how do i love thee

: bliss : Tiffany blue

2012-01-23T18:00:00.001-05:00

Tiffany blue has been one of my favorite colors for years, and now it seems to be a favorite color for brides, too.

With its romantic association with the famously glamorous jewelry brand, not to mention the delightful Audrey Hepburn film "Breakfast at Tiffany's", this particular shade of aqua conjures something special.

Such a lovely cool hue...Just perfect for a wedding.

(Or for a room, a bed, or a pair of shoes!)

P.S. To see more fabulous Tiffany blue images, go here, to my new blog, lamb & blonde.

I've Moved - Just a Reminder

2011-11-16T12:40:00.004-05:00

Hope to see you on my new blog, lamb & blonde! Just thought I'd say hello and mention it, in case you missed the last posting.

Cheers!

My new blog!

2011-11-03T15:36:00.009-04:00

My new blog, lamb & blonde, is up and running!

I will be focusing my blogging energy there, from now on, and linking it to my new online boutique, of the same name. I will continue to blog about inspiring style finds from the realms of fashion, interior design, weddings, and more.

I have had such a great time blogging here on Blogger, and connecting with other bloggers. I'm looking forward to making many new connections, with this new blog, and strengthening ties with those I already know. Thank you for being wonderful friends and followers.

Hope to see you on lamb & blonde! Thanks!

Save Water and Drink Champagne!

2011-11-03T12:42:00.001-04:00

Sounds good to me!

(image via zsa zsa bellagio)

i heart vintage drinkware

2011-11-02T14:51:00.003-04:00

etsy.com

ecrater.com

1930s Henckels travel cocktail shaker set via vintageseekers.com

etsy.com

littlewillow.com

flickr

depressionelegantglass.com

etsy.com

Vintage glasses, decanters, and the like just seem so charming. There is something sweetly glamorous about sipping champagne from a lovely etched saucer, or enjoying your morning glass of orange juice from a pretty floral tumbler. I've always collected such glasses, and I plan to start up a new collection, when I return to Australia. Some of my old favorites are now in my mom's cupboards, and I can use them while visiting, which is a comfort. I'm sure I'll find new pretties in Oz, to bring a little sparkle to daily life.

coming soon!

2011-10-31T13:43:00.007-04:00

I've got some pretty big news to share...

I'm about to launch my own website, a shop full of lovely little things to make everyday life a little more beautiful, including art (my own included), jewelry, home decor, gifts, and any other pretty things I can find. This project is something I have dreamed of doing for years, and I'm so excited to finally make it happen!

The shop is called "lamb & blonde", which was inspired by the famous photo, American Cyanamid, Girl & Lamb by Nickolas Muray, 1946. Something about this sweet, playful photo just makes me smile. I drew the lamb image, above, for the site's logo.

So far, only the test site is up and running, while I'm preparing for the next steps. I'm having fun hunting for merchandise to sell, and I'm learning a bit more about the business side of things, day by day. I'm realizing that I have a LOT to learn in that department! Having an artistic background, I'm not very familiar with business lingo, practices, etc., but I'm going to do my best to learn more about it all.

The site will be based in Adelaide, South Australia. I'm still in the U.S., visiting my family, but I will be back in Oz in a few weeks. That's when the real fun will begin!

My wonderful partner, Glen, is helping me set up the website. He is the brains behind the programming, and he's also a tremendous source of information and support. I would not be able to do this without him. (Thank you, darling!)

As of yesterday, "lamb & blonde" is on Twitter, and it would be great to connect with you there. I've never used the site before, so it is quite new to me, tweeting and all.

I plan to start up a new blog, on Blogger, to connect to the "lamb & blonde" site. I will be focusing my blogging energy there, from that point on. I won't be doing "how do i love thee" or my other blogs after that.

Look for a link to the new blog very soon! I'm hoping to see you all there!

Also, if you make something, and would be interested in selling your work on my site, I would LOVE to hear from you!

Feel free to contact me at kim@lambandblonde.com

Lonny love

2011-10-29T13:35:00.002-04:00

I just love the pink sofa, on the Sep-Oct 2011 cover of Lonny magazine. As always, a fab art wall makes me smile, too. The gold frames look so elegant against the pale grey wall. Top it all off with some graphic black-and-white patterned pillows, and you've got a gorgeous lounge look.

Bonnie & Clyde

2011-10-28T20:37:00.004-04:00

The first time I watched the 1967 film Bonnie and Clyde, I remember thinking that Faye Dunaway, as Bonnie, looked absolutely stunning in it, and I almost didn't mind that her character was a total nutter. She just smoulders in every scene. Warren Beatty played her perfectly charming partner in crime, looking dapper in well-cut three-piece suits and fedoras. The glamour and sexiness of Bonnie and Clyde contrasts brilliantly with the violence of the story, inspiring fashion ever since. Definitely one of my all-time favorite films.

I also love the moody song "Bonnie and Clyde", sung by Serge Gainsbourg and Brigitte Bardot. You can almost smell the cigarette smoke. Watch the video here.

warming trend: copper

2011-10-26T12:20:00.004-04:00

tlc.howstuffworks.com

thetinman.com

huesandcues.com

Durham Street lantern via coppergaslanternsplus.com

designofkitchen.com

decorpad.com

finegardenproducts.com

apartmenttherapy.com

trendir.com

Copper brings such warmth to a space. For a long time, I was a silver kinda gal. It took me a while to appreciate gold. Now I'm finding myself falling for copper. Maybe because copper's warm tones remind me of autumn leaves, or maybe because it is just a little something different. In any case, there are some wonderful stylish copper designs out there now, and I'm enjoying seeing them. I'm especially enamored by Tom Dixon's copper pendant light (top image). I would love to have one in the Dream House, maybe in the kitchen. What do you think? Are you into the copper trend?

shimmer & shine

2011-10-25T19:35:00.003-04:00

thedecorista.tumblr.com

wakeupinfrance.tumblr.com

frockaholics.com

zsazsabellagio.blogspot.com

victoriassecret.com

wanelo.com

usa.frenchconnection.com

I'm loving all the short sequined dresses I keep seeing! Makes me wish I had somewhere fabulous to wear one to. And I love the look of a short sequined skirt with a casual cardigan, or a loose sequined top worn with jeans or a long skirt.

lived-in luxe

2011-10-23T12:13:00.004-04:00

crushculdesac

once daily chic

fuckyeahawesomehouses.tumblr.com

mechant design

heartbeatoz

amarillo y crema

Splendid Willow bookshelf wallpaper in Seattle via A White Carousel

decorare

heartbeatoz

Splendid Willow

artist spotlight: Pics-O-Andrea

2011-10-22T12:35:00.000-04:00

Don't you just love this sweet floral silhouette? I know I do. It can be yours for a mere $12 on etsy. Also, see Pics-O-Andrea's charming blog full of loveliness and cute stories.

kitchen with a view

2011-10-21T15:05:00.000-04:00

The lovely leafy view from the wrap-around windows in this kitchen amazes me! Not only does this kitchen have a tree-house-like feel to it, would you look at those gorgeous black pendant lights? I'm in love with them. And I also love the subtle soft color of the wood, the island's massive cutting board counter top, and the deep concrete sink. This is rustic chic at its absolute best.

(image found here)

: bliss : breathtakingly beautiful gowns

2011-10-20T11:19:00.001-04:00

Claire Pettibone gown with 3-dimensional flowers via stylemepretty.com

romanticbibliophile.tumblr.com

zsazsabellagio.blogspot.com

Chanel gown Spring 2006 via stylebistro.com

Elie Saab gown Spring 2006 via stylebistro.com

bellethemagazine.blogspot.com

zsazsabellagio.blogspot.com

Nicole Miller gown via weddingdressgown.org

(source unknown)

I don't know about you, but I never tire of seeing beautiful wedding gowns. The more voluminous, the more lace, the more bedecked with roses, ribbons, and finery, the better. Not that more subtle gowns hold less appeal--no, I do swoon over them, as well. But nothing catches my eye like a romantic gown, full of layer upon layer of billowing fabrics, gowns with dramatic back designs, and dresses made of the finest lace.

doily daydream

2011-10-19T17:34:00.001-04:00

libbyjamesblog.com

honeykennedy.com

awakenedaesthetic.com

decor4all.com

libbyjamesblog.com

alifosterpatterns.com

countryliving.com

severeglam.blogspot.com

apartmenttherapy.com

giacanali.com

Something about the look of old-fashioned lace just seems timelessly romantic, to me. I'm loving these contemporary takes on doily design. I'm especially enamored of the pendant light, and the way it throws beautiful intricate patterns of shadows and light.

make a statement

2011-10-18T11:52:00.000-04:00

"The only thing that separates us from the animals is our ability to accessorize."- from the film Steel Magnolias

Necklace by Kate Spade

fabulous new blog

2011-10-17T12:26:00.002-04:00

The other day, I was fluttering around blogs, like a butterfly, going from one blog to the next, seeing which blogs other bloggers follow, to find some inspiration. That's when I came across a fabulous new blog, which is all about COLOR.

In case you haven't noticed, I absolutely love blogs about color. One could even call me obsessive about this style subject.

When I discovered The Color Issue, I found myself reading every single post. I especially liked the image (above) of a delicious pink wall juxtaposed with an intense yellow sofa. I love the mix of patterns, as well as the charming little floral painting above the sofa. How lovely and inspiring!

cloche encounters

2011-10-16T16:57:00.005-04:00

Kate Spade

thelisbontailor.blogspot.com

hatsca.com

by yellowfield7 on etsy.com

Dorian Leigh wearing a pale pink cloche by Madame Reine and a plunge-necked rayon crepe dress from B.H.Wragge, ca. 1946 via flickr

by katarinacouture on etsy.com

by yellowfield7 on etsy.com

Urban Outfitters

oranges-and-apples.com

anthropologie

Since I'm on a fall fashion kick, I feel the need to wax poetic on the beauty of the 1920s-inspired cloche hat. This bell-shaped beauty, which we are seeing more of this season, from the likes of Kate Spade and anthropolgie, has always been a favorite of mine.

I'm so glad I bought a deep purple wool cloche from Target last year. It is nice and warm, covering my ears just so. Not to mention adorable. Good thing I left it here, so I can wear it this season. But I do plan to send it out to Oz, to have when the weather turns chilly there. A girl needs to be prepared for all weather, and do so stylishly. Don't you agree?

a dose of color & pattern

2011-10-15T15:53:00.001-04:00

paonote-room269.blogspot.com

thirlby.tumblr.com

plushpalate.cblogspot.com

anthropologie.com

ritzybee.typepad.com

firstsense.wordpress.com

We are having some pretty wicked weather here this weekend. The gloom of rain, wind, and grey skies are making me feel the need for a little cheering up. What better way to lift one's spirits than with a dose of color and pattern? I feel better already. Now, let's pour a drink and see if we have any volunteers to play that lovely piano.

scarf weather

2011-10-13T17:41:00.005-04:00

"Ms. Scarfweather will see you now."

(That is just nonsense, not a real movie line or anything. Just popped in my head.)

It is the perfect time of year for donning your favorite scarves, at least here in Ohio. Autumn's cool crisp days and chilly nights make me want to wear a nice warm scarf. And doing so stylishly is always the goal.

Of course, I would probably be wearing scarves if I was still in Australia, as it is spring there now. It is rather warm there, already, so maybe the scarf look would only be for evening. Whether here or there, I'm a scarf-loving gal. That's for sure.

(images sourced from pinterest and google image searches for scarves)

pink loves orange

2011-10-12T12:54:00.003-04:00

Normally, I'm not one to pair two intense colors, like this. I'm usually into more subtle colors. But, a few weeks ago, I found an old photo of myself, as a teenager, wearing this fun A-line dress, which I had designed and made. I was into 1960s fashion, at the time, and I felt that pink and orange was the most fabulous color combination ever. Pink and orange together certainly looks zingy and cute, and it seems quite perfect for autumn.

(all images sourced from "the vault", my huge collection of old image files)

like a dream

2011-10-09T11:05:00.001-04:00

The beautiful un-stretched abstract painting hung behind the sofa, in this room, is like a dream. The colors, the map-like shapes, and soft texture are so lovely. And the cushion colors tie in nicely with the art. The white lamp and small round table provide just the right accents, as well. I would love for this to be my lounge!

(Image found at my new favorite blog, paonote)

Kate Bosworth, always lovely

2011-10-07T15:52:00.000-04:00

Whether she's walking the red carpet, or on a beach, Kate Bosworth always seems to glow.

feeling it

2011-10-06T19:34:00.001-04:00

Even though we are having a spell of Indian Summer right now, in Ohio, and the temps are pretty warm, I'm definitely getting in the mood for fall fashion. Bring on the scarves, hats, boots, and sweaters! I am ready to layer and love it.

: bliss : antique wedding rings

2011-10-04T15:15:00.001-04:00

Have you ever marveled at the craftsmanship and uniqueness of jewelry created long ago? Ever admire the don't-make-it-like-they-used-to charm of bygone eras? I certainly have.

If you are looking for a wedding ring, and you don't want to go with a style that everyone else has, or has seen before, why not consider an antique ring? You may find one out there calling your name....

when the leaves turn

2011-10-03T19:13:00.000-04:00

Autumn always makes my heart ache a little. I start to feel that bittersweet pang, the cross between grief, from summer's ending, and longing, for cozy cooler days. The brilliant warm colors of autumn leaves are like jewels hanging from the tree boughs.

All this color and longing brings inspiration for the home. I love seeing pumpkins, leaf garlands, and corn husks adorning door steps and table tops. Every year, these visual treats make me smile, as much as a cup of hot cocoa, or a mouthful of my favorite comfort foods might.

Happy autumn to you all!

chandelier chic

2011-10-02T16:58:00.002-04:00

Every girl loves a nice chandelier, right? I know I do. Chandeliers are definitely on my list for the Dream House, for the dining area, master bedroom, and anywhere else I can get away with. Bring on the glamour!

I heart...

2011-09-29T14:20:00.005-04:00

etsy.com

Photo by Andy Crawford via citified.blogspot.com

Bold & Noble print

momscraftyspace.blogspot.com

weheartit.com

etsy.com

shop.absolutelybeautifulthings.com.au

modcloth.com

wanelo.com

honeyonmyskin.tumblr.com

pinterest.com

toot toot

2011-09-28T11:44:00.002-04:00

Ok, normally I'm not one to toot my own horn, so to speak. But I got a little excited this morning when I saw that I'd reached over 100,000 page views as of today, on this blog. I'm sure many bloggers get such a number of views weekly, but for little ol' me, that is kind of a big deal. :)

Thank you, everyone, from wherever you are, for taking a moment to look at my blog, and for sharing in my daydreams.

(image via stimuliart.com)

: bliss : rustic wedding

2011-09-27T13:44:00.001-04:00

There is such a mood of tranquility about a wedding set in a forest, a farm,a vineyard, or elsewhere in the countryside. Rustic weddings seem to be having a moment now. Perhaps this trend signals a return to simpler romantic visions, of a more natural approach to life and love. Maybe, for some couples, a rustic wedding is just more within their price range than an extravagant affair would be. I especially like seeing touches of luxury juxtaposed with modest settings, like a gorgeous ballgown worn in a field full of wildflowers. How lovely....

egg chair lust

2011-09-26T18:12:00.000-04:00

Wouldn't it be lovely to have an egg chair like this?

Alberta Ferretti Spring 2012 RTW

2011-09-25T16:46:00.000-04:00

I'm in love with the gauzy 1920s-inspired spring 2012 line by Alberta Ferretti. Every look has an easy elegance. Just perfect for warm sunny days and balmy evenings. (All images via WWD.com)

deco love: round mirrors

2011-09-24T14:08:00.001-04:00

I have always loved round mirrors. Maybe it is the art deco glamour they seem to exude, or maybe it is simply the way the round shape counterbalances a room's otherwise square-ness. Whatever it is, round mirrors look fabulous to me. I would love to have one over a console table in an entryway, over a fireplace mantle, or in a powder room, over the sink. Or all three! Why not? Make it a theme.

bathing beauty

2011-09-23T18:36:00.002-04:00

Ok, I'm going to admit something... I spend a lot of time in the bathroom. I mean, I'm rather "high maintenance" --or, at least, my boyfriend thinks so. Naturally, I would like to enjoy my time spent in this very important room, and that includes making sure it looks great.

My dream bathroom would have gorgeous tiles and flooring, a beautiful mirror, ample and attractive storage, and a huge shower with dual shower heads and a bench. Also, there would be a view of bamboo growing outside the windows, for a spa-like feel.

I have a feeling I would not be the only one spending a lot of time in the bathroom, if it would be as fabulous as I'm imagining it to be.

yellow loves grey

2011-09-22T16:19:00.001-04:00

couturecarrie.blogspot.com

armellejewelry.blogspot.com

lotusbleudesign.com

target.com

prettystuff.tumblr.com

apartmentsilike.wordpress.com

stylehive.com

Betsy Johnson shoes via chasingdavies.blogspot.com

http://www.flickr.com/photos/happylivingdesign/galleries/72157622388668644

sincerelyyourdesigns.blogspot.com

senseofstyleinteriors.net

maddiegdesigns.com

madebygirl.blogspot.com

anthropologie pillow via cocokelley.blogspot.com

thefab4ms.blogspot.com

bedroom-ideas-for.com

: bliss : wedding backdrops

2011-09-21T13:25:00.001-04:00

kayswedding.wordpress.com

Chanel Haute Couture via ledefile.files.wordpress.com

etsy.com

100layercake.com

forgetmeknotweddingsblog.com

I've been noticing a wedding trend, lately, of creating beautiful backdrops, for both ceremony and reception. This is not the tulle swathed look of days gone by. Rather, there are fabulous paper flowers, pinwheels, and cranes. And even a projection of a tree arbor, which has a sort of theatrical quality. What a lovely way to transform a space!

Sophia Loren movie quote

2011-09-21T12:13:00.005-04:00

Yesterday, I caught a snippet of a Sophia Loren movie playing on TV, and found the lines amusing. Her character was having a pillow talk sort of conversation with her younger sister.

She said "I think Michelle is a subversive."

"What does that mean?" her younger sister asked.

"That's someone with a good heart who doesn't like to work much."

Well, yeah.

You know what they say... "If work was so great, the rich would keep it for themselves."

design-your-own jewelry

2011-09-20T14:54:00.000-04:00

Have you ever tried to make your own jewelry? Maybe strung some beads together, or even tried your hand at metalworking? I know I did, back in college. Why not design your own piece of jewelry online, and have it made for you? What a fabulous idea!

Sheyna.com does just that. You can design your own pieces on their site, using various styles of jewelry components. Or, if you'd rather just go shopping, you can choose from previous designs. I especially like the earrings, myself.

beautiful braids

2011-09-17T14:08:00.001-04:00

Braids just seem so romantic and feminine. I haven't worn my hair in braids since I was a little girl, but these beautiful images are inspiring me to try braided hair styles. They look so sophisticated and pretty!

almost that time of year...

2011-09-16T22:32:00.000-04:00

I've been seeing tinges of red, orange, and yellow on the leaves here in the Midwest. You know what that means... it's almost time to put on some nice warm coats, hats, scarves, gloves, and the like. I'm looking forward to a little cooler weather. --Not that it has been sweltering lately, or anything like that. I just like the way autumn makes you want to cozy up a bit, layer your clothes, make favorite comfort foods, and put an extra blanket on the bed.

grey day

2011-09-15T16:47:00.001-04:00

What can I say? I love grey. Boring? Not in the least. I find grey to be lovely, elegant, easy on the eyes, serene.

: bliss : black & white wedding

2011-09-13T17:13:00.004-04:00

As always, black and white looks striking and chic, to me. And that goes for wedding themes. I think that the b&w theme is timeless, just as a wedding should be. Not to mention, it photographs well. Bridesmaids certainly appreciate having a fabulous LBD to wear post-wedding day. For added color, I think Tiffany blue, pale pink, lavender, or yellow would look beautiful paired with black and white.

crown canopy beds

2011-09-11T16:34:00.001-04:00

There is something fairy tale-like about crown canopy beds. I'm sure, when I was a little girl, I would have loved to have such a lovely princess-worthy bed! I did have a canopy bed, I must admit, but it was not quite as grand or as glamorous as these beds are.

happy pink day!

2011-09-10T14:34:00.000-04:00

In the little town in Ohio, where I'm staying, it is a rainy dreary day. A day for pink, to raise the spirits. And a day for chocolate chip cookies... yes, sounds good to me!

: bliss : bridal veils

2011-09-09T15:16:00.000-04:00

Most brides find themselves wondering which style of veil to wear, if any. Whether long, short, cascading, trimmed with ribbon, beads, or lace, scallop-edged, and so on, the choice of veil is a major one. I've heard it is best to try on each style of veil, while wearing the wedding gown. That seems sensible to me. Of course, brides start to daydream of the perfect veil, when they are envisioning their dream gown. So, here are some veil ideas, which I hope you will find inspiring. I, for one, am currently favoring the vintage birdcage style. But I always love a long billowing veil, for dramatic effect!

say it with stripes

2011-09-08T17:06:00.006-04:00

Stripes never fail to catch my eye. There is something about the bold contrast of lines, especially when in black and white, that always looks chic, to me.

garden romance

2011-09-07T11:21:00.007-04:00

I just love the sculptural qualities of these well-manicured gardens. I found these images torn out from an old issue of Elle Decor, and just had to scan them, to share with you. How I would love to stroll through those magnificent hedges, with my darling, and maybe even get a bit lost together....

: bliss : elizabeth fillmore bridal

2011-09-06T14:47:00.006-04:00

(all gowns seen here)

oh, baby...

2011-09-04T14:24:00.012-04:00

Sweet baby spaces...for little ones to sleep and dream....

rustic chic: natural wood siding

2011-09-03T13:12:00.008-04:00

Maybe because I'm back home in the Midwestern U.S., after having been living in Australia for several months, I'm finding myself appreciating American home styles, with a fresh perspective. One of the styles I'm really into right now is cedar wood siding. There is something comforting and warm about the natural look of wood exteriors. I especially like cedar siding paired with crisp white trim and big beautiful windows. I'm not sure if cedar siding, or any type of wood siding, would be available in Australia, but it doesn't hurt to daydream of having an American-style home in my adopted country. Besides, I'm not really the trying-to-fit-in kinda gal, anyway.

outdoor living

2011-09-02T11:32:00.018-04:00

Although summer is winding down here in the States, I know those of you living in warmer climates will be spending lots of time enjoying the outdoors, for a while longer. So here is a little outdoor living inspiration for you. I'm hoping to be to returning to Australia, in a few months, to be with my fiance, when it will be summer there, --and nice and hot! (Too hot, really!)

savoring summer

2011-08-30T15:39:00.016-04:00

To enhance your enjoyment of this last hurrah of summer...Here is a recipe for mojitos (found here).

Mojito

Ingredients

Ice
6 ounces light rum
12 mint sprigs, or spearmint, 8 roughly broken apart
6 tablespoons fresh lime juice
4 tablespoons sugar
Club soda
4 slices lime

Directions

Place ice in beverage shaker then add in the rum, 8 broken up mint sprigs, lime juice and sugar. Shake well and serve over ice in a high ball glass. Top off each glass with a splash of club soda.

Garnish each with a slice of lime and a sprig of mint

: bliss : pink satin floral bow

2011-08-29T13:32:00.006-04:00

I remember when I first saw this image, years ago, in Martha Stewart Weddings, I just loved it. The pink-mauve silk satin bow and the lush flowers are so romantic. This wedding gown reminds me of a ballerina's tutu. So pretty! Not to mention, the sash would be easy to make, if you'd want to add one to a dress.

: bliss : martha said let them eat cake

2011-08-28T12:25:00.011-04:00

I'm in a Martha Stewart kinda mood today. While sorting some old magazine images, I found several beautiful wedding cake photos from Martha Stewart Weddings. I thought I should share them with you. A few of the images were found online, as well. I especially like the pale pink emroidery-inspired cake. It looks so delicate and lovely.

: bliss : lavender-infused champagne and cupcakes

2011-08-27T12:46:00.008-04:00

To go along with the lavender wedding theme, here are a couple of recipes, for lavender-infused cupcakes and champagne. Perfect for a cake and champagne reception!

Lavender Champagne Cocktail

1/8 cup sugar* (see note below) 1/4 tablespoon dried lavender 1 bottle of dry Champagne Fresh lavender sprigs, for garnish 1. Bring sugar and 1/2 cup water to a boil in a saucepan, stirring to dissolve sugar. Stir in dried lavender. Remove from heat. Let cool completely. Strain out lavender. Refrigerate syrup until ready to serve (up to 1 month). 2. Pour about 6 ounces Champagne and 1 1/2 teaspoons syrup into each flute. Garnish each with a lavender sprig. *Superfine sugar is also known as bar sugar (so-named for use in mixing alcoholic drinks) or baking sugar. It is granulated sugar with unusually small crystals.

(Recipe from Martha Stewart Living)

Lavender cupcakes

Infusing the milk with lavender flowers makes the flavour subtle. The icing can be left plain, or you can use a bit of food colouring to give it a light lavender colour (makes 12).

The cupcake sponge

* 120ml whole milk * 3 tablespoons dried lavender flowers * 120g plain flour * 140g caster sugar * 1½ teaspoons baking powder * 40g unsalted butter, at room temperature * 1 egg * 12 small sprigs of lavender (optional) * 25ml whole milk * 1 tablespoon dried lavender flowers * 250g icing sugar, sifted * 80g unsalted butter, at room temperature * A couple of drops of purple food colouring (optional) * A 12-hole cupcake tray, lined with paper cases

1. Put the milk and dried lavender flowers in a jug, cover and refrigerate for a few hours, or overnight if possible. Do the same with the milk and lavender flowers for the frosting, in a separate jug. 2. Preheat the oven to 170°C/325°F/gas mark three. 3. Put the flour, sugar, baking powder and butter in a freestanding electric mixer with a paddle attachment (or use a handheld electric whisk) and beat on slow speed until you get a sandy consistency and everything is combined. 4. Strain the lavender-infused milk (for the cupcake) and slowly pour into the flour mixture, beating well until all the ingredients are well mixed. 5. Add the egg and beat well (scrape any unmixed ingredients from the side of the bowl with a rubber spatula). 6. Spoon the mixture into the paper cases until two-thirds full and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the sponge bounces back when touched. A skewer inserted in the centre should come out clean. 7. Leave the cupcakes to cool slightly in the tray before turning out onto a wire cooling rack to cool completely.

Lavender frosting

1. Beat together the icing sugar, butter and food colouring, if using, in a freestanding electric mixer with a paddle attachment (or use a handheld electric whisk) on medium-slow speed until the mixture comes together and is well mixed. 2. Turn the mixer down to slow speed. Strain the lavender-infused milk and slowly pour into the butter mixture. Once all the milk is incorporated, turn the mixer up to high speed. 3. Continue beating until the frosting is light and fluffy (at least five minutes). The longer the frosting is beaten, the fluffier and lighter it becomes. 4. When the cupcakes are cold, spoon the lavender frosting on top and decorate with a sprig of lavender, if using.

(Recipe found here)

: bliss : lavender theme wedding

2011-08-27T12:22:00.015-04:00

I just had to share these beautiful lavender them wedding photos. What a simple, lovely idea! Lavender is used in everything from the bride's bouquet to the table flowers, place cards, drinks, and chairs. Dried lavender is even used to toss over the happy couple, from pretty paper cones. I also love the single small table, meant for an intimate group of guests.

(All photos by KT Merry Photography)

cherry blossoms make me smile

2011-08-26T21:27:00.002-04:00

(via elle decor)

room to dream

2011-08-26T20:59:00.017-04:00

As I mentioned the other day, I have been going through some old books and magazines, and scanning some favorite images. So here are some lovely rooms for you.

: bliss : do you remember these?

2011-08-25T13:26:00.006-04:00

I thought the ads for Reem Acra's bridal gowns, from 2005, were absolutely stunning. They seemed to be inspired by the style of Mexican painter Frida Kahlo, with the big floral up-do's and the colorful wrap worn at the hips in one image, exactly as Kahlo did for her wedding to Diego Rivera. The photos are just as gorgeous today. (It's amazing what you can find when you go through old books and magazines!)

Living in Provence

2011-08-24T15:27:00.019-04:00

I have been going through books which I left at my mom's house, before I went to Australia to stay with my boyfriend for eight months. Now I'm back in America, and sorting out some things, namely getting a visa to go back, among some other important matters.

I found a big Taschen book called "Living in Provence" which is full of gorgeous photos of homes and gardens. Coincidentally, I had read the book "A Year in Provence" by Peter Mayle while traveling from Australia to the U.S. The story provided a perfect escape from the boredom of flying for nearly 23 hours!

Seeing the photos in this book, I can really imagine being in Provence. It is such a huge heavy book, I know I can't afford to ship it to Oz. So, I scanned my favorite images. Thought you might enjoy seeing them.

Ruche

2011-08-23T20:47:00.021-04:00

One word: SWOON! I love pretty much everything I've seen on the Ruche website. The clothes and accessories are so feminine and flattering, not to mention affordable. You've just got to take a look!