Friday, 31 July 2009

And the winner is...


Alicia from Delightful & Delovely! Alicia, please send me an e-mail with your choice of color along with your shipping address and we'll get the vase on its way to you. Thanks again to Maureen over at The Inglenook Decor for the generous prize -- and the generous store discount! For those of you who didn't win, the discount will run through August 9 -- simply enter the discount code "Te Amo" at checkout to enjoy 15% off on your entire purchase.

I'm out for the weekend. Dave and I will be installing cabinet hardware, waiting on the refrigerator to be delivered and satellite TV to be installed, and doing some more painting. In the meantime, I hope everyone has a lovely, productive and restful weekend! I'll be back Monday with more pictures of the new house (including, hopefully, some good "afters").

Photograph courtesy of Amy Atlas.

Thursday, 30 July 2009

Boys Before Flowers Film Location Tour

Boys Before Flowers is a famous Korean Drama based on the Japanese manga series "Hana Yori Dango". This drama had been produced several times in different version, like in Japan and Taiwan, and now in Korea.

Boys Before Flowers or BBF starring Koo Hye-seon, Lee Min-ho, Kim Hyun-joong, Kim Beom, and Kim Jun. The drama still telling about the story between the high school most powerful boys "F4" and a normal school girl "Geum Jan Di".

The drama, got extremely huge popularity in Asia, not only because for the story and the good looking of main actor, but also for the beautiful scenes and magnificient shooting location. The drama featuring world exotic locations such as New Caledonia and Macao, as well as some of Korea’s most beautiful destinations.

Here is the list of some Boys Before Flowers shooting place, which now become korean tourist destination. The places including University, Country Club, Hotel, Villa, Department Store, and Resort.

1. Keimyung University
keimyung university

Keimyung University is the setting for the prestigious Shinhwa High School, the school attended by the main characters in the drama and which only children of the top 1% of the wealthiest families in Korea can attend. Keimyung University is situated in the city of Daegu. Its Western-style buildings and gorgeous natural surroundings make it one of the top ten most beautiful campuses in Korea, and consequently it’s a popular filming location for dramas and films. Major productions filmed at Keimyung University include the drama and the movie . Keimyung University consists of Seongseo campus and Daemyeong campus and the drama’s school scenes were filmed at both campuses. The beautiful Greek-style front gates and red-bricked buildings, along with Ji-hu and Jan-di’s secret hideout on the staircase, are all located in Keimyung University’s campuses.

Travel Information Telephone: +82-53-1330 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)
Homepage: www.kmu.ac.kr (Korean, English, Chinese)
Seongseo campus: +82-53-580-5114, 1000 Sinsang-dong, Dalseo-gu district, Daegu city From Seoul station, take a train to Dongdaegu -> from Dongdaegu station, get on the subway -> get off at Keimyung University station on line 2
Daemyeong campus:+82-53-580-5785, 2139 Daemyeong-dong, Nam-gu, Daegu city From Seoul station, take a train to Daegu -> from Daegu station, take bus#202, 202-1, or 808


2. Damyang Dynasty Country Club
damyang dynasty country club

The Damyang Dynasty Country Club is the setting for the home of Shinhwa Group’s Gu Jun-pyo, as well as a film set in Hwaseong. This Italian villa style clubhouse features enormous luxurious buildings, which have even been called ‘the palace of the gods’. The country club was designed by the internationally renowned architect Andrei Visego, who recently designed the interior for a high-class hotel in Dubai. The buildings are furnished with the highest-quality natural marble floors, beautiful pillars replicating Athen’s shrines, luxury antique furniture, and famous works of art, and are sure to dazzle all visitors.

Address: Hwadong-ri San 79, Damyang-eup, Damyang-gun region, Jeollanam-do province
Contact: +82-61-380-7500
Homepage: http://dy.dynastycc.co.kr
Directions: Take a taxi from Damyang Terminal



3. Lotte Hotel World
lotte hotel world

Lotte Hotel World was the location for the homecoming party of Min Seo-hyeon, Ji-hu’s girlfriend. The party takes place in episode two, and Jan-di comes dressed up as Wonder Woman, to everyone else’s amusement. However, Min Seo-hyeon helps Jan-di change into a beautiful dress, and she captures the heart of Gu Jun-pyo. This scene was shot in the Topaz Room, the Lotte Hotel’s third floor banquet hall. Lotte Hotel World is located in Jamsil in Seoul and is part of a complex that includes an extra-large supermarket, a department store, and the Lotte World theme park. Conveniently it is directly connected to Jamsil station on subway line 2. The hotel can be reached directly from Incheon and Gimpo airports by limousine bus.

Address: 40-1 Jamsil-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul
Contact: +82-2-419-7000
Homepage: http://www.lottehotelworld.com(Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)
Directions: Connected directly to exit #3, Jamsil station, subway line 2.
From Incheon International airport (gate #4B or 11A) take a limousine bus (est. travel time of 1hr 20min, cost 13,000 won)


4. Gyeongju Shilla Millennium Park
gyeongju shilla millennium park

Ragung hotel in Gyeongju was the setting for Yun Ji-hu’s traditional Hanok home. This high-class hotel consists of 16 separate houses, which are connected by corridors. The construction of the hotel required the largest number of specialized carpenters since the restoration of Gyeongbokgung Palace. Ragung was actually the name for the royal palace during the Silla dynasty. Guestrooms include private gardens and hot spring baths. The hotel is located in Korea’s very first historical theme park, the Shilla Millennium Park, and hotel rates include breakfast, dinner, and admission tickets to the theme park.

Address: 719-70 Sinpyeong-dong, Gyeongju city, Gyeongsangbuk-do province
Contact: +82-54-778-2000
Homepage: http://www.smpark.co.kr (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)
Directions: From Gyeongju station, take a bus heading towards Bomun Tourist Resort -> get off at the Bomun Tourist Resort Shilla Millennium Park
Hotel rates: 300,000 won ~ 460,000 won
Check in & check out times: 2:00pm, 11:00am



5. Shinsegae Department Store
shinsegae department store

Before Gu Jun-pyo and Jan-di leave for their vacation in New Caledonia, they go shopping at a department store. The main branch of the Shinsegae Department Store, in Myeong-dong, was the location for the scene in which Jan-di becomes the envy of girls everywhere. Gu Jun-pyo shows off his money and drags her around buying her all sorts of merchandise. This department store is divided into a main building and an annex. It stocks a wide selection of famous brand names. Luxury brands can be found inside the deluxe main building while the elegant annex building contains both domestic and international brands. Visitors to the Shinsegae department store can also enjoy shopping at Namdaemun Market and Myeong-dong, which are located nearby.

Address: 52-5 Chungmuru 1(il)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul
Contact: +82-1588-1234
Directions:
* Exit #5, Myeongdong station, subway line 4 -> walk straight towards the Namdaemun Market then walk through the underground passageway
* Exit #7 Hoehyeon station, subway line 4 -> take the moving walkway all the way to the Shinsegae Main Building
Department store hours: 10:30am ~ 8:00pm



6. N Seoul Tower & Grand Hyatt Hotel
n seoul tower grand hyatt hotel

Seoul’s famous N Seoul Tower is the location where Gu Jun-pyo waits for Jan-di ion a freezing winter night. The two had planned to go on a date, but become trapped in the gondola on the way to the N Seoul Tower and have to spend the night there. On their way down from Namsan mountain the next day, the couple are photographed by the paparazzi and are thought to be coming out of the Grand Hyatt Hotel. The Grand Hyatt Hotel is the location where the Jan-di and Ga-eul and their boyfriends enjoy a double date on the ice skating rink. A spectacular view of the Hangang River and Namsan can be seen from the high-class Grand Hyatt Hotel. The hotel contains a total of 601 guestrooms as well as 11 restaurants and bars, a fitness center, and other luxury facilities.

Address:747-7 Hannam 2(i)-dong, Yongsan-gu district, Seoul
Contact: +82-2-797-1234
Homepage: http://www.grandhyattseoul.co.kr (Korean, English, Japanese)
Directions: From Incheon International airport, limousine buses run directly to the Grand Hyatt Hotel (5:45am ~ 6:35am; departs every 20~30min; 14,000 won) Free shuttle buses to the hotel also run from in front of the Itaewon Family Mart and the Migliore Shopping Mall in Myeongdong from 10:00am to 9:00pm



7. Artinus Farmer’s Table
artinus farmer table

The Farmer’s Table is a restaurant located on the first floor of the Artinus building in Heyri Art Village, which is designed to capture the simplicity and comfortable atmosphere of a farmer’s table. The walls are made of stone and wood, and the floors and tables are made from natural materials. The herb garden at the center of the restaurant makes visitors feel as if they are in the center of forest. This was the location for the posh cafeteria of Shinhwa High School. Visitors can enjoy refreshments and food while reading the complimentary books that are placed around the restaurant. There is also a children’s bookstore on the second floor and a gallery on the basement floor, where various exhibitions take place

Address: Heyri Artinus 1F, 1652-393 Beopheung-ri, Tanhyeon-myeon region, Paju town, Gyeonggi-do province
Travel Information Telephone: +82-31-1330 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)
Heyri Homepage: http://www.heyri.net (Korean, English)
Directions: take bus #200 or 2200 from exit 2 of Hapjeong station, subway line 2-> get off at Heyri and go through gate #4 then make a right on the first 4-way intersection
Opening hours: 11:00am~10:00pm



8. Gyeonggi English Village, Yangpyeong Camp
gyeonggi english village

The English Village in Yangpyeong was the setting for Shinhwa High School’s hallways, lobby, and exterior facades. First opened in April 2008, Gyeonggi English Village Yangpyeong Camp covers a 100.935㎡ area and has a total of 55 buildings, which are modeled on historical buildings in Virginia, United States. This educational English camp consists of condo-style dormitories, an artificial soccer turf, indoor gymnasium, health club, swimming pool, outdoor concert hall, observatory facilities, and more. The English Village was the location for the scene when Jan-di’s friend, Oh Min-ji, spills ice cream on Gu Jun-pyo’s shoes.

Address: Damun-ri San 25, Yongmun-myeon, Yangpyeong-gun region, Gyeonngi-do province
Contact: +82-31-770-1300
Homepage: http://www.yea.or.kr
Directions: From Dong Seoul terminal, take a bus headed towards Yongmun (est. travel time of 1hr) -> get off at Unbong Mart and walk straight past the overpass




9. Muju Resort
muju resort

In the 12th episode, F4 and Geum Jan-di decide to take a ski trip. Jun-pyo gives Jan-di a special necklace, but she ends up losing it. Desperate, Jan-di heads off into the mountains alone to look for the necklace and gets lost in the dark. Fortunately, Gu Jun-pyo finds her, and they take shelter in a cabin, but they become trapped for the night due to the heavy snowfall. The ski resort that F4 and Geum Jan-di visit is Muju Resort, and they stay at the resort’s Hotel Tirol. As well as skiing in the winter, Muju Resort offers leisure activities throughout the year. It was also the filming location for the popular drama . Visitors can enjoy a gondola ride to the beautiful peak of Deokyusan Mountain or relax in the resort’s outdoor hot springs

The "Hautest" Cocktail Rings for Fall

Designers are putting their best foot forward as they introduce dramatic and opulent looks for fall. And cocktail rings seem to fit the ticket perfectly. With oversize stones that sparkle, get in on this stand-out trend with Cubic Zirconia cocktail rings that offers all the glam without the big price tag.

Neon and bright colored stones are stealing the scene for fall '09. To get the look, pick up CZ rings in colors like lime green, fluorescent yellow or hot pink. Add the jewels to a basic black sheath for a modern take on costume jewelry. One great (and inexpensive) Cubic Zirconia cocktail ring is just the perfect pick-me-up for updating structured pieces at the office or for adding a splash of color when you're grabbing after-work drinks with the girls. As best demonstrated by the 80s, a little neon color goes a long way; a cocktail ring adds just the right amount. Lulu's Flower Stretch Cocktail Ring- TurquoiseOver the top glam and luxe is back in a big way. There's no limit to the size of CZ cocktail ring that you can wear with a fabulous cocktail dress. In fact, bigger is better this season, with pieces that speak for themselves and will have everyone swooning. Go for megawatt bling by adding a 4 or 5 carat CZ ring to a simple sheath or basic black. Colored stones in jewel tones are great at commanding attention while looking rich and classy.Genie's Dome Stretch Cocktail RingFunky, edgy and tough are some of the words that come to mind when describing another must-have trend – futuristic. From sunglasses to stilettos, space age inspired fashions are popping up all over the galaxy. And with cocktail rings that take up several fingers, it's easy to make a statement with one great CZ ring. Fergie, Lady Gaga and Rihanna are all fans of these retro modern styles.

Find more CZ jewelry at emitations.com

Minka's Hamsa Charm Bracelets

Minka's Hamsa Charm Bracelet - Red & Gold
Minka's Hamsa Charm Bracelet - Red & Gold


Minka's Hamsa Charm Bracelet - Black & Silver
Minka's Hamsa Charm Bracelet - Black & Silver


Minka's Hamsa Charm Bracelet - Black & Gold
Minka's Hamsa Charm Bracelet - Black & Gold

Find more bracelets at emitations.com

Preening like a Peacock


Recently I've been loving peacock motifs, both in home decor and in fashion. And while it's undeniable that peacocks (especially their feathers) have been having "a moment" in the world of design for the past few years, the peacock has been popular as a symbol of royalty, beauty, paradise (and even immortality!) throughout human history.

In India, the peacock has long been associated with the Hindu god Lord Krishna and has been used in Indian art and architecture for centuries. I love the abstract use of peacock feathers above the door on the City Palace inside Jaipur, Rajastan (shown above).

Among the Romans, the peacock was commonly associated with paradise, renewal and spring and many wealthy Romans kept peacocks in their gardens. Early Christians later adopted the peacock as a symbol of immortality because of long-held myth that peacock flesh did not decay. Examples of peacocks in surviving Roman mosaics (both Christian and non-Christian) are numerous.

The Peacock Skirt, Aubrey Beardsley (1894)

More recently, highly stylized peacocks and peacock feathers became a popular motif in the Art Nouveau and later in the Art Deco design movements. Today, the peacock has reemerged as a design element in both fashion and home decor and there's a "peacock style" for just about every taste: from ethnic to bohemian, flapper to rock 'n roll.

Preening like a Peacock

Preening like a Peacock by averillh1

In fashion, I can't get enough of peacock feathers-cum-jewelry or in art deco-style print dresses that reference the classic motif. Flapper-style headbands and head pieces covered in peacock feathers are a great way to perk up an ordinary cocktail dress. For the less daring, peacock feather earrings or a single feather on a necklace are a lovely and more subtle accessory choice.

Birds of a Feather
Birds of a Feather by averillh1 on Polyvore.com

In truth, I am perhaps most drawn to the intense colors of a peacock -- the shimmery blues and greens are some of the boldest and brightest that nature has on offer -- and I think these jewel tones translate beautifully to your home. You can go big and bold with wallpaper from Ferm Living or Osborne & Little or you can just add a few small pops of color with a pillow or even some fun new dinnerware.

This Peacock Armchair by Cappelliani is my new obsession. If only $3,622 were within my budget!

Different Hairstyles of Heidi Montag

Heidi Montag’s different Hairstyles

A popular television show ‘The Hills’ is also notorious for the trendy hairstyles of it actress, including Hiedi Montag who is also famous for her villain role. She has a blonde, thick and naturally curly hair. She keeps on changing her hairstyle every season and that makes her the most stylish one. Some of her admired hairstyles are.

The Hills-Fashion and Hairstyles: Heidi Montag

- Heidi’s summer’s hairstyle giving her a perfect look for the summers, leaving her blonde hair straight with few soft bends in it is goes well with her outfits and long and parting them from the centre make her look stylish.

The Hills-Fashion and Hairstyles: Beautiful Heidi Montag

- By keeping them straight and parting them form the centre suits her personality and look well on her formal outfit.

The Hills-Fashion and Hairstyles: Wavy Heidi Montag

- She gives a wavy look to her hair by keeping them straight on the top, few soft bends and layers in the bottom give a glance of movement to them. This hairstyle looks trendy with her stylish outfit.

The Hills-Fashion and Hairstyles: Happy Couple

Her versatile hairstyles are very inspiring for those who are looking for a change in their looks. Adapting her hairstyle is not a difficult task; just make sure about your hair length and color matches up with her.

Wednesday, 29 July 2009

Trilobite Fossils

Phacops rana (Trilobite) is a fossil organism known as a Trilobite (pronounced “tri-lobe-ite”). Trilobites are an extinct category of jointed-legged animals related to crabs, lobsters, shrimp, spiders, and insects. This group of creatures, called arthropods, are among the most complex of all the animals without backbones and trilobites are no exception. They had well-developed nervous systems and large antennae. Trilobites had many appendages for swimming, walking, or feeding. Although these appendages are relatively rare in most groups of trilobite fossils. Phacops is one of four genera for which they are fairly well known and studied. Trilobites also had a hard outer skeleton composed of chitin, a complex organic protein, and the mineral apatite.

Trilobites are a common fossil in many of the early to middle Paleozoic rocks of central Pennsylvania, i.e., rocks that are between 570 and 365 million years old. Complete fossil specimens are rare because the animals were composed of rigid outer skeletal segments joined by flexible organic connections that decayed on the death of the animal. An interest in trilobites is not restricted to scientists and geological dilettantes. They are prized by lapidarist and jewelry and curio collectors. This interest is a long-standing one. Trilobites were found on necklaces belonging to the prehistoric inhabitants of 15,000 year old rock shelters of Europe. The Ute Indians of the western United States fashioned trilobites into amulets. The Ute name for these fossils was, “timpe khanitza pachavee” which means “little water but like stone house in.”

*Information provided by the resident family gemologist.

What to Give When Your Friend's Expecting


At 28 I am in the process of transitioning from the "wedding stage" of my life (i.e., where most of your free time and disposal income goes into celebrating your friends' nuptials) to the "baby stage" (i.e., where said friends start having children and, again, much of your free time and disposal income goes into celebrating the blessed events). In short, my weekends in Vegas or Austin have been replaced with baby showers and "sip and sees". [By the way, the montage above is from the now-defunct Blueprint, which featured a spread on a baby shower thrown for two of its editors. This is definitely how an office baby shower should be thrown in my book.]

Sure, I could go the easy route and shop off the registry, but to be frank Babies 'R Us makes me nervous and I don't really enjoy the experience of gifting diapers and bottles. So I say let the new parents by the boring stuff and I'll play grandparent for a day by bringing the fun, unique gift. Over the course of the past year or so I've culled together a relatively fail-proof selection of "go-to" gifts for babies that with make just about any stylish mom-to-be happy and I thought I'd share them with you should any of the rest of you be in the baby stage of your life as well.

Without further ado, here are my favorites (in no particular order):


1. Pop Menagerie Piggy Bank from Jonathan Adler ($48). A piggy bank is a classic baby gift and this iteration (oh the polka dots!) from Adler just makes me smile. Perfect for the modern nursery.

2. Mary Jane Brights from Trumpette ($24.50). Sure babies can't walk, but that's no reason not to help kick start an early shoe fetish. Since baby shoes are impractical -- and not especially comfortable for little tootsies -- a set of these cute socks is sure to keep baby looking cool while keeping feet warm. For boys, try the Cowboy socks. The entire line of baby socks from Trumpette is available HERE. [Random aside: What is it about teenie, tiny baby shoes that make grown women coo and squeal in delight? Just try and surf that site without so much as a "so cute!" peep...just try it.]

3. Sleep Thief Playsuit from Chasing Fireflies ($48). From what I hear, newborns can never have too many onesies (after all, they're making costume changes multiple times a day) so these are always a safe bet. Extra points if the onesie manages to be (a) adorable, (b) not pastel, and (c) rub it in just a little that you, as the childless friend, are still sleeping in on Saturdays. For more inexpensive clothing options, I absolutely adore the baby clothes from DwellStudio for Target; this gift set for a baby boy for under $20 is insanely cute. And speaking of DwellStudio....

4. Stroller Blankets ($40) and Hooded Towels ($44) from DwellStudio. For a range of adorable yet modern patterns and unbelievable softness, you simply cannot beat DwellStudio's line of stroller blankets and hooded towels. I've gifted these in the past with great success and have every intention of doing so again (after all, if it ain't broken...).

5. Take Me Home Gift Set from Serena and Lily ($68). I love this gift set (and, truth be told, just about everything else on offer) from Serena and Lily, the purveyors of all things baby chic. It's lovely, simple and organic.

6. Elsa Peretti Open Heart and Fork Set from Tiffany's ($265). A gift of silver baby utensils from Tiffany's is the gold standard in shower giving. Obviously not something you'd gift to a friend of a friend, but for a sister, daughter or best friend, it's definitely worth giving them something they will treasure -- a future family heirloom. Of those currently on offer, the classic open heart motif is my favorite.

7. Children's books (various). If you want to instill a love of books in children, you have to start them young. Favorites from your own childhood are a lovely, personal gift for new parents. My personal choice would be a selection of books by Tomie dePaola whose beautifully illustrated stories I remember fondly from my own bedtime rituals.

8. Baby's First Book by Rag and Bone ($68). And finally, one of my all-time favorite shower gifts is this handmade baby book from Rag and Bone, an old-fashioned bookbinding company run by a couple out of Rhode Island. The book comes with plenty of space for the parents-to-be to fill in lovingly with all sorts of pertinent (and not so pertinent) information for the child to cherish many, many years later when she realizes just how great her parents are. All of Rag and Bone's books comes in a wide array of cover choices. If you're looking for a less expensive option, the brag book ($34) would also be much appreciated (though perhaps not by all the coworkers and strangers forced to ooh and ahh over the pictures therein).

So what about you? What sorts of gifts do you like to give new or expectant parents? If you're a parent yourself, what sorts of gifts did you most appreciate or cherish?

Tuesday, 28 July 2009

How to Wear Multi-Strand Necklaces

Layered necklaces are a growing trend this year, as everyone from celebs to socialites to rock stars have been spotted on the red carpets in fabulously fierce designs that steal the scene. Multi-strand necklaces can be for dressing up or dressing down, for work or for play. With so many styles, designs and settings to choose from, there's something for everyone. Here we take a look at how to wear this fashion forward trend and share some tips for pulling off a complete look seamlessly.

If you're going to rock a multi-strand necklace to dress up an evening ensemble, pearls are a great way to go. You can throw on a necklace with several strands of classic pearls. This is a more modern take on a fashion accessory staple. Natural pearls look great when set against an LBD. To mix it up a little, try a multi-strand necklace interwoven with black strands, a pendant or rhinestones. This creates a glamorous cluster effect that really makes the outfit.

You can also wear a multi-strand necklace during the day. Look for colorful beads that go with multiple outfits from your closet. Add color to plain white tank tops and t-shirts or a summer sundress. Alternatively, you can mix and match necklaces to create a unique look that is all your own. Try it out by starting with a long pendant necklace and then adding chains of varying length. Don't be afraid to mix metals like oxidized silver or hammered gold. It's these textures and patterns that make for an interesting combination. Play around with new designs until you find ones that work for you. Multi-strand necklaces are a great way to update an old favorite and keep up with of-the-moment fashion. Best of all, many of this season's designs are both extremely chic and affordable.

Read related articles:
How to Wear Earrings
How to Wear Cuff Bracelet
How to Take Care of Your Cubic Zirconia Jewelry
How to tell if your pearl necklace or earing is real or fake?
Sterling Silver Jewelry: How to Buy Sterling Silver Jewelry
How to Wear Native American Inspired Beaded Necklaces and Bracelets

Maryanne's Glam Rhinestone Cuff Bracelet

Maryanne's Glam Rhinestone Cuff Bracelet
Weight: 91.9 g
Metal: Gold toned brass based metal
Stone: Rhinestone Jewelry
Find more bracelets at emitations.com

Week Thirteen: Closing

Last Wednesday we finally closed on the new house (hurrah!), so now it's officially ours to move into (and, just as importantly, decorate as we like). Unfortunately I didn't get around to shooting quite as many pictures of the new house as I would have liked this past weekend, so a complete tour will have to wait for next weekend, but I thought I'd go ahead and give you a taste of what the finished house looks like.

Above is a picture of the kitchen -- I'm really happy with how it turned out, especially since I had rather limited choices for finishes. The light fixture/pot rack above the island is my favorite element and I really think it finishes off the space quite nicely. As for hardware on the cabinets, I've decided to go with these (both available at Lowe's and Home Depot):

The pull will go on each of the drawers while the knob will be on each of the cabinets. It's definitely a modern look, but I tend to prefer a more modern look in a kitchen, and I don't think it's so modern as to be incongruous with my generally more transitional tastes. I couldn't believe it when I counted it all up but it looks like I'll have to purchase 14 pulls and 23 knobs for the kitchen alone; Dave is going to have quite a job installing them all next weekend. [Love you, honey!]

Also on tap for next weekend is painting the dining room. I bought a gallon of trim paint that matches the existing trim to paint out the lower third of the wall to mimic wainscoting. Above the chair rail I'll be using Farrow & Ball's Drawing Room Blue. I can't wait to see how it turns out.

On Saturday morning while I was at a bridal shower, Dave was nice enough to install the sconces I bought to replace the cheap-looking brushed nickel ones the house came with. Here they are in the master bath -- basic, but pretty, and certainly a better match to the bronze faucets and shower door than the brushed nickel ones.

The major project we undertook this past weekend though was painting my study. While the footprint of the room is relatively small, the soaring ceilings meant that we had an awful lot of square footage to cover -- and on a 14' ladder to boot! I'm so thankful that this is the tallest room we'll be tackling in the near future as it's definitely nerve racking to be up painting that high. In the end though, I'm really pleased with the result: it's exactly what I had in my mind and the dark walls really emphasize the height of the room. I also absolutely love the way the color looks through the french doors (which are on your immediate left as you walk in the house). Once we paint the dining room blue, I think the rich colors will balance each other and be a great contrast with the neutral hallway.

Some friendly advice though: painting a room deep eggplant [I used Benjamin Moore's Purple Lotus] is just like painting a room red. You'll need at least two coats to get the saturated look you're after. We didn't prim first (the paint was brand new after all), but it probably would've saved us a bit of time touching up at the end. For the first time I also sprang for low VOC paint and I will say it made a huge difference as far as smell went. The paint is virtually odorless and what little scent it does have is actually quite pleasant. While that may or may not have long-lasting impacts on my health, it obviously made it much more pleasant to paint in a confined space for hours on end.

Before I left for vacation I ordered this chandelier from ZGallerie (which is currently on back order). I can't wait to get it in so I can install it and see how it looks in the space. Not only should it up the "glam factor", but it will provide substantially more light than that undersized flushmount.

The next few weekends will largely be taken up with painting, installing hardware, waiting on various deliveries/installs and, of course packing (which I have yet to start -- yikes!). If I seem a little distracted between now and D-day [August 15], you'll know the reason and I hope that you'll forgive me.

Monday, 27 July 2009

Hairstyle of Lauren Conrad

Hair Accessories of Lauren Conrad

Lauren Conrad, playing herself in ‘The Hills’, the reality show for the past 3 seasons, she has made a huge number of fans for her charming looks and inventive hair styles.

The Hills-Fashion and Hairstyle: Lauren Conrad

As far as her hair styles are concerned, she seems to be a big fan of the head bands and has used several types of head bands throughout the shows of ‘The Hills’. Apart from that, Lauren Conrad also likes wearing her hair pulled back in different styles of ponytails and she has also been seen with some messy buns over her head.

The Hills-Fashion and Hairstyle: Lauren Conrad Street Fashion

The hair accessories that she uses when she wears stunning gowns in the shows, she looks extremely cool. She can also be seen sporting one or other accessories even in a casual look with a jeans and a simple top.

The Hills-Fashion and Hairstyles: Lauren Conrad with Ponytail

Being herself a fashion designer, Lauren Conrad always has a chic style associated with her and as far as her hair is concerned, she always seems to be working with the clothes that she is wearing.

The Hills-Fashion and Hairstyle: Hair Accessories

She also takes care of the hair accessories she uses to beautify her straight hair and although her hair styles may be as simple as a ponytail, she looks so gracious with the hair accessories she uses to adorn it.

Discount {and Giveaway}: Inglenook Décor

Last week I had the opportunity to interview (via e-mail) Maureen, a fellow Texan and the owner of the newly launched Inglenook Décor, an online boutique that features both vintage and new home accessories that range from pillows and candle holders to classic artichoke finials and vintage jamming jars. Maureen also blogs regularly over at Ingle Talk, so be sure to check her out there as well for plenty of fresh ideas on design.

Odi et Amo: Tell me a little bit about yourself. What’s your design background? How did you get interested in design and in owning a home decor store?‬‪

Maureen: I'm from the Philippines and have been here in the US since 1995. I'm a bit ashamed to say that I really don't have a design background. But I do believe I have a good eye and I do a lot of design/decor research. I do plan to sign up for some courses though come fall (not really to get a full-fledged degree though). I remember even as a young child, trying to organize stuff at the house and I would get obsessive with the details -- turning picture frames the right way, straightening rugs, etc. I think as a child, my predilection was to use the right side of my mind (I drew and painted a lot...) but as I grew up, going to the medical field made better sense. I became interested in design and owning a store maybe about 2 years ago. I think all of us go through a stage of "finding yourself" and a feeling of dissatisfaction somehow as to the career path/life we are pursuing.

OetA: Is Inglenook Décor your full-time job? If not, what else do you do?‬‪

M: It is about to be my full-time job! I've been a physical therapist for 14 years, two of my college friends and I opened a private practice in Beaumont [Texas] in 2002. It's doing well and I've been preparing for my exit strategy for the last two years too! I'll still perform some administrative tasks, but I won't be there in the day-to-day operations. My partners and the whole staff has been very supportive. I'm so blessed!

OetA: How long did it take for Inglenook Décor to become a reality? What were some of the obstacles/hurdles you had to overcome in order to start up shop? Any advice for folks interested in starting up their own online business would be greatly appreciated I’m sure.‬‪

M: I guess, about two years. It could have been faster if I was pursuing it full-time. As far as advice for the online business....Gosh, I'm still learning and I'm certainly not a guru at this. But I guess, the time that I've spent so far, my advice is to be very, very picky with the website company or person you are thinking of making your e-shop. Sometimes, family and friends are not your best bet. They want to help you but if it's not their full-time job then their focus is not your website. Research and compare definitely. Don't feel bad to ask for references, check the Better Business Bureau, etc. Get one with 24/7 support. Believe me you'll need it in the wee hours of the morning.

OetA: Where did you get the idea for the name “Inglenook Décor”?‬‪

M: Ahhh, love this question. Inglenooks are built-in alcoves centered on a fireplace where friends and families gather. It's like the center of an old-fashioned cottage. Just like what this built-in alcove represents, I believe homes should provide warmth and should be a place of refuge from the outside world and a reflection of our own personal style and taste.

OetA: Where do you get your merchandise? What do you look for when you’re out shopping for the store? Is there an archetypal customer you have in mind when shopping?‬

M:
I started subscribing to trade magazines, I've checked importers from my country and have gone to several markets in the US. Of course, antique and flea market shopping. This can be tricky, you have to separate the trash from real great finds. A little self-serving but some of it, I kept for me.... As for my archetypal customer? Highly independent, confident and creative individuals that thrive on making all of their choices definitely unique and their own. I picture them as sophisticated men and women who totally agrees with one of Coco Chanel's famous quote: "An interior is the natural projection of one's soul." A little frivolous for these times perhaps, but they realize that a beautiful surrounding inspires.

OetA: What is your favorite item or items in the store?‬‪

M: I'm a little biased with this one as I love them all! Ok, I'll give you my top 5: the bird taper candelabra, the shoe forms candle holders, the black floral in beige pillow, the vaillanvourt bonbons tray from Montreal and the travel trug (it states" Paris, London, Rome..." -- ahhhh i love traveling!). [OetA Note: The travel trug is my favorite, too!]

OetA: I love the decorating tips and ideas featured on your website. Any other fail-safe tips for accessorizing a room that you’d like to share?‬‪

M: Very cool, a lot of people have commented positively on this feature. I do plan to keep it updated. Maybe once or twice a month. I do have the "decorating tip of the week" updated weekly of course at the homepage. I guess my other tip will be what's featured this week, to be creative & see your home decor items in a totally different way. I do have a small plate that holds some of my jewelry, it's just so cute to look at at my bedside table.

OetA: What’s next? Where would you like to see Inglenook Décor in six months? A year? Any plans for a brick-and-mortar store?‬‪‬‪

M: I do plan to open a storefront. I don't want to jinx the plans, but it's something I'm definitely working on slowly but surely. Maybe the economy and retail negativity has slowed my plans some but not entirely. There's a movement that's pushing people to shop locally and independently and a lot of big box stores are losing out because they're way too big, with unedited selections and poor customer service. The Inglenook Decor [store front] would definitely focus on what's most important: quality of [both] service and merchandise.

To celebrate the e-store's recent launch, Maureen has graciously extended a 15% discount on all merchandise to Odi et Amo readers. To take advantage of this great offer, simply enter "Te Amo" at check-out. This offer will be available until Monday, August 10.

In addition, I'll be giving away one beaker vase (shown above) in the reader's choice of color (I'm partial to the fuchsia myself). To enter, simply leave a comment here and I'll randomly select one winner on Friday, July 31.