo credit: The shot was taken from foodtv.ca
Categories:
IN the press
FOOD + drinks
HOLIDAY
posted @ Wednesday, June 20, 2007 4:23 PM | Feedback (3)
This week started with posts about Scandinavians, so I continue with this book that I got last month. I bought it online. I was excited about the content and let me tell you that Scandinavian Country fulfills my expectations.
Magnus Englund and Chrystina Schmidt are not at their first experience as authors. They wrote together Scandinavian Modern which sold 80,000 copies in hardcover. Scandinavian Modern is available in paperback since April 2007.
The pair is back with a book about the rural holiday homes in Scandinavia. The regional differences in style, the choices of materials, the lifestyles, the traditions and the vision of the new waves of architects are well summarized in this book.
Magnus Englund and Chrystina Schmidt made us understand the essence of Scandinavian rural holiday houses, cottages and cabins. Wherever you live, you will be able to reuse the ideas in this book.
The photos in Scandinavian Country are inspirational. Each rural retreat is beautifully photographed by Paul Ryan. And you got a lot of pictures in this 144-page book. Scandinavian Country is a keeper.
About the authors (excerpt taken on Amazon.com):
Magnus Englund, who wrote the text, is a co-founder and director of Skandium, a chain of stores specializing in modern Scandinavian furniture and homeware. His company also set up Britain's first-ever Marimekko shop. Born in Sweden, Magnus used to live in Stockholm, where he owned a men's fashion store while collecting 1960s pop and soul records. His current passion is Finnish glass. Scandinavian Living is his first book.
Chrystina Schmidt, who sourced the locations for the book, is a co-founder and director of Skandium. Finnish by nationality, she grew up in Germany and Finland and has lived most of her adult life in Sweden. Chrystina worked as a fashion photographer in Stockholm for ten years before moving to London, where she contributed to Arena and other magazines. She is a strong believer in creating spaces for living in, not looking at. Her current passion is Swedish textiles.
Note: I got a different book cover for Scandinavian Country than the photo I shown you here but either shot is a rural holiday house shown on the book. So, do not be worry.
Sourcing:
For Americans: Scandinavian Country
For Canadians: Scandinavian Country by Magnus Englund and Chrystina Schmidt on Chapters.Indigo.ca
For Americans: Scandinavian Modern
For Canadians: Scandinavian Modern by Magnus Englund and Chrystina Schmidt on Chapters.Indigo.ca
Categories:
HOME decor
posted @ Wednesday, June 20, 2007 10:11 AM | Feedback (2)
Corns on cobs are part of the North American tradition for a barbecue. In Quebec, we have an old and popular party tradition called Epluchette de ble d’inde that starts with the harvest season – which will be in a few weeks.
Having an epluchette is hosting a casual outdoor party where old and young enjoy freshly picked corns. Typically, the corns are the main course but serving appetizers, desserts and meats are common.
We buy the corns in large pouches from a producer, peel (eplucher) the corns and cook for a few minutes in boiling water with a little sugar and some milk. Some people replace the milk by beer but I never tried it. Never add salt to the water because the salt will toughen the corn. We eat the corns from the cobs with lots of butter, some salt and pepper.
With young kids around, removing the corns from the cobs is a must. You can use a knife but that is messy. Happy Mundane presented this morning the Corn Zipper, a neat kitchen gadget available at Williams-Sonoma for $12 USD. It is so classy that I want one. Reading the product description from Williams-Sonoma will convince you:
Make the most of summer’s fresh corn with this precision tool for cleanly, effortlessly stripping kernels from the cob. Simply pull it lengthwise along a cob, allowing its sharp teeth to neatly remove two rows of kernels. Far safer than a knife, it won’t crush the juicy kernels.
Butter is a large element of this meal. We usually put blocks of butter from which people roll their corns. A fancier method is to serve soft butter and spread the butter on the corns with a brush or a knife. I suggest silicone brushes because it is cleaner and faster to wash.
But if you have kids or a very large crowd, Butter Boy can come to the rescue. It does not look fancy at all but apparently Butter Boy works very well. This product has won the 2005 Gourmet Gold Award. Just insert a half stick of butter, pop the top and press the plunger down to apply an even layer of butter to warm corns.
Since you need more than one butter stations for an Epluchette de ble d’inde, I suggest the Butter Boy and Butter Girl Twin Pack at Perpetual Kid for $12.99 USD. If you are picky on color combinations, Wrappables.com carries the entire collection. Butter boy is available in 2 colors: green and blue. Butter girl is sold in magenta and in yellow. It is widely available so make a search on Google to buy them from your preferred retailers.
Finally, I got a hold on three flavored butter recipes from Ricardo on the Web site of HGTV Canada. Taken from his TV show Ricardo and Friends, these flavored butters are delicious with corns on the cobs. They will make your Epluchette more stylish. Ricardo proposed to serve Cheddar and Bacon Butter, Ginger and Lime Butter, Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Butter at your corn-roast event. That sounds good.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Corn Zipper at Williams-Sonoma
Buy online: Butter Boy and Butter Girl Twin Pack at Perpetual Kid
Buy online: Butter Boy & Butter Girl at Wrappables
Recipes: Flavoured Butters for Corn on the Cob shown on Ricardo & Friends and published on HGTV.ca
Via: Corn Zipper published on Happy Mundane blog
Categories:
EVERYDAY
KITCHEN tools
OUTDOOR
FAMILY style
posted @ Tuesday, June 19, 2007 1:25 PM | Feedback (0)
ISAK is a brand of coordinated home accessories for the modern kitchen, lounge and kids room.
Designed by the creative Swedish-born Sandra Isaksson, the first range of ISAK products was launched autumn 2006 in UK where she now lives. “Beautiful happy things” is their motto.
ISAK whimsical patterns are modern with a retro mood. Having a tulip cutting board, a green apple serving tray, a bird plate or a daisy espresso cup is out of the ordinary. Sandra Isaksson repeated several patterns in every product of the line to make it easy for you.
The catalogue includes patterned cutting boards, round and rectangular serving trays, kid breakfast trays, cups, plates, canvas prints, wallpapers, cards and books. The plates are large enough to be used as place mats.
ISAK’s own online shop ships worldwide. Retailers in the UK, Sweden, the US and Canada also sell the line, although I cannot named any at this moment.
Sourcing:
Catalogue and online shopping: Web site of ISAK products
Via: Fredagsintervjun! on Akvis stilblogg
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
TABLEWARE
FAMILY style
posted @ Monday, June 18, 2007 8:30 PM | Feedback (1)
I was the subject on a piece in a Swedish blog this week-end. As a fan of Scandinavian design, I visit Emmas designblogg to see what going on in other parts of the world.
Today, she talked about a Danish online store called Design Delicatessen. This retailer mastered more than a thing or two about the art of styling a catalogue.
I am leaving you with this kid birthday shot by Design Delicatessen. You got a glimpse at how this retailer promotes a festive banner. Like I told you before, doing a little more makes a difference. Go visit Emma’s blog to see the rest.
Link: Design Delicatessen post on Emmas designblogg
Featured in: New to me blogs on Emmas designblogg
Categories:
IN the press
posted @ Monday, June 18, 2007 8:27 PM | Feedback (1)
Quizzes are fun to do. If you are planning to renovate your kitchen, take this quiz that I found online on House & Garden magazine to discover what type of kitchen best suit your lifestyle.
The quiz determines your type in 10 questions by looking at your family size, your entertaining habits, your style and your concerns.
Apparently, my type is Classic Cooking which means that I want a kitchen that makes a statement and makes me feel at home. House & Garden shows a slideshow of kitchen décors that match your type. These 2 shots out of 8 featured kitchens best fit my style.
Quiz: What type of kitchen are you? on the Web site of House & Garden magazine - US edition
Categories:
HOME decor
posted @ Monday, June 18, 2007 6:12 PM | Feedback (0)
I just read about this cute recipe box on Oh Joy! blog. It is so pretty that I want one. The cupcake deck is a set of 25 cupcake card recipes on a cute box. The recipes are by cook author Elinor Klivans. It is fairly new, the deck hit the store last February.
The book description on Amazon.ca:
Drawn from the best-selling book, Cupcakes, this deck includes such inviting recipes as Chocolate Mousse Cupcakes, Vanilla Cheesecake Crunch-Top Cupcakes and the deliriously delicious Lemon Angel Cupcakes. Here are 25 scrumptious ways to bring smiles faster than a kid can lick the batter off a beater.
To simplify your life, take the habit to stock up a few hostess gifts. I recommend the cupcake deck because it will please a lot of people, especially the ones with kids.
And the best thing for Canadians is that it is cheaper on Amazon.ca than Amazon.com for once. This is before we convert the money (the current rate is 0.95 USD = 1 CAD).
Buying online: Cupcakes! Deck: 25 Sweet & Delightful Recipes (Cards) on Amazon.ca
Via: the cupcake deck on Oh Joy! blog
RELATED POSTS:
+ Be the queen of cupcakes
+ Sprinkles' Clean designed cupcakes
+ Special Occasion Cakes in 4 books
Categories:
GIFT ideas
CAKES
HOSTESS gifts
posted @ Friday, June 15, 2007 11:18 PM | Feedback (0)
I started reading Cote Sud many years ago, before I took a trip around Provence. I love the style of the South of France. Nowadays, you get the rustic charm mixed with hip modern style, bright sunny days and lots of good food. Reading Cote Sud always inspired me.
This year, bright and bold patterns are in. The Number 105 issue (April-May) showed off five examples of this trend done in floral patterns.
The first photo is dinnerware made by Coursange. Anouch & Anouchka are two serving plates with Henri Matisse-inspired drawings. Very cute!
Number 2 is Imagine un jardin (Imagine a garden) porcelain line by Genevieve Lethu. In another post, I will bring you more into Genevieve Lethu’s universe because I am absolutely thrilled about her sense of style. Her shops are pure heaven for the cooks and the entertainers. I like it so much that I add one of her lifestyle shots to conclude my post.
Number 3 is a lovely inexpensive porcelain tableware collection called Flavia available at Alinea, a retailer with 13 stores spread across France. At first glance, I compare Alinea’s catalogue to Pier1 Imports but with French flair.
The fourth shot is made of stoneware which is a typical material in Provence. The Plume collection pattern makes reference to the corolla. Jars Ceramistes (called Jars Provence Design in the USA) was founded in 1857 by Pierre Jars in the South of France. Half of their production is exported to the rest of Europe, America and Asia. Famous names like Christofle, Yves Rocher, Fidji, Calvin Klein, Les Anysetiers du Roy, Geneviève Lethu, Dupont, Berger, Banania, Mariage Frères, etc. buy their works. With the Plume line, you are buying true craftsmanship that will last.
The article concluded in style with tableware designed by Kenzo Arc International. Azyade collection proves that patchwork patterns can look more chic. It takes the creative mind of a great fashion designer like Kenzo to bring us a fine china collection like this. Do not be afraid to mix and match the yellow, fuchsia and turquoise colors on the same table.
I hope you like my review about this bold and blooming dinnerware piece. The April-May issue of Cote Sud magazine revealed more treasures; I will share them with you pretty soon.
Sourcing:
Imagine un jardin: See the tableware collection on Genevieve Lethu's Web site
Flavia tablware: Overview the collection on Aliena Web site
Plume collection: Jars is available at Lavender Home & Table in Boston, MA
Azyade dinnerware collection: Azyade by Kenzo is available at Neiman Marcus
Photos credits: Assiettes en fleurs diaporama published on CoteMaison.fr – pictures taken by Bernard Touillon
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
posted @ Friday, June 15, 2007 12:14 PM | Feedback (0)
Going with innovative product is often to best option when you are looking for a gift for someone that has everything. I stumbled upon this amazing wine tray that fits the bill.
The UU22 wine tray is a cool gadget. MuNiMulA designed the tray to fit four stemmed wine glasses plus one bottle of wine. This design is truly masculine making it a perfect Father’s Day gift.
The bottle spot plus a thin cut for the wine glasses securely hold everything in place when you are moving around. No more mess.
MuNiMulA is a design/manufacturing firm with an ever expanding line of home objects and furniture from Michigan State. Their look is clearly industrial. Their collection is mostly aluminum constructions.
You can buy the UU22 wine tray by MuNiMulA online for $98 USD. It is available in aluminum, deep red, green and orange
Buy online: UU22 wine tray by MuNiMulA
Categories:
HOLIDAY
posted @ Thursday, June 14, 2007 11:01 AM | Feedback (3)
I have been featured in reZenerate your space, the blog of Robin Van lent, a guy who likes design, architecture, building stuff and entertaining his friends.
Featured in: Two new blogs of interest on reZenerate your Space blog
Categories:
IN the press
posted @ Tuesday, June 12, 2007 10:13 PM | Feedback (1)
The cheerful orange is my favorite color. So I am happy to show you these cool party accessories by the lifestyle company Impulse! Enterprises. My orange cocktail concept emerged when I was reading the Oh la la Lucite: Shatter-resistant tableware post on Toast and Tables, a blog about dinnerware.
Impulse! Enterprises Web site presents their fabulous line of products for entertaining at home. I know now who made the Orange Bottom Ball Martini Glasses I got for my birthday a few years ago are by them. I knew many of their products; I did not know the name of the manufacturer.
If I am not mistaken, the Bottom Ball glass collection fits into the votive holder. You can carry 5 glasses at the time. Unfortunately, the more practical 9-hole square votive candle holder model only comes available in purple. Try to find another company that makes one in clear acrylic. I am sure that I saw one before in a store or online.
The acrylic orange square tray is a hip way to plate your hors d'oeuvres. Very in, very chic! For the best food presentation, you may need to use a mix of orange trays and clear acrylic trays.
The bamboo riser is a must for setting a cocktail table. They are available in a square shape and a rectangular shape. Risers add depths and interest to your cocktail table. These ones look so good that you do not have to hide them under a table cloth.
I add the Gold and Brown Lacquer Round Bowl because the inside exhibits such a nice palette from the yellow to the orange hues.
Multiple orange candelabra can be put around the room to create a nice mood. Coupled with luxurious cushions, they fashion a rich atmosphere. If you have a round buffet table, think about putting a candelabrum at the center of the table.
Punch it up with the citrus fruit family
Since a monochromatic theme can become flat, you can spice the orange theme with the citrus family palette used as accent colors.
For the flower arrangement, TryFlowers.org.uk shows you how to use limes as vases that each hold a single stem of lime green button chrysanth.
This is one of the 80 inspirational flower ideas that you will find on TryFlowers.org.uk Web site. For this theme, I suggest that your floral arrangement rests on orange coasters. Check out the Bamboo orange coaster set also by Impulse!.
My preference will be to replace the lime by a medium orange that hold a single fiery dahlia. This centerpiece can look more stunning than the shown lime and chrysanth composition.
Since their catalogue can be displayed online by color; Impulse! Enterprises makes it easy for anyone to build their party theme around a color. What is your favorite color? Did you ever made a party around a color?
Sourcing these products: Web site of Impulse! Enterprises
Link: See 80 inspirational flower ideas on TryFlowers.org.uk
Via: Oh la la Lucite: Shatter-resistant tableware published on Toast and Tables blog
Categories:
PARTY ideas
posted @ Tuesday, June 12, 2007 8:38 PM | Feedback (3)
This range with the humorous motto Grumpy Old Man features cool gifts for Father’s Day.
The Grumpy Old Man (GOM) line is available online at Bliss Home, based in UK. You may receive the package a few days after Father’s Day, but Bliss Home ships outside UK. They are the company behind the Living Kitchen collection of Nigella Lawson, the food writer and television cook.
I particularly recommend the GOM BBQ Tool Set or the GOM Picnic Set/Rucksack for your dad. If the man gets ill-tempered every time he catches a cold, get the GOM water bottle for daddy.
The Grumpy Old Man Collection has 13 products in total. The typical mug, t-shirt and golf cap are yours to grab.
Next Sunday, show your father you care by having a good laugh with your dad. Love and laughter are the more memorable gifts.
Sourcing:
For the father who likes to barbecue: