August 2007 Entries
Today is Blog Day. This is perfect for me since it falls the same day I usually feature the best posts of the week from the blogosphere. This edition will be slightly altered to fit their spirit of the celebrations.
Basically to celebrate I need to introduce 5 new blogs to my readers, ideally from around the world. I must notify first the 5 bloggers that I recommended as part of BlogDay 2007 so they can continue the celebrations.
Paper Skirt for invitations and greetings
Paper Skirt is the biggest (and best!) creative undertaking of multimedia graphic designer Lana Stewart from Ottawa. I follow Lana Stewart for a while now on her own blog. Now with the opening of a workshop boutique, Paper Skirt has its own blog.
I invite you to take a look at Lana's greeting card collections. The Needs More Tuna recipe cards are original. Buy several sets, they made a great hostess gift for people that like to cook. Her cat Orville is a friend of my cats on Facebook.
Bargainista for her shopping advice
Bargainista is a blog of a busy, working young mother from Toronto. She tells us about sales and shares her customer experience with us. I enjoyed her blog even though I do not live in Toronto. I met her because she also competes in The 1% Army Canadian Blogging Tournament. She is energetic and fun.
Unclutterer for a neater living environment
Unclutterer is the blog about getting and staying organized. They give practical tips on how to find a place for everything, and everything in its place. I gather some useful information. The less you need to unclutter your house before a party, the more you will enjoy it.
Popgadget showcases innovative gadgets for women
Popgadget is a lifestyle magazine that embraces technology as a regular and essential part of women's lives. Popgadget is written by women for women. You find unusual, something tacky gadget items but you also discover cool innovative objects. That is where I discovered my trendy clip-on MOOPocket sold on etsy.
The MOOPocket classic costs $11 USD. The clip-on model is $15. The fabric selection is great. They are a must if you have MOO cards. Even my husband thinks they are cool. Some fabrics are neutral gender.
Olivese for amazing French fabric pattern
The bad news for most of my readers is this is Olivese blog written in French produced by Creations Olivese. I found it very inspiring to look at their textile and sewing creations for babies and young children. I do not even have children. Located in France, this small design studio is working on a fabulous collection and the opening of a boutique. I love the colors and motifs. You do not need to read French; their blog is a pleasure for the eyes.
Happy Blog Day! If you did not post your 5 new blogs, there is still time to participate.
Sourcing:
Learn more: BlogDay web site
Buy online: Home of the MOOPocket Splatgirl Creates on etsy
Categories:
OFF topics
posted @ Friday, August 31, 2007 2:30 PM | Feedback (2)
It is back to school time again. Parents of young children often give a little something to the new teacher of their child. It is a wonderful idea.
You can send homemade cookies. But I think you will make an even better impression by sending this remarkable Teachers are Special note pad. It will take you no time since the pad is already wrapped in a cello bag with a red grosgrain bow. You just need to slip in your mom & dad calling card under the bow.
An interview with Bonnie Marcus done by All the Best reminded me of this fabulous stationery. I always like the design of Bonnie’s StylePress, dba Bonnie Marcus & Co. And it seems that I am not alone since you can found her stationery in over 1,000 retailers around the world, including Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale’s, Barneys New York and Kate’s Paperie.
Bonnie Marcus won American Express 2006 "Make Mine a Million Business" contest for women entrepreneurs. She regularly mentors other women looking to start their own business while having time to be a mother. Bravo Bonnie!
Introducing a stylish blog
The blog All the Best was founded in January 2007 as an online guide to stylish living. The editor is a native Texan woman now living in the United Kingdom. Daily posts range from design, wine, shopping, travel, fashion and art. Take a look; this is a blog you will probably enjoy.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Web site of Bonnie Marcus & Co. StylePress
Via: Interview: Bonnie Marcus published on All the Best blog
Categories:
PAPER goods
GIFT ideas
posted @ Thursday, August 30, 2007 1:35 PM | Feedback (0)
We all experienced the juggling act of holding a plate and a wine glass while trying to interact with others at a party. It can even lead to messy moments.
Some called them mingle plates, cocktail plates, wine & dine plates or one free hand plates; but the name does not really matter. Once you use it, you do not want to go back. This a plate with a slot to hold your wine glass for you to have one free hand.
This gadget makes a difference. If you like hosting cocktail parties, you must stock a dozen or more in your party pantry. But be warned that you may transform you into the hostess queen around your circles of guests.
What to look for in a mingle plate?
The plate must be strong but not heavy. That is why I usually tested plastic or acrylic plates with a good wine glass filled with water before buying. You also want to see how well you can handle the plate.
Plates with a rim help to keep the food in when you circulate. So it is a must-have feature. Finally this is for finger food, so there is no need to go bigger than the size of salad plates (7 to 8 inches maximum).
Selection of wood wine & dine plates
I enjoy the look of exotic wood plates. They are lighter than ceramic and nearly unbreakable. They add a little je ne sais quoi. Wood plates require more care as they must be hand washed.
The Turned Wood Mingling Plates is a new model at Pottery Barn. It is part of a serving ware series with a 3-Tier Stand and a duo of pastry pedestals amongst other pieces.
Crate & Barrel sells a cool looking rectangular cocktail plate. On the plus side is unexpected and has nice rims. I have never tried a rectangular mingling plate so I can say if it is comfortable or not. If some of you have tried a rectangular wine & dine plate before, I will like to hear your comments.
Frontgate sells a set of six Acadia wood Party Plates for $79.50. The plate diameter is 10 inches. As you can see from the marketing picture, the woman used both hands to hold the plate. That defies the intent. So I suggest staying away for this model.
The Tapas plates from Sur La Table are the winner for party goers. It is big enough to hold comfortably a couple of hors d’oeuvres at a time. The etiquette suggests that you serve yourself 2-3 pieces at a time. In a cocktail, you take a few hors d’oeuvres, socialize a little bit before you go back for more pieces. You often do not need more space than these small plates.
With the stemless wine glasses, the tapas plates look sharp. If you cannot afford the O Riedel glasses, remember that Crate & Barrel sells two models at $1.95 USD each. Make sure to select the higher one, the 17 ounces stemless wine glasses.
Color coded mingling plates
After the drink tags, now comes color coded cocktail plate set. I found two models at Wrappables that are perfect for our cocktail parties. The first one is a set of 4 different colors plates. Made in melamine, each set contains a soft blue, a poppy red, a taupe and a soft white plate.
The second model is more subtle; they have a color coded rims. Unfortunately they are 10 inch diameter. The weight is not the issue since they are made of acrylic. My concern is that it takes too much space when you are moving around and socializing. On the other, you will be able to use them at barbecue and picnic. Overall it is a great versatile buy.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Turned Wood Mingling Plates at Pottery Barn - price: $10 USD each
Buy online: Rectangular Wine and Dine plate at Crate & Barrel - price: $7.95 USD each
Buy online: Set of 6 Acadia wood Party Plates at Frontgate -price: $79.50
Buy online: Set of 4 Tapas plates at Sur La Table - price: $19.95 USD
Buy online: Set of 4 melamine Wine and Dine plates at Wrappables - price: $17.95 USD
Buy online: Set of 6 acrylic Wine 'n Dine plates is at Wrappables - price: $30.95 USD
RELATED POSTS:
+ Glass tapas plates called d'glas
+ Handful of plate
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
PARTY supplies
posted @ Thursday, August 30, 2007 1:00 AM | Feedback (7)
For the past two weeks, I am seeing wonderful Halloween decorations on the Web. I started gathering amazing stuff for several Halloween boards that I cannot wait to show you.
My initial thoughts were to start posting Halloween tips around the second week of September. I got this principle that you do not talk about Halloween before the back to school season is over. It is only me or do you already making plans for Halloween right now?
Crafting decorations take time
If you want to send printed invitations for a Halloween party, it is not too early to start now. You will be able to get your hands on the best Halloween decorations. And if you make your own decorations to complete the look, it is best to not wait until the last minute. You spot an exceptional party in the details. As we all know details take time.
Halloween Party Picks by Martha Stewart
While you wait for my first inspiration board, I am leaving you with a nice craft project on Martha Stewart's Web site. These decorated Halloween party picks are not just for a children party. Halloween is a whimsical celebration. So go ahead and fell free to use them for adult parties.
On Martha Stewart's Web site, you get the written instructions and an average TV segment video. You will learn how to make a Black Cat, a Bat, a green Witch, a Skull and a Jack-o'-Lantern party picks.
Do you plan to host a Halloween party? Is it an adult only, a kid only or a friends and family party?
Sourcing:
Craft project: Halloween party picks by Martha Stewart
Categories:
HOLIDAY
DISHING tips
posted @ Wednesday, August 29, 2007 1:26 PM | Feedback (0)
We still have a few weeks in front of us for plenty of fun picnics. I made a compilation of my favorite picnic bags. These products are not new but I taught it would be fun to see them side by side.
The beauty and practicality of multiple bags
Here you see the trendy Gourmet Gateway Lunch Tote by Built NY inside an orange Reisenthel’s CarryAll bag. A beautiful shot captured by Bea of La Tartine Gourmande, one of my top 10 blogs.
Using multiple bags is pretty practical for a picnic. Initially, you have lots of stuff. But as you eat some food, you can use the free space on the Carrybag to carry everything. Having two bags enables you to spread the load.
I already own a collapsible Reisenthel’s Carry All bag, so I am half ready. I adored the superior construction of the CarryAll for grocery shopping. And I got compliments all the time.
A cheaper copycat option to Reisenthel is the Metro Basket. Designed for picnic in mind, Metro collapsible basket features waterproof interior and expandable drawstring top.
The same company does the Metro Kart on wheel. It is supposed to easy glide across all terrains. I never tried it. The cooler can be removed for cleaning and storage, while the trolley can collapse for compact storage. The Metro Kart is not really what I am suggesting you to do. I find it big to carry around.
Think about individual bags
Instead of the usual communal bags, why not pack everything in individual meals? If you go at a big picnic, people may not eat all at the same time because of the various activities. So it is easier and healthier for your family to separate the food in individual portions at home.
If you go for the individual method, lunch boxes offer the best solutions. Everyone can carry its own lunch. You can also insert the lunch boxes in a larger bag if you are too many or if the kids are too young.
The Bento lunch boxes are great because you get three containers with well-taught separators to neatly store your food. So the food stays in place and everything will look good at the picnic. I suggest you get a different color for each member of the family.
A touch of nostalgia
The Malibu Rose shoulder bag is a nice take on an old-fashioned pattern. This bag for two can hold a good quality of food and drinks.
A friend of mine has a foldable aluminium picnic just like that that used to belong to his parents. It is a must-have accessory with kids when you go camping or to the beach. He was telling me that the table is now a family treasure that is passed along between brothers and sisters. So I was thrilled to find one at Picnic Fun.
The wooden portable picnic is on sale at $110 right now at Picnic Fun. For less, you can get a blue high strength aluminum alloy frame and polyethylene resin at only $70. Did I mention that once you fold the picnic table with 4 seats it fits in that lean carry case. A marvelous idea for family and tent campers.
Stay in touch because later this week, I will publish my menu suggestions for picnic.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Gourmet Gateway Lunch Tote by Built NY
For Americans: Reisenthel Collapsible European Market Tote available at SurLaTable.com
For Canadians: Reisenthel CarryAll bags available at GoneShopping.ca
Buy online: Metro Basket available at Picnic Fun
Buy online: Metro Kart Insulated Cooler available at Picnic Fun
Buy online: Bento Box available at Plastica Shop
Buy online: Foldable Picnic Tables available at Picnic Fun
Learn more: Malibu Rose shoulder bag by Picnic Time
Photo credit: Orange Reisenthel market tote on the beach is a picture taken by Bea of La Tartine Gourmande – rights protected picture
Categories:
OUTDOOR
PARTY supplies
posted @ Tuesday, August 28, 2007 3:21 PM | Feedback (2)
An interesting contest is going on right now. Style Me Pretty's readers were asked to submit their vision of the best weddings. You can now vote for your favorite inspiration board. Hurry up; you have until Friday, August 31, 2007 to express your opinion.
I like looking at what people produce to get a pool of their tastes. While looking at these wedding boards a few grabbed my eyes as perfect candidates for a birthday or anniversary party. I made a few changes to make them more suitable for a birthday party. Since I do not want to influence the voting process I will show them to you next week.
Until them, I invite you to take a look at all the boards in competition. The quality is impressive. Remember you have until August 31 to cast your vote.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Inspiration Board Contest II, Voting! published on Style Me Pretty blog
Categories:
PARTY ideas
BIG events
posted @ Tuesday, August 28, 2007 12:46 PM | Feedback (1)
Nothing can beat the traditional glass pastry domes for creating the ultimate dessert serving ware. I always have a fascination for these tall structures. They add more drama than the typical cake pedestals.
Pastry domes bring a touch of nostalgia to your dinner party. Most people associate them with formal dining settings but the rustic charm of many models make them suitable for casual dinner events. Think about it like the little black dress in your wardrobe, you can always dress it up or down.
Slick glassware models are popular but I prefer the mix of materials and finishes. Pastry domes with a wood base or a metallic base look very European. I guess that is one of the appeals for me. I found you three retailers on the Web at different price ranges and styles.
Airy and modern clear glassware
The top row is about clear glassware. For this reason, they look airy and modern. The 9 inches tall Domed Pastry Stand is sold for only $18 USD at The Gardener. The 13 inches costs $20. At these prices, they are no reason to not hide one or two in your party cupboard. You can fit one small cake or 3 to 5 pantries in each stand.
Gold glass pastry domes
The most stylish dessert stands are from Horchow. This is a store with amazing products. I am presenting you a collection made of pale gold glass with gold-leaf finished stems.
There is just enough gold glows to be stylish and make the pieces look special. This is a luxury you can afford. The price is only $30 for a 12 inches tall pastry dome, $35 for the 16 inches and $40 for the 20 inches.
Having a trio makes the best presentation. Use them to nicely display mouth-watering desserts and fruits on a dessert station or on a console next by the dinner table. Seeing them all nights will tease your guests. You will need to be a little patient since two dimensions are back ordered until October 1st, 2007.
Exquisite adjustable nickel plated brass stands
Perfect as a wedding gift, the next two domed stands are an indulgence that any chic hostess will die for. Made of nickel-plated brass stands with adjustable heights, these fine etched glass pastry domes are magnificent. The diameter sizes are just right at 8.25 and 11 inches. They start at $145 USD for the small Adjustable Dessert Stand. Since they fit with my home décor, they are destined to be mine. This last comment is a clue to my immediate family :).
Decorative wood stands with glass domes
At Giani's, I found a set of three Decorative Dome Pastry Stands with black wooden stems for $52.95 USD. They look great. Since the plate diameter is only 7 inches, they work best for cheeses, fruits, cupcakes, small cakes and individual pastries. This set is cool because you can divide it in three presents. So next time you bring the dessert to a casual dinner party, slip in a pastry dome for an outstanding hostess gift. You are sure to be invited again.
The last two vintage domes display a cleaner classical look that the dome pastry stands at Giani's. If you want to own two stylish domed stands and you do not want to spend too much money, these ones are your best buy. Like I said before having two diameter sizes is a plus. Horchow sells the Short Cake Stand for $40 USD and the Tall Cake Stand for $65.
When you serve your dessert in a domed pastry stand, your table is almost done. If you are in a hurry, just by themselves they create an interesting table setting. So they are the perfect equipment for easy entertaining.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Domed Pastry Stand available at The Gardener
Buy online: Gold glass Pastry Domes available at Horchow
Buy online: Nickel-plated Dessert Stands available at Horchow
Buy online: Set of three Decorative Dome Pastry Stands available at Giani's
Buy online: Vintage Style Cake Stands available at Horchow
Categories:
GIFT ideas
TABLEWARE
CAKES
posted @ Monday, August 27, 2007 12:31 PM | Feedback (4)
For my readers in the United States I got a good and a bad news. The good news is that I dig up a source in the United States for a flat pack flower vase similar to the Vazu vases I spoke about last week.
The patterns are cool and lively. These nicely shaped vases are made in Japan. They seem to be as strong and durable as Vazu.
Plastica is a hip boutique filled with unique items from around the world as well as products by local designers. You can get these expandable flower vases at their boutique located in Silverlake, Los Angeles or buy it online.
The bad news is the price. This brand is twice as expensive as Vazu. Being made in Japan partially explains why it costs more. But at $26, it is still affordable; you just have to spend less on flowers for your housewarming gift.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Expandable Flower Vases available at Plastica
RELATED POST:
+ Digging up a North American source for Vazu
Categories:
GIFT ideas
posted @ Monday, August 27, 2007 12:29 AM | Feedback (0)
Technically the first post is from last week but since I discovered the chic orange tone marriage this week, it made this week blogosphere compilation.
Social Design for Love it so much!!
This post showcased a real wedding. What you see in Love it so much!! is amazing in every way. There are a lot of details done in a clean design. It shows that you do not need to pack your décor to make it amazing and substantial.
You get inspired by the daring use of an orange drape for the ceremony, the retro look of the birdcage veil with a starlet nightgown wedding dress up to the modern square table settings. This wedding was featured on Social Design blog, the brain-child of Lyndsi Joy and Amanda Domergue, two young event designers and coordinators from Philadelphia.
Seven spoons for Dear Mr. Truant Officer
I am waiting for my husband to make chocolate molten lava cakes. We updated an absolutely amazing chocolate torte we often do to create our recipe. I wait for him to share it with you because he is the king of desserts in our home.
In the meantime, Tara from Seven spoons published her recipe for Espresso and chocolate fondants. It seems divine. But I have an alternate motive to select this post. Look at these ramekins. The curly handles are so cute. You can find similar ones through Amazon.com. A Canadian young woman is behind the cooking blog Seven spoons since 2005.
AT:The Kitchen for Apartment Therapy Market Bag design contest
If you do not already in the know, The Kitchen franchise of Apartment Therapy launched a design contest last July for their upcoming grocery tote bag.
The 5 finalists were announced this week. It Times to Vote! for your favorite. I am hesitating between the drawings of Lisa, Raedia and Beverly. I am leaning towards Lisa (the first one) for the moment. You have until Wednesday, September 5th (5pm eastern time) to cast your vote.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Set of 4 Lyon Ramekins by BIA Cordon Bleu at Amazon.com
Categories:
PARTY ideas
CAKES
posted @ Friday, August 24, 2007 4:10 PM | Feedback (0)
I know Trish Magwood since 2005 as the host of the hit show party dish on the Food Network. Trish is known for preparing uncomplicated but delicious recipes. She explores fun and modern dishing techniques that are perfect for easy entertaining.
On September 14, her first cookbook will hit the stores in Canada. It is a cookbook about everyday simple to special occasions entertaining menu. Knowing her style, it sounds promising. So I put the book Dish entertains on my radar.
We can read from the publisher note that:
Dish entertains is exactly the cookbook needed by time-starved chefs who want both innovative and classic entertaining recipes — simple, beautiful and always deliciously fabulous.
In the meantime, here are some pictures of her cooking classes and a sample of the food presentation done by her catering service. Her business, dish cooking studio cover many angles of entertaining. It is a cooking school, a full service caterer, a specialized kitchen store and a gourmet café.
When you are looking for a new group activity, why not take a cooking class. They are perfect for bridal showers, a girl night out event or a corporate event. Preparing food usually brings people together; so it is the perfect activity if you want to augment the bound between your friends or your team members.
Operating facts about the dish cooking school
Next Tuesday, August 28, there is a hands-on session inspired by recipes from Jamie Oliver. Scheduled courses cover 10 topics in September. New Way to Cook, Beginner or Intermediate Chef Essentials, Everyday Simple Dinner party, Japanese Made Simple and Make ahead Thanksgiving Feast are the ones that caught my attention.
If you are looking for private courses, it is good to know in advance that private hands-on classes can accommodate up to 16 guests. Interactive dinner party classes house up to 50 persons while the demonstration classes can host up to 24 guests. To book a private 2.5 to 3 hour class, the price starts at $160 per person.
The little extras
If you want to welcome your guests in style before class, serve a glass of wine and some delicious nibbles when the participants arrive. You can give a party favor to thank everyone for coming and participating. You see that the boundary of entertaining can always be pushed a little bit further.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Web site of dish cooking studio
Learn more: Scheduled cooking classes at dish cooking studio
Learn more: Party dish tv series at Food Network Canada
Buy online: Dish Entertains by Trish Magwood at Indigo.ca
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
posted @ Friday, August 24, 2007 1:23 AM | Feedback (9)
My friend Mélanie commented an hour ago about these vases on my blog. Her tip was so interesting that I decided to highlight this product right away.
The vases from TOMA display interesting illustrations. You can choose between a fern, blue grass, a Japanese proverb, red fish, kitchen utensils or a face with a heart (better for Valentine Day).
The comparison
They cost less than the Vazu vases that I presented yesterday; $4 CAD for a small vase, $5 for a large vase. From the pictures, these vases seem to look more plastic, a little bit less refined than Vazu. But for the price, I cannot complain. Where else can I easily carry my flowers in an original vase for an extra $4. And this product is more widely available in stores.
Several florists in Canada and the USA carry the line. You can grab everything in one stop. Check out the "Where to buy" section of TOMA’s Web site to find one near you. You can also buy directly online from TOMA.
One tip when you bring flowers as an hostess gift
It is more thoughtful and practical to bring flowers in a vase as a hostess gift or a housewarming gift. The host of an event has already many things to care of so make it easy for him / her to receive your gift.
TOMA is also an outgrowth of Thomas design+communication, which began using objects as part of its communication strategy several years ago.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Expandable flower vases by TOMA
Categories:
GIFT ideas
posted @ Wednesday, August 22, 2007 10:33 PM | Feedback (0)
This post is about an innovative product that makes an affordable hostess gift or housewarming gift. This does not mean that you cannot just bring a couple to your home.
Update August 22, 2007:
Stop by the florist to get fresh flowers and your hostess or housewarming gift is set. I appreciate the fact that I can bring the vase with a bunch of flowers without having to carry a heavy lift. And there is no chance to break the vase either. (Thanks to Eden - see comments).
A one of a king flower vase design
Vazu is a flower vase like you have never seen before. What is so special about Vazu is that it is thin as a paper sheet when it is flat. And do not be fool by how little it weights, this flower vase is strong and durable.
Once you filled it with water, the transparency and glossiness of Vazu resembles a glass vase. The first collection of Vazu contains 16 models in three different shapes. The arrays of patterns mix modern and classic designs. Vazu is the design of T.H.+E. Design Group located in Israel.
Sold for $12 CAD at The Water Shoppe in Toronto, this expandable plastic vase enables you to carry around flowers without a leak. At this price, you can afford to use them as the vase centerpieces for a large family affair event.
My dose of Sweet Nothing
I discovered Vazu via the Sweet Nothing newsletters. Since Joanna Track launched it in June 2004, subscribers to Sweetspot.ca have received a daily fix of trend spotting lifestyle and shopping guide in their inboxes Monday through Friday. There are five editions: Montreal, Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver and Sweetmama.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Web site for the Vazu flower vase designed by T.H.+E. Design Group
Learn more: Web site of Sweetspot.ca
RELATED POSTS:
+ Montreal-based TOMA expandable flower vases
+ Expandable flower vase at Plastica of Los Angeles
+ Christmas Vazu Collection at Vases by Vazu
Categories:
GIFT ideas
HOSTESS gifts
posted @ Tuesday, August 21, 2007 11:43 PM | Feedback (15)
Here is a tasteful yet simple way to label the wines for a wine tasting party. It is versatile because this label tag technique works as well on decanters, wine carafes, wine bottles and glasses.
The next time you do a wine and cheese party, think about labeling the wines you will be serving. Hang a chalkboard where you wrote the specifics of the wine so everyone can read them. If you ask guests to bring a bottle, ask them for the wine details a couple of days in advance.
To reproduce these labels, simply glue a number on a natural paper background on the center of a price tag. It is even simpler if you buy the number already on a background. It looks better when you leave a margin on the price tag. Use raffia ribbons to attach the label to the container. You can play with colors if you like.
Homemade wine tasting booklets as party favors
You can craft a booklet to leave as a souvenir to your guests. On each page, print the specifics of the wine and leave some room for the guest to write his / her impressions. It is always a good idea to add extra blank pages as new wines will certainly be added at the last minute.
My tips for styling the booklet
Go to the art and craft store or a fine stationary store to pick up a few accessories. I like to use Chicago Screws to bind the pages of small notebooks. Also called Binder Posts, Chicago screws come in varying heights. So get the right fit. You can get them in aluminium, brass, nickel, gunmetal metal and vibrant colors at Quietfire Design online store. Embellish the cover page with eyelets and brads.
I enjoy the aluminum and nickel looks, so I get my Chicago screws in a fine stationary store called Nota Bene* located in Montreal. If you are looking for international collection of contemporary designed stationery from around the world, stop by Nota Bene*. I like to explore their stylish and modern selection of weekly planners, diaries, notebooks, binders, albums, papers, envelops and pens. Nota Bene* is one of my favorite shops. Russell, the owner is a nice guy that is truly passionate about what he does.
Have fun labeling and making your wine booklet party favor. I am sure that your guests will appreciate these keepsakes.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Ceramic Wine Buckets at Pottery Barn
Buy online: Chicago Screws and Extenders at QuietfireDesign
Learn more: Web site of papetrie nota bene* in Montreal
Categories:
PARTY supplies
GIFT ideas
posted @ Tuesday, August 21, 2007 12:29 PM | Feedback (2)
On the September edition of the Canadian magazine Chocolat, I read a neat article on how to label and add panache to ordinary storage containers. The idea is to get inspired by scrapbooking to produce adorable labels.
Nicely packaged hostess gifts and party favors seem more special. Labels add value to the simplest things so you do not need to spend a lot of money on the container.
How to make your own labels?
Beside printing labels, letter and number stickers come handy when put on metallic buckets and glassware jars. You can mix and match fonts and colors for a whimsical effect. For a richer look, use metallic letters.
Sticker labels are widely available at the office supply store in different sizes and shapes. Import cropped pictures or shapes to create your own design.
If you use commercial brand sticker sheets, you can use the label tools of MS-Word to format your sheet of labels. The tool displays the borderers of each label. Print it first on a plain sheet of paper to see if your patterns sit at the right place on every label. Otherwise, you can find templates on the Web like the ones published by Chocolat.
You may prefer the look of a textured paper label. Since they are not available as a self adhesive paper, finding the right glue for the job is critical. Ask the staff at a scrapbook department of an art and craft store for advice. But remember that craft is a trial and error process, so stock a few extra for experimenting. You can always use the extra for another project.
Shaped labels
You can cut out the silhouette of animal, thing or person on a plastic placemat from the Dollar store or get a placemat on sale. If you use a placemat, you will need to handwrite your text with a permanent ink pen. I find that pens from Sharpie stick well on all surfaces. Usually, Velcro circles are the best way to hold cut silhouette labels in place.
Gluing textiles and paper on boxes
I really like how the team of Chocolat had recycled in style the shoe boxes. Reuse this idea to wrap a present or to make a container for a centerpiece. I did it last Christmas with gorgeous hat boxes. It is unexpected. But really you can use this technique on any carton size.
They are more ideas on the print magazine but the instructions to three techniques with templates are published on the Chocolat magazine Web site.
If you are not ready to make your own, the nice Cookie labels designed by Jordan, the girl blogger behind Oh Happy Days are available for $5 on Etsy. I spotlighted her lovely cookie jars two weeks ago. Each package contains five self adhesive brown cookie labels.
Have fun and start to custom made your labels.
Sourcing:
Techniques and templates: Label It on Chocolat magazine
Learn more: Etsy shop published on Oh Happy Days blog
Buy online: jordanferney's Etsy shop
Categories:
PAPER goods
PARTY ideas
posted @ Monday, August 20, 2007 12:46 PM | Feedback (3)
This week edition is a split between retro style and home decor. After a few iterations, I think I have finally found the right name for my Friday’s column. My goal after all with this weekly column is to showcase 3 to 4 posts from bloggers.
Featured blogs
Letterpress coasters are popping every day. I discovered these via retro chic at hello! Lucky published on Hostess with the Mostess. Stock up the Hostess with the Most Coasters as they make original hostess gifts. A Set of 8 assorted coasters is sold for $10 USD.
Dressing up your wall with the cute collage: krista peel mod art prints. Sold at etsy, each 6 x 6 inches art print is only $7 USD. Thanks to Cuteable to introduce me to the cute modern art of Krista Peel. Other drawings are displayed at her etsy shop.
Mix the art prints and the coasters to create instantly an affordable party theme. Check out the Hello! Lucky retro theme party invitations and you will have everything under control for a fun night with your friends.
Rachel from Black Eiffel shared her Chalkboard fantasies with us. Painting a chalkboard wall in the kitchen is one of my fantasies too. I want one even more since I read this comment. This reader named Alyssa wrote that:
I painted the back of our front door and my hubby and I leave love notes and little reminders on it every day ... because really it’s the best place to be reminded to take the dry cleaning and tell someone you love them!
Before the end of summer, the Swedish blog INREDNINGSBLOGGEN presented us the Cone torches designed by Pernille Vea. Cone is made of frosted glass and top of brushed metal. This outdoor torch can be filled with standard lamp oil and burns with a cotton wick. Use a few pairs of Cone to make a great entrance for a party. A pair costs $84 USD.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Hello Lucky Hostess with the Most Coasters
Buy online: Krista Peel prints on etsy
Buy online: Cone torch designed by Pernille Vea at ScandinavianDesignCenter.com
Categories:
OUTDOOR
posted @ Friday, August 17, 2007 12:49 PM | Feedback (0)
This exercise started with one of the gorgeous aprons available at Anthropologie. I spoke before about the art of mix and match. I decided to put my rules in action starting with the sky blue and red Bird-In-Hand Apron.
By simply coordinating patterns I created an inspiration board for a bridal shower, a dessert event or a lady tea party. I did not only mix patterns, I also combined styles and cultures.
The key elements that unite my board
The first key element is the red and blue color palette. The second one is the flower garden theme.
Because the flowers are quite present in the tableware, flower arrangements become unnecessary. Display fruits or vegetables instead. A bouquet made of artichokes will complement the whole scheme. You can go with yellow or orange nutriments if you prefer a cheerful mood.
Harmonizing food and decor
If you want to serve an unpretentious stylish salad, think outside the box. Take a look at the Brussels Sprouts 3 by Laura Calder from French Food at Home TV series. It is easy to make and absolutely delicious. Brussels sprouts would harmonize well with the artichoke centerpiece idea.
For dishing up the food, try to emphasis the floral and curvy shapes. It can be done through the way you are displaying the food in the serving plates or the way you plate the food itself. One great example is the flower look of the salmon and chill hors d’oeuvre assembled in shooter glasses by Couture Cuisine & Event Artistry.
The floral and curvy shapes can be achieved through the use of cylindrical containers. Anyone can make individual cones with fine paper of coordinating colors. The next time you throw a casual party, feel free to toss cashews, dessert bite-size pieces, caramelized popcorns or French fries in homemade paper cones.
Which are the items that I picked at Anthropologie?
The Asian Inside out bowl collection cleverly mingles snowflakes, stripes, diamonds, fiddlehead ferns and daisies. Serving bowls are available. The Bjorne Fruit dishtowel is livelier that the rest. A potholder, oven mitt, full sized apron and half-apron compose the Bird-In-Hand product line.
The Apple blossom cake stand exhibits crimson butterflies flit among delicate Wedgwood blue branches. To pair with the cake stand, I selected Bluebell from the Parfumerie dessert plate set. The salad plate from the Melon Flower dinnerware line completes my board.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Full aprons at Anthropologie
Buy online: Plates, bowls and cups at Anthropologie
Recipe: Brussels Sprouts 3 by Laura Calder from French Food at Home TV series at FoodTV.ca
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
FOOD + drinks
KITCHEN tools
posted @ Thursday, August 16, 2007 1:30 PM | Feedback (2)
If you like to throw parties, there is a good chance you are already familiar with evite. I visited the sites several times before but I never really took the time to explore it in details.
Over the years, I developed my own set of party planning tools. With the Web 2.0, I am intrigued to see what is out there. In the following months, I will examine other online event-planning service on the Web so you will be able to select the right one for you.
I started this column with an old timer. evite is far from a Web2.0 site but it does the job. I tested drive evite to see how deep it goes in the planning stage. In theory, evite can save you time.
What in it for you?
First of all, this is a free online event-planning service on the Web. Basically, evite provides online invitations, eCards plus a series of party-planning tools and tips.
I was mostly interested by the planning tools. This is what I tried out. You get access to a party budget estimator, a useful checklist tool, the drink calculator and more. You create your personalized eCard invites, manage your guest lists and keep track of responses.
You can manage the list of things you ask your guests to bring, suggest multiple dates for the event to see which one is the most popular, poll your guests and even request a payment by Paypal from your guests.
evite also provides ideas on party themes and menus. There is more pressure for me to continue to bring you interesting and unique party content.
Pros and cons of email party invites
The bad thing is that evite works only if your guests have an email. Nowadays it is a lesser problem than in the past.
Still in a real life, you may need to take the phone or send a letter to a few guests to get all the answers anyway. But at least you can contact most of your guests in one shot by email. You can set a URL for your invitation.
I did not complete the guest list part neither send any invitations. Therefore, I cannot tell you if that part works great or not. I know that you can customize the reply responses to your invitation. Since evite is operational since 1998 and it is very popular, it is safe to assume they do it reasonably well.
If you have used evite before, what can you tell us about your experience?
Sourcing:
Learn more: Web site of evite
Categories:
PARTY ideas
posted @ Thursday, August 16, 2007 12:23 AM | Feedback (1)
Whenever you are entertaining, food presentation makes all the difference. That is why usually we hire caterers and chefs at home.
You may think that you do have the time or the skills to reproduce this level of excellence at home. You are probably right but you can get inspired by their work of art.
I will use Couture Cuisine & Event Artistry’s realizations as a starting point to share some of my tricks. This Toronto catering company likes to achieve fashion forward event design as stylish, individual and as memorable as you are. It sounds a little bit like my own philosophy of entertaining.
To save money, you can buy your canapés & hors d’oeuvres from a high-end caterer shop but do the plating yourself. Here are some catering trends that I think look fantastic.
Sesame seeds as a backdrop
One definite trend is the use of seeds like black sesame seeds to create a bed on which you will layout the hors d’oeuvres.
A nicely placed egg shell can look divine as you can see. My guess will be to use hot glue to make the large part stands on the broken egg top.
Remember this great presentation idea for serving your next brunch. Use this presentation with the Soft Boiled Egg with Watercress Crème Fraiche, Foie Gras Croutons, and American Caviar recipe inspired by Chef Patrick Connolly. Patrick is the chef at Radius, a restaurant widely recognized as Boston's best restaurant. The recipe adapted by starchefs.com should be a hit amongst your guests.
Mix and match materials for unique presentation
Extend your serving ware collection by using boards and tiles made of granite, marble, slate, ceramic and glass. Wood trays and trunks easily bring heights to a buffet table.
Go to the fabric store to buy some tulle to be the backdrop of a romantic dessert table. I suggest this look for a bridal shower, a wedding, a baptism celebration or a wedding anniversary.
New way to serve crudités
Instead of the traditional vegetable crudités served in a bowl, find a large rectangular Plexiglas or clear glass box that is 8 to 10 inches high. Create a 4 to 6 inches layer with the black sesame seeds.
Stick the fresh vegetables into the seeds in elegant square grouping to create small gardens. Plan one vegetable type per grouping. If you have enough space, place two or three dips in square communal bowls inside the box.
Smoked salmon in a shooter glass
Smoked salmon with chives and a hint of cream cheese is a classical cocktail dish. Spice up the presentation by layering it in a shooter glass. Then layout the shooter glasses in a low sided glass bucket filled of ice cubes. You can design a donut with the shooter glasses and place a cold bottle of vodka at the center.
Staff uniform
If you hire serving staff, inquire in advance what the staff will be wearing. You want them well dressed. If it not up to your standards, tell it to your caterer. You can always rent their uniforms to go with the style of your event. I like the look of the pinstriped waistcoat with the grey and white tie. So chic!
About Couture Cuisine & Event Artistry
Uber-Chef Arpi Magyar comes to Couture cuisine & event artistry with over 35 years of experience in the kitchen. As the executive chef of Pronto, Oliver's, Auberge du Pommier and later chef owner of Splendido and Cucina, Chef Magyar needs no introduction to foodies.
Couture cuisine & event artistry does corporate events, weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs plus other social events. They devised seasonal menus.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Web site of Couture cuisine & event artistry
Recipe: Soft Boiled Egg with Watercress Crème Fraiche, Foie Gras Croutons and American Caviar recipe by Boston Chef Patrick Connolly of Radius restaurant published on starchefs.com
Categories:
DISHING tips
posted @ Tuesday, August 14, 2007 2:28 PM | Feedback (5)
I told you earlier that I am participating in a friendly tournament with other Canadian bloggers. The tournament has now officially begun.
What is it?
We are 128 Canadian born or Canadian residents that are taking part in this fun blogging competition. It is a nice way to discover new blogs. The topics of these blogs are not exactly home décor, cooking or entertaining. You can find blogs on photography, gadgets, marketing, currents events and random thoughts.
As you can read on Buzz Canada, it is more a community of marketers/ digiterati / media-ites / flacks who like to create content and start conversations. I read a few blogs so far and I read interesting stories from good bloggers. So I invite you to go through the list.
The first round
They will keep two bloggers out of 4. I compete in the first round against three male bloggers from Montreal. They are:
What is your favorite post from this blog so far?
I have to submit my best posts. I made my own compilation. It is a good opportunity to find out what my readers think. I want to understand better what you like to read on my blog. I would like you to answer this question: What is your favorite post from this blog so far? Feel free to comment.
Sourcing:
Learn more: The 1% Army Canadian Blogging Tournament Begins published on Buzz Canada Blog
Categories:
IN the press
posted @ Monday, August 13, 2007 10:03 PM | Feedback (1)
There is more than style when it comes to selecting the perfect dining table for entertaining. As a strong believer of Louis Sullivan’s architecture principle Form ever follows function, I always look for products with superior functionality and style.
I compiled the main features to look for before you buy a dining room table for entertaining. To keep it simple, I will not talk about the size or the shape of the room.
Rectangular shaped dining table
If you like to entertain more than 10 guests at a time, I suggest you aim for a rectangular shape. The Refectory table with its communal spirit is ideal for entertaining.
A round table must have 6 feet of diameter to fit 8 to 10 persons. That is why a rectangular dining table is the norm in a home environment if you need to sit down more people.
Furniture makers in North American produce dining tables between 36 to 40 inches width. If you are short of space, think about having a custom made 32 inch width table and use the extra inches to move around. The distressed wood table by Marchetti shows a clever mix between rustic and refined look. This is typical of Italian family events.
When I travelled in the Netherlands with their narrow houses, I discovered the beauty and the practicality of less wide dining tables. There is a coziness to them that seduced me. My current table is an extendable boat shape table with a maximum width of 38 inches (33 at the lowest). I would have preferred a slightly narrower table.
I am not keen of placing large serving plates at the center of the table. I prefer setting a food serving station. A butler tray or a side table works fine for this task. This way the table is not overcrowded. If your table fits twelve and you entertain only eight guests, you can divide everything in two and spread the serving plates at both ends. The goal is to make easy for the guests to serve themselves.
Integrated leaves
A long and narrow dining table is very cute but there are several good reasons why you want to shrink your table for your daily usage. Some people feel uncomfortable eating everyday on a big table if they are only two persons at the table. If this is your case, I suggest you get an extendable table. Most tables extend up to 10 or 12 people. Rarer models comfortably house up to 16 guests. You aim for the longest table you can fit in when it is extended.
Panels are bulky and they are may be tricky to store. The most practical dining tables hide the panels inside the table. Unfortunately, they are not the most popular designs in North America. Many types of mechanisms for integrated panels have been developed. Some work better than others. So try it in the store to see if you like the way it works. If you extend the ends, make sure the ends feel strong when open.
Most extendable tables are made of wood but some brands designed extendable glass top tables. The Fregoli dining table designed by C. Carli is the perfect example in modern style.
Storage
A table with low side drawers is practical to keep your flatware and a sample of your linen. Casual entertainers will appreciate the style of the Menos table designed by Peter Maly for Behr International. I see this table in a loft or a dining table integrated in a kitchen. The superbly wood crafted Menos will look at its best in a modern summer house or in a dining room that opens to the outdoor. There is a Scandinavian mood out of the maple Menos dining table.
Before you buy a dining table with drawers, sit down and check if you have enough rooms for your legs. Ideally, sit on the chairs you will use. If you can, bring a few friends of different body shapes than you and ask for their opinions.
Whatever style, materials and features you opt for, your table must feel comfortable when eating. Stay tuned for upcoming posts this fall about the choice of materials and seating options.
Sourcing:
For Australians: Italian manufacturer Marchetti dining collections available at Domo Collections
Learn more: Fregoli dining table designed by C. Carli for Marchetti Casa – a different Marchetti
Buy online: Extendable table designed by Rolf Benz available at House of European Design store
Buy online: Menos Table designed by Peter Maly for Behr International available at House of European Design store
Categories:
HOME decor
posted @ Monday, August 13, 2007 1:24 PM | Feedback (0)
I decided to rename my Friday’s night column A few moments of pleasures by other bloggers because this week compilation would have felt short of the truth if I used the usual Small points on my notebook. Peek at the pictures to grasp my point.
I thanked Housemartin for offering us a day dreaming moment with a birch canopy daybed under the tree.
Toast and Tables showed us remarkable glassware with the Vega Stemware by Baccarat and the Xenia Stemware by Faberge. I would certainly make a Toast to life in one of these.
Congratulations to Beatrice from La Tartine Gourmande for her article in The Boston Globe about Pretty and portable, verrines offer layers of satisfaction. She wrote in her blog a touching story about about why she is like her dad.
Have a nice week-end!
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
FOOD + drinks
OUTDOOR
posted @ Friday, August 10, 2007 8:11 PM | Feedback (0)
The back to school advertising is the first sign that summer is coming to an end. But there is still plenty of beautiful weather nights left to entertain your kids outside.
Everyone knows that young kids like to camp. That is why Cookie Magazine published a set of activity tips and the things you need to make it a reality in your backyard. I added my little touch of wisdom to complete what they suggested.
For the naturalist or the animal lover
Why not go with a safari-style canvas tent? Your little ones can pretend to be the renowned primatologist Jane Goodalls conducting her field research. Otherwise, you can prepare a bird sighting adventure or an insect discovery expedition.
For the techie or the astronomer
With futuristic outdoor gadgets and gear, you may succeed to lure your child outside for a while. This weatherproof tent is equipped with three electrical outlets. Plug in your laptop and explore the cosmos with the telescope before going to bed. Bring some brain games to occupy their mind until dark.
For the dreamer
Create a fantasy world by crafting an exotic encampment. Plan a game with an Aladdin’s Lamp or a fortune teller before having a tea party with teddy bears. You can organize a stylish Arabic dinner party for the parents in one area to complement the kid party theme.
For an old-fashioned entertainment night
Or you can simply organize a family movie night in the park. Plan a barbecue before the movie. Bring outside the popcorn and the hot dog machines.You can make a little roof and side panels around the screen to increase the viewing quality. A few old-fashioned activities will turn your backyard excursion into a night to remember.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Pitch perfect published in Cookie magazine
Via: Blogging Cookie Magazine: Pitch Perfect Tents published in Apartment Therapy: the nursery
Categories:
OUTDOOR
KIDS party
posted @ Friday, August 10, 2007 6:43 PM | Feedback (0)
When you invest that much money in formal dinnerware, you want to make sure you get a look of your own. The best way to do that is to mix and match plates and bowls.
Brands and retailers make it easy for you. Several dinnerware collections are built around coordinating color palettes or pattern details within a brand. But you should not stop there.
You can explore the possibilities of mixing and matching different brand. The key is that they must share the same fine porcelain qualities. For example, only select Limoges porcelain.
How to formulate the basis of your own formal tabletop?
The inspiration shot was taken from the Web site of the high-end retailer Michael C. Fina. You see here a fresh yet traditional take on formal dining.
The stylist at Michael C. Fina composed a place setting by mixing two patterns by Christofle, Foam which is one of their own creations and Hemisphere Matte Platinum by Jean-Louis Coquet.
On Christofle Web site you can read that Metropolis shares the same outer stripe than Fleur d'Argent. Fleur d'Argent weds the traditionalism of a Japanese floral motif and the modernism of platinum effects.
The gray Metropolis pattern works the best with the Fleur d'Argent motif, especially if you introduce metal serving pieces on your table.
You can mix old and new, low and high when you set a formal dinner table. These expensive dinnerware pieces were mixed with the affordable modern style Nambe Kissing Salt and Pepper set designed by Karim Rashid. Nambe costs only $79 USD.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Tableware and Entertaining at Michael C. Fina
Learn more: Web site of Christofle
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
posted @ Thursday, August 09, 2007 10:32 PM | Feedback (2)
I started buying Umbra home décor accessories when I was at university. My emotional connection with Umbra has survived through the years for photo frames. But I did not explore their latest accessories for a while.
That was until Brella and Table Tools
I never taught of Umbra for entertaining until I saw the Brella family designed by Michelle Ivankovic. This line of white and gold tableware mixes old and new styles.
The cake pedestal stand is made of high gloss ceramic base with 14 karat gold detail and clear glass lid. At $99, this is a chic but yet affordable cake stand.
Renowned British architect Will Alsop launched Table Tools, a set of cutlery which premiered at the Umbra Concept store in Toronto. This funky stainless steel flatware costs $40 CAD per setting.
I got more insights about Table Tools from a news report by Alfred Ng published on NowPublic.com. He went to a book signing session by Will Alsop earlier in June. The crowd powered media NowPublic.com is a Web 2.0 site where ordinary people around the world write the news.
The Ensalada family came first
When exploring the U+ collection, take a peek at the ensalada family designed by Mint of New York City. With one of these sets, you are sure to serve your salads in style.
The high-gloss translucent hand-blown double-walled glass serving bowl with two interlocking polished stainless steel serving utensils is beautiful. These glassware bowls are available in transparent white, red, black and smoke blue. The Ensalada bowl with servers is sold for $132 CAD. A larger bowl and a set of salad serving utensils complete the line.
About the finer U+ collection
Brella and Table Tools are part of the U+ collection. U+ is Umbra's studio line, a unique collection of useful and beautiful objects to give or collect. The Brella family includes traditional style flower vases in three formats, a large and a small serving bowl, a cake pedestal stand and a photo frame. They all make great gifts from birthdays, housewarming parties or bridal showers.
Sourcing:
Buy online: U+ collection by Umbra
Buy online: Brella vases, cake stand, bowls and photo frame by Umbra
Buy online: Ensalada bowls ans salad servers designed by Mint for Umbra
Leanr more: Web site of Mint Inc.
Learn more: Architect Will Alsop launch his first tableware in Toronto by Andrew Ng on NowPublic.com
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
GIFT ideas
posted @ Thursday, August 09, 2007 1:16 PM | Feedback (3)
Writing two posts a day had been fun over the last three weeks. With my upcoming work load I suspect it will be hard to continue at this rhythm. So from now I plan to write one post a day for sure and occasionally two. My intent is either to publish a post by midnight or around noon the next day. Experience will tell us which one will become the norm.
I may publish more than that if my agenda allows me to do it. During the week end, my break from blogging is still in effect. However I can always surprise you occasionally.
Categories:
IN the press
posted @ Thursday, August 09, 2007 12:12 AM | Feedback (0)
Like it or not, IKEA has democratized the home decor industry. If you are on a budget and use your creativity, you can devise fabulous kitchens from their lines of ready-made kitchen cabinets.
Now that the 2008 catalogue is out, I will tell you my favorite kitchen choices. From my pod living story, you already know that I am a fan of whole wall units. So you will not be surprised with my first two choices.
My choices within the AKURUM kitchen system
The NEXUS honey brown door and drawer front series is one my favorite. I always like darker tones for home décor since it feels warmer. At first glance, the kitchen appears more masculine but I see it more as a unisex option if you use a brighter color than black as the accent color. This style costs $109 per linear foot. Since a 10 by 10 kitchen is only $2180 CAD, you can afford to plunge on nicer counter top and backsplash finishes.
The AKURUM kitchen pantry combination shown here with RUBRIK white doors is so cool with the INREDA moving ladder. I always dreamed of owning a ladder like that in my library but my current space does not allow for such a design. The kitchen pantry combination is just $2572 CAD and the ladder is $59 CAD.
The flexibility of UTBY cart
Nowadays the IKEA kitchen provides more option. Take for example the new UTBY shelving unit. The underframe model is available in 2 heights and 2 widths and no top. The low no top version (underframe) merges perfectly under your cabinet. UTBY line includes as a free standing shelving unit, a bar table or a free standing kitchen island.
The kitchen island on the picture with the wall pantry was built with the higher underframe UTBY models. I am not crazy about the fully open shelving unit for the island. I would suggest you cover three sides with paneling. If you can afford it, you can install mosaic tiles or glass tiles for a high end look. The backsplash can be done in different tiles as long as the two complement each others.
The third kitchen is designed for the cooks in mind. The kitchen tools are more accessible. Again, I would close the side end of the washing unit. I think it will look neater without removing any of the practicalities of this easy to reach stuff style. The advantages of horizontal cabinets is that you can leave them open while you are preparing the meal. Achieving this kitchen look costs a little bit more at $149 CAD per linear foot.
How to deal with the fixed dimensions
Create a high and narrow wine rack or integrate a seamless shelving unit for cookbooks and decorative items to fill up the gaps at both ends. Use simple moldings or other design tricks to create the impression of a custom look. You can achieve it as long as you fashion a sense of continuity.
With this post, I want to show you that readymade kitchen built-in cabinets can look sleek and chic if you let flourish your imagination.
Sourcing:
Explore: Kitchen Inspirations by IKEA
For Americans: The IKEA 2008 catalogue available online
For Canadians: The IKEA 2008 catalogue available online
Buy online: The UTBY product line at IKEA
Categories:
HOME decor
posted @ Wednesday, August 08, 2007 12:46 PM | Feedback (2)
Cakes are an important part of any celebrations. This is one custom that I hope with never go out of fashion. Even if decorated cakes are widely available, the best hostesses like to make a bold statement with her cakes.
Bakery Bar specializes in custom designs specifically tailored to your individual style. Their creations are stunning. They are cute, fun, fresh and stylish. In short, they exhibit my favorite qualities.
Gracious whimsical and organic themes
Many of their cake designs are inspired by nature. The bakers at Bakery Bar cleverly and realistically shape fruits, vegetables, plants and much more. Nothing looks tacky here. I would take pleasure in getting that kind of