My Bassett Makeover: Before + After

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGvBe1P5HjPEmxp_kRSe6NMuUnT-t_7fTgTcYegahmhEkCrZTiXQusZGtkEEhHdVUWq_KTpEaMqa9W93sBZvByTGTnYB3la0fMGQ5MLm9D4Pf5etHdpx3xYAhBdOcCoW001OoREgdVCgrT/s1600/Pippa+chair+M.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGvBe1P5HjPEmxp_kRSe6NMuUnT-t_7fTgTcYegahmhEkCrZTiXQusZGtkEEhHdVUWq_KTpEaMqa9W93sBZvByTGTnYB3la0fMGQ5MLm9D4Pf5etHdpx3xYAhBdOcCoW001OoREgdVCgrT/s1600/Pippa+chair+M.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>After sneak peek ... a favorite of mine from Bassett, the “Pippa”</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmG9xAKHiVvwybplIAoiU0AcyXQoJSggwctdoXryl8avlVfXxN9V9QPdQlKevQhsgpEcXGbPpVuexGKHLkXTCaWUS6yT85-Ip-bpTCERJ7DBlxhsT9lyMmvI3zQVJ2K2WT_USEVCKmv2Rf/s1600/CustomClassicsBefore-fireplace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmG9xAKHiVvwybplIAoiU0AcyXQoJSggwctdoXryl8avlVfXxN9V9QPdQlKevQhsgpEcXGbPpVuexGKHLkXTCaWUS6yT85-Ip-bpTCERJ7DBlxhsT9lyMmvI3zQVJ2K2WT_USEVCKmv2Rf/s1600/CustomClassicsBefore-fireplace.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Before: great architectural details, lots of natural light, plenty of room to entertain</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpmAoHcNgtl0j0MTkIFQpufuxadnXjn5_D2dRgUh-ECDrGpMGVlIYAv48vQ0KCh45Vphi83gDlJO7KRF341azkybIbExYzLJDlewkQk1yUIy85apUqafeDI-u0Z5taQ0PWyqZejO0pu-cF/s1600/CustomClassicsBefore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpmAoHcNgtl0j0MTkIFQpufuxadnXjn5_D2dRgUh-ECDrGpMGVlIYAv48vQ0KCh45Vphi83gDlJO7KRF341azkybIbExYzLJDlewkQk1yUIy85apUqafeDI-u0Z5taQ0PWyqZejO0pu-cF/s1600/CustomClassicsBefore.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">THE CHALLENGE: with post-teenage children about to leave the nest, this family had outgrown the existing furnishings and were ready for a fresh update. </span><span style="font-size: large;">The homeowners, a very nice local couple, came to Bassett to look for a new sofa and we ended up scheduling a room makeover in order to accomplish their goals of working with what they had. </span><span style="font-size: large;">A number of pieces with sentimental value and some lovely decorative items were staying in the room. The wall color, a warm tone faux finish, plus the custom window treatments (which I discovered by coincidence were made by a very talented friend of mine!) were used as a starting point in choosing the color palette and traditional design direction for this family room makeover. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBMU0IRL4GvRC94pkkiuT23sdtP-6Uzr_JcjIw6tFvI2kbq8On4p25ewYegR7yKLuaIs7iu_ozKxNdKfw6-YZnqJPmzVKmgTbsRbO4DYm0aWcrhsmjqqnHc1k6Y8ECPfujSO4Vn1jd35Zh/s1600/melkonian+after+layout.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBMU0IRL4GvRC94pkkiuT23sdtP-6Uzr_JcjIw6tFvI2kbq8On4p25ewYegR7yKLuaIs7iu_ozKxNdKfw6-YZnqJPmzVKmgTbsRbO4DYm0aWcrhsmjqqnHc1k6Y8ECPfujSO4Vn1jd35Zh/s1600/melkonian+after+layout.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">After visiting the clients home, I used the measurements that I took while there to create a revised floor plan with <a href="http://www.bassettfurniture.com/tools/room-planner.asp">Room Planner</a> which is a free design tool available to anyone who visits the Bassett website. Most of the furniture and accessory pieces from the extensive Bassett collections are loaded into this easy to navigate program, allowing them to be efficiently dropped into place to check that a layout works best for desired function while keeping traffic flow in mind.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2jZ3z1zswpgBZ62hBWWkRKDrhynmKw4Yc-001lhnc0rauHyOecp_2Cko1InxCJ-hws6_Gm6DSpAtAZtIM8HH75oqmMyrOYMoKNbh1MQhhkVmaIsAtYsuduoP7_1a9E7l7JBZrSDi-vvc6/s1600/CustomClassic+makeover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2jZ3z1zswpgBZ62hBWWkRKDrhynmKw4Yc-001lhnc0rauHyOecp_2Cko1InxCJ-hws6_Gm6DSpAtAZtIM8HH75oqmMyrOYMoKNbh1MQhhkVmaIsAtYsuduoP7_1a9E7l7JBZrSDi-vvc6/s1600/CustomClassic+makeover.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">THE BIG REVEAL:</span><span style="font-size: large;"> to accomplish this makeover, we selected the very comfortable <a href="http://www.bassettfurniture.com/Living-Room-Accent-Chair-with-Exposed-Wood-Legs-DZ3.asp">New American Living</a> chair in a crisp striped fabric, a tight back <a href="http://www.bassettfurniture.com/Sofa-DZ32064.asp">Custom Classics</a> sofa in a warm olive green with two sets of designer pillows, a pair of <a href="http://www.bassettfurniture.com/Accent-Chair-DZ27301.asp">Pippa</a> classic spindle chairs in a richly woven gold fabric accented with leopard print kidney pillows, a tufted chocolate brown leather <a href="http://www.bassettfurniture.com/tools/custom-upholstery/ottomans/custom-ottoman.asp">ottoman with storage shelf,</a> then anchored this updated sitting area with a more appropriate sized <a href="http://www.bassettfurniture.com/Laguna-Tropics-DZ25152.asp">hand tufted wool carpet</a> in a colorful, bold print.  </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZM7965klt6QhtpYGiU6cZpFY3R4ygYL4QjCTD_YALjT8gyc7kQyu72OmYhM_T51goe6qN3QZA7-hcC6NFekllBPm5F41FQiRlCnMCrnbnNy0vZVLntBhYsxP0MqQkMRmr1gvZiwUSzYjN/s1600/NewAmericanLivingChair_M.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZM7965klt6QhtpYGiU6cZpFY3R4ygYL4QjCTD_YALjT8gyc7kQyu72OmYhM_T51goe6qN3QZA7-hcC6NFekllBPm5F41FQiRlCnMCrnbnNy0vZVLntBhYsxP0MqQkMRmr1gvZiwUSzYjN/s1600/NewAmericanLivingChair_M.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">THE KEY: choosing patterns and colors that would complement the existing fabrics and finishes in this open floor plan.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">THE BONUS FEATURE: all <a href="http://www.bassettfurniture.com/tools/hgtv-furniture-store-locator.asp">Bassett makeovers</a> are delivered in around 30 days. For the custom furniture industry, this is quite a feat. How does Bassett do it? The majority of the custom manufacturing takes place in North Carolina. Beautiful on-trend fabrics plus <a href="http://www.bassettfurniture.com/quality/index.asp">strong built-to-last frames</a> are at the ready. A highly-trained custom upholstery team is in place. The delivery process is streamlined. Customer service experts are in house to ensure complete satisfaction. Design consultants like myself follow each project, from beginning to end, as we would if running our own individual businesses. As a group, we just happen to have the support of the Bassett/HGTV Design Studio behind us : )</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">What did my Bassett clients think of their makeover? </span><span style="font-size: large;">“</span><span style="font-size: large;">It looks absolutely beautiful. We are so happy!</span><span style="font-size: large;">”</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Are you ready for a custom makeover? <a href="http://www.bassettfurniture.com/tools/designer-bio.asp?did=661">Email me</a> at Bassett in Burlington to schedule a home visit, or stop by our showroom to see what we have to offer. This weekend, starting on Friday, July 18th, we are having a 3-day Summer Sale with one item offered at 30% off original price. Bassett is also hosting a “Pin It To Win It” event on Pinterest. <a href="http://www.bassettfurniture.com/pin-it-to-win-it.asp">Click here</a> to find out how you can enter to win a $5,000 Gift Card to Bassett! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYkMKhjAD4TlCgTLBZOSsHD68byWgzIZWDLhGL1jIC1oUj_Md8FwkNr2SlHpMH89cBtb1INOG9-B94zReWMIrb5GMbootX2c-_emGew8eWL2-6_hpC6DTmnez9Vp1M9d-kLgr5qkfXcsmB/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-07-17+at+12.39.25+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYkMKhjAD4TlCgTLBZOSsHD68byWgzIZWDLhGL1jIC1oUj_Md8FwkNr2SlHpMH89cBtb1INOG9-B94zReWMIrb5GMbootX2c-_emGew8eWL2-6_hpC6DTmnez9Vp1M9d-kLgr5qkfXcsmB/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-07-17+at+12.39.25+AM.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/yvonneblacker/__public">Follow me on Houzz</a> to see the Bassett makeover above, plus lots more to come ... </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRp1IoH1PA_8x0GgR-CFjr4FMVW4VpDz1LGmbkFo7LEuMMfuTKG4LTUF1XrhmntBzJCRVPKOTBnyY-rkw9TDdIt6iSU3UKXcfkghArSvo_z3UJV4rt7ebHAGrfGHSAF8eX80pre3QnqON_/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-07-17+at+12.58.42+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRp1IoH1PA_8x0GgR-CFjr4FMVW4VpDz1LGmbkFo7LEuMMfuTKG4LTUF1XrhmntBzJCRVPKOTBnyY-rkw9TDdIt6iSU3UKXcfkghArSvo_z3UJV4rt7ebHAGrfGHSAF8eX80pre3QnqON_/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-07-17+at+12.58.42+AM.png" width="450" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">And watch for my regular posts on <a href="http://instagram.com/yblacker">Instagram</a> to see what’s new in our Bassett showroom and elsewhere in the world of design.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div>

My Bassett Makeover: Before + After

After sneak peek ... a favorite of mine from Bassett, the “Pippa” Before: great architectural details, lots of natural light, plenty of room...

Read more »

Just looking ...

<div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgniGL8dsPJr9x0n9VNyziIA70VHAK5CWZYo_0gr-63Q9kHQNr27xIYVs2xrWdDNPoKD7KfyZXKTfLtCcwSyuGm_hRlfm9yISV-o4dsjJZl5znTmwXexJ-VMRzdRV4cy8MJ4hRKoz_2Ysjt/s1600/Grange+showroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgniGL8dsPJr9x0n9VNyziIA70VHAK5CWZYo_0gr-63Q9kHQNr27xIYVs2xrWdDNPoKD7KfyZXKTfLtCcwSyuGm_hRlfm9yISV-o4dsjJZl5znTmwXexJ-VMRzdRV4cy8MJ4hRKoz_2Ysjt/s800/Grange+showroom.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Pretty in pink at the Grange showroom</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Have you been to the <a href="http://bostondesign.com/redtagsale/">Boston Design Center</a> lately? This weekend they held a Red Tag Sale which was paired with the Boston Home Show at Cruiseport Boston. The BDC, which sells exclusively to the design trade, was open to the general public. Many showrooms were offering high-end floor models, fabrics and more at drastically reduced prices. I went looking for some design inspiration for a few projects I am working on, including a couple of living room makeovers, my kitchen/mudroom renovation, and a proposal for a summer design show. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Below are some snapshots of what caught my eye while I was there. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc8eNX1zPThrdUZxQQt8uy7q2aVIVf-boj-b5BG94QiESZwUvF2Pdjg1Nr8KKUCCFc_PixWE_MS8bapU45TDHwrf3bRj9eWc1Ph3ScBbqBOF1nHzgrwmky4LYGBkD0xaGxAKUw3NKokT3d/s1600/stark+window.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc8eNX1zPThrdUZxQQt8uy7q2aVIVf-boj-b5BG94QiESZwUvF2Pdjg1Nr8KKUCCFc_PixWE_MS8bapU45TDHwrf3bRj9eWc1Ph3ScBbqBOF1nHzgrwmky4LYGBkD0xaGxAKUw3NKokT3d/s800/stark+window.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoPAgcAy5qdwT9V3SeOf4YV5DLGJXY8VvkZWNpKD5HY8596cnFFS3leeTea0o11zCOYe85jbu-UucSXTkujv3GuaO9gz7KT_tV5psc1e0eVE_bmjEnJVW080XMLOMVLrVKEQaY631Pe1fT/s1600/wallcoverings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoPAgcAy5qdwT9V3SeOf4YV5DLGJXY8VvkZWNpKD5HY8596cnFFS3leeTea0o11zCOYe85jbu-UucSXTkujv3GuaO9gz7KT_tV5psc1e0eVE_bmjEnJVW080XMLOMVLrVKEQaY631Pe1fT/s800/wallcoverings.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizkDeXd1DEcHRhesUiJCVx_mg5LcH8Uu3L2d9cs90B8AU5-9bgglt15b19xcVYNKeI4Nmsv-0-SOVnjE-OkaypIa9yvO_pGIWNo4ew61VYCvrEMwQYibQzx1kUclyUCUUuzjwyFsXftuva/s1600/gray+floor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: x-large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizkDeXd1DEcHRhesUiJCVx_mg5LcH8Uu3L2d9cs90B8AU5-9bgglt15b19xcVYNKeI4Nmsv-0-SOVnjE-OkaypIa9yvO_pGIWNo4ew61VYCvrEMwQYibQzx1kUclyUCUUuzjwyFsXftuva/s800/gray+floor.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoigvgd_hrdMowLdPnGc27Ug5np0ZONXdWW9CN-63AEWULj_qCG8pMGyXzGSnLe1inKIGH6I4KzO_1iyftpnAtH-8zSZQaNj3v5lZJizkJ6rDfZpd1-30doliX1mFpZkslPTJ97V6Rtxa2/s1600/gray+sofa+and+carpet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoigvgd_hrdMowLdPnGc27Ug5np0ZONXdWW9CN-63AEWULj_qCG8pMGyXzGSnLe1inKIGH6I4KzO_1iyftpnAtH-8zSZQaNj3v5lZJizkJ6rDfZpd1-30doliX1mFpZkslPTJ97V6Rtxa2/s800/gray+sofa+and+carpet.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc1sSbKFHl2rMsho35J7Nea4jRw_efk2RKaaR8A6buX67tGagfU1F_jfGlLfRgeHgUUp4q4sWBqDgTGrSCG3sesIxupAEfZ5Tl5Cc9b7GmibAFGGxlCzsXzgZonwdeKPsT3T8Jo_1qRIYF/s1600/leapard+carpet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc1sSbKFHl2rMsho35J7Nea4jRw_efk2RKaaR8A6buX67tGagfU1F_jfGlLfRgeHgUUp4q4sWBqDgTGrSCG3sesIxupAEfZ5Tl5Cc9b7GmibAFGGxlCzsXzgZonwdeKPsT3T8Jo_1qRIYF/s800/leapard+carpet.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPaW8nY7zR3cran_oKrfuF5m9J-j4D12sVAZc1ZpW2khV2p7VkcKK_JvVwWT9rw66gfoV4nuR1llqQsdzWj0idrHV_egU8oZ4DE3BGGl91gLi-eByKY30CDWduqXL1Ohi4c8JeJSZjhcb3/s1600/travertine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPaW8nY7zR3cran_oKrfuF5m9J-j4D12sVAZc1ZpW2khV2p7VkcKK_JvVwWT9rw66gfoV4nuR1llqQsdzWj0idrHV_egU8oZ4DE3BGGl91gLi-eByKY30CDWduqXL1Ohi4c8JeJSZjhcb3/s800/travertine.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Huc7TsvIrcQsA5l4K66a3qhoI6GMrk4PefLLp0ps3HsKmfum9apyfbSp4om_G5S8KsM7P2Uf5lpj3VlXh5xqG71kYHBQdNUFWdoPU-AEUAMsVAdG9uQm7dyDUV69TPJ0wNb0KDnJDuQQ/s1600/shell+paper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Huc7TsvIrcQsA5l4K66a3qhoI6GMrk4PefLLp0ps3HsKmfum9apyfbSp4om_G5S8KsM7P2Uf5lpj3VlXh5xqG71kYHBQdNUFWdoPU-AEUAMsVAdG9uQm7dyDUV69TPJ0wNb0KDnJDuQQ/s800/shell+paper.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQnfLxlpAluO2Z475V8zrQuyVkPUUd450KJL_GkNZSoKvu-WmAY7Lr4KfdDtkCj17xFCHv3Tcqbh2GpGnH4RckJapUo0t04cgaAqaXjoXHNSi9zv357apD94WfS2rAeBqkmSM8iB6vSJ-f/s1600/light+at+LeeJofa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQnfLxlpAluO2Z475V8zrQuyVkPUUd450KJL_GkNZSoKvu-WmAY7Lr4KfdDtkCj17xFCHv3Tcqbh2GpGnH4RckJapUo0t04cgaAqaXjoXHNSi9zv357apD94WfS2rAeBqkmSM8iB6vSJ-f/s800/light+at+LeeJofa.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj465ZQSlrOGRKxnft9irWJtXiN1WNdOGxHq40rLVAA_q0gUWD-TEzjefeVauKheGy11-qbpMKy8BscI4skV5thHt_dXRQwTe7H5wQazZzlF-IsPXfQrhu3Ew25F1qDAnD4iWCUdZFIiFn4/s1600/grass+cloths.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj465ZQSlrOGRKxnft9irWJtXiN1WNdOGxHq40rLVAA_q0gUWD-TEzjefeVauKheGy11-qbpMKy8BscI4skV5thHt_dXRQwTe7H5wQazZzlF-IsPXfQrhu3Ew25F1qDAnD4iWCUdZFIiFn4/s800/grass+cloths.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5aSuc-MjUppQPoY762Y6aa5rdloBeEJJtyd55opt92yQKufK-mitqF11lV9vMrcOa5QOZvpuv5oAv0Fa6j2mCd1VaOjquqFiimrDQP1WM1G2ceQELLgCWHXnPR4DZaG0mpt7HIW_chaSj/s1600/quartz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5aSuc-MjUppQPoY762Y6aa5rdloBeEJJtyd55opt92yQKufK-mitqF11lV9vMrcOa5QOZvpuv5oAv0Fa6j2mCd1VaOjquqFiimrDQP1WM1G2ceQELLgCWHXnPR4DZaG0mpt7HIW_chaSj/s800/quartz.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkenN5cmnW06c4ODGelwAIvSI5cqHxyZYL_dC32IfadcQnooDFEJ-G05sbihhUTm5UshmsQc9mFbBgLBVaCvzdw06m5HvHJCa9BrLnLLqv_28okc2NOvGz_umF1uTVPPGTFQAoGB12SVKe/s1600/gray+wood+floor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkenN5cmnW06c4ODGelwAIvSI5cqHxyZYL_dC32IfadcQnooDFEJ-G05sbihhUTm5UshmsQc9mFbBgLBVaCvzdw06m5HvHJCa9BrLnLLqv_28okc2NOvGz_umF1uTVPPGTFQAoGB12SVKe/s800/gray+wood+floor.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAJvNuK2XEJjrBVy5CeMJEtcQ6Ex9U7tJZm4IeDSCl0xL6_luxhJVlMXbzuiXldiw7hCdZmHLLKUSdkMhK4zN43zwZCmgbbJZt0Pgj6fpUGbupIwsUFG16-fdUpuBhB-4BohM6cJXl0pj_/s1600/duralee+foxes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: x-large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAJvNuK2XEJjrBVy5CeMJEtcQ6Ex9U7tJZm4IeDSCl0xL6_luxhJVlMXbzuiXldiw7hCdZmHLLKUSdkMhK4zN43zwZCmgbbJZt0Pgj6fpUGbupIwsUFG16-fdUpuBhB-4BohM6cJXl0pj_/s800/duralee+foxes.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">See anything you like?</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>

Just looking ...

Pretty in pink at the Grange showroom Have you been to the Boston Design Center lately? This weekend they held a Red Tag Sale which was pai...

Read more »

Fashion Destination: Madison Avenue

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFGJSPdLjB7IVYndqsDBXJlgZq4Oakkj1TjPD-Lc020b7NWArooiZGcnbLx2cYvwvNjKQzgTHdv1OOtYTnD38FZ0XhAh5cEokCqyBUtJE72xkaQ2o2ziYwU2n9kfnaqExEqHF7fvSZXe7d/s1600/MadisonAveModel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFGJSPdLjB7IVYndqsDBXJlgZq4Oakkj1TjPD-Lc020b7NWArooiZGcnbLx2cYvwvNjKQzgTHdv1OOtYTnD38FZ0XhAh5cEokCqyBUtJE72xkaQ2o2ziYwU2n9kfnaqExEqHF7fvSZXe7d/s800/MadisonAveModel.jpg" width="450" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Do you like designer labels but don’t want to pay full price to change out your wardrobe each season? For my local readers, you have to check out <a href="http://www.madisonaveofmelrose.com/">Madison Avenue Consignment Boutique</a> in Melrose. The owner, Joanne Cotton, has created a one-stop shop for fashionistas. We’re talking runway wardrobe at “I’ll take two” prices. All items are meticulously curated – including items on consignment and new fashion-forward jewelry lines. The store is filled with cool accessories, must-have handbags, conversation starting shoes and a lot of designer bling, not to mention high-end brands that would upgrade most closets.</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Visit the Madison Avenue <a href="http://www.madisonaveofmelrose.com/Clothing.php">website</a> or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Madison-Ave-of-Melrose/144329228969689">their facebook page</a> for updates on what is currently available or stop in to experience some bargain-shoppers delight ... you won’t leave empty handed! The store recently celebrated its one year anniversary at its Main Street location. Read about the <a href="http://melrose.patch.com/articles/madison-and-main-new-consignment-boutique-in-downtown-melrose">concept behind the consignment here</a>. </span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhckww_y6aQ3P1u56Eb-hVaqOS4kwoeoa241Nw6JKGMS_CQtfbGM8UqvhgcwvKKmJFzA4O_ihgNp9io11MNWan-PTxcvL9EMR_zjUNv-n_uLSdmbUtmQ0JN3sC8Iz_x_I9uzeesDAg5OeSL/s1600/leopard@madisonave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhckww_y6aQ3P1u56Eb-hVaqOS4kwoeoa241Nw6JKGMS_CQtfbGM8UqvhgcwvKKmJFzA4O_ihgNp9io11MNWan-PTxcvL9EMR_zjUNv-n_uLSdmbUtmQ0JN3sC8Iz_x_I9uzeesDAg5OeSL/s800/leopard@madisonave.jpg" width="450" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmPCW6xYN0Pzw43lLwh0Y7_xr3XjTEh45P8E-GHZdJVAvKaO6zFypfm0q32EJR0C97bYeaGWuK6-kH0pTzrtia1YrxneV_6b-Qb9rqmWX5dGtY386CxOpWz1PwKquo8JrNr9EP3-8S9E_S/s1600/scarves@madisonavenue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmPCW6xYN0Pzw43lLwh0Y7_xr3XjTEh45P8E-GHZdJVAvKaO6zFypfm0q32EJR0C97bYeaGWuK6-kH0pTzrtia1YrxneV_6b-Qb9rqmWX5dGtY386CxOpWz1PwKquo8JrNr9EP3-8S9E_S/s800/scarves@madisonavenue.jpg" width="450" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxQtdnZ6MkGWtZCAmwN5mUMz_IwhdwNmQj5aPn2efFljaWz0ocO64MyiAkyNEC7-1nfpOoxFMkBbF1W7yPPfKL_I_lnfD2fh_xsVUt4S1tvaQgN3WaQkZNhuLqb7kuO78F4vdLInmNARjc/s1600/jewelry@madisonave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxQtdnZ6MkGWtZCAmwN5mUMz_IwhdwNmQj5aPn2efFljaWz0ocO64MyiAkyNEC7-1nfpOoxFMkBbF1W7yPPfKL_I_lnfD2fh_xsVUt4S1tvaQgN3WaQkZNhuLqb7kuO78F4vdLInmNARjc/s800/jewelry@madisonave.jpg" width="450" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ60LvHHoQ3sy5nITeRlpUkSKg6rivuMqIu5t2XaozBGVt_vRtmw8ZC0G8ocaiuwv-eNHhdXAZph4WGjDnmDbWX7qRGFllx1jQpHI3iju5YFsl4csejq85Q6xsMyeRiLe2B5YGxls3s7Qc/s1600/BetseyJohnson@madisonave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ60LvHHoQ3sy5nITeRlpUkSKg6rivuMqIu5t2XaozBGVt_vRtmw8ZC0G8ocaiuwv-eNHhdXAZph4WGjDnmDbWX7qRGFllx1jQpHI3iju5YFsl4csejq85Q6xsMyeRiLe2B5YGxls3s7Qc/s800/BetseyJohnson@madisonave.jpg" width="450" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>photo courtesy Madison Avenue</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheGdSNInHXV4NCnhyphenhyphenblgHtK2Mi-9ez_mwLQWtcq36XmfNqLsgwwKZg10-GnahHQjy4S5jwLIpthYQxJQBOkXdxupyz5mtRCW28XgP07JoqGrrk5iCGT3wYBRC8fQAzqDiG7Ub59VHUkUkv/s1600/hats@madisonave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheGdSNInHXV4NCnhyphenhyphenblgHtK2Mi-9ez_mwLQWtcq36XmfNqLsgwwKZg10-GnahHQjy4S5jwLIpthYQxJQBOkXdxupyz5mtRCW28XgP07JoqGrrk5iCGT3wYBRC8fQAzqDiG7Ub59VHUkUkv/s800/hats@madisonave.jpg" width="450" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><br /><br />

Fashion Destination: Madison Avenue

Do you like designer labels but don’t want to pay full price to change out your wardrobe each season? For my local readers, you have to chec...

Read more »

Southern hospitality

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip6U8vTJ6C1p7823yCWGk1CFDRxYWEjNiIoTjXa0TlHAN_MA1NuTPsOlDsbVFY4Olsuhw3tcj0zp0o4FWPCfFAf4pUYLUkh8XZDiEHedIKX8GY5qqjStChvaxuhBhqpXkc7sGza-Q3zw8/s1600-h/cupcakes.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317691374435184354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip6U8vTJ6C1p7823yCWGk1CFDRxYWEjNiIoTjXa0TlHAN_MA1NuTPsOlDsbVFY4Olsuhw3tcj0zp0o4FWPCfFAf4pUYLUkh8XZDiEHedIKX8GY5qqjStChvaxuhBhqpXkc7sGza-Q3zw8/s400/cupcakes.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Coconut Cupcakes (</span><span style="font-style: italic;">by Brenda Cataldo) </span><span style="font-style: italic;">on<br />platter from the </span><span style="font-style: italic;">Gail Pittman Veranda Collection </span><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">I spent last Tuesday night at a very entertaining event hosted by the regional consultants of </span><a href="https://www.southernlivingathome.com/Corp/index.aspx"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Southern Living at Home</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;">, a company created out of the continuous requests by readers for products found on the pages of </span><a href="http://www.southernliving.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >Southern Living</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;"> magazine. Held at the Hilton Hotel in Dedham, this “Design Showcase” featured the beautifully versatile pieces found in the Spring 2009 Catalog set up as themed tablescapes.</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br />Here are some of my personal favorites ...</span><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBAzdl64NdsBchdvhDKTRQMqLFlWqhwUL5-4YJyPBs1OI-40jWA8jLMF_uGMKoj3xj7rCsY7aIjSphijfd82dLFCX_SyvP7AhCZ4MkJO0bd0XwB9L-xLbFcRWrW9Q7SXwcpT_ARtNRl9g/s1600-h/caddy.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317691497344116706" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBAzdl64NdsBchdvhDKTRQMqLFlWqhwUL5-4YJyPBs1OI-40jWA8jLMF_uGMKoj3xj7rCsY7aIjSphijfd82dLFCX_SyvP7AhCZ4MkJO0bd0XwB9L-xLbFcRWrW9Q7SXwcpT_ARtNRl9g/s400/caddy.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAJboiWYeSS6a4m_YNg8kmJOZ-yvCfa2Pa2onA2Y8QE_Q7nZLMAbKLAucpRvIZ6JY9q-f6Q4Ak1TL147ZxAd4hQZV3rEJnl07JIprjCa8L54uGzAIr5vw6d7tU1jEvIb0wea7liCyIg4E/s1600-h/PrincessTea.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317699270054744386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAJboiWYeSS6a4m_YNg8kmJOZ-yvCfa2Pa2onA2Y8QE_Q7nZLMAbKLAucpRvIZ6JY9q-f6Q4Ak1TL147ZxAd4hQZV3rEJnl07JIprjCa8L54uGzAIr5vw6d7tU1jEvIb0wea7liCyIg4E/s400/PrincessTea.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 202px;" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >Princess Party: <a href="https://www.southernlivingathome.com/wbslah/skins/s05/index.aspx?repid=568216">Brenda Cataldo</a> and Leslie Milne</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">This table set for a princess and her friends features some of my favorite items:</span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" > Chelsea Candlesticks</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> (available in two sizes),</span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" > Astoria Flatware Caddy</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> (used here to hold sweet treats and birthday noisemakers –– I use mine to hold more formal silverware in one, and special serving pieces like the </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Hostess Serving Set</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> in another).</span><br /><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjynF_yL_zmqPxppT24isgN2Za84_6dChI5_7FcL_jQEz1_Be_qspF58BEPw0c_PKJZXZhYltTK_7tpIPs3IoIuhTU-Luf1cNeZt3xMC1SSfdEpSwZASs9hMHIdtVwibRDs9OHlE_4WGUw/s1600-h/HostessSet.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317702022939927714" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjynF_yL_zmqPxppT24isgN2Za84_6dChI5_7FcL_jQEz1_Be_qspF58BEPw0c_PKJZXZhYltTK_7tpIPs3IoIuhTU-Luf1cNeZt3xMC1SSfdEpSwZASs9hMHIdtVwibRDs9OHlE_4WGUw/s320/HostessSet.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 262px; height: 320px;" /></a><br /><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDf63BOXxSnt2Fn2wGsabnoISnRn3SNpAR1S84r_LqSOsEnz518T96cDtfdRvSUp-0_ASSpanJWApA17o6Q_0IHabHFrgHkYxaW25pOPxJ_uB04aJNDr_QkrVgPNWaaL25JhUwuYdf6Ow/s1600-h/morse.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317692925522205490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDf63BOXxSnt2Fn2wGsabnoISnRn3SNpAR1S84r_LqSOsEnz518T96cDtfdRvSUp-0_ASSpanJWApA17o6Q_0IHabHFrgHkYxaW25pOPxJ_uB04aJNDr_QkrVgPNWaaL25JhUwuYdf6Ow/s400/morse.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 271px;" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Earthly Delight: Cindy Morse</span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br />This scape featured </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >yummmmy</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> pistachio, chocolate, cream and coffee ... in both its colors and its oh-so-tempting display. I loved the cinnamon sticks in each mug, votives surrounded with coffee beans, and the taper candles inserted in grass filled bowls.<br />Tastefully done!</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRAdGLY73oBVLtKqsDnhkm5LuPLhAmSIPHiWQcWQtswckHzp_AmXkzI1mHS9ErVANejHNXzXoNFm-zn7Tp_ic6fP5f9AaQCmFHxc92-6Y10cUpmdj1g-vhyfLfHNjRNsbI3VqLVLvvEz4/s1600-h/green:brown.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317691191154011490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRAdGLY73oBVLtKqsDnhkm5LuPLhAmSIPHiWQcWQtswckHzp_AmXkzI1mHS9ErVANejHNXzXoNFm-zn7Tp_ic6fP5f9AaQCmFHxc92-6Y10cUpmdj1g-vhyfLfHNjRNsbI3VqLVLvvEz4/s400/green:brown.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0C4G8YjAsscJtE0OaMTxz9autW-0x3R8C39BqXRUARcGz1fbLc9BTsIHA_X_bmilS43Ci4SfVH67NM1ADfZvTrpWNdUa_OgP3IGGeMYX9AXMnhMbIR1FjFVvUiwwXRmAJ24YC1hkPF-w/s1600-h/verdecollection.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317706302350413970" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0C4G8YjAsscJtE0OaMTxz9autW-0x3R8C39BqXRUARcGz1fbLc9BTsIHA_X_bmilS43Ci4SfVH67NM1ADfZvTrpWNdUa_OgP3IGGeMYX9AXMnhMbIR1FjFVvUiwwXRmAJ24YC1hkPF-w/s400/verdecollection.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 102px;" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">The </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Verde Collection</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> (shown above) was just one of the items featured by SLAH Creative Director and ceramic artist, <a href="https://www.southernlivingathome.com/corp/key_people.aspx">Gail Pittman</a> herself. She filled a number of the adorable oblong shaped bowls with small items (candles, chocolates, guest soaps, etc.), put each in a small cellophane bag, then tied it with a pretty ribbon creating a simply adorable hostess gift, teacher gift, etc. with no need to wrap ... </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >how green is that?</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> I especially like the unique shape of the bowl and can picture it on a desk to hold business cards, paper clips, etc.</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhevrMAAlNclntg9sfz1tpdkPUHfL-Ft3W62aXfOsRkUoZ9pG8H7kUyWoE888VimZgQ06A9DKLC31S7c-J0V6_kZof4NGuRm0DPvuTGCcke1wgZdIUVo1fPjXvn88ZDtds6MPa3S0FkBp4/s1600-h/gpittman.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317691877499249650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhevrMAAlNclntg9sfz1tpdkPUHfL-Ft3W62aXfOsRkUoZ9pG8H7kUyWoE888VimZgQ06A9DKLC31S7c-J0V6_kZof4NGuRm0DPvuTGCcke1wgZdIUVo1fPjXvn88ZDtds6MPa3S0FkBp4/s400/gpittman.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 271px; height: 400px;" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />Here is Gail </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >(love the unique colorway of her leopard print top!)</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> signing a piece for my sister-in-law, <a href="https://www.southernlivingathome.com/wbslah/skins/s01/index.aspx?repid=110315">Susan</a>.</span><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-pA30BrsU9HwEUkGKe576Wg3AfrIEJlmQfxWOwY1h8TXnVyaw6x3KXoewalzJOaRPTexkUIDJdG1PYoN5VxF0-Xsg4eaazyKymRTUrpxPjsKc_VNCvufPQC8ZPkHKElPN14P5C9S3gsQ/s1600-h/signature.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317691693683274706" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-pA30BrsU9HwEUkGKe576Wg3AfrIEJlmQfxWOwY1h8TXnVyaw6x3KXoewalzJOaRPTexkUIDJdG1PYoN5VxF0-Xsg4eaazyKymRTUrpxPjsKc_VNCvufPQC8ZPkHKElPN14P5C9S3gsQ/s400/signature.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Gail was very sweet, approachable and funny. I loved the stories she told about beginning her career by “painting bowls.” When she was just starting out, her husband would approach friends and strangers alike with the question, “Do you want to buy a bowl?” I told my husband he could just insert the word “pillow...”</span><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqm6X70h_gRXKAsXM6lSORxmo7HFQW8Mm_27jazpzDLSvWq9XIyWPw3y0dqJoidgmPyaUKHafmkocGdhAPHMTkeSAnBSbbQyTP5brhUpd8Fhq_uqjiAhOM2FLVDeI0d5ZU0d-CkoUpOAo/s1600-h/leopard+pillow.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317713296803405906" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqm6X70h_gRXKAsXM6lSORxmo7HFQW8Mm_27jazpzDLSvWq9XIyWPw3y0dqJoidgmPyaUKHafmkocGdhAPHMTkeSAnBSbbQyTP5brhUpd8Fhq_uqjiAhOM2FLVDeI0d5ZU0d-CkoUpOAo/s400/leopard+pillow.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 284px;" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">An animal print favorite from my Spring ’07 collection</span><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqlUaw25NEEGr9hKN0vK5aHtEBIKVAD7bSDeWDU1sERAcITbrwUMBWt8_RX72W6oiO6_gva8EIVAX6unlx_sIgldffrghdLv3jAyzlNT_6-Hj91My82yVsEYAThvDYV3I76bhqimUDmKg/s1600-h/sippers.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317691793351195634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqlUaw25NEEGr9hKN0vK5aHtEBIKVAD7bSDeWDU1sERAcITbrwUMBWt8_RX72W6oiO6_gva8EIVAX6unlx_sIgldffrghdLv3jAyzlNT_6-Hj91My82yVsEYAThvDYV3I76bhqimUDmKg/s400/sippers.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 307px; height: 400px;" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Gaveston Summer: Sue Mulligan</span> </span></div><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">I thought this tablescape was pretty and fresh, with loads of Southern warmth and charm. I love the citrus colors paired with hot pinks and brilliant blues. This linen/cotton fabric from <a href="http://www.calicocorners.com/category/designer+fabrics+for+the+home.do">Calico Corners</a> could work well with this summery setting ...</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnBZuCEx-hNNb9VtqqerjcfqQ2gyg7N-jOVrbc1JgA16JTrGn6dK6iZt6Y_2111VV2963cPPLiOP_q3S_MmWexKWLZB7KK54MEcymRfKUgUoErwha5R4Wk5wyGdP2SVmIgPDxMXhoqDzM/s1600-h/bipin.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317724833997450482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnBZuCEx-hNNb9VtqqerjcfqQ2gyg7N-jOVrbc1JgA16JTrGn6dK6iZt6Y_2111VV2963cPPLiOP_q3S_MmWexKWLZB7KK54MEcymRfKUgUoErwha5R4Wk5wyGdP2SVmIgPDxMXhoqDzM/s400/bipin.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 249px; height: 251px;" /></a> <a href="http://www.calicocorners.com/product/designer+fabrics+for+the+home/shop+fabrics+by+color/pink/bipin+ticking+multi.do"><span style="font-style: italic;">Bipin Ticking Multi</span></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqC8MePx0Pz13F42D5jLar02YMuAQucP2CV0lv58BymN02CbKwmMhrrjJIEPXhyphenhyphenR5shrDtN6QQgmy8-LO59t3_THiXsJdzEjQxnwxsbLaHKtc21Zr_27fc-mttGs6w6n0JVyg_GELBJC4/s1600-h/seaside.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317734747167399426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqC8MePx0Pz13F42D5jLar02YMuAQucP2CV0lv58BymN02CbKwmMhrrjJIEPXhyphenhyphenR5shrDtN6QQgmy8-LO59t3_THiXsJdzEjQxnwxsbLaHKtc21Zr_27fc-mttGs6w6n0JVyg_GELBJC4/s400/seaside.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Sun, Sea, & Serenity: Marcia Hostetter</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></span>Wow!</span> <span style="font-size:130%;">This seashore inspired display was full of great textures and organic beauty. Try creating this look on a smaller scale at home ... here is my version using a favorite Southern Living item – the versatile </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Hemingway Hurricane.</span><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhozphMynNlrgtNoB30nlFcgos4ZYoXsddT3QfhjfYpTEM4zmmpd67nUzu3SZNmaGDyRqTnbQ1oG_clqD9HbqQI1FA4K9g94cn3xCUed0hINnlrH2cZ88KvN3K2CuMJ8hpeJ-i2X1ywIPk/s1600-h/hurricane:starfish.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318746187702114626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhozphMynNlrgtNoB30nlFcgos4ZYoXsddT3QfhjfYpTEM4zmmpd67nUzu3SZNmaGDyRqTnbQ1oG_clqD9HbqQI1FA4K9g94cn3xCUed0hINnlrH2cZ88KvN3K2CuMJ8hpeJ-i2X1ywIPk/s200/hurricane:starfish.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 156px; height: 200px;" /></a><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEMZFGj3QWgetHxxr5nTBKAtBWky8Oh_QbbdEK84NUvNA61YrmNMEFh53CrGd1QbyGe0RInhYVQjpu0QezjnumAlAk0eG5a2FaSD1fXXreDsA2ogr0eihtH_NKDqECygkyvTeG-KXv7rs/s1600-h/Hilton.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317692308994584626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEMZFGj3QWgetHxxr5nTBKAtBWky8Oh_QbbdEK84NUvNA61YrmNMEFh53CrGd1QbyGe0RInhYVQjpu0QezjnumAlAk0eG5a2FaSD1fXXreDsA2ogr0eihtH_NKDqECygkyvTeG-KXv7rs/s400/Hilton.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">And I can</span><span style="font-size:130%;">’t leave out the Hilton lounge ... I am not sure who designed the space, but I loved the copper planters with tall branches, large scale chess pieces on the solid console, and the pretty bowl of moss covered spheres. Planters like these are available online from <a href="http://www.smithandhawken.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=prod260086p&categoryId=cat340058p&sku=260086p">Smith & Hawken</a>. Contact <a href="https://www.southernlivingathome.com/wbslah/skins/s05/index.aspx?repid=568216">Brenda Cataldo</a> for Southern Living at Home products.</span><br /></div>

Southern hospitality

Coconut Cupcakes ( by Brenda Cataldo) on platter from the Gail Pittman Veranda Collection I spent last Tuesday night at a very entertaining ...

Read more »