Sarah Hearts Design

New Year, New Opportunities

2012-01-09T00:02:00.004-06:00

Happy New Year! It's been quite the celebration for the past month kicked off in grand spectacle...thanks my Boston buddies! In between working and merrymaking (and finally redesigning my website: stay tuned!) I've become interested in flower frogs. They are at every vintage store and garage sale and come in every sort of shape and dangerously sharp designs. Since I'm not running my own florist business I've repurposed them as charming desk accoutrements:

Summer is NOT Over

2011-09-23T05:06:00.008-05:00

Apparently, fall began at 5:05 A.M. (EDT). Well, NOT HERE my friends. While sitting around a campfire several weeks ago, or should a say glamp fire (g for glamorous), I had a fond memory from a number of years ago when I met the man, the myth, the legend: Robert August. Swoon, can't lie.

For you surfers out there or anyone who visited Verndale, you know what I'm talking about. Hot pink and orange...mmmmhhhhmmmmmm. My signed version of this gem is packaged and ready to live full time in sunny Southern California.

Without my reminder of the possibility of an Endless Summer hanging on my wall or an ocean in site, for the next 365 days we will all be living the summer lifestyle on my BRAND NEW tumblr. site!

Follow me, ask me questions, comment, let's bask in the summer sun year round! Every day there will be new summer fun to inspire you. Seriously, EVERY day.

I will be blogging when the mood strikes me; I still have several projects to share and add to my portfolio but with all this summer sun- well, I've been distracted from the internet to say the least. Summer lovin' happened so fast....summer lovin' had me a blast...dream on my friends!

My Newest Project

2011-09-10T16:30:00.002-05:00

I found this delightful old light fixture at a fabulous antique store and I have grand designs for it! The only issue is finding the kind of solar lights I need...

Bear in the Hood

2011-08-16T10:05:00.006-05:00

Here is Mrs. Bear next door noshing on a dead deer. Appetizing!

Summer Nights

2011-07-01T00:16:00.005-05:00

Project horseshoe pit / pétanque court is in progress! We're spending so much time outdoors enjoying the warm weather and long days that I was uber motivated today to completely weed and dig up the area that in the coming weeks will become our outdoor game room. Until then, we'll enjoy the outdoor lounging area!

The Words of Rand Brought to you by Heller

2011-06-15T10:17:00.010-05:00

A prerequisite for any of you attending design school at Boston University is an unflicnching devotion (obsession?) to Paul Rand. With that I thank Steven Heller for posting "Paul Rand: A Designer's Words."

"On April 3, 1998 the School of Visual Arts held a Paul Rand Symposium in New York City. To commemorate the event Nathan Garland, Georgette Ballance and I edited a keepsake titled “Paul Rand: A Designer’s Words,” a collection of many Rand quotes from various sources. It was printed by Rand’s favorite printer, Mossberg & Co., typeset by his favorite typesetters, PDR (A Division of AGT), and produced with his favorite paper, Mohawk Superfine. Nathan Garland’s design was true to Rand’s typographic aesthetic." - From Steven Heller's sight.

I just love the idea of someone's career being celebrated and appreciated and having all the little details included: favorite printer, typesetter, paper...wow! The first quote in the collection jumps out at me:

"I had the courage or audacity or stupidity to take a chance. I didn't know what the hell would happen." -Paul Rand

I need any combination of those three at the moment...

Saul Bass for Allstate?

2011-06-07T13:03:00.006-05:00

I just noticed this ad for Allstate:

Which made me immediately think of this poster by Saul Bass:

Homage perhaps? The first thing I thought was copy. Perhaps inspired by would be the term. The mayhem TV spots are quite creative but I'm on insurance overload when it comes to commercials. Both Allstate and Geico have different campaigns running all the time and I find it obnoxious now. Oh, and Farmers too! "We are Farmers...bah bah bah bah bah bah bah." Make it stop! "Will switching to Geico save you on car and home insurance? Does watching repetative Geico ads make you want to stab your ears?" Not sure the answer to question one but question two: YES!

Going to the Birds

2011-05-24T22:34:00.013-05:00

It's no secret I'm a bird lover and this year I've been so lucky! There are at least two Swainson's Hawks nesting near our house and these past few days pretty much any time I'm outside it isn't long before I spot one. They love the tall willow and cottonwood trees, along with telephone polls and the open grassland. On Saturday I was commenting how cool it would be to see one catch something (like one of the 8 rabbits in our yard) and on Sunday...it was nature in 3D. It wasn't a rabbit, probably a vole but awesome! Trying to photograph birds is fun! You've got to be quick and ready but patient and able to sit for quite awhile.

Last Friday

Sunday lunch
I wasn't quite quick enough to get a good shot but I tried and if you look closely in the third picture you can see a mouse tail...? You probably have to click on the picture (drat you blogger.)

Monday Evening

Circling the sky for dinner, couldn't get a great shot.

Until later that same evening:

This morning when I was getting up I looked out the window to see one of the Hawk's flying window level right towards me! Totally wild. Of course Hawkie flew over the house to perch on a telephone pole. Good morning indeed!

And as soon as I pulled into the driveway today I saw one of the Hawkies perched again.

The Pieces are Coming Together

2011-05-19T21:22:00.001-05:00

Wagon's Got Me Whistlin'

2011-05-17T18:37:00.004-05:00

Can you blame me? This wagon is AWESOME! This little lady is gonna' be put to work year round. Firewood in winter and gardening in summer. It's all terrain and makes appearances on our deck to shuttle dinner and drinks from the kitchen to the porch table. Check out dem wheels:

It's already been put to good use helping to shuttle heavy stone for our most recently completed project: We created a mini walkway that connects our elevated deck to the ground and that flooooowed from the back garden (work in progress, photos later this summer). Plus when we have a bonfire the heat warms the stones and you can stand barefoot on them. SO nice. These palomino gold stones are perfection, especially at sunset when they shimmer and sparkle.

My goal is to create an outdoor living space that is Alice in Wonderland/xeriscape/zen garden. It's going to be amazing. To finish it out we placed this heart shaped stone...aaaahhhh....designed and built with love. xoxo!

Spring

2011-05-11T23:05:00.000-05:00

Spring is springing. 80 degree days and...snow? Yup. Uh huh. What I've been doing: invitations (whoo!), landscaping, recipe writing, trying to sleep and opening rounds of the 2011 croquet season. Oh...I got a wagon! The cutest wagon to help with garden, landscaping or delivering dinner from the kitchen to the hawk's nest. Pictures to follow one of these days...

Hats! Wedding Fever!!!

2011-04-27T22:34:00.001-05:00

Thank you, Vanity Fair for putting the feather in the cap of my Wednesday.

I Heart This News!

2011-04-02T22:12:00.003-05:00

Finally, heart is condidered a verb! See what other words made the Oxford English Dictionary. Thanks to the trailblazer, Milton Glaser.

What's New With Me

2011-03-25T18:11:00.003-05:00

As the days get longer I find myself outdoors more and more, which means I'm indoors on the computer less and less...I have a lot of projects going so while I work away you can see what I've been up to via my Flickr feed:

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Siesta, Siesta

2011-01-20T15:02:00.003-06:00

Wish I were still under a palm tree. The blog is on hiatus while I recover from the flu...

Icicles Everywhere

2011-01-19T07:52:00.000-06:00

Chilly winter night with icicles outside...an in too!

Packaging is Everything

2011-01-18T08:51:00.002-06:00

A cool way to dress up any letter is to seal it with a piece of novelty tape. It gives the paper an extra wow!

Flowers to Brighten the Day

2011-01-17T06:49:00.003-06:00

I love a fresh bouquet of flowers, even the simplest thing can brighten your day.

National Hat Day

2011-01-15T09:44:00.001-06:00

Be sure to put one on today! I'll be wearing this on the beach:

My Hat Collection Grows

2011-01-14T08:33:00.004-06:00

My hat collection is growing and I love to keep everything stored and protected from dust and light. I've got an eclectic hat box collection based on the space in my closet. To make it easier to find things I photographed my hats then printed out a contact sheet in iPhoto (see below), trimmed them up, then taped them on the box. So easy to find everything! Important note: tomorrow is National Hat Day!

In iPhoto, highlight the photos you'd like to print, go to File, then Print, choose contact sheet from the left tool bar, choose your paper size and printer, then print!

You can also click the Customize button if you'd like to arrange the photos a particular way or change the background.

Winter Nights, Winter Lights

2011-01-13T08:47:00.000-06:00

Keeping the chilly nights bright.

Cinnamon Buns!

2011-01-12T08:45:00.002-06:00

Working on perfecting a cinnamon bun recipe. This was the first try...they were yummy! Very yummy. But, I know I can do better...

New Year = New Organization Solutions

2011-01-11T08:30:00.000-06:00

Space is limited and I always love things to look neat so making room for everything can be a challenge. I recently found these wicker picnic baskets at a thrift store and thought they'd be the perfect way to store things under my antique drop-leaf table. Now everything looks neat and is protected from dust.

My New Bird Magnets

2011-01-10T05:00:00.000-06:00

Thanks Jess!

TGIF

2011-01-07T13:25:00.000-06:00

It's cocktail hour in the country...

Friends from Travels

2011-01-06T06:23:00.001-06:00

Carvings collected on past adventures...

Bronze Bunny

2011-01-05T06:22:00.001-06:00

Little bunny hopping about...

Table setting

2011-01-04T08:19:00.002-06:00

Yummy dinner with homemade bread- mmmm!

My Kitschy Kurt Wirth Plate

2011-01-03T06:33:00.000-06:00

Check out my kooky plate, originally designed for Swiss Air by Kurt Wirth. Just found it in a thrift store and thought it would fit into my crazy plate collection.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-02T16:23:00.002-06:00

Hope 2011 is off to a great start weather you're in the cold or warm...

Almost the New Year

2010-12-29T17:49:00.003-06:00

I'm on a little bit of a break...relaxing by the fire...back to blogging soon...

Vintage Christmas

2010-12-24T14:20:00.005-06:00

Several Saturdays ago we went to a 1940s Christmas party- so much fun! Of course I had to bust out a vintage hat:

I found it in an antique store and amazingly it was in perfect condition...for $10. Serious hat karma. Will was also dressed up, with a hat of course, and I think the favorite thing I heard all night was a college student say "I like your guys' style!" Have a great Christmas for those who celebrate.

Baileys and Chocolate Anyone?

2010-12-23T10:47:00.007-06:00

Necessity, or rather a sweet craving, is the mother of invention. I was in the mood for a dessert style cocktail one night and put together this deliciously simple little recipe. All it takes is Baileys and chocolate milk. I actually use Silk chocolate soy milk but I assume chocolate dairy milk would work too.

Ingredients:
Little Baileys
Little chocolate milk

Directions
Fill chilled glass half way with Baileys

Top off with chocolate milk

Stir

Enjoy!

A Gift to Last After the Holidays

2010-12-22T12:46:00.007-06:00

While walking through the grocery store I spotted the cutest little pine, Norfolk Island Pine to be exact, and I thought it would make a great addition to our table or as a host(ess) gift. I'm going to plant it in a larger pot eventually when I get my act together and get some soil and new pot but until then the cheesy foil wrap it came with just wouldn't do.

I actually pulled this together with things I had laying around (how Martha am I?): a clear vase, pine cones I picked off the ground last year and ribbon. I placed the tree in it's little pot, put the cones in, tied a bow and voila!

Other ideas I have, depending on the size of the vase, would be to put mini ball ornaments or palettes in for a little sparkle. All of the materials are available at craft stores like Michael's or JoAnns. Happy DIYing!

DIY Chocolate Rum Treats, Deeeelicious!

2010-12-21T11:56:00.007-06:00

Holiday party season is still swinging and if you like bringing a personalized host(ess) gift, give these no bake treats a whirl! I've adapted this from two different recipes for Rum Balls. Instead of using vanilla wafers which the traditional recipe calls for, I've discovered that chocolate graham crackers are beyond amazingly, decadently good. Actually, this is such a simple recipe you can use almost any sort of cookie as a base and different toppings such as melted chocolate and chopped nuts.

When I cook I'm not so precise with things...something I need to work on for baking but luckily this is no mess-up recipe.

Ingredients
~1 cup confectioners sugar and a bit extra for coating
~2 cups crushed chocolate graham crackers
2 tablespoons cocoa powder (I've been using Hershey's)
1 tablespoon corn syrup...maybe just a tad extra
1/4 rum (at least)

Directions
Combine all the ingredients, mix well, chill in refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to make the mix easier to roll. Once the mix is chilled, roll small dabbles into one-inch pieces then roll that in the confectioners sugar. Place in air tight container and keep refrigerated until snack time. To fit more pieces in containers I've used a bit of wax paper to separate the layers and keep them looking good. You may have to re-sugar them after they've been in the fridge for a bit.

This first time I made this I had to tinker and add a little more rum but then I realized it was a little too much rum (!) so I added some graham crackers and sugar until I got the right consistency. For a recent party I attended, I individually packaged up the treats for a festive presentation. It only took 10-15 minutes but if you don't have that extra time bringing them on a pretty little plate will do just fine. Have a ball with these treats!

Pass the Envelope Please

2010-12-20T12:10:00.003-06:00

Greetings and happy Monday! No weekend edition this past weekend because holiday party season is in full swing. The last, littlest detail to share from my wedding invitations was the reply envelope which is fitting for today...you're invited to a week of festive holiday-themed posts. DIY gifts, decorations, drinks...it's a gonna' be a fun week! In the meantime feast your eyes on my most favorite envelopes:

Dwight I Love Your Hat

2010-12-17T09:14:00.004-06:00

More wedding love coming next week. In the meantime, I think we should all tip our hats to the unofficial Atlanta Housewife Dwight Eubanks for his saucy straw hat. Anyone know who makes this?

In my search I also found this site which features Dwight's crib and a collection of his hats. Over the top and I love it.

Guide to Fun

2010-12-16T08:39:00.008-06:00

To cap off everyone's boxed invitations I included a guide to Boulder that I made myself. We don't live right in Boulder so I wanted to make getting to our house as easy as possible for the Friday night bash! (And Sunday too...) I also wanted to suggest some of my favorite things around the city. I turned to one of my favorite papers: vellum. I love texture so this was another way to add a rich, warm feeling to the invites. One side had the guide, compiled and written by me, and each location had a corresponding letter or number so that when you flipped to the other side you could easily find that location. In between the those two sheets was an iridescent green piece of paper and it was all held together by coordinating colored staples. Swoon!

Another late-night workspace: printing the guides and maps, cutting them (they are not letter sized), stamping, assembling and stapling:

Map it!

2010-12-15T08:26:00.006-06:00

Once people found their way to beautiful Boulder I wanted getting around the city to be a snap. Downtown Boulder does a fantastic job highlighting what's available and I was lucky enough to find this map to include for guests. Thankfully the colors were in tune with what I had in mind for the day. (Yes, I did consider Photoshopping the whole thing green and blue.) Of course I couldn't just fold the map up and put it in the box, I couldn't resist packaging them in a cute little paper sleeve.

I love a production line. Folding, folding:

Sleeves printed and trimmed ready to be wrapped and glued:

Piles of maps so fun!

Et Cetera

2010-12-14T11:41:00.003-06:00

Though our wedding wasn't in a foreign country it was definitely a destination wedding with the majority of people coming from out of town. I wanted to make getting here and around as easy as possible. It was a fun to create pieces that had all the information needed and looked good and all tied together. The "ETC." card had the transportation information, I'm quite quite to say many people didn't even rent a car. As I was stamping the cards I didn't realize this had the C backwards but I like how perfectly imperfect it is.

Party!

2010-12-13T08:44:00.005-06:00

Happy Monday! What better way to start the week than with a festive mood? Picking up from where we left off last Thurday, it's wedding time again! The next surprise people found in their boxes was an invitation to a casually elegant pre-party the night before the wedding at our house.

It was a grand affair catered by Laudisio. I. LOVE. LAUDISIO. And their mobile pizza oven...perfection! This card just needed a little but of information and it had to look fun too...it was a party after all!

DIY Weekend Edition: Light My Fire Contest!

2010-12-11T10:57:00.002-06:00

Sometimes I become obsessed with an idea and get the urge to just make things. My obsession with lighter nights has been established and what goes with candles better than matches? I have a collection of matchbooks out on the table (in a vintage bowl of course) to compliment the candles and they're a fun reminder of past travels. I was in the $1 Store and spotted a package of tiny, cute matchbooks. I thought, I HAVE to do something with those...custom matchbook covers. Another DIY project! Materials:

First thing to do is measure and cut your pieces of paper. I left room for one side to be used to strike the match. I've seen some DIY matchbook covers where the entire box is covered...how do you light the match? It's got to be functional. Step two: I decided to stamp them all with some favorite pyromaniac lyrics:

Step three: glue it all together. I prefer spray glue because it's so quick and easy to use.

And tah-dah:

I made ten covers, ten different snippets of lyrics too:

Strike another match, go start anew
As the fire burns on and the smoke drifts
Let it burn, burn, burn, burn on a night like this
Tryin' to set the night on fire
Almost ablaze, still you don't feel the heat
Cause when we kiss, oh, fire
I fell into a burning ring of fire
Her eyes were on fire
Let me stand next to your fire
Light my fire

BONUS: the first person/people to post the title of a/the song(s) I used wins something! I was going to say guess but really it's probably Google...still. What are the songs?!?!? C'mon baby...

Fashion Fate

2010-12-10T08:42:00.001-06:00

There may be a time in your life when something fashionably unexpected and wonderful will happen, I call this fashion fate. This happened to me last week when I was trying to find the perfect hat for Will (still searching, search has been narrowed though). I walked into one of my favorite stores I had spent an hour in a few days earlier, and as I spoke to the manager I looked behind her and could not believe my eyes! Several weeks ago I wrote about Arturo Rio's whimsical hats and to me they were a hat dream. Then poof, one in front of me...in Boulder. It was meant to be, fashion fate. It was perfect to wear to our matinee showing of Burlesque later that same day:

Feathers, feathers everywhere!

After some tinkering and playing around I do prefer to wear this on more of a tilt. The key to wearing an exuburant hat is to have fun and confidence. This is a special piece but that doesn't mean I have to wait for an over-the-top event to wear it, live fabulously everyday! Have a fashionably fantastic weekend!

Répondez S'il Vous Plaît

2010-12-09T08:29:00.004-06:00

Next up, the RSVP...please say yes! Another late night assembly line...

...leads to another unique piece.

The RSVP cards didn't take quite as long as the invitation because I decide to back the RSVP cards with just the green to keep things dynamic. I wanted each piece to feel different and special but fit together. I loved, loved getting these back in the mail with all the notes and comments and well wishes. They are all in the memory box.

RSVP for tomorrow because it's another Fashion Friday hat day. Next week I'll reveal more of the special pieces to this wedding invitation suite.

Time to Open!

2010-12-08T10:09:00.004-06:00

I thought a box would be the perfect way to package all the precious things I planned to make! First up in the box o' delights was the actual invitation. I used a silver shimmer paper, green shimmer paper, a high quality textured white paper then stamped all with the S & W that we used on the outside of the box. Phew!

The design was all about proportion and placement and I liked the idea of creating something that felt classic (woodblock stamps) and modern at the same time (Futura sans-serif font). I have to say I do loooovvvve an assembly line and there were a lot for this...first I had to get the layout design just right on the computer, test print, print them all, stamp them all, glue the top to the green backing and then the white backing...tah dah!

My workspace, working on the layout with my cutouts...sometimes I just prefer having the paper cut up to rearrange rather than use the computer but I still need my baby Mac:

Stacks and stacks of things to assemble:

It's all about the texture, you just can't get this feeling from printing on modern printers:

Packaged up all pretty:

The invite:

Little Boxes, Little Boxes

2010-12-07T12:42:00.009-06:00

So glad you could all Save the Date for this! As a designer, making my own invitations was a bit intimidating. Planning a wedding is both exhilarating and exhausting especially in this day in age when there is so much information out there. So many decisions! I decided to go with my gut and make something that just felt right. I wanted people to get an invitation like they had never seen before. My starting point was peacock blue satin ribbon, green shimmer paper and some crosshatch patterned paper.

Will and I decided to have a small, intimate affair that afforded me the opportunity to go over the top with invitations. It's all about priorities in wedding planning and paper made the top three (along with the music and open bar...I'm of Irish decent and cocktails for guests were a must, and yes I did play some River Dance at the wedding too!).

I wanted each guest to feel how special they were to us and what better way to do that then send a package? I wanted everyone to have that little thrill you get when something unexpected arrives in the mail. Plus, a box could fit everything and anything guests needed to plan their trip. Everything was handmade and constructed by me, I wanted people to feel the love. Starting out I added a strip of silver shimmer paper, it's all about the layers:

Then green:

Then hand stamped everything, first up was S:

Then &:

Then W:

What could be inside?!?! A large part of the blog in the coming weeks, yes probably weeks, will be sharing my designs for this wedding and sprinkled in will be some other fun tidbits, coming Friday: fashion fate.

Special Delivery!

2010-12-06T08:01:00.001-06:00

Guess what's in the mail! Well, they were in the mail months ago but now they are making their internet delivery...wedding invitations!

Weekend Edition: Sunday Sweet Treat

2010-12-05T20:50:00.002-06:00

Had a craving for chocolate cookies and decided to make a chocolate cookie pie (just put all the batter in a pie dish) and as it was cooling a bear must have picked up the scent!

Feather Thy Cap

2010-12-03T10:16:00.002-06:00

It's no secret I love a good chapeau. How about the feathers in this cap? Rock and roll I do believe.

Tree Trimmin' in the Mountains

2010-12-02T12:13:00.007-06:00

Late blog today because I spent the morning photographing a tree trimming job and going on a pretty amazing hike.

After a few shots I went exploring to see what I may find. There were two wild deer to keep me company:

Cacti:

Interesting grasses:

Creepy trees:

Holly? Mistletoe?

Beautiful morning over the Rockies, Meaker and Longs Peaks covered in clouds:

After awhile I couldn't hear the chainsaws anymore so I headed back:

Light the Night

2010-12-01T10:20:00.003-06:00

As the long nights keep getting longer on our march to solstice (also a full moon and lunar eclipse this year) I find myself more and more obsessed with candles and ways to brighten the darkness. I was thrilled, ecstatic, so jazzed to find this treasure in a local thrift store for next to nothing...$4! I am still in awe.

This would look amazing outdoors now but I don't think this can handle winds of 30 mph on a somewhat daily basis. In the meantime it's filling the inside with light as I dream of summer garden parties!

Cheers! How About Some Holiday Punch?

2010-11-30T12:20:00.004-06:00

Has all that shopping got you knackered? How about sitting back, perhaps in front of a fire or yule log, and relaxing with a glass of punch? I love punch and I'm pretty confident in saying I am quite the punch maker. I think anyone who has been to a holiday party can attest to that. I remember making punch with my mom when I was little and I'm thankful that I still have that same fabulous crystal punch bowl were the magic happens. I even remember the recipe my mom and I would make! I've got quite the collection of punch recipes and today I'd like to share my newest concoction:

This punch calls for 2 parts apple cider, not juice but cider, and 1 part cranberry pomegranate juice. If you'd like an added kick my Thanksgiving guests and I experimented with which spirit would be best...turns out they're all good! We tired Prosecco, tequila and vodka, not all together, but three different batches and the results were delicious. They each tasted slightly different but great all the same. Dangerous...

Have You Heard? It's Cyber Monday

2010-11-29T10:35:00.005-06:00

Since it's cyber Monday and everything online is devoted to buying or selling, I thought I'd get on that band wagon but with something totally different that I'm sure most of you don't have but it would be an amazing addition to your home. If you're looking for a super unique, super cozy gift I invite you to check out Comma Workshop:

Gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous! Kerry, who owns Comma Workshop, is incredibly talented and specializes in hand and machine crafted modern quilts. She's taken storytelling and quilting and mashed them together in a modern, hip way. Who wouldn't want one of these in their house?!?!? I'm trying to think of what text I'd have on mine...I'm thinking "Highwayman" by Alfred Noyes:

"The wind was a torrent of darkness upon the gusty trees,
The moon was a ghostly galleon tossed upon cloudy seas,
The road was a ribbon of moonlight looping the purple moor,
And the highwayman came riding--
Riding--riding--
The highwayman came riding, up to the old inn door..."

Photos of Kerry's quilts are by David Tegart of David Tegart Photography

DIY Name Cards

2010-11-24T12:00:00.004-06:00

Running a few errands today, prepping the big dinner and of course, still setting the scene. Materials: paper, scissors, turkey template, stamps, ribbon and napkins. I found the silhouette of the turkey online, printed that out then traced it on the red paper I wanted to use then cut, cut, cut. Once that was done, I stamped my name, punched a hole and tied it up all nice and pretty. Now I just have to make the rest and we'll be set. Have a lovely Thanksgiving evening!

The materials:

Gobble, gobble:

Setting the Scene

2010-11-23T11:31:00.005-06:00

Preparations are well underway for the big (non) Turkey Day. We're having a Legal Seafood Thanksgiving...mmm. Last night I cooked and pureed the pumpkin, today it's pumpkin ice cream and rum ball making along with getting all the goods together. Check out my table inspirations, harvest colors with a twist on traditional.

I'm obsessed with yellow glass lately. I just found a set of small tumbler glasses...look how crazy it looks! I'm very much into texture and pattern.

And here's my favorite new little thing, a salt shaker! I love bears and just found this for .99 cents at a thrift store. Yeah! The other day I actually said I wish I could find another interesting salt shaker, I had a turkey in mind but when I saw this bear I just knew he'd be a perfect fit. And we have had bears on our back porch. Off to ice cream making...

Thanksgiving Beer Taste Off

2010-11-22T06:23:00.001-06:00

Mmmm, my favorite holiday of the year. I just love Thanksgiving, nobody does it like my Aunt and it's always been my fave. I love the entertaining, kicking off the holiday season, over indulgences galore. Everything in moderation, including moderation people! This weekend I figured out my menu, it's tasty, and did all the shopping. A little research had to be done on which beer would be best, the contenders:

This wasn't too scientific but I did keep notes, the goal being to find my favorite pumpkin beer. First up, Punk'n Harvest Pumpkin Ale by Four + Brewing Company:

Putting my fine arts degree to good use. On taste: a bit hoppy with light pumpkin and spice notes. On packaging: like the modern take and especially like the name, so cute. I very much enjoyed this beer.

Second up:

America's Original Pumpkin Ale by Buffalo Bill's Brewery. On taste: goes down smooth, tastes "seasonal" as in it has a great mix of pumpkin spices. On design: I like the pumpkin illustration more than Punk'n, I'm feeling more traditional these days.

Third up:

Pumpkinhead Ale by Shipyard. On taste: it was a good beer but in terms of pumpkininess...mmm, there were spicy notes but it wasn't as seasonal as I would expect a pumpkin beer to be. On design: Awesome! There is nothing like that illustration and the crazy pumpkin head.

My taste winner: America's original. Out of the three it has the best mix of spices and pumpkin flavor without being overbearing. Mmmm, so good. My design winner: Pumpkinhead Ale, it's just so unique and interesting and seasonal. I can't wait to raise my glass this Thursday!

More and more I'm noticing, and keeping, caps of beer because we're going to expand our special walkway next year! There will be an all orange stone...

Mad for Hats by Arturo Rios

2010-11-19T10:13:00.007-06:00

I think I may need to rename my fashion Friday posts Hats Off Friday or something because again, today, I'm obsessed with hats. Thanks Kate!

Actually, thanks Will too because I'm on the hunt for a new hat for him and, wow, I've just spent 30 minutes looking at things for me. I'm shopping for a special occasion and we always wear hats or sometime in my case feather headpieces! All of these are by Arturo Rios. I am in love with this first one...LOVE:

And to carry all these things I'll of course need hat boxes. For more amazing hat pictures check out this awesome blog on royal hats, Mad Hattery. It's divine! I tip my brim to you for a wonderful weekend!

Get With the Program

2010-11-18T06:14:00.009-06:00

One of my favorite componants of Sarah's wedding was the program. It was quite the project because I hand made every single one. The inspiration came from a Martha Stewart DIY program but of course I had to make it my own! I had a lot of paper, a lot of glue, a lot of jumbo craft sticks and ribbon galore of course. I wanted to make sure that in addition to being a pretty program it was useful too!

My workspace, two kinds of scissors, one for paper one for ribbon, I'm sure there's some Krazy glue, sticks and piles of ribbon on that counter. I think this was a late night project because once I got going...watch out!

Assembly line:

All done:

Ribbon, ribbon everywhere! When I first started this Sarah wanted blue and red ribbon but as I started going through all of my ribbon I had so many beautiful colors that fit into Sarah's color palette. I figured go big! It's a party!

Everything packaged up to send to the bride:

At the church:

Sarah keeping cool:

And they lived happily ever after!

Photographs from the day of the event by & unlimited.

More Accoutrements to Set the Scene

2010-11-17T08:27:00.002-06:00

Up today: even more paper. The best events really come down to the details, all those little things that add up to something spectacular. Sarah loves her pups and of course they had to be incorporated into the wedding! I was able to photoshop a picture of the Pointer Sisters and then construct each table number:

At the welcome table there was a little card directing people to write a note (on a typewriter!!!) to the couple:

And a bird cage to keep all the notes safe:

It being summer and a celebration, refreshments were necessary:

Photographs today are by & unlimited.

The Wine Taste Off

2010-11-16T06:13:00.007-06:00

More paper fun today! In addition to the invitations I crafted for Sarah and Chad, I designed and constructed wine bottle sleeves and wine taste-off score cards for an event Sarah and Chad put on for guest. I also made programs, welcome cards, table numbers and drink labels but today it's all about the wine taste off:

The event, New York wines (Sarah's home state) vs. Maine wines (Chad's state), was the day after the wedding and everyone was asked to bring their own bottle of wine. I designed these sleeves to put around the wine for the blind taste test keeping in mind the overall aesthetic Sarah wanted, including of course lots and lots of poppies!

The score cards took some tinkering, I wanted to come up with something that was easy enough to understand after several glasses of vino. For each bottle guests just had to write down the bottle number then rate the look, smell, flavor and overall taste on a scale of 1-10. Highest score wins!

Bottoms up!

Contest Winner!

2010-11-15T06:57:00.008-06:00

Happy Monday and a big thank for reading my blog! Today is exciting because it's contest time. I'm trying to grow my readership and any person that followed my online accounts this past week was entered for a surprise. Tah-dah! That paper surprise made by me is an assortment of holiday cards that Jessica P. will receive shortly. How fun is that? Here are a few shots of several of the designs:

I'm pretty obsessed with trees at the moment but:

If you are bummed you missed out...no worries! There will be more contests soon. What a coincidence though, you can purchase any of these hand made lovely pieces from me! I'm featuring one design on my Etsy shop at the moment. Can you believe that the holidays are just around the corner? I'm working on my Turkey day menu but this week on the blog I'll be featuring the rest of the most fabulous things I made for Sarah and Chad's wedding. Stay tuned!

Weekend Edition: My Late Night Workspace

2010-11-14T11:09:00.000-06:00

Picture of my space from the other night while I was on the holiday bandwagon workin' late...yup, having a pumpkin beer out of my BU alumni glass. Ah, memories.

Cheers to a wonderful rest of your weekend and my contest winner will be announced tomorrow!

Weekend Edition: Coming in From the Cold

2010-11-13T10:08:00.006-06:00

It's finally happened, the cold has rolled into Colorado. I was really dragging my feet in terms of shutting down my most favorite room: the porch. Monday before the chill moved in I had to put away the planter boxes. Sigh, but then again we did have a fantastic fall and my outdoor garden lasted one month longer than last year. I've transplanted some things in hope they keep going!

I had to make some room for all of these plants but I like how lush and green the house looks. The little arrangement on top of Will's dresser before the plants moved in were just the wood pieces, they are really cool shapes that he found. I made the hanging arrangement out of corkscrew willow, a very cool tree by the way.

I was able to make it all fit and look, I think, very interesting. Basically what I'm going for in the house is a "museum of curiosities" feel. But not creepy, just cool found objects that have some meaning to both of us.

All the green will keep me happy in the stark winter months.

Here is my other little display on an old, old dresser I've had forever. The story goes my mom saw someone taking it to the dump and she salvaged it off the back of a truck. At some point it had a marble top and different drawer pulls that were removed. The top is wood and the handles are pretty old, but neither are the original. When I got this, it was covered in a dark paint that was covering a mint green paint. Interesting choices to say the least. I worked and worked on stripping it and ended up with this weathered look.

My idea on decorating is that everywhere you look there should be something interesting. I don't mean just putting things around to have them, it's a delicate balance. I like soothing things inspired by nature. This dresser did have to house my ipod dock and yes, occasionally we bust out the harmonicas. I had to frame the peacock card, it was one of the coolest ever and commemorates the best birthday ever. The Thomas Paul plates were a gift, I bought the pot from Anthropologie, the antique plate was a gift, a found box for Will's nick-nacks, candle holders from Crate & Barrel and the mirror was also a free find!

The Big Invitation Reveal!

2010-11-12T07:01:00.000-06:00

After a lot of hard work and a lot of fun, Sarah and Chad's invitations were ready to be packaged up and sent out. I love how they all looked stacked and neat, truth be told I kept them a few days so I could just look at them. You know if you got one of these in the mail that it was special, if I do say so myself.

These are the custom designed mailing labels, they wrap around and have the return address on the back:

Time to open!

Packaged to pretty:

Front side including the invitation, the weekend itinerary and the front of the RSVP. You can click to enlarge the second shot of the invitation to see the entire layout:

Back side including the response card, directions and the map. I drew icons for the food selections, inspired by these stamps.

RSVP shots up close:

The handy-dandy map:

Oh happy day!

Coming up on the blog: I've got a weekend edition coming, next week I'll be sharing all of the other fabulous things Sarah wanted for her wedding and you all have until Sunday night to enter my little contest! Follow me here, on Facebook, Twitter or Flickr and you're entered to win a fun little something made by me. The winner will be announced Monday morning, the perfect start to a new week.

Tear Away RSVP and More Fun Paper

2010-11-10T10:18:00.007-06:00

The vision for the invitation was to create a design that was only one piece of paper, Sarah wanted the RSVPs to tear away to be mailed back as a postcard. We looked around to see if anything like that was available, there was one option I found and the quality was not good enough so, I made my own! I started with sheets of tabloid sized paper and worked to create an accordion fold invitation with information on front and back; the last section being the RSVP. That little line is the perforation, I love a tear away:

And here is is being torn off, perfection!

Another to do while constructing the invites was to hand cut, sometimes I exacto-knifed it, the envelope liners and "cuff", the little paper strips that held the invite together. It was the sweetest little package!

Tomorrow it all comes together! You're invited...

Custom Map of Camden

2010-11-10T10:07:00.009-06:00

While imagining how all the materials would come together, I was also working on several aspects of the invitations: how to construct them, a custom map of Camden, Maine, wrap around mailing labels and envelope liners. The most time consuming part of this was the map because of the level of detail. Sarah wanted something that was easy to read and showed all the important wedding events. This is what I drew initially, obviously taking some liberties (click to enlarge):

And here is how it all looked in the invitation:

Stay tuned for tomorrow to see how I constructed the rest of the invitations and on Friday I'm putting Fashion Friday on pause for the big reveal: what the final invitations looked like! So exciting!

Also this week I'm running a little contest. Anyone who subscribes to this blog or follows me via Facebook, Twitter or Flickr this week will be entered to win a fantastic little something made by me. Each new place you follow me counts as an entry. Hint: it involves paper.

Materials Arrive

2010-11-09T14:48:00.010-06:00

After determining that poppies were the way to go, Sarah and I had several brainstorming sessions to determine what the exact design and layout of the invitation would be along with the supplies. I love ordering supplies, it's so fun when everything arrives. I always get a creative kick looking at what is packaged up and what I'm going to make of them. There was a lot of paper:

Sarah documented her inspiration for a blog contest over at Soiree and WON! Of course she had to. I love that she came prepared with a vision of what she hoped for.

As a side note, Sarah won anything her heart desired from emersonmade! Pardon me? I would love a little something from emersonmade...

Stay tuned to see what fantastical things were created with all this paper...

Presenting Poppies

2010-11-08T06:25:00.003-06:00

This week kicks off some fantastic things! I'm so excited to share the collaboration I had with my incredibly talented, artistic, fun friend Sarah Goodwin of Daisies & Pearls. If only we didn't live 2,000 miles apart, two Sarahs are better than one!

I was thrilled to be asked by Sarah to create her wedding invitations because she is imaginative, creative and open to ideas. When we first spoke about the wedding and what kind of a theme Sarah was going for she wanted a vintage, garden party event; something very unique that was all about the details. To start, I created several flower illustrations and Sarah decided on red poppies. Poppies, poppies everywhere!

Check back every day to see how I created Sarah's vision from invitations to programs.

Yestadt Millinery: Love!

2010-11-05T09:48:00.008-05:00

One of my favorite accessories: hats. Any kind, all the time. I remember growing up I had some of my grandpa's caps I liked to wear even though they were too big, and there was that amazing Garfield cap too (why?!?). It hasn't been until more recently that I've completely embraced the all fabulousness that is le chapeau.

One of the great things about being a woman today is we really can do and wear whatever we want. And why not hats? Fashion to me is all about fantasy and fun. Enter: Yestadt Millinery.

I pretty much want (need) everything Molly Yestadt makes. I first heard about them after I purchased a hat at Anthropologie and upon further research...I'm gonna need a bigger budget! Who wouldn't love to step out in any of these?

For Will, my hubby and fellow hat lover? This is total old school Will:

All of these hats are from the Fall/Winter 2010 Collection. Wait until you see the Spring and Bridal stuff on the site...truly perfection.

If you're shy about wearing a hat, nervous about the investment (yes, investment if go for quality and take care of it) start small with a fedora or cloche. Now that it's getting a little chillier out it's the perfect time to embrace this accessory. Once you put a great hat on you stand a little taller and walk a little prouder. Cheers to a lovely, fashionable, hat filled weekend!

Darker Days, Brighter Nights

2010-11-04T08:41:00.000-05:00

It's almost time to turn the clocks back which means less day light. Sigh. This year I've decided to combat the dark with an array of candles to make the long nights brighter. Candles completely change the mood and make everything seem homier, warmer.

I've been a candle hold out because I find fire to be terrifying. But, when used responsibly with a healthy dose of fear, candles can be OK. I've created a mini candle hearth with a miss match of votives and holders from thrift stores, antique stores, Crate and Barrel and Anthropologie. One essential is a candle snuffer or you'll be huffing and puffing when it comes time to put the candles out!

These candles are in front of our fireplace for now, it's been so warm we haven't had a fire yet. I've actually been on the hunt to find a sturdy, fabulous tray, or trays, to keep the candles on for easy mobility.

This is one of my favorite set ups, it's a votive from Crate and Barrel on an antique plate from my mom, both are gold hued and are perfect for the fall. Around the hearth I have several other of these votives, I like to cluster things to make them look richer. The upcoming winter nights already seem brighter!

My Bookshelf

2010-11-03T11:27:00.004-05:00

Book sharing day! Continued from yesterday, you can see how I've incorporated covers I like and custom book covers so everything is in a similar color story. This is my version of a virtual bookshelf:

You can see some of the other paper I used too.

I've taken liberties with some of the book titles; I didn't want to cover up the entire spine, that would defeat the whole purpose.

DIY Book Covers

2010-11-02T06:19:00.000-05:00

I love books and book cover design but sometimes when you put everything on a shelf, it just looks messy. I like to keep my books organized by subject and I just can't bring myself to organize by color. What to do? Book covers!

What you'll need: book, paper, tape, scissors, labels; optional: stamps and ink (or a printer to print the labels), paper cutter:

If it's been awhile since you've made a book cover, consult these instructions here. For this book I chose a neutral paper, it's like an old time paper bag cover!

When you cut the paper you should leave a bit more room for the fold over; these sheets were precut so I was cutting it close to say the least.

All of the books that have special covers have uniform labels, trimmed closely to show as much cover as possible.

Check back tomorrow to see the book shelves!

Monday, Monday

2010-11-01T11:32:00.006-05:00

Sometimes Monday is just so...Monday. I try to combat the early week blues that seem to intensify in the fall by doing something, anything, fabulous. The past couple of Mondays it's been a fancy dinner at home complete with fanciful table linens and all! Since it's November now and turkey time is right around the corner, I'm really feeling these placemats from William-Sonoma:Another way to dress up your table style is with all those little extras. My newest, a gift from a friend, is a decanter. I know there is some debate about the effectiveness of decanters but the effect I was going for was to look good. Cheers to a great week!

Fashion Friday with Mondo and Michael C!

2010-10-28T22:46:00.008-05:00

As promised, Fashion Friday. I am still so excited about my petite adventure to "the big city" yesterday. MONDO!!! MICAHEL C!!! I love Project Runway. I. LOVE. PROJECT. RUNWAY. So you can imagine my thrill this season while watching local sensation Mondo. Funny quote of the night: "Denver is just dying for a good time." Heck yeah, and so many people were out in force to party like rock stars. So many so that the line was down the street for Beauty Bar. Sigh. It was dress like Mondo night, I had my own twist including a most fabulous sequin bibi, sequin bow tie, sparkly suspenders and print on print. My homage to Mondo. I must say though, suspenders on women can be incredibly awkward.

What are our thoughts on the PR outcome? I thought it was a really good show this season. I think everyone in the finale were true artists with clear visions but they were all so, so different. I adore Mondo's show, I thought it was exciting, dynamic and unique. I agreed with Hiedi's review, that all of Gretchen's clothes were amazing but Mondo's was more "WOW!" Incidentally, I've also met Gretchen briefly. I loved talking to her to find out about show. I think she got harsh reviews for being so critical of other contestants work but after thinking about it last night that's what happens in fashion. One day you're in, the next you're out. I do prefer more constructive reviews though, having gone through plenty in college. For the ultimate PR blog, check out this site and this site for shots of the other shows not featured.

Garden Portfolio

2010-10-28T06:22:00.003-05:00

As I was enjoying my planter boxes over the summer I wanted a way to remember them season round. Last year I made a bit of an attempt by keeping a journal (not nearly as detailed as the one featured yesterday) and taking photographs. I really wanted something I could show and share with people that captured the spirit of my planter box designs. Drum roll...check out my slide show below! It includes photographs, drawings, stamps and of course ribbon, it's so quintessentially moi. The gardens were very colorful and I had to bring that playful element in. I wanted to create something very textural that is an experience in and of itself. One of the things I love about starting a project from scratch is once I start working, more and more ideas start coming. I think one of my favorite inventions from this project are the final pages of the book. I included sheets of tear away business cards! Genius? I hope.

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Tomorrow I'll be introducing my new weekly feature: Fashion Friday. I CANNOT FREAKING WAIT TO SHARE! A little hint: Project Runway Party. Yeah. Cheers until tomorrow!

Book of Gardening Memories

2010-10-27T06:04:00.001-05:00

I was so into gardening this year I had to capture it all! Over the summer I kept notes on what was in each planter box and how everything grew. It was a very, er, organic process. At first I just wanted to keep track of what plants I bought. I found this crazy notebook that got me started.

Once I started recording what I planted, I just had to put in as much information as I could. This was a great way to learn so many different plants. The first page in my notebook has a diagram of where the planter boxes were, there were over 20!

Each planter box has its own section with information on how many plants I used, where they were placed, what they were and how they grew.

Every box has two tabs, one from earlier in the summer when I started to record everything and the second tab that has information on how all the plants did and whether or not I should do a similar arrangement next year.

This turned out to be a wonderful little project to commemorate this year. Stay tuned for tomorrow to see how I turned all of this into something magical...

Still Green and Growing...For Another Day at Least

2010-10-26T06:44:00.001-05:00

As I lay awake listening to the relentless wind last night, I realized that it actually is fall now and that means the glory of my summer garden is going dormant. There hasn't been a frost yet (thanks to the wind) but it's just around the corner. I had such a great year this year, I'm so resistant to "say goodbye." I spent a lot of time and love out there and was lucky enough to be able to enjoy and appreciate everything for nearly 6 months! Here is one of my planter boxes right after it was planted:

And here is a shot of it from late September:

The grasses grew so tall and that vinca vine is everywhere. To see many, many shots of my work check out this slideshow:

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Important to note: I'm available to design planter boxes!!! Stay tuned for tomorrow and Thursday to see the other garden related things I've been working on.

Applefest Continues!

2010-10-25T06:56:00.000-05:00

It's sort of changing to fall here and we had another great crop of apples this week. So many that I think I really may have to get a canner. In the meantime I got two new toys! A new pie dish:

And matching rolling pin:

Piping hot out of the oven:

And a special message to make it sweeter:

TGIF and TGFM

2010-10-22T06:45:00.001-05:00

Thank goodness for Friday and thank goodness for metallics. I know it's "color week" and metallics aren't a color but they are a whole other category. My favorite category. Metallics are simply magical. This includes sequins, obviously. Call it my homage to Tina Turner but I've always loooovvvveeeeddd sequins. On a rainy day, I like to counteract the gloom with a sequin cardi (Mego, you know the one). Since it's Friday, let's all let loose with a little sparkle and cheer!

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Metallics are so much on my mind that I just have to share my favorite new shorts and shoes:

I cannot wait to wear my metallic ensemble. It's my take on menswear. Have a sparkling weekend and fashionably fabulous Friday!

Think In Pink

2010-10-21T06:28:00.000-05:00

Pink is such a sweet, lovely color. This month it's been on my mind a lot because of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This is just a reminder to take care of yourselves people! Do what you can to stay healthy, get check ups and reach out for help if you need it. To get involved or learn more about breast cancer and women's heath visit the Susan G. Komen for the cure website.

Red Hot Wednesday

2010-10-20T06:29:00.000-05:00

Red rocks! I was just reading a bit about red on Wikipiedia; fascinating! Basically it can symbolize good and bad, purity and not so pure (The Scarlet Letter), courage, danger, etc. etc.

When I think of red, the first thing that pops in my mind is apple. I think that's because the last three weeks I've been in apple heaven baking pies, making apple pie ice cream and whipping up apple tartes. I like to wear red because it feels bold, so when I'm feeling pretty awesome it's red all the way. Also, I've been organizing my portfolio and a project I worked on this year (and will be sharing soon) has many, many beautiful red poppies.

Thornless hawthorne:

Autumn blaze maple tree:

Stars and stripes:

Vintage biplane (that I got to ride in!!!)

Red alert salvia:

Fourth of July croquet party:

Dinner plate dahlia:

My suede "ruby" slippers:

Swirls and swirls:

Two of My Favorites: Blue and Green

2010-10-19T06:22:00.001-05:00

Color week continues! Today, two of my favorite hues: green and blue. When I think of green I think new, fresh, alive, lush. Blue reminds me of the ocean, a clear sky, something soothing, unless it's my bright peacock blue suede shoes, then it just comes down to fun!

I've created sets in my Flickr account by color, it is actually interesting to organize my photos this way and see what I do take shots of.

Here is green:

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Here is blue:

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

You can probably tell from my pictures that I love, love, love being outdoors. When I'm designing something usually I'm thinking of something earthy, even if the design isn't "earthy", per se...

Color, Color and More Color

2010-10-18T06:19:00.004-05:00

I took a wonderful fall stroll and what's on my mind this week: color! The leaves are changing here finally, it's been a perpetual summer which I'm all for. My garden is still growing like crazy! But this past week I've loved seeing the daily changes...bright blue sky and golden yellow trees, fiery maple leaves and bright red apples. This week I'll be sharing my current color inspirations. First is this shot I got at sunset, I just love the orange, pink and purple...divine!

Sunday Funday!

2010-10-17T21:06:00.003-05:00

Lately, Sundays have turned into my cooking day. This morning I woke up around 5 am with a craving for French Toast. When I finally got out of bed three hours later I referenced my "Joy of Coooking" book and was happy to have three recipes to choose from, one including rum for a little spice:

Cooking it up:

I topped the toast with apricot preserves and a freshly picked apple from the backyard.

Nothing left!

Also on tap today: apple pie ice cream.

After Weeks and Weeks They Finally Arrived!

2010-10-15T09:07:00.008-05:00

I decided I'd be extra cute and get a Loveland stamp on the envelopes. Just one little round postmark. I did it mostly for me because as the saying goes, the devil is in the details. I was also curious to see who would notice. Well, if you send ANYTHING out of Loveland around Valentine's day you end up with not one, not two, but three stamps! I would've been fine with just the one but love and poems abound in Colorado!

Opening! Opening! Notice the embossed address at top, yup, I love an embosser.

I wanted all the relevant information to fit on the save the date because the real wow factor was yet to come, in the form of very special invitations...more on those soon!

As loyal reader and awesome friend Jes alluded to yesterday, there was an incident with the Post Office which I dubbed Post Officegate 2010. If you have awesome looking envelopes the people at the Post automatically pull them to the side, triple stamp them, then hold them to send out so they arrive on Valentine's Day. That's fine, except there is no notice about that, nobody shared that information and I dropped these off in January. I just about had a heart attack when they didn't arrive within three days of mailing them. After some phone calls (including to the Denver Postmaster, as mom said always go to the top) I was able to figure out where my precious save the dates had gone. All's well that ends well!

The Post Officegate incident got me thinking of other towns to send things from. I found plenty of options for celebrating love in Colorado, and a few to celebrate...other things.

Apex
Bond
Bountiful
Bijou- what lady doesn't love some bijou?
Bonanza
Cathedral
Climax- yup, this is on the map
Cope
Coventry
Crook
Gold Hill
Gold Park
Divide- some people like to celebrate a separation
Fairplay
Fairview
Futurity
Goodnight- great for an evening affair!
Good Pasture- outdoor wedding
Grand Junction
Grandview
Great Divide- for really big separations
Halfway House- seriously, this was in the atlas
Happy Canyon
Harmony
Hidden Valley
Hotchkiss
Independence- see Divide, or maybe to celebrate a first apartment, or living on your own
Last Chance- a little harsh
Longview
Mirage
Monument
Mountain View
Payne
Pleasant View
Rifle- to celebrate hunting season!
Romeo
Sparks- I really like this one
Sugar Junction- and this one...CAVITY!
Sugar City
Sunnyside
Trails End- eek
Tuckerville- to celebrate successful plastic surgery
Vigil
Wiley

Have a beautiful weekend! Cheers!

Ready, Set, Send!

2010-10-14T08:48:00.004-05:00

The last day I worked on these save the dates I had to glue the last top piece of paper as well as address them. I knew that getting this shiny envelope in the mail would brighten the winter days! Glue Stick and I are best friends, although when it's nice out and I can open the doors I do prefer spray glue.

I thought about custom stamps but I rather liked the colors and whimsy of the King and Queen. Also, at this point in the design process I wasn't sure what exactly the invitations would be like so I kept it as simple as I could for the stamps.

I wanted these to look really rich. That's why I layered the paper and hand stamped everything, these are thick! I wanted people to feel the love when the opened them.

All set to be sent off. Yes, I am so picky as to line up the criss-crossing cross hatching! Above all I wanted to present something that was visually interesting and that left people wanting more. Namely, the invitation!

More to come!

Cutting, Pasting

2010-10-13T06:20:00.000-05:00

A lot of the work I do happens late at night, I am just a night owl and I always have been. I like the quiet and I like that there aren't distractions...unless of course I get chit chatting with Shannon, my other fellow night owl. This particular night was a chilly one in January and magic happened! There's something great about being able to spread out and take over a space. I knew when I found this paper I HAD to be used some way, some how:

Since I originally bought it three years ago, finding more was a challenge. I found some on eBay but that amounted to four sheets. I had to be conservative! I used one sheet to make a little band around the invite, that left enough for envelope liners and special wedding day touches.

Once I stamped these I knew it was just the texture I was going for. I wanted each one to feel special.

I love a production line:

And on to assembly, these had a shimmery white back, then a green, then the cross hatch paper, then the top save the date...more coming!

Supplies and Planning

2010-10-12T06:19:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite things about starting a new project is the materials; the paper, illustrations, colors, ribbon, concept...all of it! I love how I can start with one idea but by the end it's morphed into something even grander than first thought! It's like the Samples lyric "and every turn became our future..." from "Did You Ever Look So Nice?" Yup, obsessed with the Samples and yes, that makes a pretty sweet wedding song.

These Save the Dates started with a color concept, and there are few places with more fabulous paper choices than The Paper Presentation. Shimmery? Check. Green? Check. I thought I'd originally emboss everything with peacock blue powder (the stamp embossing way) but it wasn't really coming together the way I wanted it to. And from there I moved on to stamping everything minus the embossing.

I knew I needed fabulous wood blocks to make personal feeling, textural invites. I found an amazing set on eBay all the way from London:

Stacks and stacks of green and soft white paper:

An embosser, I highly recommend an embosser for anything you'd like to add a little touch of class to, I had this embosser made with our return address:

More coming...

With Love

2010-10-11T06:04:00.000-05:00

I'm going back to the beginning of some very big projects, one of my favorites being my save the date:

The stamps were worth the wait despite the slow delivery. When I first came up with the idea for the save the dates and invitations I knew I wanted shimmery green and peacock blue along with a cross hatch Martha Stewart paper. More coming...

Dining Al Fresco, Bellissimo!

2010-10-08T06:29:00.002-05:00

Something I look forward to all day: dinner. Even better: dinner outdoors! I love setting the table a different way every night, it makes every meal seem extra special and it doesn't take long to put out nice glasses, place mats and cloth napkins. I feel so posh and like I'm running my own little restaurant. It's also another way to get creative. This was a quick little setup with awesome linens from my friend Sarah:

Linens and place mats (LOVE LOVE LOVE THEM!): Macy's
Glasses and chair cushions: Anthropologie
Bowls: MacKenzie-Childs

Before and After: From Rusty to Ready to Relax In

2010-10-07T06:03:00.000-05:00

I've had this chair for quite awhile, true be told I do love the rustic look of it here:

But I could never sit in it because of the rust! Two cans of spray paint for about $10, a new cushion from World Market for about $15 and an hour later...viola:

I really wanted something bright and Bahamian inspired to make every day cheery, it makes me think of a trip I took a couple of years ago. I'm evolving our yard into the most fantastic outdoor living space, if I do say so myself. Sometimes the smallest little touches can make a space beyond magical. Cheers!

It's Glorious Apple Season

2010-10-06T06:30:00.000-05:00

There is something so perfect about fresh picked apples in fall. I was feeling very special when I got to go apple picking on Saturday...in my back yard. On top of that it was 80 degrees, this is my idea of fall.

The crisp, cooler morning motivated me to make apple pie from scratch, it just seemed like the fall thing to do, along with watching college football. We have four Harrelson apple trees, the fruit is so sweet and crisp and perfect for baking. For the pie crust, this was the first time I made dough from scratch. The recipe I followed is the one that goes along with Martha Stewart's Mile-High Apple Pie, which I found in the 2003 Annual Recipes book. Making dough is so easy! And it includes one of my favorite ingedients, butter.

Dough into the pie mold:

Apples piled high with more butter:

The pie-prep aftermath, I felt very accomplished at this point. Meanwhile I had already done all of the ice cream prep work and that was cooling in freezer.

Piping hot from the oven:

Savory apple tarte, this made me feel oh-so Francaise for some reason:

While the pie was cooling I put the chilled ice cream mixture into the ice cream maker where all the magic happens. 35 minutes later I had a double batch of vanilla ice cream. Night one of Applefest was traditional pie a la mode.

Night two was the ice cream with cut up apple pie folded in...amazing. I based the recipe on the vanilla ice cream in The Perfect Scoop, a must own recipe book! Night three was warm apple tart with a scoop on the side. I love Applefest.

Views From the Crow's Nest

2010-10-05T06:07:00.008-05:00

Is it Cape Cod?

The Big Island?

Nope, Colorado! Some acquaintances were redoing their backyard and had some eclectic stones with beer bottle caps embedded in them, of course Will jumped at the opportunity to salvage them, they were free after all. They were not quite my style but really, it's like we live in the Napa Valley of Beer so what better way to honor our surroundings than with beer bottle caps?

Before this new, fantastic walkway was put in, the path to the observation deck was just tall grasses. Now it's like a trip to the Caribbean in our backyard. Despite some windy days the sand hasn't blown away, we'll see how long it lasts but in the meantime there is nothing like an 80 degree October day with sand in between my toes. This is a great, affordable project if you're landlocked and missing the beach! I'd love a little sand pit with a couple of chairs to lounge in...if you can't be at the beach bring the beach to you, in some form at least.

New Look, Better Blog, Beautiful Bike

2010-10-04T06:11:00.000-05:00

After a bit of a blog hiatus, I'm back with new content and a new look. The blog will now be a collection of my inspirations, interests and work. I hope after each new post you take away something positive, whether that is a smile, laugh, idea or inspiration. I've spent the past year working on amazing projects and the scope of my business has expanded (see sidebar), I am so excited to share it all!

So what have I been up to? Remember that Kate Spade bike basket? Yeah, check out what I've been cruising around town on:

And while I'm not cruising I found this fantastic bike cover to keep Brownie dry, although dry brownies to eat are never good:

Changes Are Coming!

2010-09-29T22:59:00.004-05:00

This new look is just the beginning of exciting things that I'm rolling out in the coming weeks. I've been very busy this past year working on some amazing projects and I'll be sharing all that and more. The scope of Sarah Hearts Design is expanding too...are you excited? Sitting on the edge of your seat? Can't wait?!?!? Soon...

Sand Art

2010-06-15T13:09:00.005-05:00

Nope, I haven't fallen off the map, I've been super busy with work and party planning! Anything web or blog related will be on the back burner for awhile. I've got some great ideas for the blog but not enough time to execute them.

In the meantime, check out this OFF THE CHARTS video with Kseniya Simonova. She is a Ukrainian artist who won Ukraine's version of "America's Got Talent." It's pretty amazing.

Left Hand Community Acupuncture

2010-05-10T11:49:00.006-05:00

Check out my latest completed project for my friends at Left Hand Community Acupuncture:

I've been working with Jen Alberti and Caroline Adams on developing their logo which is based off of Caroline's own hand print. They wanted something very textural, unique and something that spoke to their business. I love the idea of a hand print because it is so personal, like the care you would receive from them.

Jen and Caroline are devoted to their practice and really great at what they do! Jen first introduced me to acupuncture and I am a firm believer in its ability to heal. Their business will be opening very shortly in Lafayette, CO . Be sure to check out their website and Facebook page for more information and to make an appointment. High five LHCA!

Also of note, their space is located in a GREAT spot next to a fabulous antique store, Noble Treasures. I stopped in for the first time this weekend (couldn't resist even though I was in a hurry) and I did indeed find some treasures including three amazing vintage hats (yup, already worn them) and a hat box from the old May Company in Denver. As if you needed any more reason to visit the area!

I've Got a Plantitude

2010-04-30T10:46:00.009-05:00

I'm putting some final touches on the house and it just wouldn't be complete without some greenery. Indoor plants are so inviting to have around the house and breathe in such life! It's also too risky to plant outdoors now because inevitably they'll be another frost or two in the next month. It's been ages since my green thumb was in top form so I've started slowly with some succulents, one cactus and several jade plants. The staff at my favorite garden center, Sturtz & Copeland, are amazing and they steered me in the right direction. Check out my creations:

Here's the first Jade plant with a little Jade lion. Will has these figurines that he got in Thailand and I've been searching for a good place to display them...after I potted everything I looked up at the bookshelf and thought PERFECT! It's like a lion living in the jungle.

And here is the little Buddha man in his Zen garden. We're actually going to create our own rock/zen-like garden in back yard this spring!

Here is the second Jade plant with a Jade Rhino, I just love the pattern in this figurine, the unusual blue and green in the pot, and the overall patterns and tones. I found this pot at a great consignment store for a great deal, Clutter Consignment. At home gardening can be fun, affordable and very creative. I'm looking forward to watching everything grow.

These are the DIY Days

2010-04-29T00:30:00.004-05:00

I've been super creative and motivated lately because everything is blooming! There are so many shades of green everywhere. I've been working on custom wedding invitations (pictures will be put up) and finishing up a lot of little "to dos" around the house. Design isn't just a part of my work life, it's a part of my every day life which includes decorating! The past three days I've DIYed up a storm, included:

A bulletin board makeover. I should've taken a before picture but it was just a boring blah bulletin board. A little paint, a little paper and voila:

Headband holder. I have a lot of headbands, hats and head pieces. How to store them? I haven't been able to find a suitable storage device so I made my own. Rolled oats package, paper, tape and voila:

Earring tray. I wanted a neat little tray to keeo some of my favorite earrings where I could see them. I couldn't find a cushioned tray I liked, instead I found a bamboo tray on sale, cut some left over cork board I had, wrapped it up in paper and voila:

More DIY home projects coming!

Picnic Basket Perfection

2010-04-19T22:01:00.005-05:00

I need this. Not want, NEED. This is amazing on a number of different levels: woven, pink, patent leather, perfect for a picnic at Chautauqua, would match all of my summer outfits while biking around town. If anyone is looking for a perfect gift for me this Kate Spade Picnic Bike Basket is it!