house of fifty 2011 summer
TRANSCRIPT
issueONE
summer
2011. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
HOUSE OF FIFTYideas for inspired living
Finding Balance:One Working Mom’s Story
Feminine + Fabulous:
Bubble Boutique
50 Ideas We’re Thinking About
This Season’s Fashion + Beauty Essentials
GET ORGANIZED!
Inside cover
Editor’s Letter
HOUSE OF FIFTY
03 Editor’s LetterWelcome to the Premier Issue of House of Fifty!
08 ContributorsThey say it takes a village; thanks to these contributors, working on the first issue of House of Fifty was great fun!
10 Flower HappinessFresh flowers add life to a home. Here are the simple steps for creating a beautiful bouquet.
12 Dreaming in WhiteDo you rent? We’re sharing an inspiring example of how you don’t always have to own to create a beautiful home.
24 Art We LoveArt can transform a room. The work of these two artists caught our eye.
27 Our Favorite MixAlong with art, music brings another wonderful layer to a home. Here are some of our favorite songs to get you moving.
summer 2011
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PREMIER ISSUE
28 Bubble BoutiqueJoelle Nelson of Maison, Inc details her approach to designing a fabulously femi-nine fashion boutique.
38 Making It Work A working mother of seven shares how she successfully balances raising a family while running a fashion business.
46 Summer EssentialsWith warmer weather comes fun and feminine wear, fashion designer Kayce Hughes shares her top picks.
48 What’s In My Bag?Look to see what summer beauty essentials are in Beauty Editor Mimi Inman’s bag!
50 Walking PrettyEasy to follow steps and a collection of great products to get your feet sandal ready in no time..
54 Our Favorite Sandals of the SeasonA fun pair of sandals that em-brace the season’s key trends is an easy way to update your summer wardrobe....
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56 Can’t We All Just Get Along?Differences of opinion can lead to better design and a more enriched world.
62 Creating a FamilyCommand Center A step-by-step guide to help organize the schedules of everyone in your household.
68 Favorite Finds: Message Board Chic
A collection of items to help you create a great looking and useful message center in your home.
70 50 Ideas We’re Thinking About
Yes, we have a lot of things on our mind...
72 Summer DiningCasual entertaining during the warm months is at its best when embracing the fresh produce of the season.
80 Meal PlanningA step-by-step guide on how to build a meal plan designed specifically for you and your family.
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90 Pantry HappinessA well organized pantry helps home life run smoother.
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Walking for fitness and friendship; tips on how to begin a walking group.
99 She Believed She Could Who doesn’t need a little pick- me-up on a Monday morning!
From the basics to the finishing touches, here are ten keys tips to consider when putting together a nursery.
114 A Diagnosis of the Handwritten Thank YouCan you imagine a future with no handwritten notes? We can’t.
If you’re anything like us, you love stumbling across a great blog. Here are a few of our favorites.
112 The Books on Our Shelves
While blogs are great, some-times only a book will do. Here are some great reads for blog-gers, kids, and women looking for a little guidance in defining their authentic style.
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100 Bringing Baby Home Creative solutions for creating a one of a kind nursery.
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96 Want to Feed Your Soul?
110 10 Tips for Creating a Delightful Nursery
116 Blogs We Love
Contributors
Contributors
lowerH A P P I N E S S
There is no question that flowers can bring a smile to your face. Yet the benefits of fresh flowers go far beyond that. Studies have shown that
fresh flowers act as a mood elevator. They increase feelings of happiness and decrease anxiety. Simply viewing fresh flowers leads to increased energy and heightened feelings of life satisfaction. Bringing
home a bouquet of fresh flowers on a regular basis is a sound investment in your mental health.
By Wendy Hyde
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Look for freshly cut
flowers with vibrant, green
foliage. Avoid purchasing
blooms that are displayed
outside on the street.
Flowers stay fresher when
kept cool and away from
car exhaust.
Step
Step Tend to your floral
purchases as soon as
possible. Start by
trimming each stem at a
45 degree angle with a
pair of sharp scissors.
Strip off any leaves that
will fall below water level. Step Create your arrangement
using a clean vase filled
with water that is room
temperature. If you don’t
have commercial flower
food, add a few drops of
household bleach to
prevent bacterial growth.
To increase the life of
your new arrangement,
change the water every
two to three days. Add
floral food or a few
drops of bleach, and
re-trim the stems.
Step
TO GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR FLOWERS, FOLLOW THESE 4 STEPS:
1
2
3
4While there are many methods of formal flower arranging, creating a
bouquet doesn’t need to be complicated. Your eye is your best guide.
With an arrangement that will be seen from all sides, place taller
blooms in the center and surround them with shorter stems. If the
flowers are of a single variety, gather them as a cluster in your hand
and simply drop them as a bunch into a vase. The flowers will fan out
naturally, creating a lovely casual arrangement. 11
dreaming in
By Maria Carr
Talented blogger Maria Carr beautifully demonstrates that owning one’s house is not always required when creating a home.
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“I believe you can make any space what you want it to be. We do not own our home; in fact it is a modular house. Located on a ranch, we feel blessed to live here. By adding architectural pieces to the rooms I was able to create a home reminiscent of a farmhouse. Because we rent the home there have been
no major changes apart from painting the walls, adding tin to the ceilings and changing out all the lighting. I believe you can give a rental your own personal touch just by changing the lighting in the home. Lights are easily installed and can be taken with you when moving to the next home.”
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A green French
cupboard introduces
color while
providing storage to
house linens.
“When redoing our bedroom I drew inspiration from two books, ‘The French Home’ and ‘Recycled Home’. After reading these books I was drawn to give this room a Provencal farmhouse feel. A few French architectural salvage pieces were brought in, while keeping
the space looking feminine at the same time. I kept to a mostly white palette and painted the walls a warm white, ‘Country Dairy‘ by Ralph Lauren. Pieces with different textures from various time periods and origins keep the design interesting.”
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The antique French painting adds a bit of color and charm to the room.
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“I have an addiction to painting everything white. I love to decorate!”
Two antique doors
from France were
turned into a
headboard.
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“I love how these Lavender bottles add a small dose of
color to the room, sitting on
the 1950’s maple dresser purchased from a family friend.
It was sanded and painted
white, and the glass knobs were
found on eBay.”
“The antique chair was found for a very
reasonable price and I
had it recovered in
antique homespun
linen. This look would
be easy to recreate by
finding a similar
piece at the flea
market.”17
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The arched window came
from a Spanish schoolhouse
dating back to the late
1800's.
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A 1920’s desk and armoire originate
from France.
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“Vintage French
leather suitcases
are used to store
odds and ends. The
leather brings a
masculine element
to the room.”
“Inexpensive Euro Shams cover the
pillows, while the
gray striped grain
sack pillow slips
can be found at my
shop. I chose to
cover the comforter
with an antique
French linen sheet,
similar sheets can
be found at flea
markets for a
reasonable price,
and paired it all
with a bedskirt
from Anthropologie.
This simple bedding
helps to balance
the rest of the
room.”
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Here are Maria’s tips for creating a Provencal farmhouse look in your home:
1. Look for doors at flea markets and antique stores.
2. Use sheer curtains to keep a room feeling airy. Inexpensive curtains can be found at Ikea. 3. Search for antique crystal chandeliers on eBay or at flea markets.
4. Look for furniture with good lines. “I am always willing to take a piece home that has good lines, but might be the wrong color.”
5. Don’t be afraid to paint your own furniture. “I have painted most of the furniture in our home myself.”
6. Try to see the potential in antiques and considering purchasing items that aren’t in perfect condition. “I found the chair at an antique store for a great price, the upholstery was in terrible condition, I almost didn’t buy it.”
7. And most importantly, be patient when putting a room together. “I have lived in this home for 6 years; I am still working on it.”
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A R T W E Love
P O R C E L A I N J A R O N P I N K C A N V A SB Y A N N E H A R W E L L
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'MoneyGrabber' Fitz & The Tantrums - Pickin' Up The Pieces (2010)
'Beautiful Day' U2 - All That You Can't Leave Behind (2000)
'Life In Technicolor' Coldplay - Viva La Vida Or Death And All His Friends (2008)
'People Got A Lotta Nerve' Neko Case - Middle Cyclone Year (2009)
'Pink Moon' Nick Drake - Pink Moon (1972)'Ashes to Ashes' Warpaint - Ashes to Ashes,
Single (2010)'Dog Days Are Over' Florence + The Machine -
Lungs (2009)'Sinnerman' Nina Simone - Thomas Crown Affair (2004)
'Young Folks' Peter Bjorn & John - Writer's Block (2007)
'I Wanna Be Adored' The Ravonettes - 50 Years of Dr. Martens (2010)
'100 Days, 100 Nights' Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings-100 Days, 100 Nights (2007)
'Home' Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Up From Below (2009)
'Genius of Love' Tom Tom Club - Tom Tom Club (1981)
'Steal My Sunshine' Len - Soundtrack Go (1999)'I Gotta Feeling' The Black Eyed Peas - The E.N.D
(The Energy Never Dies) (2009)'Hollywood' Michael Buble - Crazy Love (2010)
HOUSE OF FIFTYMix
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Bubble
BOUTIQUEInterview by Janell Beals
Interior design by Maison Inc., Portland, OregonPhotography by David Papazian
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Oregon, is the fruition of a lifelong dream for W
hen first discovering this boutique I knew who was behind the design even before asking. Bubble Boutique, located in Portland,
owner Jessica Munn. Envisioning an elegant shop which invited shoppers in to discover a unique assortment of beautifully crafted garments, Jessica turned to Portland based design firm Maison Inc to make her vision a reality. Founded by interior designer Joelle
Nelson, this firm is known for creating traditional interiors with a modern mix, and has been featured in magazines such as House Beautiful and Elle Décor. Walking into the boutique, one can’t help but notice the delightful cluster of light fixtures hanging above an oversized cash wrap. The pendants capture the name of the boutique perfectly, and paired with other luxurious yet unusual materials, a dynamic mix is created within the warehouse-style space.
A.Q.Janell Beals: Tell me about the light fixtures
above the cash wrap, they completely capture the name of the boutique in such an elegant yet fun way. Where were they found?
The panels behind the cash wrap also seem to set a tone for the design. Can you tell me about them? Q.
A.
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recently had the opportunity to talk with designer Joelle Nelson about her approach to the design of Bubble Boutique.I
Joelle Nelson: The “bubbles” are from Arteriors. We thought they were a great way to marry old and new.
We knew we wanted a large scale installation of some sort. Large metal screens, Chinoiserie panels or a massive oil painting. The design with the panels won out. They are inspired by de Gournay wallpaper and hand painted by a local artist.
I recently had the opportunity to talk with designer Joelle Nelson about her approach to the design of Bub-ble Boutique.
We knew we wanted a large scale instal-lation of some sort. Large metal screens, Chinoiserie panels or a massive oil paint-ing. The design with the panels won out. They are inspired by de Gournay wallpaper and hand painted by a local artist.
Q.Janell Beals: Tell me about the light fixtures above the cash wrap, they completely capture the name of the boutique in such an elegant yet fun way. Where were they found?A.Joelle Nelson: The “bubbles” are from Ar-
teriors. We thought they were a great way to marry old and new.
Q.The panels behind the cash wrap also seem to set a tone for the design. Can you tell me about them?
The cabinetry is gorgeous, and massive. Was it custom made?
The cash wrap was custom built by Eagle Designs and (again) hand-painted by a local artist.
Q.A.32
I recently had the opportunity to talk with designer Joelle Nelson about her approach to the design of Bub-ble Boutique.
We knew we wanted a large scale instal-lation of some sort. Large metal screens, Chinoiserie panels or a massive oil paint-ing. The design with the panels won out. They are inspired by de Gournay wallpaper and hand painted by a local artist.
Q.Janell Beals: Tell me about the light fixtures above the cash wrap, they completely capture the name of the boutique in such an elegant yet fun way. Where were they found?A.Joelle Nelson: The “bubbles” are from Ar-
teriors. We thought they were a great way to marry old and new.
Q.The panels behind the cash wrap also seem to set a tone for the design. Can you tell me about them?
Q. A.We thought the white would keep the back quiet and let the front stand out
only could afford enough pink marble for the cash wrap so the back wall of cabinetry naturally became a backdrop. This approach allowed the lamps to pop a little more. The lamps are from Global Views.
as the more dramatic piece. Also, we
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Can you tell me about the decision to paint the cabinetry behind the cash wrap white? And where did you find the very tall lamps? They are in perfect proportion to their surroundings.
I recently had the opportunity to talk with designer Joelle Nelson about her approach to the design of Bub-ble Boutique.
Q.Janell Beals: Tell me about the light fixtures above the cash wrap, they completely capture the name of the boutique in such an elegant yet fun way. Where were they found?A.Joelle Nelson: The “bubbles” are from Ar-
teriors. We thought they were a great way to marry old and new.
Q.The panels behind the cash wrap also seem to set a tone for the design. Can you tell me about them? What were the specific challenges in de-
signing the space?
One of the challenges was that the space had previously been a clothing boutique that had a much different aesthetic, and we had to utilize some of the fixtures as well as the general footprint. That and budget. We knew we needed a new and substantial cash wrap that would become the centerpiece and it would take a large chunk of our budget.
Was there any item that was the starting point of the design?
Jessica had some great inspiration pic-tures: industrial galvanized racks, beauti-ful French fashion, clean spaces…and bubbles.
Q.A.
Q.A.
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What were the specific challenges in designing the space?
One of the challenges was that the space had previously been a clothing boutique that had a much different aesthetic, and we had to utilize some of the fixtures as well as the general footprint. That and budget. We knew we needed a new and substantial cash wrap that would become the centerpiece and it would take a large chunk of our budget.
Was there any item that was the starting point of the design?
Jessica had some great inspiration pictures: industrial galvanized racks, beautiful French fashion, clean spaces... and bubbles.
I recently had the opportunity to talk with designer Joelle Nelson about her approach to the design of Bub-ble Boutique.
Q.Janell Beals: Tell me about the light fixtures above the cash wrap, they completely capture the name of the boutique in such an elegant yet fun way. Where were they found?A.Joelle Nelson: The “bubbles” are from Ar-
teriors. We thought they were a great way to marry old and new.
Q.The panels behind the cash wrap also seem to set a tone for the design. Can you tell me about them? What were the specific challenges in de-
signing the space?
One of the challenges was that the space had previously been a clothing boutique that had a much different aesthetic, and we had to utilize some of the fixtures as well as the general footprint. That and budget. We knew we needed a new and substantial cash wrap that would become the centerpiece and it would take a large chunk of our budget.
Was there any item that was the starting point of the design?
Jessica had some great inspiration pic-tures: industrial galvanized racks, beauti-ful French fashion, clean spaces…and bubbles.
The entry and coffee tables are like sculpture in the space. Can you tell me more about them and why they were chosen?
We chose them for just that reason. There needed to be an element of modernism, and to juxtapose all the “Frenchy-ness”.
Q.A. 35
I recently had the opportunity to talk with designer Joelle Nelson about her approach to the design of Bub-ble Boutique.
Q.Janell Beals: Tell me about the light fixtures above the cash wrap, they completely capture the name of the boutique in such an elegant yet fun way. Where were they found?A.Joelle Nelson: The “bubbles” are from Ar-
teriors. We thought they were a great way to marry old and new.
Q.The panels behind the cash wrap also seem to set a tone for the design. Can you tell me about them? What were the specific challenges in de-
signing the space?
One of the challenges was that the space had previously been a clothing boutique that had a much different aesthetic, and we had to utilize some of the fixtures as well as the general footprint. That and budget. We knew we needed a new and substantial cash wrap that would become the centerpiece and it would take a large chunk of our budget.
Was there any item that was the starting point of the design?
Jessica had some great inspiration pic-tures: industrial galvanized racks, beauti-ful French fashion, clean spaces…and bubbles.
The white walls allow everything in the space to pop and create a very fresh look. Was any other wall color a consideration?
No. We knew we wanted our favorite color, French White. It would allow all of her gorgeous clothes to be the star.
Q.A.36
I recently had the opportunity to talk with designer Joelle Nelson about her approach to the design of Bub-ble Boutique.
Q.Janell Beals: Tell me about the light fixtures above the cash wrap, they completely capture the name of the boutique in such an elegant yet fun way. Where were they found?A.Joelle Nelson: The “bubbles” are from Ar-
teriors. We thought they were a great way to marry old and new.
Q.The panels behind the cash wrap also seem to set a tone for the design. Can you tell me about them? What were the specific challenges in de-
signing the space?
One of the challenges was that the space had previously been a clothing boutique that had a much different aesthetic, and we had to utilize some of the fixtures as well as the general footprint. That and budget. We knew we needed a new and substantial cash wrap that would become the centerpiece and it would take a large chunk of our budget.
Was there any item that was the starting point of the design?
Jessica had some great inspiration pic-tures: industrial galvanized racks, beauti-ful French fashion, clean spaces…and bubbles.
Are the dressing rooms lined with wallpaper? If so tell me about that decision, it seems to add inviting warmth to these spaces.
Yes, grasscloth, another one of our favorite things. You can achieve great depth of color with wallpaper. We chose apricot; it is so flattering to the skin. The dressing rooms were nicely sized so we wanted to create a little warmth and be feminine. The entries are accented with a yummy navy silk drape with black fringe trim to top it off.
Q.A.
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I recently had the opportunity to talk with designer Joelle Nelson about her approach to the design of Bub-ble Boutique.
Q.Janell Beals: Tell me about the light fixtures above the cash wrap, they completely capture the name of the boutique in such an elegant yet fun way. Where were they found?A.Joelle Nelson: The “bubbles” are from Ar-
teriors. We thought they were a great way to marry old and new.
Q.The panels behind the cash wrap also seem to set a tone for the design. Can you tell me about them? What were the specific challenges in de-
signing the space?
One of the challenges was that the space had previously been a clothing boutique that had a much different aesthetic, and we had to utilize some of the fixtures as well as the general footprint. That and budget. We knew we needed a new and substantial cash wrap that would become the centerpiece and it would take a large chunk of our budget.
Was there any item that was the starting point of the design?
Jessica had some great inspiration pic-tures: industrial galvanized racks, beauti-ful French fashion, clean spaces…and bubbles.
The dressing rooms were nicely sized so we wanted to create a little warmth and be feminine. with black fringe trim to top it off.
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Lofty and filled with great natural light, this Pearl District retail space is spacious yet intimate. The clothing showcased at Bubble Boutique focuses on fine craftsmanship and detailing, with owner Jessica describing the shopping experience as “a delightful matchmaking process between beautiful clothes and the women who wear them.”
I recently had the opportunity to talk with designer Joelle Nelson about her approach to the design of Bub-ble Boutique.
Q.Janell Beals: Tell me about the light fixtures above the cash wrap, they completely capture the name of the boutique in such an elegant yet fun way. Where were they found?A.Joelle Nelson: The “bubbles” are from Ar-
teriors. We thought they were a great way to marry old and new.
Q.The panels behind the cash wrap also seem to set a tone for the design. Can you tell me about them? What were the specific challenges in de-
signing the space?
One of the challenges was that the space had previously been a clothing boutique that had a much different aesthetic, and we had to utilize some of the fixtures as well as the general footprint. That and budget. We knew we needed a new and substantial cash wrap that would become the centerpiece and it would take a large chunk of our budget.
Was there any item that was the starting point of the design?
Jessica had some great inspiration pic-tures: industrial galvanized racks, beauti-ful French fashion, clean spaces…and bubbles.
The dressing rooms were nicely sized so we wanted to create a little warmth and be feminine. with black fringe trim to top it off.
RESOURCES:Cash Wrap Lighting: Arteriors Wrap Desk: Eagle Designs in Portland, Oregon Table Lamps: Global Views Tables: Powell Side & Coffee Table by Worlds Away, available through Tonic HomeSettees: Similar Sofia Settee available through Ballard DesignsMirror: The Shop at Maison Paint Color: Benjamin Moore 1093 French White 12 39
Making It Work
Fashion Designer Kayce Hughes Runs a Successful Design Business While Raising Seven Children.
How Does She Do It?
Kayce Hughes landed her first job with Ralph Lauren in New York City, just before graduating from college with a liberal arts degree. Working in the women’s design
department over the next several years, Kayce gained experience that proved invaluable when she started her own clothing design business. After the birth of her first child, Kayce knew she wanted to take some time away to stay at home. Working until 7 p.m. on the night of her first child’s delivery date told her that her instinct on this issue was correct! When the family continued to grow, Kayce and her hus-band made the move from New York to Nash-ville, where she spent several years away from her chosen career. But as with many creative women who have had a strong career prior to becoming a mother, a career eventually found its way back into her life. One day Kayce came across a wonderful
fabric. While not a great sewer, she made a nightgown for her daughter and soon began making more clothes for her children. The next event that would lead her to launching a busi-ness was joining a friend at a home show. The friend sold antique silver, while Kayce found a streamstress to work with and created a small collection of children’s nightgowns sewn from feed sack fabric. Later, during a family holiday to visit her mother, Kayce’s husband had the idea to show her garments to a local store, walking in and making the presentation himself. An order was written on the spot and soon other accounts followed. ‘Pears + Bears’ grew slowly and steadily, focusing on items for children. Customer feed-back, coupled with a desire to create her own garments, led to the addition of a women’s clothing line. The company now sells designs under two labels, ‘Pears + Bears’ for children and ‘Kayce Hughes’ for women.
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I recently had the opportunity to talk with Kayce about her business, her approach to finding a balance between family and work, and what is currently working for the family.
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Janell Beals: Kayce, who do you envision as your typical customer?Kayce Hughes: I design for women who may be mothers, but not necessarily. Women in their 20’s to 50’s, and I would like to think my designs work well for women beyond their fifties. I design pieces I’d like to wear myself. I want to feel current but I’m not concerned about being trendy. A lot of women want to look pretty, yet be comfortable. Not too much fuss, easy to wear. The line is not about the latest fads, it’s about looking put together with ease and a casual flair. Q: What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?A: It is the people I come into contact and work with. Caroline and Betsy, we simply have a lot of fun at work. Relationships make the work. And I love being creative; it’s rewarding to see something created out of an idea.Q: What do your children think of your work and business?A: Well, I’ve always done it so it is just what I do. The fun part is shopping vintage stores with my daughters. The oldest has a wonderful Bohemian style, who just happens
to run an Etsy shop. We teach our children by our actions, if you have an idea you can make it come to life.Q: How do you find a balance between your family and work life?A: The youngest is now in kindergarten, and while of course summer is different, there is a tremendous change once all the children reach school age. The children do go to different schools, but between my husband and I there is someone always available to drive the kids to and pick up from school. I am fortunate to have a hands-on husband, with a lot of flexibility in his schedule. I think it is key that women look to other women for encouragement and tips, but not as a bar to live up to. From seeing what works for another person I can ask myself what can I do to improve my situation, but not be discouraged by them and their accomplishments. It is a fine line. It’s human nature to pick up on the best of another person, but no one is doing everything perfectly. We tend to see what is most impressive and forget that they aren’t cooking dinner every night.
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A typical day for Kayce and her family begins with a shared breakfast.“I love to make breakfast - I love to make bread; homemade bread
and eggs with the whole family sharing a morning breakfast and routine. I really dislike rushing breakfast! The kids help with the food preparation and clean up, hair is being done and lunches get packed as breakfast is in motion. It requires team work, the kids are responsible for pitching in and they must come into the kitchen for breakfast dressed for school. All the kids with the exception of the 13 year old wear uniforms to school, this really helps by eliminating the choice of what to wear. Then by 8:00 everyone is in school. Once I’m back home I then sit down and have my own breakfast. I like this time to relax for a moment and get ready for the day. Fortunately,
my office is just downstairs in my home, which for now is proving to be a very efficient and convenient way to get work done.” Kayce believes it is very helpful to reassess how days are structured and make changes as necessary to accommodate current needs. An example is how she has moved the location of her office as her family life has changed. Initially her office was in the home, during her youngest children’s baby phases. When they became toddlers it made sense to leave the house for work, which proved to be more efficient. Now, with the kids all in school, it works to have the office back at home. During the summer months Kayce has the ability to run downstairs to take care of things as they arise. During the school year she is mostly done with work by the time the kids need to be picked up from school.
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Visit Kayce’s website to see more designsfor women and children!
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Q: Tell me about your evening routine.A: Our dinner routine is similar to breakfast. We are all home for dinner. We have a big round table and we sit down for dinner. It is very important to sit down and share conversations with the wide range of our children’s ages so that they keep connected. I try to do a weekly meal plan, though I’m not always successful. But also keep in mind you don’t have to cook all the dinners. At dinner and in general we try to promote thankfulness, asking one question about what each person is thankful for during dinner. When the kids were younger there was a “red spoon” at the dinner table and you were only allowed to talk if you had the red spoon! It kept things calmer. In the evening when the kids are doing homework, I get any remaining work done, attend to my blogging and such.Q: What do you let go of to make life work?A: I try to remember that there are different seasons in life: let go for now, but not forever.Right now I don’t watch TV. I did watch ‘9 by
Design’ last year, and would again if it were to air, but there isn’t really time to watch TV. I’m also careful with my commitments and try to be strategic with what I volunteer for. This allows me to be able to have a presence without giving large periods of time I don’t have. The biggest thing right now is letting go of perfection. My house is not looking like I would like at times, socks are missing, but it’s okay. I am not an ‘A’ parent, not an ‘A’ housekeeper, but as long as my husband, my family and I feel good, that is the thing to measure. My husband and I take stock often, what are the problem areas, what can we do differently? We try to not get stuck doing something simply because it is how we have become used to doing it. And I’m not a fan of “should do” lists. They make you feel less. Instead I think it is helpful to glean a lot of ideas from other people, but make them work for yourself and your family,…make them your own.
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Has your family established an emergency plan, including key contact numbers and a meeting location if you have to leave home in a hurry? Discuss your plan, practice it with your kids, and then add it to your Command Center. Make sure babysitters, neighbors, grandparents and anyone else who helps out in your absence knows what to do.
Your Emergency Plan
By figuring out the key pieces of information your household needs on a daily basis and bringing these elements together, you can create a Family Command Center that is both functional and attractive. Once your family is in the habit of using the system, you should find that things run just a little more smoothly!
stella & dotSPRING/SUMMER 2011
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summer essentials
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summer essentials
What’s in my bag?summer essentials:
The Bag: Michael Kors Santorini Straw Tote - Casual enough for the park, yet chic enough to be carried to a lunch with girlfriends.
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Mimi’s summer chic essentials!
COCO Mademoiselle by Chanel is a perfect and slightly unexpected fragrance for summer. A little spritz of this fresh and modern oriental fragrance makes every day feel prettier.
For the body my favorite sunscreen is the Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion SPF 60 from Shiseido, a UVA/UVB blocking skin care essential.
BY MIMI INMAN
1. 2. 3.Keep your skin looking beautiful with the right sunscreen. Peter Thomas Roth SPF 30 Uber-Dry formula protects while leaving the skin smooth and dry.
4.Look summer fresh with just a touch of color on the lips. Lorac Performance Lipstick comes in great colors while providing SPF 15 protection.
5. 6.
To get a sun kissed look with-out the damage, brush on a little bronzer from Bare Minerals.
A little spritz...makes every day feel prettier!
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A pair of UV protection sunglasses embracing classic style are the ultimate summer essential. Kate Spade's Cat's Eye sunglasses are my pick for the season.
1. Begin by
saturating a cotton
ball with Blue Cross
Cuticle Remover.
Apply heavily to
each nail, allowing
lotion to pool on the
nail surface. Let sit
for one minute.
BLUE CROSSCUTICLE REMOVER
2. Take an Orange
Wood Cuticle
Pusher and, with
small circular
motions, remove
the thin layer of skin
around the cuticle.
ORANGE WOODCUTICLE PUSHER
are yousandal-ready?
W A L K I N GBY MIMI INMAN
IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN, TIME TO SLIP YOUR FEET INTO A
PRETTY PAIR OF SANDALS. ARE YOUR FEET SANDAL-READY?
HERE ARE THE SIMPLE STEPS AND PRODUCTS TO GET THEM
LOOKING GREAT FAST!
52
1.
2.
3. . Wipe nails
clean with a new
cotton ball dipped
in Blue Cross.
Afterwards run the
saturated ball
across any dry
areas on the feet
and then buff nails
and feet with a
hand towel.COTTONBALLS
FINE GRIT NAIL FILE
4. Trim nails
straight across and
gently file corners,
working from the
outside to nail
center. Avoid filing
in a back and forth
motion as this will
weaken the nail.
CHECK OUT OUR SUMMER SANDAL PICKS ON PAGE 56!
getting feet sandal ready and fast
IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN, TIME TO SLIP YOUR FEET INTO A
PRETTY PAIR OF SANDALS. ARE YOUR FEET SANDAL-READY?
HERE ARE THE SIMPLE STEPS AND PRODUCTS TO GET THEM
LOOKING GREAT FAST!
-
!
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3.
4.
5. Dab a small
amount of olive oil
on nails and buff
their surface with a
fine grit Nail Buffer.
NAILBUFFER
OLIVELLA HANDCREAM
9. Cover each nail
with polish by
placing brush at
nail base, rock
brush across base
and cover nail in
three strokes. Then
apply a second
coat.
6. Clean under
nails using an
Orange Wood
Cuticle Stick.
ORANGE WOODCUTICLE PUSHER
7. Apply Olivella
Hand Cream to feet
(and hands while
you are at it!) and
massage in. For an
added benefit
resulting in extra
soft feet, wrap
them in plastic for
ten minutes.
8. Wipe nails clean
with Non-Acetone
Nail Polish Remover
to clean oil and
lotion from nails
prior to polishing.
NON-ACETONEPOLISH REMOVER
ESSIE NAIL POLISHCOLORS FOR SPRING
QTICA TOPCOAT
10. Brush on a
layer of Qtica
Extending Top Coat
using the same
method used to
apply the nail
polish.
QTICA 1/2 TIMEACCELERATOR
11. Apply one drop
of Qtica Half Time
Accelerator on
each nail. This
product cuts drying
time in half,
extends wear and
prevents chipping.
SPRING COLORS!
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5. 6.
7. 8.
9. 10.
11.
6.
7. 8.
9.
If you’re considering getting a professional pedicure, here are my tips on what to look for when selecting a salon:
Cleanliness is the number one priority when
considering having nails done at a salon. To find a
salon begin by asking friends for recommendations.
Once a salon has been selected, visit the salon to
make an appointment rather than simply call. Look
around to see if the salon is clean and check the
bathroom. If it is clean the salon is most likely to be
clean as well.
Always bring, or purchase from the salon, your own
file kit. Don’t be afraid to ask how the salon
implements are sterilized. Avoid salons where high
volume is occuring, which leaves limited time to
properly clean equipment between clients.
NOW GO
SLIP ON THOSE
PRETTY SANDALS!
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OUR FAVORITE1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
KEY TRENDS:56
SandalsOF THE SEASON
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
BY JENNIFER ROSSON
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“A GREAT PAIR OF SANDALS EMBRACING THE SEASON’S KEY TRENDSIS A FUN AND EASY WAY TO UPDATE YOUR SUMMER WARDROBE.”
J U S T G E T A L O N G?(or at least agree to disagree?)
B Y J A N E L L B E A L S
I N T E R I O R S B Y L I S A B O R G N E S G I R A M O N T I
C A N ‘ T W E A L L
intriguing mix:1. samarkand floral
2. zebra rug
3. union jack pillow60
Interior design, art, fashion: In these creative areas of life one person’s love can often be another person’s disdain. And isn’t this really okay? Differences of opinion lead to better design as well as a
more enriched world. Can you imagine if every-one favored the same color, the same pattern and the same lines? We would all be at risk of experiencing a slow death from boredom. I was reminded of how opinions can greatly vary and how easy it is to get caught up in defending a point of view after writing a recent article. The topic was innocent enough; how to bring a bit of Spring into interiors all year long through the addition of floral prints. One of the rooms I referenced was the living room of artist and blogger Lisa Borgnes Giramonti, of A Bloomsbury Life. I included her room after being drawn to its intriguing mix of Peter Dunham’s Samarkand floral with a Union Jack pillow and zebra rug. To my eye this is a dynamic mix that speaks of being collected over time, appealing with its unexpected and artistic nature. It is obviously a personal space and one that pushes the envelope of what matches, resulting in a uniquely beautiful room.
“Perhaps a key to being okay with a conflicting opinion begins with not only being comfortable, but secure, in our own...”
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Based on the feedback to the article however, not everyone shared my appreciation for Lisa’s home, and a
debate ensued. The situation led to a long conversation between my husband and I, centering on these questions:
Why is it often difficult to experience disagreement with another’s point of view with-out getting upset? Is it not possible to express that one would not make the same choice, without the need to tear down what another has done? Why is it so hard to have a difference of opinion and be comfortable with the fact that not everyone shares our point of view?
It can be unsettling to encounter an opinion that is in opposition to our own likes, preferences and dislikes. Is this because it can cause us to question our own point of view? Perhaps a key to being okay with a conflicting opinion begins with not only being comfortable, but secure, in our own; understanding that there is nothing to be lost or threatened by accepting and hearing another’s opinion.
And in fact, something may be learned. When realizing differences of opinion can quickly divide and that this reaction extends far beyond the world of design, having patience and an open heart can go a long way.
“...a dynamic mixthat speaks of beingcollected over time.”
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When discussing the response to her home with Lisa, which prompted this article, she introduced me to the newly released book ‘Undecorate’ by Christiane Lemieux. In this book twenty homes are showcased, each revealing their owners’ love of imperfection and a penchant for surprise and unusual juxtapositions. It is a book Christiane hopes will inspire readers to follow their own whimsy in their personal spaces with less attention to the rules or what others will think. And how interesting, Lisa’s home is one of the many that are profiled. Leafing through the book I was drawn to several homes which left me feeling inspired and ready to rethink some of my own design choices, while others left me unconvinced. Keeping in mind the recent conversation with my husband, isn’t this is the beauty of design?
A big wall planner with room for activities for each family member is ideal. Be sure to check it daily, establishing some rules about who can add appointments to minimize potential conflicts. A weekly review of the calendar can be a great family activity and teaches kids the valueof planning ahead and considering other people's needs and schedules.
The Family Calendar67
Is your family life a constant juggling act of activities, appointments, information and reminders? If coordinating everyone’s schedule is increasingly complex and at times even chaotic, you need a smart
way to keep track of all the moving parts. To help save your sanity, try establishing a single place for key information: A Family Command Center. First, pick your spot. A location near the entry
door used most often is great, but another good option is a corner of the kitchen or family room where you spend a lot of time daily. For efficient use of space and easy viewing, a flat area with some available wall above it is ideal. If your kids are old enough to be involved in planning activities, make sure they can see and reach what’s there. An effective Family Command Center has six key components as outlined below.
A Message System
lacrosse practice
Max to vet
2 pmYour Command Center is also the spot to pass messages and notes to other family members. For many a divided bulletin board works well, but you could also use a chalkboard or different color notes for each person. Obviously, you’ll need supplies: pens, paper and chalk. Depending on the ages of your kids, teaching them to take a message properly is an important skill. Hanging mail pockets, one per family member, is a simple way to take care of inbound and outbound paper.
A Recycling CenterIt makes perfect sense to sort mail near your Family Command Center and immediately consign the bulk of it to be recycled. Encourage everyone to get rid of the surplus right away.
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Pick an attractive binder, or cover one with special paper or fabric. This isn’t intended to be a landing spot for every piece of paper which comes into your home, but the location for key family information which you reference frequently. Vital contact information, such as family phone numbers and those of your doctor, dentist, vet, plumber and electrician belongs at the front of the binder. You might also include two or three favorite takeout menus, plus the kids’ soccer schedule or car pool information. Be sure to purge and update the contents often, to keep the binder current.
Family Reference Binder
By figuring out the key pieces of information your household needs on a daily basis and bringing these elements together, you can create a Family Command Center that is both functional and attractive. Once your family is in the habit of using the system, you should find that things run just a little more smoothly!
Has your family established an emergency plan, including key contact numbers and a meeting location if you have to leave home in a hurry? Discuss your plan, practice it with your kids, and then add it to your Command Center. Make sure babysitters, neighbors, grandparents and anyone else who helps out in your absence knows what to do.
Your Emergency Plan
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