Cara Crowley

Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T10:38:00.000-08:00

Images from my instagram stream. I’m caracrowley if you want to join me.

Happy Valentine's Day! Honestly, I haven't always been the biggest fan of this day. I have always believed that when you love someone you show them all year long how much they mean to you not just today. But since becoming an Auntie, I have come to like this day more and more. I love sending cards and goodies to my nephews and making it a special day for them.

.... But if I was going to go all out when celebrating Valentine's Day with a love, I would commission a hand calligraphy love letter to give as a gift. This would also be a romantic anniversary gift.

photo credit and to order, contact paperfinger.com

Enjoy your day with the ones you love.

xoxo,

Sunday Mornings

2012-02-06T10:35:00.000-08:00

Images from my instagram stream. I’m caracrowley if you want to join me.

My favorite mornings are Sunday mornings. I love getting up early and taking my nephews to pancakes and then taking them on a fun adventure. This past Sunday we went to a nearby fish hatchery to feed the fish. It was a perfect way to unwind before starting the week. I hope you had a great weekend!

Cleaning House

2012-02-01T19:08:00.000-08:00

The new year always inspires me to start cleaning and organizing. I've been cleaning out my design studio and purging all my party supplies. Today, I found this bunting and I've added it to the shop on my sidebar. For now I am selling only one 4' bunting but I know I have more floating around the studio.

Perfect bunting for a baby shower or birthday party. This bunting is made from two shades of pink card stock; blossom and strawberry. The patterned paper is inspired by a vintage floral pattern with shades of pinks and grays. The bunting is strung on a double sided satin ribbon. Bunting measures 4' in length.

2012-01-31T09:19:00.000-08:00

When I attended the Alt Summit a couple of weeks ago, we were lucky to have Ben Silbermann of Pinterest give the keynote speech. Ben's speech was one of the best speeches I've heard, it was inspiring to hear him talk about his passion as an adult for the internet and after failing trying to create an iPhone app that never happened he turned to what he was passionate as a child, collections. His company then went on to create Pinterest; a place to collect images from around the internet.

I've used Pinterest for a while for both personal and work projects. I use it with my clients as a collaborative work space to collect ideas and as a place to make sure we are visually and style wise on the same page. I use it as a place to collect inspiring images of all types to keep me creatively fed as well as a place to catalog travel, design, entertaining and recipe ideas.

This is how I use Pinterest but I'm always curious to see how other people use it. How do you use Pinterest?

If you are new to Pinterest and want to know how to use it, Kathleen made this video about How to Pinterest. And you can find my collections here.

Chinese New Year 2012

2012-01-23T08:00:00.000-08:00

(Instagram photo )

Today marks the start of the Chinese New Year, the year of the dragon If you are wanting to celebrate here are some ideas to decorate your home for the festivities ::

Decorate your home in red, the Chinese color for good luck.
Peonies symbolize love, affection and beauty and are know in China as "flowers of riches and honor." Float the peonies in shallow bowls down your table to create and easy centerpiece.
String a flower garland to ornament your mantels or doorways.
Line your walkway with traditional Chinese lanterns to draw light and luck, along with your friends and family, straight into your home.
Foods like whole fish, noodles and mandarin oranges are considered lucky foods, so eat or gift these foods as much as you can on the New Year.

Wishing you a year of great happiness and prosperity!

Alt Design Summit

2012-01-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

Today I am leaving my desk and heading to Salt Lake City to attend Alt, an amazing lifestyle and design blogging conference that I am very excited to attend. I'll be driving from Sacramento to Salt Lake City, wish me luck. I hope to be blogging from Salt Lake but if I don't, I'll see you back here next week!

Kid Friendly Entertaining

2012-01-12T13:25:00.000-08:00

Last year I was given to opportunity to contribute to a local moms magazine, Kidaround. In the latest issue, I provided five tips on how to entertaining at home with your kids, instead of going out or shipping the kids off for the evening. You can go here, to read the digital copy of the article and the rest of the publication.

Cauliflower Soup

2012-01-06T14:51:00.000-08:00

In the cold months of January and February, I turn to this soup. It's warm, comforting and satisfying. And as an added bonus it's topped with warm, buttery, crunchy home made croutons.

Melt 3 tablespoons butter in a shallow pan, add 2 diced celery ribs and 2 coarsely chopped cloves of garlic.

Sauté for a few minutes until celery is soft and shallot is translucent. Add kosher salt and freshly ground pepper.

Add 4 cups chicken stock to celery and shallots. Add cut up cauliflower and add a few springs of thyme to pan and simmer for 25-30 minutes.

Remove soup from heat and cool for a few minutes. Spoon mixture into blender and blend in batches (remove the top of blender while blending to allow steam to escape). From there pour soup either back into pan or pour into serving bowls. Serve with homemade croutons.

Baby Shower

2011-12-23T08:00:00.000-08:00

Last weekend I co-hosted a baby shower with Manpreet from pulp papery for our good friend, Anne. Anne is from St. Louis and is going to have a shower there hosted by her family but we wanted to throw her shower here with a few of her California friends. So Manpreet and I set out to create an intimate shower with classic French details, lots of fresh flowers and really delicious food. Check out the details ::

New Books

2011-12-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago, I lived dangerously and ordered everything in my Amazon cart. These are some of the books that I ordered. It's been fun to read through these new resources and gain fresh inspiration for the upcoming new year.

Pantone Colors

2011-12-19T08:00:00.000-08:00

Like most designers, I have thing for Pantone color chips. I think it's the clean and simple layout of how the color and name are displayed on the color chips. Every year Pantone announces a color of the year in their yearly color forecasting. It was recently announced that the color for 2012 will be Tangerine Tango. This bright orange will make it's way into home decor, fashion, graphic design, weddings and parties.

Sample of Tangerine Tango

This custom painted wall inspired by Pantone color chips in Mindy Weiss' studio is genius ::

These mugs would be a great way to get inspired first thing in the morning ::

DIY :: Pumpkin Pie Spice

2011-11-11T09:00:00.000-08:00

Fall has officially arrived in my part of the world and that means that it's time for fall baking. Some of my recipes call for pumpkin pie spice, which I refuse to buy at the grocery store because it's expensive and I already have all the ingredients in my pantry and it takes about 60 seconds to mix up some of your very own that you can use all season long.

Ingredients

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

Gather and measure out your spices

Mix them together and and store in a spice jar.

All photos were taken by Penny Sylvia. Penny is an international lifestyle and wedding photographer. For more information about Penny you can visit her website and blog.

Giving Thanks

2011-11-10T09:00:00.000-08:00

Recently I splurged on these Rifle Paper Co. notecards. I write thank you notes pretty regularly to clients that pass my name along to their friends, to friends that invite me over to a home cooked dinner or to industry contacts when they have helped me along. In a world of email, Facebook, Twitter, texting, I find that it can be refreshing to get a handwritten note in the mail.

Here are a few ways I like to make boxed notes look more custom:

1. Swap out the standard white envelope that comes with the set and instead purchase color coordinating envelopes.

2. Use a personalized stamp to stamp the back of the envelope, mine is a custom stamp from paperfinger.

3. Create a custom color coordinating liner, I mostly use Paper-Source envelopes and liner templates.

4. Don't use the same stamps as your bills, find a cute stamp at your local post office for your stylish letter.

5. Take the time to print off a nice label or use your best handwriting to address your note.

DIY :: Homemade Brown Sugar

2011-10-31T11:50:00.000-07:00

Kitchen Trivia: Brown sugar is just white sugar with molasses added to it. This trivia paid off well last week when I ran out of brown sugar while making harvest festival cookies for my nephew, Luke. I didn't want to close the house up, turn the oven off, get my shoes on and head to the grocery store. Instead I decided to see if I could mix up my own brown sugar and success! It was the fluffiest, freshest, most flavorful brown sugar I have ever tasted. From now on I am making my own and you can too.

The only two ingredients that you will need are white sugar and molasses.

I like using the ratio of 1 cup sugar to 2 tablespoons molasses.

You can add more or less depending on how light or dark you like your brown sugar.

Combine sugar and molasses in mixing bowl with whisk attachment.

Mix sugar and molasses together for 5 minutes at medium/high speed.

Keep mixing. Don't be tempted to stop mixing too soon.

At the end of five minutes you will have fresh, fluffy brown sugar that can be used in any recipe.

Store in an airtight container or ziplock bag.

All photos were taken by Penny Sylvia. Penny is an international lifestyle and wedding photographer. For more information about Penny you can visit her website and blog.

Wedding Wednesdays :: Favors as Centerpieces

2011-09-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

Wedding favors can be challenging. You want to give your guests something that they will use and enjoy. My favorite wedding favors are those from the wedding decor; a little vase of flowers, a beautiful calligraphy place card, a potted herb or orchid is also beautiful favor. The favor ideas below work double duty as favors and as centerpieces, helping you stretch your wedding dollar just a little more.

Flower boxes. There are vases inside the boxes with a slit cut into the lid of the box to keep the flowers hydrated. You can also decorate the boxes with ribbons and fabrics that coordinate with your wedding.

Potted daisies are perfect for taking home for a reminder of a sweet wedding.

Surprise guests with a little something special and wrap it up with a pretty bow and pile them high in the middle of the table for a festive look.

Send your guests home with seasonal fruits or vegetables displayed in small wooden crates for them to snack on the next day or enjoy cooking with at home.

These foot high Noble Fir trees would be a perfect favor and centerpiece for a winter wedding, although I would change out the fabric shown in the photo and use burlap garland instead.

Use vintage tea and biscuit tins and fill with seasonal flowers.

Potted geraniums and herbs are also a perfect solution for favors and centerpieces.

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Wedding Wednesday :: An Elopement

2011-09-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

Wedding Wednesday will be a new feature here on the blog where I will highlight weddings and wedding ideas that inspire me.

Would you ever elope? I love the idea of choosing a romantic location, inviting a few friends and family and tying the knot. This California elopement is simply perfect with the vintage pink accents and costal details.

All images :: Jill Thomas Photography
Found on 100 Layer Cake

Labor Day Weekend

2011-09-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

I spent the weekend.....

Playing with my nephews

Buying fresh fruits and veggies from my local farmers market

BBQ at my parents house

Making sauteed corn with heirloom cherry tomatoes and green onions

and green beans, heirloom cherry tomatoes with a shallot tarragon dressing

I also picked up gorgeous dahlias at the market

and yet more flowers

I have to say it was one of the best Labor Day weekends I've had in a while. I am easing back into real life this week and have some really fun projects in store for the fall.

Sneak Peek :: Pulp Papery at the Urban Hive Open House

2011-08-08T10:14:00.000-07:00

Last week I worked on an Open House for my good friend Manpreet, the owner of Pulp Papery. She recently closed her retail store and opened Pulp Papery Studio, at the Urban Hive in midtown Sacramento, to focus on custom wedding invitations, announcements, personalized stationery, and custom stamps and embossers.

These are a few iPhone images of the Open House, there will be much better photos coming soon from the wonderfully talented Caroline Winata of Tinywater Photography. This event was such a success due to the amazingly talented vendors that I worked with; floral design by Botanica Floral Designs, cupcakes sponsored by Icing on the Cupcake and mini tarot card readings by Jeannie Howell from the Manifest Readings & Healing Center. Thank you, thank you, thank you to each and every one of you.

Pulp Papery Open House

2011-07-26T15:54:00.000-07:00

These last couple of weeks have been crazy busy. One of the things I have been working on is an open house for a local stationary store, Pulp Papery. The store is reopening in August as Pulp Papery Studio at the Urban Hive in Sacramento. Please join us August 4th for the relaunch Open House and enjoy some live music, cupcakes from Icing on the Cupcake and check out the amazing floral designs of Botanica Floral Designs. It should be fun!

Jenny Lind Cribs

2011-07-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while, when I have a client who is struggling to find their style, I have them do an exercise of quickly flipping through magazines and tearing out images that they like. They don't have to know why they like the image, they just have to feel a connection to the image. After they are done, I lay out all the images and 99 percent of the time, I can see a pattern in very quickly and I can get a very quick sense of what style and direction to go in.

In my own life, I collect images on my computer by either using Pinterest or by adding them to iPhoto. Recently, I was browsing through my photos and realized that I have a pattern, or better yet make that an obsession, with Jenny Lind cribs. Up until today, I would have told you that I didn't have a crib preference. See, the exercise works each and every time.

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DIY :: Lack Tables

2011-07-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

The Ikea Lack tables are my go to if I need a small side table. They are inexpensive, easy to assemble, and are the perfect size for small spaces but sometimes I need to dress them up a bit for a space and this DIY in the July Better Homes and Garden has the perfect solution by adding nail head trim to the sides of the table making it look dressed up and a little more custom.

Yellow and Orange

2011-07-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

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Yellow and Orange could quite possibly be my favorite flower color combination. It's upbeat, cheerful and celebratory. Perfect for a wedding, baby shower, birthday or just perfect to have around the house. My absolute favorite yellow and orange flower is the parrot tulip in the bottom right picture.

Confetti Fun

2011-06-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

Somehow when you add confetti to an event everything instantly feels more festive. Check out these fun ideas to add confetti to your next event.

Fondant confetti cascading down the cake. I like the continuation of the theme by adding paper confetti

in the same colors on the table below the cake.

Create a fun photo booth with confetti circles and fishing line.

The first place to introduce you theme is the invitations, make sure they are festive and thoughtful with these confetti invitations. You can customize your own here.

I love parties and weddings that serve a little something extra towards the end of the evening, sometimes savory or sometimes sweet. These doughnut holes would be a perfect midnight treat.

Adult homemade liquor lollypops are meant to be stirred into champagne until the pop is dissolved and infuses the champagne with the flavor of black currant, peach or raspberry. Recipe can be found here.

Easy to make and unique place cards to keep the confetti theme going.

Gumball inspired chocolates make for a fun and festive favor for your guests.

{all images and downloads}

Summertime

2011-06-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today, I picked these strawberries from my garden and checked in on my cherry tomato plants. Summer is coming in fast and furious with warmer and warmer days. This summer I have decided to put beach days into my calendar as well as "field trips" to local produce and dairy farms. I can't remember the last time I was this excited for summer to arrive.

White Couch

2011-06-14T12:47:00.000-07:00

I have clients that are this close to purchasing this couch from Crate and Barrel. It's comfortable, is perfect their limited dimensions and fits their cottage, beach style. But it's white. It does come in other colors but we keep coming back to the white for their design. Would you dare to have a white sofa?

Favorite Cookie

2011-06-13T15:35:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend I took a quick trip to San Francisco and while I was there I picked up my favorite cookies, Gingersnaps from Miette. They are made from three different forms of ginger and are made from a base of local Strauss butter. These cookies are spicy and earthy as well as just sweet enough to satisfy your sweet tooth. The cookies are cut by hand with a decorative scallop around the edge and packaged into the sweetest, simple package. They can be ordered though the internet at their website or picked up at their shops in the Ferry Building, on Octavia Street in Hayes Valley, and their store at Jack London Square in Oakland.

Organizing a Home Office

2011-05-27T14:25:00.000-07:00

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I've got big plans for this long weekend; I plan on cleaning out my office and reorganizing all bins, sample, client files, etc. Here are some tips that help me make the most with my small home office:

Use bins and stylish storage containers to keep like items together.
Create floor-to-ceiling storage by adding vertical shelving.
Chose furniture on rollers or add casters to existing furnishings; this helps furniture become multifunctional and you can roll furniture around to fit your needs.
Go wireless and as cordless as possible. I've done this and it's helped keep the electronic clutter to a minimum.
Find furniture that multitasks. If you use the dining room table for a desk, see if you can add space in a nearby buffet for files and a small supply of office supplies.
Find pretty accessories, filling cabinets, post its, pencils, etc. Your office is still your home so try to decorate it as you would the rest of your house, if you do you'll want to spend more time and be more productive in your work space.

I'll take some photos as I go along and hope to have some "after" photos next week. Have a great three day weekend!

Reusable Produce Bags

2011-05-25T15:00:00.000-07:00

I've been using reusable shopping bags for the past few years pretty consistently. I place my bags in my trunk so they are always with me if I happen to stop by the grocery store on my way home from work. While I've been happy with my progress, I've been feeling lately that I was up for a little more of a challenge. I've been focusing in on the packaging that my food comes in. Once I started paying attention, I noticed that everything comes with a tag, rubber band, box, plastic bag, etc. I did my research and decided the next easy step for myself would be replacing the plastic produce bags that are offered at the grocery store with reusable produce bags. There are many different types and styles of reusable produce bags that can be purchased through Etsy and Amazon. I'm partial to the Flip & Tumble reusable produce bags, which are lightweight and can easily be washed in the washer. My grocery store even gives me a bag credit for these as well as my reusable grocery bags.

What I've been up to...

2011-05-24T19:11:00.000-07:00

(William taking his new trike for a test drive)

The last couple of weeks have been a whirlwind; my nephew, William, turned 3 with a pirate party, I volunteered at a Safe Ground fundraiser helping to raise our goal and then some thanks to some very generous people, finished returning all items I borrowed for the Land Park Garden Tour, celebrated the coming of a new cousin at a baby shower, visited with my Aunt that was visiting from Washington State, getting my ducks in a row with my business and excepting new local clients as well as new e-design clients. Whew! With so much going on I'm looking forward to this coming three day weekend and relaxing a bit but until then, I'm working on a few new projects that I'm looking forward to sharing with you soon.

Sneak Peak :: Land Park Garden Tour and Tea

2011-05-07T21:43:00.000-07:00

Here's a sneak peak of one of the two gardens I worked on for todays Land Park Garden Tour and Tea. I'll be posting more about the tour this week. I'm so happy with the way everything turned out!

Photos by Penny Sylvia Photography

Orchard Photo Shoot

2011-05-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

A few Tuesdays back, I took a trip to Live Oak for a collaborative photo shoot with Manpreet Bains from Pulp Papery and Penny Sylvia from Penny Sylvia Photography. Live Oak is a small farming town 55 minutes north of Sacramento in the heart of prune, peach and walnut orchards. We shot at the private orchard of the Harrington Family off of Highway 99. It was a crisp Spring day that threatened to storm at any minute, but we pressed forward and were all pleasantly surprised that the storm didn't hit until we had packed everything back up and headed for home.

I provided the event styling and floral arranging. I used various shades of stock for the floral arrangements, purple asylum favors planted in peat pots for guests to take home and plant in their garden to remember the day. The grey satin tablecloth, table and chairs were provided by Classic Party Rentals. Pulp Papery designed and provided the handcrafted “bride” and “groom” signs, invitations, place card and menus design. The photography was provided by Penny Sylvia Photography.

New :: Party Decor from BHLDN

2011-05-05T02:00:00.000-07:00

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BHDLN launches a new wedding decor line today. This is a sneak peak of it and I can't wait to see more of it in person! The new collection will consist of rosy colored champagne flutes to sparkly cake toppers to antique bunting and decorative votives.

Mr. Boddington's Studio

2011-05-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

(all images from Mr. Boddington's Studio Facebook Page)

I love peeking into other creative businesses to see how they are organized. Mr. Boddington's Studio is a perfect example of stylish organization. Looks like a fun place to work!

The Way We Live : Studio Apartment

2011-05-02T15:37:00.000-07:00

When starting this blog, I knew I wanted to include a series called "The Way We Live", highlighting spaces that I find inspiring and would love to live in myself. My friend Amy inspired this series so I thought it was appropriate that she was featured first.

I shop at Ikea more than I would like to admit. Every once and in a while I go upstairs to see what's new in the apartment vignettes that are assembled to highlight all that you can do with Ikea furnishings. I'm always inspired by what Ikea can do with the small spaces they create and am inspired to live big in a small space.

My friend Amy does just that. Amy's 395 square foot vintage studio apartment is located in the tree lined neighborhood of Alhambra in Sacramento. I always find myself inspired when I peek into Amy's space. She has broken all the "rules" of designing a small space such as incorporating dark furnishings like her king sized bed and painting a darker latte colored accent wall. By doing so Amy came away with a well designed apartment that is filled with life experiences, photos of loved ones and a well edited collection of sentimental pieces from her life.

A few weeks back when I asked Amy if she would be open to have her apartment photographed, she said "yes" in the way that only a good friend would. I asked Penny from Penny Sylvia Photography if she would take the photos. Again, like a good friend would, Penny said "yes". I unfortunately had something come up at the last minute and wasn't able to make it to the photo shoot but when I saw the photos taken from that Sunday morning I was inspired all over again to live big in a small space. Thanks, Amy!

{Photos by Penny Sylvia Photography}

Lovely.

2011-04-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

Featured : Vendor Spotlight

2011-04-27T13:32:00.000-07:00

Today I am featured in a Vendor Spotlight on Pulp Papery's blog. Check it out and check out Pulp Papery's fantastic blog authored by it's owner, Manpreet Bains.

Bunny Cake

2011-04-22T15:11:00.000-07:00

I don't have too many Easter traditions, as kids the "Easter Bunny" would hide eggs, that we dyed the night before, leave us Easter baskets filled to the gills with candy and toys and have a ham dinner with the nice china with my family. Now we're all older and have our own friends and family that we spend our day with. For the past 12 years I have spent it with my good friend, Jenci, and her family. Every Easter we meet around 1pm at Aunt Gail's house, we have a potluck, the kids have an easter egg hunt and there is normally music and songs that are played and sung. It is a great afternoon that I really look forward to every year. Jenci makes a bunny cake every year for her contribution to the potluck. It is one of those things that if it wasn't there, Easter just wouldn't be the same. Jen was going to show me how to make the cake for a DIY post for the blog but her little one came down sick today and she wasn't able to. Wanting to share it with you before Easter I took the plunge and made my very first bunny cake today using old pictures as my guide and here's how you can make it too:

- 1 box carrot cake mix

- 1 container of cheese cake frosting

- flaked coconut

- green food coloring

- black licorice sticks

- jelly beans

- pink decorators icing

Collect icing, food color and candy together.

Bake cake using 9" cake pans per directions on the box. Let cake cool completely.

Using a serrated knife, create two oblong shapes cutting in from the sides to create ears. The two oblong shapes will create a middle that looks like a bow tie. (I didn't take a picture of this part but don't worry if they aren't perfect, you can cover the errors with frosting). Place all 4 pieces of cake on parchment lined cookie sheet, in the shape of a bunny head with a bow tie.

Frost cake with cream chesse frosting

Fill in features with candy. The bow tie and eyes are jellybeans. Create the whiskers by cutting a licorice vine in six pieces to create thin strips. The nose and inner ears are pink icing piped on with a fine frosting tip. And the grass was created by placing 3/4 cup flaked coconut into a bowl, adding 5-6 drops of green food dye and mixing it by hand.

The finished product. Happy Easter.

What I'm Reading...

2011-04-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

I've picked up a few new design books over the past few weeks and these are what I am current reading and using as design resources.

TRADhome

2011-04-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

A few months back, I wrote about my favorite online magazines and now I have a new favorite. TRADhome is a new online magazine collaboration between Traditional Home magazine and the creators on Lonny.

I love that chandelier, the linen curtains and the typography on the front cover.

Land Park Garden & Tea Tour

2011-04-18T08:00:00.001-07:00

This next month is a little bit crazy, in the best way possible, with all that I have taken on. One of the major things I am doing is decorating and event styling two backyards for the upcoming 13th Annual Land Park Garden and Tea Tour, May 7th 10:00am-4:00pm. I am really happy to have this experience and I am looking forward to working with two sets of homeowners and two very different backyards. The proceeds benefit the art program at Holy Spirit School and also Mustard Seed School in Sacramento.

Wedding 101

2011-04-01T10:30:00.000-07:00

I am excited to be apart of Wedding 101, a night where brides can meet local vendors to learn tips, techniques and ask questions as they plan for their big day. It will be held at Pulp Papery and will feature myself and Penny Sylvia, a wonderful wedding photographer. If you are in the area, you should stop by.

A Second Chance

2011-04-01T05:30:00.000-07:00

Wednesday I spent to evening sourcing for a new project I'm working on. I stopped into my local West Elm and saw this chair, the Modern Windsor Chair from West Elm. I didn't care for the chair when I first saw it online, but in person the chair is gracefully modern and isn't as traditional looking as it appears online. Another reason to always give something or someone a second chance to prove their worth.

BHLDN Shoes

2011-03-31T13:31:00.000-07:00

I have a thing for sparkly high heels. I am not sure why, I'm very tall (5'11") and live a very busy life as a designer so I mostly wear mostly comfy flats. But when I browse online, I'm always attracted to the sparkly and glittery shoes, go figure. These pretty shoes are from the new bridal line BHLDN (pronounced beholden) from Anthropologie.

Pinboards

2011-03-31T08:00:00.000-07:00

These pinboards are on my wish list, although I think I can make them with a shadow box and burlap for a fraction of the price, I feel a DIY project coming on.

My First Pavlova

2011-03-29T20:50:00.000-07:00

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Last weekend I made this pavlova. It was quick, easy and so good! It will be my go to desert all summer using fresh fruit from the farmer's market. I made it when it was raining here, I thought that you couldn't make meringue when it there was so much precipitation in the air but after a quick Google search, I found out you just need to cook the meringue longer and it will be fine.

Pop Up Stores

2011-03-25T21:45:00.000-07:00

A list of pies that you can purchase and sample.

All recipes are in Martha's new book that shows you how to make all of them.

Vintage pie plates adorn the wall

Rhubarb-Raspberry Galettes

a simple, beautiful window display

display of Martha's new book along with vintage pie pans

Have you heard of pop up stores? I heard of the last August when I read an article about them in the Wall Street Journal. They are stores that literally pop up overnight, sell for a few days and then close down and/or move to another location. The overhead is low and the fixtures and staff are temporary and it's a great way for companies to try new concepts/products. The stores are a surprise to most neighborhoods and generate buzz and publicity for the featured product. This weekend Martha Stewart is going to be getting in on the action by opening a pop up Pie Pop-Up Shop to generate buzz for her new book, New Pies and Tarts. The shop will be open to the public on Saturday and Sunday, March 26 and 27, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m in Greenwich Village in New York City. I adore the concept of pop up stores, they are out of the ordinary, creative and fun. It's like a surprise party for the entire neighborhood!

A New Favorite

2011-03-21T09:43:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I had an appointment that I was early for near one of my favorite Goodwill stores. Needing to kill a few minutes, I ran in to take a quick look around and found these beautiful vintage milk glass cake plates. For .99 cents a piece, I quickly scooped them up and they have been in heavy rotation at my house since. I just love the scalloped edges.

Bake Sale

2011-03-10T15:27:00.000-08:00

On my way home from working a on a job last week, I ran into my local Macy's to pick up something I had on hold and walking through the kitchen department I saw the new Martha Stewart new polka dotted cupcake liners, boxes, aprons, pot holders and cake stencils. So preppy and springy, makes me want to have a bake sale.

Spring Inspiration

2011-03-10T13:27:00.000-08:00

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I've been in need of some much needed inspiration. Kate Spade came to my rescue with her newest Spring ad campaign, Live Color Fully. Perfect inspiration.

Bridal Show Booth

2011-02-21T14:45:00.000-08:00

Over this past weekend, I partnered with a good friend who owns a local store, Pulp Papery, to be an exhibitor at the Dream Bridal Show. I designed the booth while Pulp Papery provided the paper and printed goods. Below are pictures, the lighting was strange so the colors don't show as well as in person. Thank you to all who stopped by to see us.

The bunting was made from a handmade paper as well as two different pinks.

This photo was taken a few days before the show while I was assembling the bunting.

Weddings: Marigold and Grey

2011-02-15T05:30:00.000-08:00

Marigold and Grey for a wedding ensemble? Perfect.

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Ricotta Cheese

2011-02-11T05:30:00.000-08:00

The weather has been sunny and warm here. It is the type of weather that makes me want to leave work early, go home, clean my house and cook. I did just that last week and made Ina Garten's Homemade Ricotta cheese. It was one of the easiest things I have ever made and incredibly delicious.

Collect all ingredients

I didn't have a cheese cloth, so I used a clean open weave dish cloth

Combine milk, cream and salt. Bring to a boil

Off the heat, pour in the vinegar

Stir for 60 seconds until milk starts to curdle

Pour milk into cheesecloth (or towel) lined sieve and let the liquid drain away for 25-30 minutes I mixed in herbs (parsley and scallions) and ate with toasted baguette slices.

Dream Wedding Show

2011-02-09T19:18:00.000-08:00

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Today I was asked to be a part of a booth at the upcoming Dream Wedding Show in Sacramento. I agreed before I realized that February 20 is in 11 days! So the pressure is on to get a booth together in a week and a half. Wish me luck! It should be fun!

Online Design Magazines

2011-02-04T11:09:00.000-08:00

I love paper design magazines, I love to find them in my mail box, hold them and tear out images that I find inspiring, dog ear my favorite projects, you get the picture. So you can imagine that it's taken me a while to get on board with online magazines but with so many wonderful publications out there, I have made my way to the other side and am now embracing the wonderful world of online magazines. My handbag is also thanking me. Below are a round up of my favorites.

Marimekko Wallpaper

2011-01-19T09:34:00.000-08:00

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I found out this morning that Marimekko wallpaper is being discontinued. So sad. Above are my two favorite patterns. I wish I was working on a current project that I could use one of these designs before it's too late. You can find the wallpaper here and on sale.

DIY: Centerpiece

2011-01-18T11:04:00.000-08:00

Supplies you will need:

- 3 lbs. mixed nuts in shell

- 3 candles in various sizes

- 3 glass jars or vases in different sizes and or shapes

1. Collect jars, candles and mixed nuts with the shell on.

2. Place the unwrapped candles in the middle of the jar and pour the mixed nuts around the base.

3. Trim the candles and you are done!

I love how easy and cost effective this project was. I spent a total of $16 but if you already have the candles at home, it would cost less. This project could also be done with pebbles, rocks, seashells, sand or whatever you have around the house.

Bathroom Inspiration

2011-01-17T18:07:00.000-08:00

I'm still working on a few home projects that I took on over the holidays. My bathroom wasn't on the list to get a makeover but after seeing this photo I think I might give my boring bathroom some drama with an extra large mirror and an interesting light fixture.

{image}

Small Spaces, Again.

2011-01-04T09:36:00.000-08:00

My dream house is a small cottage somewhere between 1,000 and 1,300 sq. feet. I love small spaces and I love when small spaces are decorated and planned out with the same attention and thought as a larger home. I believe the key to living in a small space is using furniture that is multifunctional, choosing a color palate for the entire house as a whole so the rooms flow and finding creative ways to let the natural light in.

{all images}

A few finds from over the weekend...

2011-01-03T15:01:00.000-08:00

{Arabesque Indoor/ Outdoor Rug in Yellow}

{Arabesque Indoor/ Outdoor Rug in Aqua}

{Josette Chair}

I was shopping for a couple of projects this weekend and I stopped in at Cost Plus and Pier 1, two places I don't frequent often and was pleasantly surprised. I've been looking for new indoor/outdoor rugs for my house and am really loving the one about, I just can't decide what color I love more. The chair has an Anthropologie feel without the price tag.

{a} vintage poster

2010-12-20T08:00:00.000-08:00

These are my new favorite posters and they are so well priced at $14 each.

{a} vintage poster

Last Minute Gift : Foodie

2010-12-17T08:00:00.000-08:00

Need a last minute gift for the foodie in your life? This Swanson Sip + Sample Tasting Kit is perfect.

{image}

House Swap

2010-12-16T10:40:00.000-08:00

Remember the movie, The Holiday, and remember the house swap website they used to get out of town? Well this morning I happened upon a site that does just that. Luxe Home Swap is the website and it is for people that want to exchange luxury homes with each other. The homes are beautiful and well designed. I think it would be fun living in someone else's home and getting to know their town or city for a couple of weeks.

Santorini, Greece

A contemporary home in Ravensdale, Ireland

Hampstead, London (Greater London)

A sweet cottage in the French countryside

Kitchen Inspiration

2010-12-07T08:20:00.000-08:00

Pure and Good Hand Soap

Contrast Stripe Williams-Sonoma Dishcloths

Wishing Well Ice Bucket

Stockholm Flora Potholders

Magnetic Timer

Laguiole Steak Knives

Tea and Crumpets Apron

I'm in the process of giving my kitchen a mini-facelift. I'm keeping the layout, I'm just putting a fresh coat of paint on my cupboards and working on the styling and organization in my small kitchen. Normally, I draw inspiration from fabric but this time accessories are catching my eye and these are all on my wish list. I will be posting a series of blog posts in the New Year documenting the change in my kitchen with lots of DIY projects.

SOUPLOVE

2010-12-06T08:00:00.000-08:00

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This beautiful, self-published recipe book by Rebecca Stevens contains 12 vegan friendly seasonal soup recipes is so simple and sweet that even non cooks could be persuaded to get into the kitchen.

Grange Holiday Party

2010-12-03T18:00:00.000-08:00

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Tonight I am going to my first holiday party of the season. I'm very excited, I have a new dress and I am going to one of my favorite restaurants, Grange. A must eat restaurant if you are visiting the Sacramento area.

Farmers Market Baskets

2010-12-03T08:00:00.000-08:00

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I think I need these. Really. In my opinion most things improve with how they are presented, especially food. I prefer to pull out the good china for everyday and to use my favorite cloth napkins and take time with my food. I would love to fill these bone china farmers market baskets with fresh fruit and veggies from the farmers market.

Hold The Phone

2010-12-02T08:00:00.000-08:00

Literally. In a world of technologically savviness, who knew you could still send a telegram? and who new it would be so easy? This is a perfect and unique way to send important announcements, like an elopement or pregnancy.

Wally Pockets

2010-12-01T08:00:00.000-08:00

Have you seen these? I am loving these Wally Pockets. This genius idea allows you to create a vertical garden anywhere. The Wally Pockets are made from felt derived from recycled plastic bottles and are handmade in the USA. They are surprisingly affordable and would make a great gift for someone living in a townhouse or apartment.

Little Boy Style

2010-11-30T08:00:00.000-08:00

I went Christmas shopping last week for my nephews, Luke and Will. I had so much fun thinking about their personalities and their interests while picking clothes. For Luke, I chose a puffer vest, a yellowy-gold thermal shirt and cargo pants. For Will, the cutest dark denim jeans, long sleeve dinosaur tee and plush sherpa cap. All from GapKids.

Pottery Barn Fabrics

2010-11-29T08:00:00.000-08:00

Gabrielle Jacquard

Graphic Ikat Print

Tile Print

Ogee Print

Chain Link Jacquard

It had been awhile since I last checked out Pottery Barn but over the weekend I went online to do some research and I found that they are now selling fabric by the yard. They have some really great choices. All the fabrics are $30-$50 per yard and they will even send you samples without charge.

Small Business Saturday

2010-11-27T08:00:00.000-08:00

Today is Small Business Saturday. To participate, I will be stopping into three of my favorite local shops. The small businesses on my list are Pulp Papery, Pink House, and Parkside Pharmacy (which by the way has one of the best and most over looked gift shop in Sacramento). Please join me and do the same in your city.

Holiday Shop 2010

2010-11-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

The Online Holiday Shop is now open for Sacramento area customers!

Orders may be picked up at 3020 H Street or delivered on Wednesdays

for a delivery fee (shipping not available).

Order deadline is Monday, December 20, 2010.

If you are interested in custom holiday decor and/or installation of ordered holiday greens

please send an email directly to cara@caracrowley.com.

Various wreath sizes and garland lengths available,

please use drop down menu to make your selection.

Fresh Cedar Garland :: Sold in Increments of 25'

Noble Fir Wreath

Square Boxwood Wreath

Magnolia Wreath

18" Available Only

Holiday Carnation Wreath

Available in Peony Pink, Snow White and Garnet Red

Sizes and Colors

The Future of Cookbooks

2010-11-04T12:27:00.000-07:00

MSLO does it again. I don't have an iPad, I have resisted it since I already have an iPhone and a MacBook, but I think I may be breaking down and this app doesn't help. The Martha Stewart Cookie application has instructional videos, baking tips, cute packaging ideas, kitchen timers, ability to create a shopping list, sharing options and stunning photos. I must resist!

Just In Case You Didn't Know

2010-10-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

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I know how to set a table for the average dinner. But when it comes to more sophisticated place settings, I'm going to need a reminder. And I love that the diagram has arrows pointing to all the various dishes and cutlery like a play by play of a sports game, dinner parties are my kind of sport.

Modern Take on Capiz Shell Lighting

2010-10-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

This beautiful Serena Drum Chandelier by Oly Studio will add a bit of glamour to your home. It is such a versatile piece that can be used in a traditional or contemporary room .The capiz shells let the perfect amount of light through to soften any room.

Serena Drum Chandelier
26″ Dia. x 16.25″H
$2,299

www.alicelanehome.com

Paper Straws

2010-10-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

Lately these paper straws have been catching my eye. They would be perfect addition to any party. It is a custom, festive look that takes a few dollars to create. You can purchase them all over them here.

My Wednesday Morning

2010-10-20T14:44:00.000-07:00

Before work I made a stop to see a friend who recently had surgery. The roses and camellias are from my yard. It was the perfect way to start my day.

Event Class

2010-10-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how fast time is flying by. The class that I will be teaching is coming up next week. The class will include lots of great ideas on how to throw a simple yet stylish party. This is a perfect class for the fall with the holidays right around the corner. The class will be offered at the Learning Exchange, you can sign up for it here.

Inspiration Board: Jenn + Mike

2010-10-14T22:21:00.000-07:00

I like to create an inspiration board for each of my projects, it is a helpful tool to guide me as I jump from project to project. Recently, I've had the privilege to start work with Jenn and Mike. They are an inspirational couple that I adore! First up is their kitchen and I can't wait to see the transformation.

Shoe Fever

2010-10-11T12:00:00.000-07:00

{Cassie by Kate Spade}

I don't get shoe fever very often but every once in a while I come across a shoe I can't get enough of and these would be an example of that. Totally impractical but oh so fun!

DIY: Flower Bulb Kit

2010-10-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

These are going to be on my must make holiday list. Every holiday season, I try to create homemade gifts to give to neighbors, business acquaintances, party hostesses, and even my favorite shop keepers. If your holidays are anything like mine they are busy and I am gone from my house from morning 'till late a night. These bulbs kits are perfect for gifting and you can even leave them in the car all day, worry free, until you are ready to gift them.

{via Frolic}

EmersonMade Clutches

2010-10-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

Love. Love. Love these EmersonMade clutches. At $74 each they are perfect gifts for the holidays or for a nice treat for yourself.

{classic school bloom clutch}

{School Bloom and Lucky Clutch}

{Dahlia and Cream Geometric}

Domino's New Home

2010-10-07T10:05:00.000-07:00

I, like so many, loved Domino magazine. Domino had a fresh modern aesthetic and spoke to a large number of young professionals that had a tight budget but valued a well designed home no matter rented or owned. Domino closed in 2009 and because I am a purger, I regretfully threw out all my back issues back when I thought the magazine would go on for years. The good news is that Domino now has its back issues available online, here!

Southern Weddings

2010-10-07T09:50:00.000-07:00

Looking around on the internet this morning for fresh inspiration, I stumbled upon a new (to me) publication and blog, Southern Weddings. Southern Weddings is a fresh bridal magazine for the modern southern bride.

Italian Cream Cake

2010-09-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

I have been making the same cake for 13 years. Tonight, as I always do before a family birthday, I pulled out a recipe that I tore out of Cooking Light. I have been making it for every birthday in our family for years, I just hadn't realized how many years until tonight when I looked at the bottom and it was printed in 1997...Oy vey. To celebrate here is the recipe:

Vegetable cooking spray
2 cups sugar
1/2 cup light butter
2 egg yolks
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup low-fat buttermilk
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 teaspoon butter extract
1 teaspoon coconut extract
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
6 egg whites (at room temperature)

Prepare Cream Cheese Icing; cover and chill.

Coat bottoms of 3 (9-inch) round cake pans with cooking spray (do not coat sides of pans); line bottoms of pans with wax paper. Coat wax paper with cooking spray, and dust with flour; set aside.Combine sugar and butter in a large bowl; beat at medium speed of a mixer until well-blended. Add egg yolks, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Combine 2 cups flour and baking soda; stir well. Add flour mixture to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Stir in pecans and extracts.Beat egg whites at high speed of a mixer until stiff peaks form (do not overbeat). Fold egg whites into batter; pour batter into prepared pans. Bake at 350° for 23 minutes. Let cool in pans 5 minutes on a wire rack. Loosen cake layers from sides of pans using a narrow metal spatula, and turn out onto wire racks. Peel off wax paper, and let cool completely.Place 1 cake layer on a plate, and spread with 2/3 cup Cream Cheese Icing; top with another cake layer. Repeat with 2/3 cup icing and remaining layer, ending with cake. Spread remaining icing over cake.

Cream Cheese Icing:

1 tablespoon light butter
1 (8-ounce) package Neufchâtel cheese
1 (1-pound) package powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cream butter and cheese at high speed of a mixer until fluffy. Add sugar; beat at low speed until well-blended. Add vanilla; beat well.

Trudy

2010-09-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

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The best job, besides the job that I have now, that I ever had was working in a boutique floral shop. The shop was The Blue Orchid in Sacramento on H Street. I worked this job while I took a break after an injury when I was 19. I was trying to discover what I loved and what I wanted to do with my life. The job was perfect for me, I was able to be creative, organized, and work with people who shared the same love for beautiful flowers. While I was working at The Blue Orchid, we started doing wedding shows and needed a showpiece to set up at our booth. Heather, the owner, decided that she wanted to create a wedding dress out of flowers. She purchased a muslin dress form as the base for the dress. It was a beautiful tea stained muslin dress form, we named her Trudy. I think of Trudy often and have decided that I am now on the hunt for my very own Trudy. I have a little project up my sleeve and will share it very soon.

Celebrate!

2010-09-27T10:23:00.000-07:00

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This past weekend was spent celebrating two amazing women in my life. My sister from another mother and her mother, who is like a second mom to me. They both celebrated milestone birthdays, one turning 30 and the other turning 60. We started the weekend off at a wonderful spa in the Apple Hill, Time Out Spa, and then spent the night playing games, watching movies, drinking a little wine and having a girly sleepover. The weekend was spent with friends and family. I had so much fun and can't remember the last time I laughed more. Now it's back to work and celebrating my mom's birthday this Wednesday.

Designer Sofa Direct

2010-09-15T15:30:00.000-07:00

Designer Sofa Direct, or on the west coast Sofa Craft, is one fantastic resource! Ordering from from this company is a truly customized experience with out the custom price tag. How the process works: pick a style, fabric and determine the size that will work for your individual space and then they take care of the rest. And the prices are amazing!

Elizabeth $739

Eva $686

Tiffany $933 - this style is the trend of the season

check out the price of the anthropologie version

Jessica $549

They also offer headboards and upholstered bed frames:

Queen Headboard Margaret $624

Queen Headboard Nancy $624

Serena & Lily

2010-09-15T12:07:00.000-07:00

A favorite resource of mine is Serena & Lily. One of the things I love the most about this company is the way they approach children's rooms. They have reinvented designing for children using fresh colors and textures that are always driven by style. They sell adult furnishings as well but these gals really excel in creating comforting spaces for kids.

{all images are from the Serena and Lily fall catalog}

Decor for under $100

2010-09-09T12:00:00.000-07:00

Making changes to your living space doesn't have to be expensive. Sometimes something new and fresh on your walls and new pillows make all the difference.

These three chevron painted canvasses can be made for right around $100.

{tutorial}

To get the biggest bang out of your buck go for pillows that have interesting color combinations and fun prints. My favorite are the black and white chevron pillows with the aqua piping.

{modernthread}

Event Class

2010-09-09T11:53:00.000-07:00

I will be teaching an events class this fall! The class will include lots of great ideas on how to throw a simple yet stylish party. This is a perfect class for the fall with the holidays right around the corner. The class will be offered at the Learning Exchange, you can sign up for it here.

Jamie Oliver

2010-09-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

I love Jamie Oliver so much, I find him to be such an inspiration. Today I came across his new line of condiments at Williams-Sonoma. The packaging is so cute and has a homemade feel to it.

While I'm on the topic of Jamie Oliver, the thing that I admire the most about him is that he is trying to change the way school lunches are prepared and sourced. He has a wonderful campaign to try to bring fresh, healthy food to schools. He (and I) believe that what we eat effects everything; mood, health, developments, and can help curb behavioral issues. Check it out.

Chinese Parasols

2010-08-31T08:00:00.000-07:00

When I lived in San Francisco, I was a night manager at a bed and breakfast. In return for the job I was given a room to stay. The room was tiny but had very high ceilings, which made it tolerable, but it only had a couple of flood lights as over head lighting. Needing something to decorate my space with and diffuse the overhead light, I went to Chinatown and purchased an assortment of parasols and hung them upside down, creating a ceiling of color and texture. I loved it so much, I can't wait until I can do it again for a project.

Purl Soho

2010-08-30T11:41:00.000-07:00

I loved my last visit to New York City so much that I am already making a list for when I return. On the top of that list is Purl Soho. I visit their website almost weekly for new fresh color ideas.

I recently came across a home tour of Joelle Hoverson's (co-owner of Purl) Brooklyn apartment with lots of crafty DIY projects and a beautiful space for a new baby girl.

{images and home tour}

Happy Friday

2010-08-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today I am in San Francisco at the San Francisco Design Center working on a couple of new and fresh ideas.

Fall Inspiration :: West Elm

2010-08-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

Recently the new West Elm catalog hit my front porch and few things struck me as I was leafing through it, West Elm changed its logo and is trying to rebranded themselves and they have lowered their prices dramatically. Both good moves. Here are some of my favorites:

{sweep chair on sale $499}

{sketch duvet cover $59}

{organic seedling duvet cover shown in slate $79}

{5 drawer dresser $549}

{zig zag dhurrie rug 5x8 $229 and 8x10 $459}

{ikat ogee linen window panels $59 for 108"}

P.S. Did you know that West Elm's parent company is Williams-Sonoma?

Accent Color

2010-08-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

In the past few months my clients have been asking more and more for neutral rooms with accents of color. This is a great approach to design as you can create a neutral base and change out the accents when you are ready for something new.

Day Trip :: Mill Valley

2010-08-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I when I get stuck on a project it helps to get out of town and experience new surroundings. A couple of months back when I was in need of inspiration, a friend and I took a quick day trip to Mill Valley. We went in and out of little shops, ate local food and took a walk on nearby Stinson Beach. There were many interesting things I found inspiring but the one that was the the back library at the Tyler Florence store on Throckmorton Avenue. It is a space dedicated to cook books and cooking reference guides with big leather chairs to sit in for hours if you would like. They also stock the room with fresh flowers and play calming music. If I lived closer I think I would go there every afternoon to recharge.

Colored Chalkboard Paint

2010-08-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I checked the advances of chalkboard paint but recently the request came along and I did a google search and found that chalkboard paint no longer comes in just black! Horray!

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Paperless Post

2010-08-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

I love stationery, love, love, love. Would you expect less from someone that rents office space above a custom stationery store? For my personal parties as well as client events I prefer to send paper invitations, I think it sets the tone for the entire event. However, with my clients getting more and more environmentally conscious as well as their desire to save money, I have been looking into online stationery services. I have tried one or two free services but haven't been impressed, mostly with the way invitations look when they are emailed. But this morning I came across Paperless Post, a fantastic online stationery service. Paperless Post provides online stationery that is eco-friendly, stylish, affordable and presented in a organized format.