Wedding Crashers

cover photo wedding crashI attended the Wedding Crashers event at The Green Building on Sunday and it was a fun afternoon filled with good food and drinks among some pretty Brooklyn folks.  I would definitely recommend event industry professionals mark their calenders for 2014.  Wedding Crashers was by far one of the better wedding events I’ve attended. 

I am in love with this shot above.  It’s one of the lovely members of the Tinsel & Twine team networking about.

Below, my lovely friend Melissa from Events by Melissa McNeely debuted my new company‘s rad orange typewriter along with some of our other vintage decor.  She is a fabulous event planner for those in need!Events by Melissa McNeely, Little Vintage RentalsThe Green BuildingAbove, the Brooklyn Based team did a fabulous job decking out The Green Building with these colorful lanterns.

Below, my favorite flowers were by the lovely Violet and Verde.  Perhaps it was the doilies, but I was swooning upon arrival.

Violet and VerdeChromoatic GallerieAbove – these shoes had me at $88, any heel height, any color.  Such a smart and stylish idea for any type of formal affair.  I will definitely be snagging a pair of Chromatic Gallerie pumps for an upcoming event!

Finally below, what better way to wrap up an event by being whisked away via vintage cab.  The folks at New York Checker define a stylish exit.  New York Checker

 

 

 

 

by Mandy Posted on March 11, 2013
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Old Stuff Day: Mid Century Style

Mid Century SofaMarch 2nd is Old Stuff Day.  Even though it sounds like a day to honor vintage stuff, it is actually about breaking old habits.  Nonsense!  I love any reason to celebrate good old stuff so in my book, we’ll do just that.  As you know, I am slightly obsessed with mid century items so I collected a few fun things for the home fifties style.  I think I am ready to party on March 2, are you?

Above:  I am dying for this blue velvet sofa!  I think the green wall sold me.  Fabulous Mid Century Sofa available HERE by At 1st Sight.

Below: While you’re lounging about, have an afternoon cocktail in these glasses.  The gold detail is the epitome of 1950s bar ware.  Sunshine Girls Vintage has these and so many other cute things!1950s GlassesMId Century Green ClockAbove:  With all the cocktails, you’ll surely need to keep track of the time!  Hallder Vintage has the coolest collection of desk clocks.  Check HERE for this sweet green one!

Below:  Last but not least, every Mid Century girl needs a good party dress, even when just lounging at home.  This one is super cute from Vintage Frocks of Fancy.  I love the bow at the top of the zipper!  Grab it HERE and party with me on March 2nd!

Mid Century Party Dress

 

 

by Mandy Posted on February 24, 2013
Posted in Home Decor, Home Design | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Vintage Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is around the corner and I thought it would be fun to compile a Vintage wish list!  I am not one for chocolates and fancy dinners, any of these vintage goodies would make my Valentine’s day just perfect.  Hint, hint!

Salt CellarIndividual salt cellars are a new found love of mine! Can’t you just see the table set and these gleaming in the candlelight?  Only $15 from By The Wayside

Goblets

As I’ve mentioned before, I am a huge fan of goblets.  They are the perfect glass for water or wine.  These amethyst stunners would bring a little romance to any table!  Just $24 from Sue Sue Gonzalas

Seltzer Bottle

I’ve been searching for a vintage seltzer bottle to catch the sunlight on the windowsill.  This one is aqua perfection for $56 from Cute Old Things.

Milk Glass Necklace

Last but not least, a little necklace would surely make me smile!  This simple and sweet milk glass strand would look super cute for Spring!  Only $18 from Mean Glean.

 Wishing you all lots of Vintage Love this Valentine’s Day!

by Mandy Posted on February 3, 2013
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My Little Maison: Anastasia Christou of Anastasia Drawing & Dreaming

After a long hiatus from blogging, I am so pleased to return with my favorite series, My Little Maison!  This time around, I am featuring the lovely Anastasia Christou from Anastasia Drawing & Dreaming.  Her blog is a visual medley of ethereal images and crafty paper projects that she sells in her shop.   A bit more about this Sydney, Australia native here below.  Her blog is just dreamy!

Anastasia ChristouBLOG //  SHOP  //  PINTEREST

Tell us about yourself and your inspiration behind starting the blog? 

I started my blog after discovering ‘Illustration Friday’ so once I started drawing and doing the weekly challenges I got right into the blogging community –I discovered the craft blogs, design blogs, lifestyle blogs!! Blogging made my day! I was hooked!

How often do you post and what is the majority of your content about?

I try to post at least three times a week but Ive done many ‘post every day for a month’ challenges too!  Most of my content is about my inspirations, Food, Creativity, Décor and handmade and I love to throw in some Vintage Style posts too!  I try to make it all pretty and visual!

What are your future plans for the blog? 

To keep blogging and being part of the blogging community.  I’d like to start some new blog series, I have a few ideas brewing and I hope to find more time to share more craft tutorials too!  I think id like to do more guest blog posts on other blogs as well!

I asked Anastasia to share 3 of her favorite things from her home.   I love the Domino Book too!

Anastasia Christou(1) My bedroom – I love to rescue pretty little plates from thrift stores, they are perfect for my jewelry so I have a few on my on my dresser. Also on my bedside table is the Domino Decorating book – one of my favorites decorating books!  I took the photo on my crochet bedspread which is something else I love dearly, it was handmade by my mother, it took her so long and its so beautiful! I will treasure it forever!

Anastasia Christou(2) This is my new desk! I guess that’s why its so clean and tidy.  We changed our house around a little so my work space and crafty supplies are now in our family ‘hangout’ room so its great to have two family spaces – I look forward to getting creative and messy, the only way to create!

(3) My Garden – I wish I had a green thumb but sadly I need a low maintenance garden and ours is just that!!  I love to hang out in the garden, watch my boys play or just sit on the back steps and have my morning tea…

Finally, I asked Anastasia to share a favorite spot in her Little Maison.  “My Kitchen!  It got a makeover a couple of years ago and its still my favorite place to be, I enjoy baking and cooking, making tea or getting my boys some after school snacks so I’m hanging out in my kitchen often!”

Anastasia ChristouDon’t forget to stop in Anastasia’s blog to say hello!

BLOG //  SHOP  //  PINTEREST

 

 

by Mandy Posted on January 23, 2013
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Priti Bride

As I wait anxiously for my complete set of wedding photos, I wanted to take a minute and share this one above featuring my favorite nail polish, Priti NYC!  (Photo by Volatile Photography)

I originally fell in love with the colors of the Priti Bridal Bouquet, however, upon learning that their polishes are completely non-toxic, I was hooked!  My heart was set on Pink Jewel Carnation and it did not disappoint.  It was the perfect amount of pink blush on my hands to compliment my pink shoes (more on those later).

The polish itself is flawless.  No streaks, clumps or bubbles.  It went on smooth and dried even prettier than I imagined; even the manicurist asked about the brand!  I did the traditional ‘something blue’ on my toes and went with Dorothy Palm.  My shoes were closed toe, but the color made me smile.Priti NYCWhen you have a chance, I’d highly recommend checking out Priti NYC.  I can’t wait to see what colors they have for 2013!

 

by Mandy Posted on December 30, 2012
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Unique Holiday Decorations

Everywhere I look, there are “gift guides” being offered for the holidays.  What if we decided to take things slow and actually savor the act of decoration?   After all, the many hours we spend in our home should be surrounded by loved ones and lovely things.

If you’re like me, your ‘Holiday Decorations’ box is jam packed with tangled lights and odds and ends collected over the years.   Aside from items with sentimental value, there is definitely room for improvement on your holiday décor.  Therefore, I’ve compiled a guide to bring your decorations from cliche and tired to something people will marvel at as they sip the eggnog!

Above is perhaps one of my favorite ways to decorate as of late:   Garland!  Whether it’s these darling multi-colored felt balls or home-made signs spelling out a sentiment, it’s an easy way to dress up a room!   These cool colors are available at Home Remedy, a site specializing in modern treatments for the home.  Check them out HERE or for folks looking for something different, they have a Pom Pom version as well.Word Wonderland:  As you know, I am sucker for the written word.  (1) This knife can be used all year round and displayed during the holidays for a reminder of its message!  Available at Milk & Honey.   (2) This ribbon is a message of love and makes for a great alternative garland on the tree.  I can see this being a surprise decoration for those getting engaged during the holidays!  Available from The Lonely Heart.  (3) Timeless + Classic = books.  This all white stack of novels brings Winter whimsy to any space by Huckster Haven.

Back To Nature:   No matter which holiday you celebrate, this is a theme that can be enjoyed by all.   (1) Vintage mason jars house perfect snowy trees reminiscent of snow globe magic sans water.  Worley’s Lighting created these lovelies; swoon with me.  (2) A modern day ornament of a brightly colored feather can be used as décor all year round.  Hand painted by River Luna.  (3) Literally snatched from nature, these dried sequoia tree pine cones are simple elegance by Earth Beauties.  (4) A handmade wood cottage adorned with snowy trees (made from bottle brushes) by Mary’s Workshop make my heart melt.

Simple + Soft:  This category is ideal for those with little ones running about.   (1) A “Peace” felt banner by is one of many by Kata Golda.  (2) Another treat by Kata Golda perfect for those celebrating Christmas.  There are nine variations on this stocking, something for everyone!  (3) Last but not least, this darling Angel is perfect for the holidays and can stay out all year round! Available at Diapers.com

I hope you enjoyed my round up of home decorations for the holidays!  Take time to enjoy the act of decorating if you can.  It makes all the difference on how you’ll start your holiday season. 

 

 

by Mandy Posted on December 5, 2012
Posted in Gifts, Holiday, Home Decor | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Vintage Inspired Bridal Shower

Hi all!  As many of you know, I’ve been away from blogging these past months while I  planned my bridal shower and wedding.  I am happy to say that it all came together so well and I can’t wait to share photographs!

Today, I am starting with my vintage inspired Bridal Shower from October.  It was a fun day and yes, I did most of the planning and decor myself.  It’s in my blood, so no ‘surprise’ Bridal Shower for me!

My theme was Vintage French Cafe Chic, complete with Edith Piaf as my soundtrack.  I had a great amount of help from my best friend Lisa (who even baked the cake) and my Mother who helped select William Hallet Bar & Bistro as the location. The venue itself was an inspiration with damask fabric wallpaper in the perfect shade of golden yellow.

You’ll find links to many products that helped bring the event to life and the other half of the items were Estate Sale finds!  Side note:  I was partially off “photographer” duty that day, so most of the photos below are by my lovely friend at Nicole Renee Photography!

Photo 2: The perfect shade of grey striped straws are from beve! paper straws.  The “guess how many jelly beans” game had some leftovers for guests to snack on -  Jelly Belly’s three flavors:  Birthday Cake Remix, Coconut and A&W Creme soda.  My favors from Beaucoup were housed in the perfect mini muslin bags by Jennifer’s Cookies.

Photo 4:  The tulle puffs by Shanz Party Decorations looked so cute paired with a trio of vintage signs I found at The Screen Porch.  The flower arrangements I created myself with assorted vintage mason jars filled with off-white and blush spray roses, baby’s breath and craspedia.  Every table had a different vintage doily under the centerpiece.

Photo 5:  My Aunt treated me to gourmet sugar cubes by Chambre De Sucre.  The kids were eating them like candy because they were so pretty!

Photo 6:  One of my favorite elements were the handmade paper heart garlands from vintage french books by La Mia Casa.  They are now re-purposed and hanging over my bed.

Photo 7:  Another fun shower game was ‘guess my age’!  The photos were stored in mason jars and labeled with tags I created with my Cavallini & Co. Rubber Stamp set.

Photo 8:   More info. on the advice cards (not fully pictured) by Yellow Brick Graphics to follow.

It was a great day.  I can’t thank my friends and family enough for their love and support!

by Mandy Posted on November 29, 2012
Posted in Event, French Things, Photography, Vintage, Weddings | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

Boudoir Inspiration

All of the planning I’ve done lately for my wedding has made me realize how valuable true rest really is.

In order to accomplish hours of uninterrupted relaxation and sleep, I’m starting to plan for a mini bedroom facelift. In scouring thread counts and perky prints, it’s clear that the quality of the bedding itself is imperative.  Of course, a few stylish accessories don’t hurt either.  Here are three of my favorites “looks” to inspire.  Wishing you all a restful weekend!

Above:  A neutral palette with a touch of metallic.  The Ava Print Duvet by Frette works well with this Pottery Barn mercury bed-side lamp and Anthropologie Luxe Shine Wallpaper.  I love blue accents for the bedroom; they are calming!

Below: Basic and beautiful, black and white.  This timeless set from Frette is aptly named, Hotel Classic.  It is definitely a luxurious addition to any abode.  Also from Frette, the Malick Cushion (which truly makes my heart skip a beat).   For a bit of a modern touch, the Reactive Glass Lamp from Anthropologie does the trick!

Below:  Lazy Sunday afternoon worthy decor.  The look is complete with a soft wool and angora Double Face throw by Frette, whimsical Tea Cup and the Festival Rug; both from Anthropologie.  This trio is best enjoyed on a rainy day while reading your favorite book.  Can’t you just feel the “cozy”?

by Mandy Posted on October 20, 2012
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Saturday Night

Gone are the days of nightclubs and 4:00am arrivals home.  I now welcome a good night in with friends and wine.  To help decide which wines to serve at our wedding, George and I shared a few bottles with friends, direct from Kunde Family Estate.

Of course, what cozy wine tasting would be complete without some tasty treats and Fall flowers.  I hope some of my photos encourage you all to host your own tasting, even if just for fun!

by Mandy Posted on October 7, 2012
Posted in Event, Food, Weddings | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Time

Time is something I don’t seem to have enough of lately.  Between work, the destination wedding, the bridal shower, the blog, settling after our move and starting the Etsy shop, I am out of time!

Unfortunately, the blog and etsy shop have fallen prey to my lack of time the most.  The shop never quite got all it’s inventory up since I discovered finding and buying great vintage stuff is easy; photographing, cropping and listing is time consuming- especially while planning a wedding.

Therefore, I am sharing the little group of items I did manage to list today in hopes I can clear up the shop a bit before my wedding.  Of course to encourage some shopping, I am offering 20% off with code BLOG20 until the end of the September.

I look forward to growing the shop post wedding, as I’ve acquired quite a lovely inventory. I miss blogging too and promise to be back more regularly soon.  I hope you’re all well!

Here’s a few items hanging around the shop.  Check out my mini-inventory HERE! Much, much more to come.

by Mandy Posted on September 23, 2012
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Bon Ami Giveaway

Do you love flea markets and estate sales as much as I do?  If you read my blog regularly, your answer is most likely a firm “YES”!

A few months ago my friends at Bon Ami introduced me their line of cleaning products since I do enjoy the “thrill of the hunt” as they call it; at yard sales, flea markets and the like.  I quickly fell in love with their all natural cleansers and Bon Ami is now my go-to product to shine up and dust off just about anything!

I was thrilled when they offered my readers 3 Thrill of the Hunt kits which are packed with tons of goodies.  I promise three of you will be lucky folks when this treat arrives!  Check out my preview pictures below.

Ready to win?  Simply leave a comment telling me the first thing you plan on cleaning with Bon Ami!  I will pick 2 comments at random and 1 comment that’s my favorite on Sunday, September 30th 2012.  That’s it!  May the dirtiest gal win.  Umm, cleaning joke.

P.S. You may want to follow my blog by email so you don’t miss out on the announcement!

Giveaways are open to legal residents of the United States only.  Winner will be contacted up to 72 hours after the giveaway ends.  At the commencement of the giveaway, (2) winners will be selected at random from all eligible entries and (1) will be selected as my personal favorite. Entrants and winner agree that the Giveaway Entities shall not be liable for injury, loss or damage of any kind resulting from participating in this Giveaway or from the acceptance or use of any prize awarded, including any future use of any winning entries. Sponsor reserves the right (but is not obligated) to verify eligibility qualifications of any winner.
by Mandy Posted on September 20, 2012
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New York International Gift Fair

A few weekends ago in the midst of moving and planning my wedding I took a break to walk the breezy aisles of the Javits Center for the New York International Gift Fair.  It was my first time at NYIGF and the amount of booths were overwhelming.   I gravitated toward well designed booths and innovative products which I am happy to share below!  It was a fun day exploring the immense talent hidden in the booths.

Above: The Bodega Bag.  Being a native New Yorker, I think the idea of a hip accessory for a plastic bag (quite often from a bodega) is brilliant.  Not only is the chain easily toted along in your purse, but it prompts folks to re-use the plastic bag.  Simple, chic and green.

Below: Some of you may have already seen my tweet about Hand in Hand, which is super stylish line of soaps and bath crystals with a mission.  For every bar of soap sold a bar is donated to communities that are affected by poor water quality which in term cause disease.   Love them, love their mission.  Anthropologie agrees.

Above:  Another company on a mission, Material Good – whose Little Shirley vases stole my heart before the show, did not disappoint in person.  The fact that 10% of their profit goes to organizations which support cancer research, just makes each vase a little piece of perfection.

Below: While I strolled the Handmade Global Design area of the show, Mushmina‘s accessories struck a cord.  Their bags, jewelry, pillows and scarves were beautifully designed and unique.  Mushmina notably creates employment opportunities for women and men in developing countries with their product line.

Above: Geografia is making globes hip again with their line of paper globes.  Packaged flat they allow the recipient to literally put the world together.  Many of the products boast cute ‘core’ graphics and I especially like the globes you can personalize with white board pens.  Genius!

Below: Perhaps it’s my love for wine or the fact that my wedding will be in wine country, but whatever the reason I fell in love with Rewined.  This Charleston area company re-purposes wine bottles from local restaurants and creates soy based “wine scented” candles.  Simply smart on the recycling side and super stylish on the design side with packaging that would make anyone fall in love!  I might just need these for my wedding favors!All images (c) Little Maison.  Please do not use without permission.

 


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by Mandy Posted on September 5, 2012
Posted in Gifts, Trade Show | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments