Shop. Talk. Blog.

Master Your Bedroom

2012-01-24T14:49:00.000-08:00

It feels like Bedroom season, wouldn't you say? Right now we are redoing several master bedrooms and it's been a cozy mission to find out what works for total comfort and relaxation. It's how a bedroom should be!

Soft hues of blue gives a refreshing look and oh so relaxing...
this bedroom is easy on the eyes.

A cottage look with layering shades of white gives you options to
add splashes of color throughout the seasons-- makes for
a mix and match look where everything works well together.

Green is an unexpected pleasure of calming tones
with a sophisticated flair! Even black and pink work well
in this space. Silk drapes add to the classic,
heavily carved poster bed.

Your bedding sets the tone for the entire
bedroom so make it just how you like it.
This ensemble would make it more fun for me
to make the bed every morning!

A few ideas I've learned along the way when redesigning a bedroom...

- Symmetry really matters. For a relaxing, calming, and peaceful feeling, you'll find it best to keep it simple and balanced. For example, one way to give it a soothing look is to have matching lamps that are the same height on either nightstand. Your nightstands should be as close to the same height as you can get to allow your eye to feel the ease of balance when in your room. Same goes for artwork, mirrors, and the rest of the furniture.

- Learn to edit. Your bedroom should not be where you have loads of busy going on. Don't pay your bills or have a computer staring at you while you are in bed! You'll find the stress will lift from your body the minute you keep your room organized and free of clutter. (this is of course, in a perfect world!)

- When it comes to color, use hues or shades of the same for balance and a consistent look. If your favorite color is red, go for it! Not everyone wants a light and airy look in their bedroom. When working with your favorite color, just be aware that keeping the shades within close range will only help make your room relaxing and become a favorite in the house!

- Ask yourself what exactly you need in your room to make it work well for you. Consider form and function when decorating. Do you need extra drawers or do you prefer cupboards for storing? Hiding the things you need in your room might be a good idea if you love reading books in bed but don't want to look at the clutter.

- Where to start? When it comes to the master bedroom, it usually starts with the bedding! That becomes your color palette for the floors, walls, trim, and upholstery. Your bed is the largest piece in the room so that should take priority. Upholstered headboards are a great addition to any master bedroom. The fabric for the headboard should be determined by the bedding once again...make it easier on yourself by finding the right bedding and build from there!

Enjoy!

--Whitney

Life

2012-01-04T17:38:00.000-08:00

How was 2011? If I had one word to describe 2011, it would be...JOY!

Joy comes in all sorts of packages...
Mine comes from this little three year old!

Wishing all sorts of fabulous things for 2012!
Isn't it fun to dream...to wish...
to take the time to play Scrabble!

I loved receiving cards from friends & family
during the holidays. It's a cherished
tradition and one that makes
Christmastime extra special!

If I had a New Year's Resolution for life in 2012...
it would be to Knit cute things like this!

Another Joy in life-- live what you love to do...
Decorating & Designing & Shopkeeping!

Wishing you all a great start to 2012 and hoping your life has lots of JOY! My mom just sent me a little something Mother Teresa wrote about Life.

Life is an opportunity, benefit from it.
Life is bliss, taste it.
Life is a dream, realize it.
Life is a challenge, meet it.
Life is a duty, complete it.
Life is a game, play it.
Life is costly, care for it.
Life is wealth, keep it.
Life is love, enjoy it.
Life is mystery, know it.
Life is a promise, fulfill it.
Life is sorrow, overcome it.
Life is a song, sing it.
Life is a struggle, accept it.
Life is tragedy, confront it.
Life is an adventure, dare it.
Life is luck, make it.
Life is too precious, do not destroy it.
Life is life, fight for it.

--Whitney

Deck the Walls

2011-12-18T20:59:00.001-08:00

This will be our 57th Christmas in retail! Wow! It's such a special time of year for a lot of reasons. One reason I love this holiday is because the designer comes out in all of us! Go ahead...tis the season!

Here are some quick photos of one clients home all decked out for the holidays. She is the kind of sweetheart you'd love to just sit by the fire, drink some egg nog, and enjoy stories from years past. Enjoy seeing how some get ready for the holidays. Merry Christmas!

Sparkle, Shimmer, and Shine!

Tip #1 in holiday decor: HAVE FUN!

This entry welcomes winter...

My client added more bling to
her chandelier for some sparkle!

Mixing old...

...with new to keep things fresh.

Away in a Manger

Ribbon does wonders in decorating!

Shells can make a festive statement too!

Santa by the Sea

Three Wise Men

Touches of the season...

Glam Reindeer!

The Reason for the Season!

Welcome!

2011-10-25T10:14:00.000-07:00

I have received several messages from you asking me to feature pictures of my own house. Gulp! Because I love you and I just vacuumed, I will do it! My home is small, cozy, and functions nicely for our growing family. We have a three year old son who plays hard and is learning the difference between his toys and mommy's special things! Come on in...

Our little Entryway...

Our Everything Room. Living Room, TV Room,
and Playground...

Everything Room: Part 2

Hubby John's Old Family Desk

Dining Room and fireplace sitting spot.
I love this space-- when fixing dinner,
friends & family can sit here and relax.

Dining Room and Kitchen Area. This is the catch all place
for food, stories, laughs, and games.

Our kitchen island. Charlie's favorite
place to perch and have breakfast.

Kitchen: Part 2

Our kid friendly downstairs powder bath.
These little hexagon tiles make it easy to keep
clean and I love the blue/grey/white color in here.

There you have it! Next week...the upstairs and my office-- a cleaning crew will be needed for those spaces. Happy Decorating and enjoy your day!

Inspirations

2011-09-12T16:56:00.000-07:00

I got a call this morning from a favorite customer asking me to come over and help arrange her office. When I got there, who greeted me but this daaaling little puppy-- the newest addition to their family.

Meet our inspiration...Louis

I asked what his name is and she said, "Louis! You know, like Louis Vuitton." What a perfect name for a purse puppy!

We look at the space and can't help but think about Louis. I never know where some inspiration comes from and who knew today it would be from a three pound Chiuaua!

My client loves fashion, has a fashion-styled business, and isn't afraid of mixing and matching great pieces to create a fun look. This helps get the ideas rolling...

Look familiar? She didn't want this exactly but
this is how I do my research. I SHOP!

Found this new fall line of office furniture.
Leather & nail trim luggage file
cabinet makes it fun to go to work!

A pair of these guest chairs will add to the sleek
style of the room and size is to scale for the space.

Louis inspired this fabric. A classic pattern;
colors work beautifully with the
carpet & wall color.

We loved this fish-scaled shell pattern
for the desk lamp. Like jewelry for the room!

Two bookcases flanking the desk will
give some nice curve appeal to an
otherwise square/straight-lined room.

Finally a little fun art collection

of silhouettes. A set of 3 will

set off the walls in between

the bookcases.

It's a lot of fun to jump into the lives of my clients-- or into their beloved dogs life!

AH Birthdays...

2011-08-18T17:59:00.000-07:00

Birthdays are a celebration. Some celebrations are bigger than others, depending on your mood. Turning 37 has been fun so far!

Oh yes...I do love me some birthday cake!

Stayed in my fuzzy slippers all day at home and...

caught up on favorite magazines!

Sat down & wrote some notes
that were long overdue. One pen
pal is a dear friend in San Francisco.
We exchange notes once a week
when we are good!

I like the idea of just one big birthday candle!

So far, my birthday has been wonderful! Stayed home with my little son and relaxed. Dinner out with hubby John tonight. Thank you to the birthday fairies who left sweet gifts on my doorstep. Ah...I do love birthdays!

One Day Makeover with Wallpaper!

2011-07-17T00:00:00.000-07:00

In my mind, wallpaper is one of the most wonderful tools a girl can use to make any room shine. Certain design ideas come and go- who the heck came up with cutting a sponge and soaking it in paint and directly applying to walls? Wallpaper is always in style. It's all in the color, pattern, and scale for your room. We had a great time updating the kitchen with one simple change. Wallpaper!

Like pealing the layers of an onion- you have to really strip things down to see what you've got to work with. In this case, it was pealing away several layers of...WALLPAPER! Many layers. Like reading a storybook into one families history in that kitchen. So much fun!

Long story short...

The busy pattern on the walls were needing a change.
A quieter look was what was needed.

First the fun part- peal the papers back and take a trip down memory lane.
This home built in the 1970's and has always had wallpaper in the kitchen.
The walls are smooth so we felt papering again was the answer.
But softer, warm tones was what our client wanted.

A lot of White with brass drawer pulls and knobs.
We gathered some ideas for what the new paper could be
and came up with a few fun ones...

She loved this but decided it would
look too busy. Napkins, however, a must!

Pretty but not calming- we decided too busy.

Background is too cream but the
subject is simply delightful.

In the amount of time it takes to make a double chocolate layered cake and let it cool...

we managed to redo the kitchen to this:

One Day to Beautiful!

We decided to have longer drapes to the floor

rather than the top valance on the window-

softer look & classic with a linen fern pattern.

What a difference a day makes!

If you are in need of great Wallpaper Hangers in the Oregon area, I know two fellows who do the best job and fabulous people to boot! Mike & Lee- years of experience and perfect every time.

Mike Maiterth 541-521-3385
Lee Richardson 541-343-4008

Sassy Slipcovers

2011-05-06T21:05:00.000-07:00

Slip your furniture into something different!

When we hear the word 'Slipcover,' many of us think Shabby Chic. You know...the messy, floppy, sheet-over-the-sofa kind of look. There is a time and place for Shabby Chic, but for those of us who want a more tailored, classic and form-fitting look, there is an updated solution.

Introducing Slipcover 2.0

-custom slipcovers by Annette Shank-

Meet my 'brown-blah' cube ottoman. I know you have seen his kind before.

This ottoman is a popular item that works double-duty as a footstool as well as providing an added seat at gatherings. The problem with this little guy is, well, he's just plain dull and boring!

Goal: let's make this cube a pretty little piece of eye candy!


Nice chair style, but the fabric must go!

Problem: I'm sure everyone has a plaid chair in the family that seems to make the rounds. This chair was in my parents den and now they've passed it along to me! Although the fabric is in good shape, it doesn't work anywhere in my house.

Goal: add a feminine touch to make it a pretty guest room chair.

This is where the magic happens!

To help carry out my wishes, I enlisted the help of slipcover guru, Annette Shank. Seeing her work with fabric is like watching a sculptor mold their clay...but with the eye of an engineer and the skill of a fine craftsman!

New fabric--new look.

Annette began by draping my fabric over the ottoman and pin-fitting some options for me to consider. We didn't want it to look reupholstered, so we tried to add some interest to an otherwise square box.

Shall we pleat here or there? Add buttons?
Maybe ties...what to do, what to do?

Annette transformed it before my very eyes.

Drum roll...

Voila!

Snug as a bug in a rug!
This tab helps keep it on and is a sweet detail.
Love the addition of some buttons too!

Goodbye plaid...hello pleated perfection!

Show off that new skirt!

Annette is so darn creative and fun! Her customers love how detailed she is and that she offers up ideas even the best designers couldn't dream up--all because she has years of experience making slipcovers and working with fabrics to know the best solution.

Before...

After!

Doggie chewed the fabric off of your wing chair?

Don't panic...slipcover it!


Dated jewel tones? Rejuvenate it! I love how she fit the cover over the exposed carved arm.

Contact Annette at: 541-345-5545
This lady knows her stuff!

Mum's Day!

2011-04-30T13:09:00.000-07:00

want to get something special for the MUM in your life?

emma bridgewater's BEST MUM Mug is perfect for Mother's Day!

Made in England and now available at our stores-

call 541-617-9799 while supplies last!

Would you like us to ship to your Mum? We Can!

For more emma bridgewater pottery go to:
http://www.emmabridgewater.co.uk/

I DO!

2011-04-28T22:07:00.000-07:00

Ahhhhhh...the Royal Wedding is finally here!

When a toaster just won't do, here are a few wonderful gift ideas:

Say it with Spode...a classic gift- these gorgeous pieces
should be on every bride's registry.

Betriz Ball Silver pieces offer a double function-
practical as well as simply stylish.

How about some pretty new linens
for the Bride & Groom.

She will love this pretty pillow!

If I were to wear a Fascinator to the wedding...
It might look something like this.

Or this feather beauty made from a clever gal
who dressed up my wedding, PiperEwen.com.

Or this? Dessert right after the ceremony-
Perfect & Delicious!

All of these wonderful wedding gift ideas are of course available at our sweet stores, Edman's in Bend & Edman Furniture in Eugene. The doughnut hat is available at Dunkin' Doughnuts! Cheers to the Royal couple!

Look Who's 5 years old...

2011-04-10T16:50:00.000-07:00

Our shop in Bend is five years old! This spring we wanted to kick things off with a shop filled with great new pieces. The problem with our Bend shop is it's small so when new furniture, lamps, accessories, and pictures all come in at once...it looks like a tornado hit the joint! I snapped some photos of all the new and pretty spring merchandise before we set it up and then everything finding it's place- like a puzzle that needs finishing!

Day 1 - Unpack all the new stuff!

Fresh new paint to spring things up.

Fun new things but where to put it?

Not a very glamorous job but it's fun..making beds!

28 new lamps that need to find a home...

By lunchtime I was wanting to have a double latte
and a cuppa yo to jump start my decorating!

Oh dear...what was I thinking? It's going to take more than a day...

Thank goodness for coffee, furniture glides, hammers, and fun new stuff to make a girl work fast and hard! We had to get the shop ready for our 5th Anniversary party and with little sleep and pretty new pieces to make it fun to set up...
WE DID IT! TWO DAYS TO THIS...

Breakfast nook table with an english flair!

Our new Upholstery Line edman&co- fun fabrics and styles.

Layers of books, pillows, candles, & accessories for spring- cute!

Leather, Stickley, and more rustic things fit in with Bend homes beautifully.

A little transitional style anyone?
James Dean makes any space handsome!

This last summer my sisters and I went to London
and found a wonderful line of dishware called
Emma Bridgewater.
Now available in London & Bend, Oregon!

Emma Bridgewater is known for their floral collection.
We saw this teapot at Harrod's in London.
Would you like a spot of tea?

Great Mother's Day gift...BEST MUM!

Crumbs & crumbs plate, fresh milk, porridge bowls,
and breakfast pitcher. How lovely!

Express yourself with these typewriter letters.
Fun way to spell things out! Literally!

Books on keeping everything clean & sparkling!

Calendars, stationery, and candles. Great gift ideas.

Nest on into this comfy chair with birds & butterflies.

Fun for parties- charms for your wine glasses or to wear!
Lots of pretty styles and colors. Great hostess gift idea!

New Pine Cone Hill bedding on a Baker Milling Road Bed! Yummy!

This custom artwork is great for family names
or your favorite place. You pick a dozen names or
places and we can create a keepsake for you!

Sweet for spring- notepads, cards, candles,
& trays. Oh my!

Add caption

1020 NW Wall Street. Downtown Bend, Oregon!

Cheers to customers, family, and furniture! We painted the shop red to give it a fresh new look after five years. A little mini facelift? Something like that! Stop by anytime and see what's new! Filled with fresh ideas for spring and loaded with stylish fashions for the home. Shop Here!

Jeannie Rae to the rescue!

2011-03-07T10:00:00.000-08:00

Do you have a piece of furniture or an accessory that needs a little lift? A sprucing up? Perhaps you don't want to part with it, so rejuvenate it with a new look. Enter my 7 foot antique cabinet I bought five years ago at an auction. I have always loved the lines of this tall and dark cabinet, but the finish up close was bumpy, lumpy, and wrong. This piece needs some TLC. This piece needs Jeannie!

The cabinet on the right has the will to live.
The creative woman on the left has a mission.
Make this 7 ft of particle board look like a million bucks!

Hard to see all the layers of lumpy laquer and thirteen shades of blah.
Jeannie striped the piece from the top down to it's toes-
A wrestling match but we had our money on the little blonde!

She won. Now it was time to get creative.

Jeannie wanted to see where the cabinet was going to live.
This is my home office in our new house. Kid books, bright colors...
This room wants to be funky, colorful, and fun.

I have a skinny wall in between two doors where the cabinet will sit.
The piece itself has super storage potential. Loads of shelves
and a tall locking latch where little ones can't reach. Great for
storing things I don't want others to get- paints, nails & screws, my chocolate!

After Jeannie came over to look at the space, she had lots of ideas...

The drapes- Osbourne & Little.
Tulips are a favorite.

Jeannie found these knobs.
On the right is the before- sorta gold & brown.
On the left is a beautiful new pink/white tulip!

Oh I love how Jeannie layers the fun with colors & patterns!

How long did it take to paint all those squares? Oh my!

Jeannie added so many touches to the new cabinet.
I am finding jewels and sweet 'Jeannie' additions everywhere!

My new cabinet. Before it was boring.
Before it had no zip.
No personality. Now...
It's beautiful!

Jeannie Rae has always looked at life in a positive light- looking to see the possibilities. I've known Jeannie for years and have admired her creative ways. It's inspiring to watch Jeannie take an ordinary piece and make it come to life, make it a piece of art. Thank You for adding a happy piece of art in our home- We love the new and improved cabinet and we love you Jeannie!

And the nominees are...

2011-02-26T14:57:00.000-08:00


	Here's your ticket to our very own red carpet event!


Best Picture- Trevor James Original

Best Newcomer

Best use of trim

Best Supporting Chair

Best Brownie Recipe in the making...


Best little Salt n' Pepper Shaker!

Best Set Design

Best Original Screenplay

Best ~~Animated~~ Animal Feature

Best Actor

Instead of red carpet, maybe the Oscars should add a stripe or plaid!

Best Pillow Design

Best supportive husband in a romantic comedy

Best Original Set

Best Director! My Dad Babe

Best Hair & Make-Up-

Best of Friends!

It's Complicated...or is it?

2011-02-09T09:26:00.000-08:00

Beth Rubino's interior design in the movie, 'It's Complicated'.

Designers that really stand out in my book (or blog) are the ones who truly have a passion for what they do and where the rooms make you feel like you want to move right in. Have you ever watched a movie and loved it not only for the romantic plot and funny one-liners, but for the interiors of the settings where everything takes place? Well, I can tell you so many movies are enjoyable to watch again and again because I like what I hear AND what I SEE! I can't really remember the set of any Tom Selleck movie...he's pretty much the decoration if you know what I mean! Hi TOM!

Call Me!

It's been fun to watch the movie It's Complicated because I am madly in love with the house, the yard, the bakery and the tone that (Meryl Streeps Character) has in her home. Isn't it lovely? After watching it for the fourth time, I finally waited to see who the set designer was for the home. I should have known...the same designer who decorated another fav house from 'Somethings gotta give'. Remember that one? In the Hamptons with Diane Keaton and Jack Nickleson. Well, this designer is Beth Rubino. She is one to admire and learn from that its a-okay to not feel like everything needs to match or be just so. When everything comes together, it looks inviting, comfy, functional, classic, and lived in. Just the way life should be.

'It's Complicated' Kitchen. Beth R says she loves to mix old with new-


Living Room in the South Hamptons in 'Somethings Gotta Give'.

Another 'Somethings Gotta Give' room to spend hours in laughing, eating, drinking...

Potting corner in 'It's Complicated' makes me want to take up gardening...almost!

Beth's style makes you look at the things in your own home and gives you the green light to use them! Old works wonders with new and pull out your collections to see, use and enjoy. Starting with a neutral base and adding layers of wicker, woods, and fabrics that you love is the first step in making a house a home. Texture is key and don't worry too much about if this pillow goes with that chair. Guess what? It DOES! Why? Because you love it!


Beth Rubino- Set Designer

We all don't have to be millionaires to feel like a million bucks when we are at home with ourselves or with our loved ones. Edit out the things you really don't need or use and make your home that calming place that relaxes you, comforts you, and makes you want to be there.

Time to go clean out my pantry now...make it a calmer space!

Open Shelving Decor

2011-01-12T08:33:00.000-08:00

Now that the holiday decorations are all packed away, it's time to bring out your collectibles, bowls, baskets, Grandma's candlestick holders and enjoy them while doing the dishes! Finally, you can see what you have-- you may even use it more than if it was packed up in a cupboard or closet. Every morning when I shuffle to my coffee pot, I grab my favorite mug off the open shelves in the kitchen...and smile.

Open Shelf Tip #1:
Surround yourself with the things you love!


Tip #2: Group your pretty things by color. This Malibu cottage kitchen belongs to my old bosses, actor Ricky Schroder & his wife Andrea, an interior designer in LA. I love her mix of creams, whites, and soft yellows. Super sweet, isn't it? I have lived with three men in my life; My Dad, this guy, and my Hubby John!

Tip #3:
Don't make it look like you are staging!

This is a little group of shelves in my kitchen and we use the
coffee cups, popcorn, cookbooks, pitchers, and pasta all the time!
Nice to be able to see what you have on hand and makes an
awkward corner actually functional.

When helping clients with their homes, I have a ball seeing their pieces and special treasures that are unique to them. We can pull out things they haven't used in years and place it on a shelf for all to see, it makes you feel good keeping what you have and truly enjoying it. If you group like things together, coordinate with colors that compliment, and make it look effortless...you'll love the end result with open shelf decor!

A Gift Beyond Measure...

2010-12-28T22:08:00.000-08:00


			This Christmas, my sister Beth made a special gift for my two year old.

A homemade growth chart that looks like a vintage tape measure!

Oh--this is where the happy tears come in!


Reminds me of the pocket door jam at my Grandparents house. It had a million marks documenting our growth throughout the years.

Laminated for longevity & great for a laundry room, kids room, etc.

A note to Charlie written on the back.

My sweet sister Beth- so creative and thoughtful! We love our Auntie Beth!

These are a few of my favorite things...

2010-12-18T16:25:00.000-08:00

Curl up this winter in our yummy bedding by Pine Cone Hill

You'll get in the festive spirit right away in this little tufted chair- oh, oh, oh!

Resting up at the store before his big trip!

A favorite candle by Aquiesse- beautiful smells for the season


Brrr....baby it's cold outside. Great gift for the dog lover in all of us.

So thrilled these Stella & Dot earings are on my list! $39 can say "I Love You".


Our Dining Room- this is a favorite place of mine...

Santa's Bed! This Henredon Sleigh is gorgeous any way you look at it!

We've had such a fun time seeing customers & friends stopping in to shop and say hello! It's a festive time of year and wonderful to see you! Can you believe Christmas is in a week?

If you hate crowds, dread parking, lines, and all the rush??? We can help! This ain't no mall experience! You'll feel relaxed, well taken care of and delighted with all your findings for Christmas!

Ho! Ho! Ho! Merry Christmas!

Christmas is Coming...

2010-12-14T21:30:00.000-08:00

A sweet collection of Christmas trinkets & nostalgic pieces

my Mom has been collecting for years.

Christmastime has a special place in my heart. It's a combination of time with friends & family, decorating the house together with my sisters, music, cooking, etc. Traditions big and small that make up a warm & fuzzy feeling when I think of Christmas as a child. My sisters and I would all agree that our Mom & Dad really made the holidays magical. Now we feel it's up to us to make it special for them.

My job since I was five has been to set the table- I still enjoy getting out the nice dishes & glasses. Ribbon in as many places as I can put it...look out candles, here comes the ribbon!

My folks love their round table for entertaining, fun talks for hours and eating wonderful food! My mom wants ribbon everywhere- what mamma wants, mamma gets!

Me, sister Beth, sister Ann & our cuddly kitty Booboo.

Photo taken Christmas 1979

The hearth in our Christmas photo when we were kids...

The jar on the table are ornaments from the 20's, 30's, & 40's that my mom loves to collect. Some are from her parents and others found
at antique shops, gifts from friends & family, and a yard sale or two.

This garland we hang every year of our childhood ornaments. We don't have enough of them left to decorate an entire tree, but the garland is the perfect size to hang our little ice skating girl, stars, bows, and other special ornaments I remember when I was young.

The way we decorate my Mom & Dad's house for Christmas has remained a tradition year after year. We try and decorate in one evening while playing Wynonna Judd's Christmas CD over and over again to get us in the mood! Some things never change.

Are you all ready for Christmas?

Spook-tacular Ideas

2010-10-25T08:20:00.000-07:00

We mean business when we go a pickin' for pumpkins!

to go from pumpkin patch to this is notime!

I love these faces!

It can get spooky at our house on halloween.

Spiders & Bats & Kids, OH MY!

black is the best basic when decorating for this holiday!

crows in the house? Of course! Add some spooky to the
usual decor to make it festive in October.

Got doughnuts?

This witch is fun & easy to make...neighborhood kids love her!

It ain't halloween until you've seen Elvis knockin' at your door!

Wedding Anniversary- The gift of LOVE

2010-10-20T09:01:00.001-07:00

Happy 3rd Wedding Anniversary sweet love of mine! My hubby John and I are celebrating three fun-filled years married- today. John thought this was the year he gifts paper. In his dreams! This year it's one of my favorites- the 3rd anniversary is the gift of...LEATHER!!!

fabulous leather boots to be exact! Pretty please?

...or a stunning new handbag? Oh you shouldn't have!

This leather headboard would be a beautiful anniversary gift!

He knows me soooo well!

And for the man I adore...I would get him this comfy leather lounge chair!

Happy Anniversary!

Not London Fog...it's our London Blog!

2010-10-09T12:25:00.001-07:00

LONDON 2010-

Shopkeepers will tell you it's not easy to take time off from work. For we three sisters, it's like building Big Ben to take a vacation together. But then we received a wedding invitation from our cousin Demetri, who has been living in London for 14 years. Several of our extended family members were going to make the trip and we wanted to celebrate this blessed event with everyone. Plus, we'd get to do some shopping too! Our wonderful team at our shops told us to go and enjoy. Thanks to all of them...off we go to jolly 'Ol London!

London is fantastic! But if you are trying to cross the street, be careful

and look BOTH ways to be safe! I learned that one the hard way!!!

It's like petting a cat backwards...

it's just strange & doesn't seem right

Cousin Demetri and his lovely bride, Fionuala on their wedding day!

They were the reason for our trip to London and my sisters and I

were so happy to witness such a wonderful wedding & reception-

Londoners know how to celebrate!

Typical Street in London. No SUV's here...wouldn't fit!

In a random little alley way, look in the background...

my sister Ann and I loved spotting this chandelier-

so stylish in a small space! Great look to dress up all that old brick!

In the middle of the street was this chair sitting pretty waiting

to be loaded into a truck for delivery.

When in London...you must go to Pimlico Road. The most charming interior

design shops in the area and this is where the locals buy.

Not crammed with tourists (like us!) and reeked of British style and class.

The shop is called HOWE.

They take the British flag and upholster it on a side chair.

A signature look for this well known designer.

An old chair just hanging around the shop.

Cousin Courtney relaxing at Harrod's on this

cute hearts-all-around chair. Loved it!

Our friend Christy Cricow told us when in London you must have high tea at the Orangery near Kennsington Palace. We all LOVED it and couldn't get over the delicious desserts! Cheers to you Christy, thank you! (with my pinkie high in the air!)

At the Orangery-love their stylish way of serving.

It's like a tea party everyday!

Sandwiches, scones, and a little meringue--I was is High Tea Heaven!

The Gardens at Kennsington Palace- ready for a nap after the treats

Sister Beth & cousin Molly pulled out their sunglasses when they discovered they

both bought the same pair at the airport. Designer brand? Doubt it...they couldn't get the upper corner label off that read, 'polarized'. They look cute, don't they?

Notting Hill townhouses. Where pastels work!

Niece Lindsey went to Cambridge for summer classes.

I could say that I went to Cambridge this summer too...

but it was for a beer and fish-n-chips!

Our new friend, guarding the gates at Buckingham Palace

my backyard...just kidding.

The gardens in Hyde Park.

Niece Lindsey & I went to see Billy Elliot! Such a great show!

It was windy that night and hot...

my hair & my feet were hurting in this pic.

Mailing the Queen back to Oregon- she'd love it here!

A special trip for us all! Do you have a favorite trip or place that you love? Would love to hear from you and get ideas to where we gals should go next!

Summertime Fun!

2010-07-17T14:21:00.001-07:00

Summer is here! This is such a special time of year. Flowers are in bloom, kids are out of school, long weekends to play, and great memories of childhood come to mind. Enjoy those long days of summer because it goes by fast.

"Pass the corn on the cob please Uncle Mike..."

In the summer, I have lemonade everyday! It was my first job ever!

Drinks are more refreshing & food tastes better outdoors! Decorating outside is really like adding on to your house- like having a party where everyone's invited!

Dinner parties that are '...just because it's summer' are the best!

I have a few favorite recipes to share- great for hosting or going to a party.

- Aunt Diane & Aunt Beth's Whiskey Sours are a must on hot days or warm nights. Easy to make & gets a party going!

6 oz Lemonade

6 oz Whiskey

Ice

Water

Fill the blender in this order: lemonade, then ice 3/4 up to top, 6oz of whiskey and 1/2 to 3/4 cup water. Then blend away! Put a cherry in bottom of glass for color and top with a whiskey sour- Cheers!

My mom is one of five girls...VA VA VOOM!

Hoisin Chicken Burgers are a favorite in our house because young or old, everyone loves them and can make it all their own! My brother-in-law Scott makes 'em right.

1/4 cup honey

1/4 cup soy sauce

1/2 cup hoisin sauce

1 clove of crushed garlic

1/4 teaspoon ginger

1/4 teaspoon dry mustard

Mix all the above ingredients together in a ziploc baggie & plop chicken breasts in and marinade at least 4 hours or best overnight in the frig.

Onion Buns (buttered & toasted on the BBQ)

Coleslaw (to put on the onion bun for your crunch and flavor)

Hoisin Sauce (spread on the toasted onion bun for an added kick)

After the chicken breasts have been BBQ'd, cut them up in nice long slices to layer on the bun- then add your Hoisin sauce and coleslaw and there you have it, great Chicken Burgers! Enjoy!

so good for summer- slice the chicken instead of using a whole chicken breasts

Really my family is a ball of fun with loads of laughs- just not in this photo!

This candy bar is a hoot to have in the summer- reminds me of the State Fair. We have a lot of summer birthdays in our family so great party ideas to follow...

a nice dip in this pool after a long day at the office...

Confessions of a Shopkeeper

2010-04-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

I confess. I love being a designer...but it's not all that glamorous.

Doesn't she look so classic, so stylish, so caught up on her sleep?

I confess. I am an adrenalin junkie, a thrill-seeker, a risk-taker, a wild woman! Why??? Because I'm in RETAIL in the year 2010! Many of our days (and nights) are spent researching, planning, and dreaming about decorating homes...tirelessly being fueled by coffee & taco bell. Oh dear.

maybe on this day, you don't eat or drink ANYTHING...

I confess. I do love to shop. Finding that right piece for others is a real fun and exciting job. Actually gives me a boost. A jolt. A heart-pounding good time when that special piece for a customer is found! And they love it as much as we had hoped. That's what we do for a living. We listen to you, buy for you, and decorate for you. Along with making fun memories along the way.

Found this Chandelier for a farmhouse-
My mom calls this, "...icing on the cake."

Here sits a perfect dining chair-
changing the fabric to something more practical
and colorful would make it last longer than two days in an active home!

We just got two of these little darlings in!
They come with two sets of shades, linen & chocolate.
Perfect for a seasonal boost.

I confess. I am not good sitting at a desk and doing paperwork. Fortunately, that's not what my job requires all the time. I am out on the field hunting for new things for our stores or pounding the pavement pulling paint colors, carpet samples, and lighting to help the client see the entire look together! Those of you who know my sisters Ann and Beth know that they are the most organized women in the world! Thank goodness!

"Has anyone seen my grocery list? I just had it here a second ago?"

I confess. I can't take a picture if my life depended on it. We got a call from a wonderful magazine to have our work featured in a summer issue. They asked me to send in some pictures and none of them turned out. All Fuzzy! Oh dear...

fuzzy but sweet...this was suppose to show how birds are still big now.

My attempt at a closeup shot.

Showing how old & new can mix well together.

Kitchen nook...this one wasn't quite right either.

I confess. I love parties. I can't cook but I love gathering with family and friends. We had a bridal shower for our lovely cousin, Molly. She is so special to us and it was fun to have everyone come celebrate this blessed time in her life!

Molly's signature drink was like a party in your mouth!

Every bride-to-be should have a fancy feather duster...

and cute jammies too! We love you Molly!

I confess. Sometimes I can't decide. Found this picture of super dark floors and love them. But with most of my other pieces not being that dark, now I'll have to sleep on it for a few days and picture living with it. What do you think?

Love these floors but are they too dark?

Cute dog. He looks good with the floors.

Don't worry...it's just wood floors for goodness sakes!

I have to confess. My hubby John brought these eggs home the other day and I loved them so much, I took the middle blue-green one into the paint store to see if there was a match for a kitchen wall color. Who says my job isn't dangerous? If that egg had cracked in my pocket, what a mess! Luckily, everything worked out and I'll snap some fuzzy pics of how it looks!

nature inspiration...you never know when you'll find it!

this inspires me!

oh dear...why did I eat that dessert!

Anticipation

2010-03-14T09:57:00.000-07:00

Some New Arrivals for spring...yes we still deliver! And yes...I still have this haircut!

This time of year we get excited for the Anticipation of what's new for Spring- there is something about this season that puts a little kick in our step. The sisters and I have been ordering new things and we are excited to get the shelves stocked and the pillows fluffed!

Let there be light! Pretty Paper Cloud Pendant lights- lots of cool & warm toned linen shades to select from. This could brighten up any corner that needs a little life...

Our French Flea Market...this is where we get to mix new and previously loved pieces. It's a favorite room for many who stop by the store. Makes you feel like you're shopping in Europe!

Fun rugs for indoor/outdoor use from Dash & Albert-
great for humans or doggies! Woof!

Me (middle) with sisters Beth (left in green) and Ann (denim girl) in the Eugene store.
Local newspaper did a write up on us- we learned sister owned stores are very rare these days. We wouldn't have it any other way. Well, we couldn't...we don't have brothers!

This Arthur Court master wine cooler is gorgeous-
silver & gold together are always a classic!

Stickley's new collector's piece for 2010...charming little phone stand with
Harvey Ellis Inlay. Ring Ring!

On the home front, we are anticipating the building project of our new little house. Spring has sprung and that means we've broken ground and the walls are starting to take shape.

breaking ground on our little house...
wish I had that tractor around all the time to weed with!

two weeks later...

Does it look like we'll be able to move in by June?

Greenroom

2010-03-02T21:01:00.000-08:00

When March rolls around I always think of:

Lads & Lassie's celebrating St. Patrick's Day- don't start without me!

The Academy Awards- One of my favorite Sunday nights of the year

Anything green! Decorating with the color GREEN...

If you live in a beige or cream world, it doesn't hurt to add a little fresh color in your home. Green can be the answer to your prayers.

Going Green never looked so pretty!

Brunswig & Fils Fabric: Corals & Greens collection

Did you know:

Green is the color of nature, fertility, life...Grass green is the most restful color...Green symbolizes self-respect and well being...Green is the color of balance...It also means learning, growth and harmony.

Currey & Company lamp- simply lovely

Adding a piece or two of green tones to one main room can make your space feel updated, fresh and give a sense of peace and harmony. I love green accessories. A little goes a long way. Three times a charm in my book, tells the story without going overboard.

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Egyptians wore green eyeliner because they felt it to be a strong healing color. I would wear green eyeliner everyday if I thought I looked like cleopatra...
sorta says, "Don't mess with me...I'm not afraid to use green eyeliner!"

It's Oscar month and another favorite GreenRoom is always at the Academy Awards. This room designed by Carleton Varney brings back old Hollywood Glamour in Interior Design.

Black, white and green add drama right where it needs to be.
"Oh George Clooney, that's my drink over there...would you mind passing it this way handsome."

Put some green in your life when you want:

a new state of balance
feel a need for change or growth
freedom to pursue new ideas

Do you have something green already that you just love or are you looking for a particular green accessory that will help complete your look? Try a little GREEN...I think you'll find loads of luck with it!

L-O-V-E

2010-02-09T13:17:00.000-08:00

I played this game when I was a kid. Mostly, he loved me not.

Do you believe in love at first sight? I do. I've fallen in love with puppies and kittens without even blinking an eye. When it comes to non-living pretty things that can fit in my handbag, around my neck, or in my house...I have fallen head over heals in no time. One rule of thumb, if you aren't madly in love with it, don't even let it through your front door.

Here are a few of my LOVES in life:

I have the best little faucet in my bathroom. It's not fancy, but I love turning it on when I go to brush my teeth or wash my hands. Call me crazy, I love to turn that faucet. Makes me happy. Sue me.

I adore my area rug downstairs. It has every color in the rainbow and makes me giggle when I walk on it-- which some days, can be over 100 times. Makes going to the laundry room more exciting. I love that rug! Makes me happy.

I can't live without my coffee cup. It's big and reminds me of my old dog Miles. Playing outside in the wintertime all bundled up ice-skating...too cute! This mug makes me happy.

I'm in love with this old pocket watch. I have it with a few of my necklaces in my bathroom and see it every morning before I get ready for the day. I wondered who had this treasured keepsake for years and where it has traveled before winding up in my house. I especially love it because it doesn't have hands...so I never feel like I'm running late!

Do you have a favorite thing or two in your house right now that you love? Of course your family & friends are keepers for sure, but I wanna know what special things you have and where they are at home? Happy Valentine's Day! Cheers to Love.

Balancing Act

2010-02-04T11:38:00.000-08:00

Can we all relate to life feeling a bit like a balancing act? Do you juggle your family and work life and sometimes feel like both are a three-ring circus?

At work, my to do list is long but good. We just changed the window displays for February. New colors and eye-catching merchandise help to make our windows tell a story. With 42 room settings inside the store, it's a lot to play with. My sister Beth and I are ordering new sofas, beds, rugs, lamps, and everything in between. We've been caught in our PJ's at the store late at night redoing a room or two. We work best in flannel, what can I say? Next week, I am going to Gearhardt on the coast to help a wonderful client with her home. We ordered this bed for her- so pretty! What to put with it? Oh just wait...

Great neutrals with a hint of color makes for a relaxing room.

At home, my February list is a busy one. My hubby John and I are at the beginning stage of building a small home in Eugene. I'll keep you posted on how the two of us work together on this...gulp! Also on the list: throwing a bridal shower for my cousin, water baby swim lessons, weekend trip to visit John's family, help set up for 'Shall We Dance' charity, a few friends' birthday parties, a niece's play, mail out Valentine cards, and big sister Ann's Birthday! Oh yeah, and keeping up with my love of movie watching- must get ready for the Oscars!

I'm right here Precious!

Life clicks along whether you like it or not. There are days I would love to just fast-forward through and others that need repeating. Thank goodness for some ringleaders to help for the greater good of our work life and home schedule too. Crazy days make for some fun stories and remind me to be light-hearted about things. Don't let life overwhelm you, because this too will pass. Maybe one or two mini-meltdowns are allowed. But like Cher said in Moonstruck, "...Snap out of it!" And so I do.

These last five years...

2010-01-28T15:03:00.000-08:00

I've always enjoyed my work life. In my twenties and early thirties, my hobby was my job. For over fifteen years, I've decorated homes and tried to sell more sofas than any girl this side of the Mississippi!

Five years ago, our family decided to open a shop in Downtown Bend, Oregon about 120 miles from our Eugene store. Bend is beautiful, with mountains and rivers to boast about, sunny weather, and interesting people from all over.

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We wanted a smaller, more boutique style store

and that's just what we got...

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First summer in Bend, met cute guy named John.

Then John and I got married...

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John & I are no spring chicks, so we were ready to start our family.

Baby Charlie was born!

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I juggled being a new mom, wife, and shopkeeper...acquired a taste for coffee and attempted to finally use those stainless steel things that stare at me in the kitchen. Me, cook? Why not!

Take your baby to work? Not such a good idea...

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It was time to be closer to family once Charlie was here. It takes a village, you know, and starting a family made us realize that there's more to life than sunny weather! But it's not farewell Bend.

Our shop in Bend is still clicking along and we are happy to say the shop is there to stay! We are in Eugene more and it's been so much fun catching up with customers/friends. Stop in next time you're driving by...unless you live far away, then just check on us here...our new adventure in blogging!

Curious About Color?

2010-01-13T08:14:00.000-08:00

As a shopkeeper, I dream of the day when I can travel the globe to shop the world's finest markets in search of beautiful, unique products for my store. We've been going to markets and shows throughout the country for years now, but recently I've been fascinated by how other shops fill their aisles.

I have been following two wonderful stores in Kansas City, MO for some time now - Curious Sofa & Nell Hill. I got a wild hair to hop on a plane and shop the two stores in two days! It was a great trip...absolutely delightful, inspiring, and a fun fellowship between shopkeepers.

Debbie with Curious Sofa is fabulous! Her store is filled with show stopping furniture & accessories with a vintage twist that all look one-of-a-kind. Her displays are amazing! She truly is an artist when it comes to visual merchandising. Scroll down for my idea of a big girls toy store!

Curious Sofa: use of texture, in lieu of color, is their trademark!

Debbie does decorating!

Thanks to GPS and a drive-thru coffee shop, I was ready to hit the highway in search of Nell Hill's. The original store is in a town of 800 people about an hour away from Kansas City, but folks flock from near and far to see its classic style packed with loads of accessories. I loved the look of traditional fabric motifs like houndstooth, toiles, paisleys, and plaids - all layered together making for comfortable, stylish settings. Their signature pieces included: English dishware, framed sketches, lanterns, trays, and trinkets that would make your home sing!

Color, pattern & comfort are what you find at Nell Hill's.

Classic paisley, but with an updated twist. Love it!

Mary Carol Garrity, who owns the Nell Hill's stores, has written several books on decorating and I must say that her store reflected a charming, gracious feel. And the girl ain't afraid of color either!

What's your favorite design palette, with or without color, muted or bright? What room do you enjoy being in most and what colors surround you? I want to hear from you!

What's In...What's Out this winter 2010

2010-01-05T22:20:00.000-08:00

Go with what you like, right? That's what my mama always told me. But these days, sometimes we need a little guidance when decorating. Perhaps an inner voice leading us in the right direction in creating our nests. Do I listen to the trends? When I like what I hear. Like clothing fashion, there are the new & wow-e-wow ideas out there but for your home it's a little more complicated. You are going to spend a little more money on your furnishings than the new skinny jean or bright-colored wrap.

Our store just got the latest trend list of what's in and what's out this winter- 2010. I'm sharing it because you may get a kick out of it. You might agree with it. You might not.

Do you want the good news or the bad news first? Let's go with the bad news...what's out!

In home design, what's out according to Home Retailers: Red, Blue & Browns (aka chocqua), Pink, Anything too shiny, Formality, Tea accessories, Antique gold, Matchy-matchy bedding ensembles, Exaggerated arms on upholstered seating, Fussy florals, Black lampshades, Tuscany, Contemporary, and Overstuffed.

What's in according to the same folks: Purples in all hues, Primary colors, Greens with blues, Muted tones, browns & grays, Oranges with red tones, Linen, Black and white, Monkeys, Cashmere blankets, Honeybees, Animal prints, Bird themes, Dogs, Silvery blues, Character, Understated chic that's comfortable, & Homey, "we've had this old expensive thing forever look". Vintage, and anything Monogrammed is in!

Lately we've been seeing a lot of color omitted from rooms and layering with texture and special keepsakes. It allows you to enjoy the furnishings throughout the year and pops of color could be added, but you certainly will not get tired of one particular color in your room when the neutrals are your base. Sounds a lot like dressing your own self, doesn't it? This winter I think it's important for your home to feel inviting and a come in and take a long winters nap right here sorta look! Comfort & relaxing this winter should be what's in. And of course surrounding yourself with things that you LOVE.

Take a look at the list and if there's anything you'd like to add to or suggest, I'm all ears. I'm curious what your favorite things are right now in your home or anything special you've been on the hunt for.