Archives for August 2010

Transition Your Containers

September is looming and it's just a tad cooler outside.  Just a tad.  I realized this weekend that the containers on my back deck that I so lovingly planted and watered at the end of spring really took a beating this summer in the 95+ degree heat (for weeks on end) and my own shameful neglect.  But my budget is stretched from back-to-school, and it's too early for pansies, so what's a girl to do?  Start … [Read more...]

Friday’s Favorite Product

This week I'm beginning a new feature called Friday's Favorite Product.  This will be a fun way for me to introduce you to my favorite new Willow House products, without putting you into Willow House overload.  Can you tell I'm excited about our new Fall catalog??  Not only will you get an image of the product along with pricing information, but I'll also provide you with some great ideas for decorating, entertaining, and/or … [Read more...]

Back-To-School and On The Ball

Does my title seems like an oxymoron?  I definitely know that feeling and you regular readers know I don't pretend to be an expert on organization.  I do, however, regularly search for new tips and fresh ideas to help keep the household and business running smoothly.  To my delight, Real Simple stepped up this week with some amazing back-to-school tips, so I thought I'd share.Here's some highlights from realsimple.com.Try a … [Read more...]

Derian and Decoupage

I used to love decoupage as a child.  I didn't mind all the sticky, gooey mess-- the process was enchanting, and the result even more so.  John Derian has elevated decoupage to designer decor through his company John Derian Company, Inc (est. 1989).  His collection of home accessories utilize 18th and 19th century reproductions in nature-inspired designs-- everything from small plates (my favorite!) to wall hangings.Wall … [Read more...]

Trowbridge at One Kings Lane

One Kings Lane, one of my favorite online sources for affordable and interesting decor, is offering a selection of fabulous prints from Trowbridge Gallery, again.  All are quality framed pieces for under $500.  If you have wall space to fill, this is your next stop!  Be sure to click over to view all of their selections, but here is a sampling of prints for sale. … [Read more...]

Willow House Debut Party

I am the queen of keeping it simple when I entertain, but I always want my guests to feel special, too.  For my Willow House Debut Party,  I set up three zones.  My dining room became the bargain basement, where I was unloading gently used samples for $5, $10, or $15.  My kitchen was refreshment central while the breakfast area was a display of new Fall products.  Catalogs and order forms were in the family room where I … [Read more...]

Christmas in August

My new Willow House products arrived yesterday and I couldn't wait to tear into them!  All set for the Willow House Catalog Premiere Party tonight!  My head is swimming with ideas for these beauties.  What do you think?Click here to view the entire Fall catalog.Roxy Reindeer Accent TowelsJolly Holiday StockingBerry and Bow Door BucketHyacinth Measuring CupsPortico Accent PlatesWirework Treasure TrioPrism Glass OrnamentsSmall Lady … [Read more...]

Lonny Magazine at Your Fingertips

I recently stumbled upon a NYTimes article about Lonny Magazine, an online shelter magazine.  Bear in mind that I am a print magazine kinda girl.  I like to hold my glossy pages in my hands, dog-ear pages, rip out inspiration, and hold onto them for dear life.  But let's be realistic.  Print magazines add up in cost, and if I truly indulged in every issue of Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Architectural Digest, or Veranda, I … [Read more...]

Provence Paradise by Michel Biehn

Have you ever been stopped in your tracks by a magazine cover?  This is exactly what happened to me in the airport a few weeks ago, when I caught sight of the August issue of Veranda.  I splurged and picked up a copy for my flight and I've been repeatedly engrossed ever since.  The images of this stunning Provencal villa restoration are captivating!  The result of a ten-year collaboration between designer/antique dealer/author … [Read more...]

Happy Birthday, Andy Warhol

I had a different post planned for today, but when it came to my attention that today is Andy Warhol's birthday, I felt compelled to mark the occasion here.  He is by no means my favorite artist, but the art historian in me cannot dismiss his leadership in the Pop Art movement of the 1950's.  And, you have to admit, his images have a familiarity and enormous visual appeal, whether it's the pop culture subject matter, the vibrant colors, … [Read more...]