Turkish Treats

While I realize I haven't had a chance to share pictures from our trip to Turkey yet, I wanted to at least show you some of the cute things I managed to bring back with me. It was a challenge finding unique and authentic souvenirs, but once we trekked off the beaten path there were many lovely shops selling handmade, vintage, and/or beautifully crafted items that didn't break the bank. This vintage teapot and set of bowls totally caught my fancy - dating from the 60s, they feature the colors and patterns I love. The shop was packed with these original Turkish pieces - so playful and fun, don't you think? Seriously, if I had had another suitcase, I would have brought many, many more home with me. I also appreciated finding the original version of the ikat bowls that have become so popular at a certain store many of us frequent...

Book of the Month

Why have I not heard about this yet?! These "Book of the Month" clutches from Kate Spade are BEYOND fab! Designed to look like mod versions of some favorite classics, these little purses are so, so cheeky and perfect. The silk twill design is laminated for durability and shine, and then it's all trimmed in metallic leather for a bit of glam. Yes, they are more than a bit pricey, but for something so special I will certainly have to put them on my wish list. Maybe if I'm lucky there will be a sale sometime soon!

(If anyone has $300 in their pocket and wants to buy me a present, then you should know I like "The Great Gatsby" best!)

Tuesday Eye Candy... Yellow and Cream

This color combination is making me very happy right now, especially when shown in frothy chiffon, ruffles, satin and lace... from Chris Benz's divine 2011 Resort collection...

I have a new sofa!

I have a new sofa. It's pretty awesome. Normally this would be the kind of purchase that I would belabor for months, but an unexpected opportunity arose to buy this sofa for a very, very good price (working for Urban Outfitters does offer a few perks) so I kind of jumped on it. It's Anthropologie's Milo sofa in Marimekko's Bottna upholstery. I love the rolled arms and tufting - very classic Chesterfield, but the print makes it totally fun and fresh. I realize there's a lot going on now in my living room - perhaps too much? - but for now I'm feeling things out. I may do some redecorating later this summer - new paint, curtains, etc - if necessary. Anyway, here are a few more views, plus some random shots from around the room...

My little Maude likes it very much...

New vase on the coffee table - one of the items I collected for my wedding centerpieces. I like his hat of flowers.

Also leftover from the wedding

A "new" old vase from a recent flea market adventure

One last kitten shot, because I can't help myself..

Pretty Scenes

... from Sara Gilbane Interiors...

Bright and Shiny Kitchen

(Via here)

Blog Love ... Just Over the River

Congrats to my very good friend Lisa who is celebrating the first anniversary of her blog, ...Just Over the River. She writes about life, decorating, and house renovation, specifically of her adorable bungalow house (just over the river) in New Jersey. Recently she and her guy acquired a new addition for the house, a dog - pictured above - who has the most amazing heart-shaped spot on his coat. Love! Anyway, do check her blog out when you have a chance - there are many inspiring projects and stories to take in...

Tuesday Eye Candy - Dior Flower Power

The dresses of my dreams.... from Dior's Fall 2010 couture collection...

(All images via Style.com)

Pink and Green Delight

I've been away for a couple weeks on a glorious honeymoon in Turkey (pictures to come!), but now I am back and ready to share colorful, summery eye candy. I took the latest issue of House Beautiful with me on the plane, and I've been obsessed with the cheerful house designed by Krista Ewart ever since. These images may have already made the rounds (I haven't had a chance to check in on my fave blogs yet), but I felt the need to share. Enjoy!

(All images via House Beautiful)

After the Wedding

It might be a while before I am able to share pictures from my big day, but until then here are some snapshots of the aftermath that a friend caught on his iPhone. My event planner and floral designer were clearing the tables, but even in their unorganized state everything looks so beautiful. I love seeing all the flowers massed on one table, and my animal figurines seem so happy gathered together. It was such a wonderful day, and every image recalls happy memories. Here's one more that sums it all up...

It's Official

I'm married! I'm still recovering from all the festivities, but will be back to posting soon. Hopefully there will be some good pics to follow...

xoxo

I want this hat

The perfect summer sunblocker, via Juicy Couture (at Nordstrom.com)...

More Pretty Rooms

Some recent favorites from the inspiration files...

(Via KWID, Donna Griffith Photography, Design Sponge, Canadian House and Home, Lonny Magazine)

Happy Weekend!

This is what I'd like to be doing for the next two days. Relaxing on a beautiful bed, in a beautiful bedroom, without a care in the world. This is what I'll actually be doing...

... crafting like crazy, but in a much less organized and inspiring space than the one shown here. Ah, the wedding is approaching like a barreling train and there is nothing slowing it down. I can't wait for it to get here, but there simply is not enough time to get everything done. Oh well, what gets done gets done, and what doesn't... doesn't really matter, right?

Anyway, it's good to be back to blogging! I've been away for a while, but decided to hit you with a lot of content before the long weekend. I promise to keep it up going forward, so hopefully no more (or at least fewer) long stretches of away time from me.

I hope you all have a great weekend and that you enjoy some sun and fun. When I'm not making things or desperately shopping for last-minute things, I will be helping my lovely friend (and maid-of-honor) Ingrid with her going-away sidewalk sale. I'm so sad to see her and her family leave Philly, but can't wait to continue our friendship as she lives out there in sunny L.A. I have a feeling there will be many visits out to the west coast in my future... yay!

Have a great one, everyone!

(Images via Lonny Magazine and Trevor Dixon)

Ted Muehling Jewelry

Ted Muehling makes the most gorgeous jewelry. Period. His handcrafted pieces (not just jewelry, but decorative objects too) are inspired by nature and showcase the beautiful stones and materials from which they are crafted. Now I love big, bold costume jewelry, but it sure is nice to rock a pair of delicate, precious little earrings too. That's why I am featuring some of his lovely dangling earrings today. My sweetie was so thoughtful to gift me with a pair of Muehling's turquoise berries for Christmas, and I will be wearing a pair of his perfect pink pearls (seen at top) on my wedding day. They are exquisite, but not too ridiculous of a splurge, and you will have them forever. You can't buy online, but his lovely eponymously named shop in NYC sells his wares, and in Philadelphia the collection can be found at one of my favorite boutiques, Egan Day. If you have the chance to stop at either store, be sure to peruse the also-fabulous pieces by Gabriella Kiss (who happens to make the most gorgeous engagement and wedding rings...)

Muehling's store in NYC

And if you like pretty coffee table books as much as me, then I recommend you check out "Ted Muehling: A Portrait by Ted Freeman"...

(All images via Ted Muehling.com)