say ooh

Fancy Girls & Turban Bands

2012-02-02T00:17:00.001-06:00

I visited my sweet friend Carrie Ann at Local Honey to drop off another batch of tuban/ bow bands to keep those ears warm in the crisp winter weather. We had a few minutes of fun, frolicking around the shop for me to take some quick photos. Thanks Carrie Ann!
Recently, I gave my dear friend Crystal a blog-makeover. She has wonderful and creative suggestions to live a fancy life on a dime. Here's a quick before and after shot, but please visit her blog to see for yourself!
BEFORE:

AFTER:

January Wedding

2012-01-30T21:18:00.003-06:00

Celebration! My sweet friend Kirsten has married her dream man. They have a darling love story based on many years of friendship, and I was honored to be a part of their Alabama wedding just a couple weeks ago. It was casual and fun, with quaint little nuances woven throughout. We hung colorful mini penant-strings throughout twigs in the small, cozy chapel. Heirloom quilts decorated the dance floor in the ballroom. Mason jars and cheesecakes were everywhere! Many of Kirsten's friends helped with elements of the wedding. Two of her friends photographed the event. The photos included here were taken by Mandii, more by Daniel are seen here. I made the groom's and groomsmen bowties (as seen). Another friend made the bouquets. Another friend made about 20 cheesecakes (flavours included blueberry lemonade, coffee and donuts, ginger pear, pumpkin spice, etc) Other friends played bluegrass. Kirsten was a beautiful, shining star, and her handsome husband Josh was right by her side, swingin' her around while we all square danced the night away.

Can't say I don't love a good promenade.

Tennessee Baby

2012-01-23T20:14:00.000-06:00

And... they're on their way! Feather & Belle have played 3 shows in Utah, and they're onto their final Sundance show tonight. So exciting for them! And if I haven't raved about their album enough... please. Do yourself a favour and get a copy!Here are some peepshots of the treats I woodburned and stitched up for their stage.

Also.. some darling friends and I took an absolutely wonderful picnic to the vineyard on Sunday. It was a cool... foggy... and somewhat gloomy day. But we brought a table full of sunshine! Pictures to come.

Feather & Belle.. & Sundance!

2012-01-16T07:35:00.000-06:00

Two of my lovely, sweet friends have been working on a fun musical project called Feather & Belle. It's the kind of music you just want playing in your apartment, or in the car, or at work... while shaking your hips and singing along, not even realizing it's been looping for hours. (Obviously I'm guilty of this) Anyhow, one thing led to another for these talented ladies, and next week they'll be playing their FIRST show... at Sundance! As if this isn't exciting enough, they asked me to help work on their set design for the show.Here's a little snippet of my progress from yesterday. Enjoy their music video in the meantime, and find them on iTunes if you like what you see.

Tree & Axe

2011-12-29T22:57:00.002-06:00

Christmas has come and gone. But my decorations are staying up for as long as they will last! I will keep my home smelling of fresh fir and vetiver (if not by tree, by candle).

What am I keeping my nights busy with, when not stuck at the office? Wood burning, glass etching, die cutting, knitting, and painting. I had to narrow it down to the things I want to become really good at.

I still find time for fun playdates with friends. Rebekka and I recently took a few axes to Shelby Bottoms and she shot the coasters Danny and I have been working on. Then, the dear made me a beautiful new blog header. I am oh so excited! She does all kinds of custom illustrations, for sale here. Her house paintings are my absolute favourite!

Have a safe & happy New Year, and remember that each morning is a fresh new start.

Christmas! Week 5

2011-12-21T08:35:00.000-06:00

Carols and hymns, a favourite part of Christmas. There is something so special about going to a midnight mass, singing sweet songs with a room full of strangers, the loving warmth that ensues, then walking out to a quiet, dark, frosty night. Only to snuggle up in bed and wake up to yet another magical day of celebration! I thought that surely deserved a banner.

4 sleeps til Christmas. Fa lalalala, lala, lala!

Christmas! Week 4

2011-12-12T22:05:00.001-06:00

Happy Monday! It is also happy birthday, so I didn't get as many holiday decorations done over the weekend as I would have liked. Nonetheless! Santa appeared at my door... with a TREE! A wonderfully smelling, sappy little fir. He also brought a darling vintage deer ornament, which is fast friends with the other two deer ornaments I found at the antique mall. Couple in some red velvety bows, a makeshift lace treeskirt, and my trusty antlers, and find the perfect little Christmas corner. Then, I filled some glass ornaments with twine and hung them between my french doors and doilies.

Though I scoured for mistletoe, to no avail. So! I made some. It sure seems to do the trick.

13 sleeps til Christmas!

Holiday Shopping

2011-12-10T18:59:00.000-06:00

You have two hours left to catch Say Ooh and other great local vendors at Porter Crossings! In the cozy little corner surrounding Family Wash in East Nashville.

Christmas! Week 3

2011-12-05T08:22:00.000-06:00

Christmas is coming! Christmas is coming! And my humble home is slowly getting in the spirit. This weekend, the beau and I made stockings. When my parents were newlyweds, they made adorable felt sneaker and heel stockings. It's a fond memory of the holiday spirit fireplace-we-never-had. Danny and I sewed dark burlap together and trimmed them with native fringe (and lace!). We like to think of ourselves as "Buck" and "Doe", so we made silhouettes from some felt and glued them on for each of us. A sweet gold "made with love" heart and some jingle bells give each stocking just enough holiday cheer. Hope your stockings are full of goodies this winter season!

Just 20 sleeps until Christmas.

Christmas! Week 2

2011-11-28T16:57:00.000-06:00

Also, the first week of Advent. Ah, what a lovely (albeit chilly) time of year. I spent Thanksgiving weekend in Texas with the beau's family, and tho the cranberry relish I made for them was unfortunately confiscated by airport security, this bit of holiday cheer was not. I simply found some vintage fabric, embroidered some cursive, and spray painted a hoop gold. Ta-da!

A Letter

2011-11-26T14:48:00.001-06:00

Some of my friends and I are still very old-fashioned in that we love to write letters. Everyone loves receiving mail, but few take the time to write, stamp, and address a sweet card. A favourite way to do that is custom stationary. My friend Lori had lovely W stationary, but was recently wed and had trouble finding a new J monogram, so the beau and I took it upon ourselves to help. He carved this stamp and we spent and evening printing up yummy rose, cream, white, and gold sets. If you're interested in any this holiday season, please let us know!

Christmas! Week 1

2011-11-20T22:53:00.002-06:00

It's that time of year! I have filled my home with wondrous woodsy candles from Anthropologie, sprigs picked from a cotton field in Alabama, and red velvet bows. I'm slowly introducing winter decorations and Christmas baked treats. Each Monday morning, I'll be sharing with you a new creation I've made for the Christmas season. If only my time allowed for my aspirations, as I've seen oh-so-many crafts and goodies I'm dying to create.One delightful aspect of Christmas from my childhood was the ANTICIPATION! Who am I kidding, to this day I adore surprises and anticipation, I just do not readily admit it. I'd make a paper chain every year. One of the designers at the publishing house where I work designed this cute reindeer chain. Perfect for me, right?! I cannot tell you how many dozens of tiny antlers I have cut out. 34 sleeps til Christmas!

I spent last night whipping up an absolutely delicious cranberry relish. I plan to take it to my boyfriend's family for Thanksgiving in a few days, and make another batch for Christmas gifts. Though it sounds wonderful to pair with turkey (potentially with tofurkey but honestly I never get one), Hannah has many other great suggestions for it if you visit Nothing But Delicious for the recipe.

Are you making any decorations for Christmas? Do you carry on traditions from your childhood?

A Very Gentlemanly Tailgating Picnic

2011-10-10T23:33:00.001-05:00

A recent collaboration with two wonderful friends Rebekka and Hannah, led to a very lovey faux-tailgating picnic in my backyard! Hannah made a delicious gourmet spread, I made bowties, we all arranged and rearranged the food, and the men talked shop while drinking homebrews and screwdrivers. This is one of my favourite shots, and was taken of Manley by Miss Messinger. More to come, and for all you Vols fans, order the bowties here!

Neuhoff Recap

2011-09-27T19:41:00.000-05:00

Well, Soundland sure was a good time. I made it to the Station Inn on Friday, then to the Basement after Neuhoff Factory for Caitlin Rose and the Watson Twins.Scottie and I had a great time at Neuhoff. Great music (including Jack White's interesting new project and his rolling records truck, thanks to Dani for posing),

gorgeous old factories turned studios/ lofts/ boutique (cattle ghosties included), wonderful people, and some good old fashioned fun. Hopefully we'll get to collaborate on more market festivities in the future!

Soundland: Factory Party

2011-09-23T08:18:00.000-05:00

What do you get when you combine some of Nashville's hottest bands, inflatables (water slide!), food trucks, and a warehouse in Germantown? The perfect place for Say Ooh. Find myself and Scottie there from 1-9ish on Saturday. Great shows by Those Darlins, Jeff the Brotherhood, Jessica Lea Mayfield, and more!

Saturday, September 24Neuhoff Factory Party Stage1315 Adams Street, Nashville, TN 37208 (Germantown)

Hope everyone gets to make it out to lots of fun NBN/ Soundland shows. I'm excited for Painted Desert at Station Inn tonight!

Birth

2011-09-17T22:51:00.001-05:00

Each day is new. I'm growing something from seed... see?! I kill everything! But these are my sweet basil babies, and someday, hopefully, I will eat them. And my friends will eat them. And everyone will be happy.

Tomorrow is my friend Jordan's birthday. She wanted something to dressup a black dress, so I took some lovely strands of leather and beaded them with turquoise, white hearts, and soft feathers. Upon testing them out, I was quite tempted to don myself in warrior paint. The wedding I was on my way to was surprisingly not native themed, so I had to hold back. This time.Here's to growth and more growth. Late nights dancing and quiet nights in alone. Autumnal bonfires. And keeping love alive.

Tiny Boot Giveaway!

2011-09-12T08:01:00.000-05:00

I am honoured to be featured on Tiny Boot! There, you will find a cutesy new lil piece, and a chance to win it. While visiting, please check out Robyn's incredible assortment of vintage wares for sale! I especially like this adorable dress.

Growth: Dirt & Gold

2011-09-10T17:21:00.000-05:00

One of the golden girls (old ladies in my building) left me a basil starter kit last week after reading a long, emotional letter I had written her about my romantic life. Ironically, my basil had JUST died, and she was going thru romantic troubles as well. God puts us in each others' lives at the right times.

I needed a day. A day of blue skies, warm weather, and a cool breeze. I took a 3 hour walk this morning, then came home to paint/ sew/ bake/ plant, and took a 2 hour jog. My hips want to know what the deal is, and my mind is promising to make sense of my scattered thoughts... someday.

I have a new secret weapon. I'm not going to tell you what it is, exactly. But I 'm working on a giveaway for Robyn's blog, and I stumbled upon it. I think it's dreamy, and I plan to master this one of a kind medium.My other friend Robyn, organizer and co-founder of Craftville, set up a pop-up shop at the new Porter Crossings Artisan Market. It's happening the second Saturday of each month thru 2001, showcases rooms full of local fashion, art, crafts, and vintage. They'll be teaching tutorials, have fun crafts for kids, and other surprises in store. Oh... plus food trucks! It's running until 9 tonight, in case you find yourself on the east side! Here's a snippet of some Say Ooh you will find there.

Fire Finch Art Show

2011-09-07T00:01:00.000-05:00

The show at Fire Finch during art walk was a hit. So many friends, co-workers, and strangers meandered on by! I think it was the most loved by older men, who were so anxious to tell me about THEIR grandmother's doilies. I seem to meet quite a few gentlemen, especially my age, who know a surprising amount of sewing. Always a pleasure. Anyhow, the show was simple: myself, an old card table, a vintaged wooden ladder, and a box of wine. Pretty stress-free.

Most of these pieces will be reshown at the Porter Crossings artisan markets happening the second Saturday of each month in East Nashville. I would highly suggest checking out the space, then popping across the street to Family Wash for a pint and pie.

When I hit 10,000 views I am going to have a party. It's the little things, eh?

Village Art Walk

2011-08-31T20:02:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow! Tomorrow! I have put together a little show for the art walk in Hillsboro Village. It's a nice collection of my delicate vintage/ farm/ granny works in a wide variety of sizes and colours. During the art walk, each boutique/ coffee shop/ salon/ etc showcases an artist. You'll find me at Fire Finch next to a beat up, old wooden ladder. Please come visit, Sept 1: 5-8pm! You'll find complimentary adult beverages mixed in throughout the village.

I have exciting news! Well, for me it is exciting. I have finally found my table. THE table. The work table that I have been searching for! I just knew it would be at the flea market this weekend, plucked from a garage or barn where it's been piling up tools for 40 years. I don't know how to determine types of wood, but this one sure is heavy and still sitting in my backyard. It was gorgeous as is, but the splintery wood and chipping paint were sure to snag my pretty fabrics as I cut them. I borrowed an electric sander from my friend Kris, and he just told me to go in circles (when I asked, "So what do I do? Turn it on and go in circles?") Problem no. 1: get the table upright. I don't know how I did it alone but I did. Problem no. 2: find an outlet?! My house is over 100 years old so this was a major problem. I decided to plug into the kitchen of either Inez or Betty, but they are each over 80 and did not hear my attempts at knocking. Once they realized what I was doing, they both questioned me several times throughout the hour "What are you doing out there?" "Sanding a work table!" "Oh..." repeat, repeat, repeat. And let me tell you, that thing is a beast! The table and the sander. But I kept on. Problem no. 3: the table has a good six dozen nails in it, randomly, everywhere. It didn't feel good. Problem no. 4: the sander stripped off the handsome, dark, worn top wooden layer that I had fallen in love with. I was afraid of that. A good amount of it stayed, but it's not quite as charming as it was to start. Anyhow, it's fairly smooth now, and I feel accomplished. Pictures when I get it upstairs! On that note... sorry for the iPhone pictures lately. I um... lost my Nikon. It will turn up somewhere tho... fingers crossed.

Buffalo

2011-08-29T08:19:00.003-05:00

I was excited and honoured to share my brother's birthday with him in Atlanta this past weekend. For the occasion, I decided to create something to help them decorate their new-ish home. He loves Buffalo (home sweet home) and his fiancé loves Native American culture. Put them together for a little "his n hers"!

My new nook

2011-08-22T20:13:00.003-05:00

My new place (next door, literally sharing a wall to my old place) is set up mostly how I like! Once I find the perfect old barnwood table and some cabinets for arts and sewing, I will be truly settled. I recently joined Airbnb, and they quickly sent a photographer my way.

Click here to see more of my cozy home.

Free People

2011-08-17T21:48:00.002-05:00

I love Free People. I don't read magazines, but when Free People or Anthro catalogs arrive in my mailbox, I get out my favourite felt tipped pen, sit down with a cup of tea, and get to marking. Something about it is just relaxing, comforting, inspiring. They create environments, not just fashion. Anyhow, I was thrilled to see this photo up in the Free People facebook... tho it's MUCH overdue. Modeled by the lovely Alanna Rae, shot by Sarah Rogers, and accessorized by Say Ooh. Oh, and she's wearing Free People of course.

Mine & Yours

2011-08-13T21:28:00.003-05:00

It's August. IT IS AUGUST! What does that mean? A few 2011 weddings under my belt with still a handful more to come. And you know what THAT means?! More excuses to get dressed up. I've dabbled a bit in bowtie-ery, and now I'm taking it to the next level with his 'n hers matchy-matchy*. I have an old trunk full of great new (and old!) fabrics and I just can't wait have a collection to share with all of you. They'll be appearing for purchase in 3...2...1 month!

*Can be worn separately.

Sweet Memories

2011-07-19T00:18:00.005-05:00

My dearest grandmother, you've been sending me your old doilies, vintage dish towels, and the like for years. I'll not soon forget when I was a wee one, sitting by a fire in the basement with you, cross-stitching over a cup of tea. May you forever rest in peace.

Hot Off the Presses!

2011-07-08T12:54:00.006-05:00

I have been using every spare minute (there's not many, I tell you) to stitch and try to work my pretty little thoughts to fabrics. Right now I'm head over heels for dark denim, vintaged florals, and soft brown muslin. And doilies, OH DOILIES!

Art sales have been picking up. I have sold 6 pieces in just one month! Nothing could motivate me more to continue creating. I'm working towards a little show but a month away, and have just restocked Old Made Good in Riverside village with some new pieces. $55 each. (*The beau recently carved me a wonderful "Say Ooh" stamp!)

Also, check out the porter flea Saturday for lovely local-made art, fashion, crafts, and a jillion food trucks! Yum, see you at pizzabuds.

Out with the old...

2011-06-30T23:55:00.005-05:00

in with the new old. I'm moving out of my lovely vintage apartment! And into the slightly larger apartment next door... in the same old house. Peggy Sue moved out and I painted the vacant yellow and vinyl wood paneled home Lamb and Ballet Slipper Pink.. again. When you find the right paint colours, you should really stick with them.

I spent all week piling my possessions into a large lump in the middle of my new living room, creating a mountain that severely challenges the gorgeous antique crystal cherub chandelier I found on a farm in Spring Hill (this only took multiple internet ads, scouring every vintage and antique shop in town, and praying that the flea market would come a week early.. it did not..). Things I am not looking forward to: organizing this mountain of essentials and subsidiaries.

Goodbye unusable fireplace.

Spanish Rose

2011-06-17T00:17:00.006-05:00

I have disappeared! Literally, I'd say. I've been inspired through the roof, with a mound full of half finished projects to show for it. Past that, I've kept busy with my day job, enjoying my favourite beginning-of-summer treats, like fireflies in pigeon forge, las paletas, rooftop swimming, whiskey gingers, and falling in love. With so much more fun to come!

That said, I am YET AGAIN behind on blogging. But I'd love to share a few cherished photos from my recent trip to Spain. I met up with my close friend Sloane. We traveled up the coast together, and let me tell you... it was FULL of adventure and inspiration.

Our beach in San Jose, viewed from our remote upwards hike.

Our beach in San Jose, where I journaled, wined, and soaked in too much sunshine!

A lovely vintage sewing machine, as kept by my friend Ines in Barcelona.

Churros y café con leche in Granada, how typical.

Sloane and I at the Picasso Gallery in Malaga.

Next up: finish projects, move apartments, keep enjoying summer, train for a duathlon, learn to make gazpacho.

Let's Dance

2011-05-22T23:58:00.002-05:00

Well, I sure do love to dance, so I was excited to be included in a Time to Dance treasury on etsy. Thanks moosusiemoo! I adore the Juliet.

Ooh (ew) Cicadas

2011-05-19T01:09:00.007-05:00

Just in case you are living under a rock (rather, not living in Nashville), we have been experiencing an outbreak, plague, end times infestation of cicadas. They are literally everywhere, and yes they have attacked me. More than once.

But we live in Nashville. We love Nashville! So when something so horrendously terrible like this occurs (also reference the flood of 2010 and various tornadoes), what do we do? We make it into art or music, and we party.

Enter OMG. A cute new home/ vintage shop on the east side, Old Made Good, cleverly abbreviated OMG, which is what you are going to say when you see all the great finds in the well-decorated rooms of the shop. You really do need to see for yourself, but here's a fun little teaser. I captured these shots last Friday night during their cicada art party, which featured prints by Anderson Design Group and beer by a new, female-fronted brewery, Jackalope. There were also cicada looking treats and guitar-shaped cicada swatters. Brilliant.

Embroidered dreamcatcher art, Say Ooh.

Cute vintage kitchen goodies. Obviously a weakness of mine.

Hidden nook showcasing a vintage library.

Vintage deer metal shadowbox. Adorable for a child's play room.

Tall, skinny, vintage glasses. Weakness after weakness!

A lovely display and Say Ooh portraits.

You can also find my accessories nestled throughout the store, and a variety of talented local designers along with vintage clothing!

Treasured: Tiger Lilies

2011-04-29T18:39:00.004-05:00

My lil tiger lilies have been featured in a couple treasuries by The Peach Tree and Wren Willow. Why, thank you kindly! These long featheries were also recently complimented by the one and only Marty Stewart. Well, well.

This delightful springtime weather is motivating me to stay indoors. ...and sew. Well, honestly, it's a battle between staying in to sew and enjoying all things active in the pretty greenery and floral heavens just round the corner. And the outdoors has been winning. Nonetheless, I'm dedicating all further rainy or tornado days to stitching up a mini summer line of shirts. I'm going say they're Americana-influenced, with a little frill of course.

Enjoy your weekends, even if it is a bit tornadoey again!

Hey Four-Eyes!

2011-04-25T21:31:00.007-05:00

We need to see in one form or another to be creative. And for those of us with poor vision, it usually means a nerdy pair of spectacles, which can be difficult to find affordable AND fashionable. Blog reader, meet Warby Parker. Now you can own vintage-inspired designer glasses for a mere $95, lenses included! And, in Tom's fashion, for each pair purchased, they send a pair of glasses to someone in need. The 2nd best part is you can choose 5 frames which they'll mail you to try on for 5 days. I lost track of time and have had them for 2 weeks.

I thought I'd share the ones I tried. I had to pose in really awkward angles so you couldn't see the computer screen reflection. Oh! Also fun! If I were a man I would order the monacle. Looks quite nice with a mustache and a vest if I do say so myself.

Spirit Animal

2011-04-10T20:20:00.004-05:00

This is what my soul longs to create, but I have not made the physical time to create lately. When I was doing figure studies last year, I started something along the lines, I'll try to dig those out of the old armoire to share.

Thanks to Jen Mann for touching on such vital relationships.

Also, reminds me a bit of the Simen Johan work I had been counting down until it appeared at The Frist.

Johan depicts animals in scenarios where their actions or demeanor mirror human conventions. The images allude to our inclination to anthropomorphize and domesticate what we see and find around us, and they speak to realms of emotion, our fears and desires, rather than reason.

If you haven't yet seen it, please let me take you there!

So ummm, what's your spirit animal?

Feathearrings, Restocked!

2011-04-04T21:17:00.006-05:00

*Teaser image from my recent shoot with Mandy Whitley Photography.

Feathearrings have been restocked at Local Honey! Get yours today at the new location across from Belmont in Nashville or in my shop. Modeled by the darling Lauren Winter.

A Black Tie Affair

2011-04-03T21:44:00.002-05:00

Remember the birdhouse I made to raise money for kids that can't afford music lessons in music city?

Well, the auction was terribly fun, and I had a really hot date. We nibbled a couple finger foods and drooled over the bakery yummies we gave up for lent. But we offset it with many glasses of red wine! She donned a couple of Say Ooh headbands, we put on expensive new heels, and laughed the night away. Oh, and my birdhouse sold for $50!

Banana & Ginger

2011-03-16T22:11:00.006-05:00

Once upon a warm winter's morn, in a jazz filled vintage kitchen, two girls were very hungry for yummy breakfast treats, orange juice, and french press coffee.
Miss Lauren came over for a charming baking session! We donned our favourite vintage aprons and toiled away in the morning sunlight to bake delectable banana muffins with ginger cream icing. They quickly disappeared into the bellies of a couple friends and the old ladies downstairs. (& of course we each snuck one. or 2) I think being crafty comes in many forms. Yummy forms!

Bon apetit mes amis.

Oh Shoot

2011-03-09T21:41:00.005-06:00

I'm so excited to share photos from the Say Ooh shoot last Sunday! A talented local photographer shot a handful of lingerie and accessories I've been slaving over the past week. (well, some new, some old!) We used her studio at Marathon Village, one of my favourite Nashville decrepit buildings. I have been involved in music festivals and fashiony things there in the past. It previously housed Nashville's finest beer brewery, and is currently home to Corsair Artisan, "Nashville's first distillery since Prohibition".

Until then, a baby sampling of the place.

Deerhouse

2011-02-21T23:28:00.003-06:00

I finished my birdhouse for the auction! Things did not go entirely as planned, but I'm still happy with it. I whitewashed the house with two coats and drilled holes in the roof. I papier macheéd the antlers from a recently delivered phone book (who uses those anymore? Only me... which is why I received 5 of them) and used a strong adhesive to secure them in the holes. Two coats of classic gold leafing later.. and.. ta da!

We had to name our birdhouses in our short bio. Obviously I named it Deerhouse. It matches my home decor perfectly so it's a bit of a shame I must give it up. ...to the highest bidder! I cannot wait for the event. Obviously I have my outfit for the black tie affair all picked out.

Evangelina Marie Peripatei

2011-02-09T08:13:00.002-06:00

I finally met her, just before she turned the ripe old age of 6 weeks! It is sad that my very first niece is growing up in DC, so very far away, I feel that each time I see her she will be so much bigger... so much older than the last time. But I suspect that each time I see her she will also somehow be even more lovely, even smarter, even more charming.

She has the deepest blue eyes and not enough hair to pin down what that will look like! Here, she models the little drooling bib I made her, which she is welcome to drool and spit up all over. Baby and Mommy had a little fashion shoot in the cute princess-sailor-collar onesie I found her (back when she was pea sized in the womb). I can't wait to make more baby goodies.

Sailor & Baby

2011-02-03T08:11:00.003-06:00

This weekend I am finally making it to DC to visit/ meet my neice, Evangelina! I could not be more thrilled. Last night I set out to sew some cute things for baby girl. After stitching Valentine's all day at work, I wasn't feeling as creative as I maybe should have, so I based this cute lil bunny off of a pattern I found in a book. I know. I could be more original. But sometimes I am just tired! Which really showed, as this bunny turned out WAY tinier than I had expected. Which is a pain in the butt when you are using heavy fabrics. The cream canvas was found by a friend at an abandoned textile factory (or something??) and the striped fabric was picked up at Textile ages ago. Anyways, if you know me, you know how reserved I am when it comes to speaking. I have a honeytongue. But... when I sew.. and things get messy.. I curse like a sailor. I am not kidding. It is the only time I swear. It's awful! Even tho I sew alone, I need to break this habit. So I'm adding a new word to my vocabulary. "HORSEFEATHERS!" It doesn't sound as harsh as some of the words I use when I sew.

Well, bunny turned out so tiny I may not give it to baby. But I made something else for her last night too!

The Birdhouse Thing

2011-01-30T15:54:00.004-06:00

I think it's great to be involved with the community any way you can, and in any capacity you can. It's true that some ways are more fun than others, but can definitely still have a great impact! W.O. Smith is a music school run by volunteers for kids who cannot afford music lessons. This is so vital, considering we live in MUSIC CITY! Anyhow, they do an annual fundraiser called The Birdhouse Thing which is a black tie event on March 10 to auction off cute little birdhouses, customized by local artists. I'm in the process of working on mine now. Here's the before shot...

Feathearrings

2011-01-22T17:44:00.003-06:00

These cute little (looooong) feather earrings have been floating around Nashville for a couple months now, at Local Honey and Made. They nestle so cozily into long tresses, or add some fun party flair to a short bob! As modeled by Nashville artist/ designer/ photog/ all around classy lady Rachel Briggs. Cat not included.

Cardboard Safari

2011-01-16T21:31:00.005-06:00

Months ago, my friend Erin mailed me this cute weekend project. Why, it was just perfect for a wintry Sunday while I was feeling under the weather. I had thought about modpodging vintage book pages onto the pieces to match my fireplace, but the corrugated cardboard was so lovely as is. Sweet details down to the tiny imprinted numbers. A welcome addition to my deer wall.

Secrets

2011-01-15T15:20:00.007-06:00

Sometimes I like to take long, aimless walks in the sunshine (or midnight moonlight) and think about my secrets. Just pondering them over, smiling or tearing up or shivering with excitement about past and future secrets. Mysteries. Wonderment. Well, I have a pretty good secret project that I am working on right now with a dear friend. It will be revealed in weeks or months to come, promise! I PROMISE I WILL BLOG MORE!

Remember when I promised to take photos of my charming new place that I moved into last June? I know I shared a couple here and there, but not much. It's really much better in person, so feel free to invite yourself over for a meal. I am always cooking and making lovely drinks, and I do enjoy pleasant company. Anyhow, sweet Lauren came over recently to have a little shoot for her blog. Go have a looksee! I poached eggs in a homemade Italian tomato sauce with fresh basil, scooped up in multigrain toast. My new favourite brunch.
(photos by Lauren Winter)

Mr. & Mrs. Morgan (&cheesecake)

2010-11-29T20:30:00.005-06:00

I had the great pleasure of making the veil and flower girl accessories for Crystal's wedding. This was a short engagement, therefore a quick project, but Crystal has great vintage style and is a joy to work with. She and my good friend Brandon tied the knot on a lovely estate out in Franklin, TN. Vows were exchanged outdoors while the sun was setting and cows were mooing. Very romantic. Eden Frangipane took all the photos, and it was difficult to pick just a few favourites for my blog as i loved them all. She even caught a couple shots of me in action.

With the holidays approaching, and cold weather setting in, sweet treats are on the mind. Right? Right. Crystal used to own Aux Choux out in Franklin, and currently bakes sweet treats for The Cocoa Tree and Fido (oh, I should have mentioned that she baked the dozens of decadent desserts at her OWN WEDDING, ridiculous). She is taking order for her yummy yummy cheesecakes. Each feeds 10-12 and is $25. Her holiday flavours are triple chocolate, butter rum, eggnog, and pumpkin spice. Best sellers include: peanut butter fudge, triple chocolate, and key lime. Shoot her an email at crystalthomasmorgan@gmail.com if you're interested! (Plus, she has a lovely voice... what a little treat she is)

Cold Nights

2010-11-18T08:23:00.001-06:00

Lace lace lace. I'm obsessed. What's new? For the past few years, I've been into collecting vintage lace appliques and using them for all sorts of things. I threw this band together literally on a whim, and received a handful of compliments from strangers in no time at all. So I've made more. Check your local retailer! (if you live in Nashville. Or just wait for me to put them online, which could take awhile as I'm on month 7 of no internet)

I scored this cute turquoise lantern in the same bundle as the lace, at my favourite antique mall here. Then I walked up and down the stairs taking photos while neighborhood cats brawled loudly below me. They sound like screaming, demonic babies.

In Print

2010-11-09T22:37:00.004-06:00

I have finally picked up the issue of Weddings Unveiled featured Marci and Aaron's wedding! It features some of my favourite photos from their wedding as well as a charming writeup of their story.

Nylon featured Nashville in their local fashion, etc tribute. They picked some of my favourite shops, bars, and people to writeup. You'll have to pick it up for yourself (if you haven't) and if you are an out of state friend PLEASE COME VISIT so I can share these places with you! I never shared photos of my pretty bicycle which was pimped out by Halcyon. I bought this about 8 years ago at a flea market in Buffalo for $25. After selling it to a friend and leaving it out in the rain for many-a-year, it has been back in my loving embrace and sincerely cherished. I ride it all the time. It now has only 5 gears, gold glitter housing, a Cardiff seat, cruiser bars (curvy bars are pretty, but not the best for daily riding), a fancy retro headlight and other minor improvements. Well done Halcyon (and East Side Bicycles).

Also, Shea Steele won a great review of Local Honey. She is always in the middle of all the action, and it is well deserved (what a little worker bee). Say Ooh recently restocked her shop with fun new holiday bows ($15-25) and other cute accessories. In the last couple months, her shop doubled with T&P men's vintage... great finds. Check it out if you haven't already!

Royal Robertson

2010-11-07T15:29:00.003-06:00

I was hoping to post this video last week, but here we have it. Drawing loose parallels (I don't know if that's even possible). Or capturing phrases.

On the other hand, I'm not sure what to think of Sufjan's body paint, dance moves, and cargo pants.

Sufjan Stevens - I Walked 10/22/2010 from Jenna Robey on Vimeo.

Dia De Los Muertos

2010-11-02T21:10:00.006-05:00

Happy day of the dead. It was my work/play/weekend costume, and I sure had fun being dead. (plus I'll take any excuse to wear a Betsey dress) I spent Saturday afternoon at Cheekwood, taking in the last days of Chihuly and soaking in the mexican culture festival with some co-workers. I had a lovely time, especially furthered by calavera mask making, mexican dance recital, cookie paleta, and avocado mas tacos. Que divertida! (I'm working on my Spanish, I promise.)

A friend sent me a link to Vivant, a fellow vintage and deer lover. I just adore her costume creativity. & check out her kissing film stills! What romance.

It is autumn. I was settling into nice, happy, comfortable routines and lifestyle, but that was not meant to be for now. Leaves are dying, new leaves are being turned, and it is not time for hibernation. Winter! Full speed ahead! Oh dear life, I will make the most of you. Whatever you throw at me, I will learn to embrace.

Assignment 18

2010-09-26T17:36:00.002-05:00

Steven, Kirsten, Magnolia (modeling a Say Ooh bowband), and I made our teenage posters. Enjoy.

An Oxford Wedding

2010-09-12T20:34:00.003-05:00

Weddings. I love them. The excitement of new futures, pouring over pretty little details, the opportunity to throw a huge party that reflects who you are as a couple in love. I'll take any involvement, for friend or stranger. Last May in Oxford, my sweet friend Marcie married her love, Aaron. I was honoured to make the accessories for these lovely ladies.

All of the wedding details and decorations were casual, beautiful, and exquisite. The photographers captured the wedding fabulously, and it will be featured this season in Weddings Unveiled. Thrilled about this!

PS It's my dream to someday leave my wedding ceremony on a tandem bicycle... (or a white horse)

Assignment 18

2010-09-07T23:49:00.005-05:00

A couple years ago, my friend Amanda gave me the book "Learning to Love You More" by Harrell Fletcher and Miranda July. I like the way these people think, and create. It's very important to have a balance of the two, as opposed to the unfortunate laziness of just one. Anyhow, we'd planned to do some of these assignments together, but never did. I hope she will join in on these projects.

Each week, I will pick an assignment, and you, my readers will have 7 days to complete it if you so choose. Simply sayooh@gmail.com me photos of your sparkling creations. I'll post mine too (but hopefully they won't stand alone).

18: Recreate a poster you had as a teenager.

Remember a poster you had on your wall as a teenager. If necessary, do a little research to help you remember exactly what it looked like. Then recreate it using colored pencils or pens or paint on white paper. Scale it down to make it fit on a regular piece of paper. Next, locate a piece of music that you would have listened to at the time when you had this poster. If you are currently a teenager, just use a poster and piece of music that you have right now.

Baby, Powerdrill, Medicine

2010-08-31T23:48:00.004-05:00

Remember how I kept mentioning exciting new news? Well I told you about 15%. Oops. For one, my baby brother is getting married! He and his fiancé live just round the corner in Atlanta, and she (Ashley) was in town about a month ago for country music festivities. We had a cute shopping trip to Wonders on Woodland and Hip Zipper. And of course... Las Paletas. Also... my other little brother and his wife are expecting! The baby is due sometime round Christmas... but you better believe I already have a vintage suitcase full of girly clothes up to 3T. I gave them a couple of the smaller baby clothes (and shoes... including saddle shoes imprinted with a gold drawing of a deer, by a brand called BABY DEER... apparently my Deer Ones label isn't too original) and we spent a wonderful weekend experiencing my favourite things in Nashville... more Las Paletas, the couture exhibit at the Frist, Fido, cooking with yummy farmer's market goodies, shakespeare in the park, ballroom dancing in the park, and of course... playing lots of mexican train. I promise that as I make cute frilly things for my little niece, I will share.

We also went to the flea market at the Fairgrounds, which you probably have caught on is another favourite event of mine each month. I give myself an allowance each time, which is typically more money than I have to spend. The last few months I've been looking for an old medicine cabinet. The ones at home depot are just too ugly to spend $100 on, (or $10 on), and any vintage ones I've found online have been upwards of $600. Not joking. My bathroom isn't tall enough for such an extravagance. Well, flea, you finally came through. I score this old beauty for a mere $80. (all I have to do was bat my eyelashes like, twice and the old man came down twenty bucks). It did need a little love. Bryan cleaned it up with a clorox wipe while I made lunch and thought about how I was going to put the heavy cabinet up on my powdery bathroom walls. I'll tell you the truth. I don't mind being a helpless girl. But the fact of the matter is, I'm past my prime, unmarried, and I just have to do these things for myself or I won't survive. I still make silly mistakes ALL the time, and it takes me awhile to figure projects out, but I do. I mean, it took me 5 weeks to get my studio set up (because there are no studs and it is made of wall mud, not dry wall, omg). I'm happy to say this project took less than an hour. I attempted using those plastic thingies you put in before a screw, but banged up my binger trying to hammer them thru the tile post-drill hole. I have been using those plastic thingies for ages, and always had trouble getting them INTO the wall. But hey guess what? TONIGHT I realised that I have a special drill bit just for those pesky, lifesaving plastic thingies. I know, I'm an idiot. I was so frustrated I didn't even use them. The medicine cabinet was REALLY heavy but I some how managed balancing it, my ipod (gosh I love that level app), and drilling at the same time. Right. I'm a superhero. Seriously tho, I don't know how I did it because I am short and it had to go a little high. My new drill made it thru that tough tile and I got it up there with 2 screws, and only -.03 off, according to my level. That's nothing. Next up? Attaching the front face. It was the heaviest part, and very flimsy. The wood attaching it was cracking (how old is this thing, I can't place it in an era... if you know help please) so I had to be careful. Fortunately I had cute little gold screws on hand. But first! I noticed there were only two nails still in the back of it, so I found itty bitty nails and tacked the mirror down. This was scary, as the old oval mirror is fragile and the wood backing it was pretty thin. I was sure I'd crack the mirror and have 700 years bad luck. If you're a girl I hope you've made it this far in my lengthy essay, I'm just trying to encourage you (YOU CAN DO THIS TOO!) Okay I didn't crack the mirror, and somehow got the cute gold screws on the inside there. The front still may need some tacking, but I'm worried due to the cracks in the wood. Oh, and I figured out why the door was unattached after I screwed it in.... because the shelves will no longer slide out. Good thing I had placed them back in their spots.

Anyways, it's there. So if you're over and you have a headache or need to brush your teeth, help yourself to it's inhabitants. And if you're in need of girly or hair products, please take note of the vintage makeupcase below the sink (also compliments of the flea, $5). This weekend was a definite win.

Quilling Fleurs

2010-08-26T20:23:00.004-05:00

This ancient art was first introduced to me at about age 8, by my mother. She would curl long, skinny strips of coloured paper into beautiful works of art. I wonder if there are any left in our basement, they may have all been given as gifts. Anyhow, I had to try to make everything that she did, and so I was motivated into creating lots of little cards and the like. I'm not sure how many I actually finished, as it is quite the time consuming project.

I was reintroduce recently at work, where we had to make little designs to be used as art for teacher products. I immediately became re-obsessed with this lost art, making mini scissors, globe, apple, numbers, and such. I aspire to the talents of Ms. Yulia. In the meantime, these pretty petals are the height of my labour.

Also, I'd like to sidenote that for years I have been making up my own phrases. They roll right off the tongue and make sense to me. and I'm tiring the deletion of literally hundreds of these sayings (from my blog, emails, censoring myself in conversation) simply because I may be called out or no one will know what I'm talking about. I'm comfortable settling into "strange old lady" lifestyle and speak. If you can't embrace it then follow another blog. JK don'tleaveme.

Modern Dear

2010-08-17T08:18:00.004-05:00

Rather than trying to make one ridiculously image heavy (and explanation soaked!) entry about my ever changing abode decor, I'm going to share bits and pieces with you now and again. New projects, findings, creations, and repairs are a constant, anyhow.

This book, Modern Clothing, is a 1938 original I found at an antique shop in a small town somewhere between here and Atlanta. If you know me, you know my obsession for old hardcover books. The older, the odder the language. The golden deer candle was found for less than a dollar at the Fairgrounds, and the doily is one of dozens I have acquired from Grandma.

Excerpt: Problem 4: What are good buying habits?
Courtesy. What would you list as first in the list of desirable shopping habits? Certainly if you were a saleswoman you would place high on the list, and probably first, the habit of Courtesy in one's treatment of others. The impatient shopper who announces after a brief wait, that she hasn't "all day to spend and why doesn't the store get some live ones so people can be waited on some time in the natural lives," stimulates by her lack of courtesy a discourteous retort from the saleswoman. She may find her shopping attempts made difficult because no one wants to wait on a troublemaker, and so she is passed on from saleswoman to saleswoman, as rapidly as possible. Her own discourtesy has cost nervous energy and has led to disappointment and wasted hours.
The shopping list. Second in the list of desirable shopping habits should be the practice of making and using a shopping list. Such a list may be made to express one's needs, and to indicate the relation of the mode or fashion to those needs. For example, the shopping list may read:
1 blue tweed coat, unfurred, leather buttons, not over $35
1 felt hat to match, not over $3.50
1 pair blue shoes- sports wear- not over $6.50
1 pair pigskin gloves (advertised at $1.50)
The detail as to color, buttons, and lack of fur has been previously determined from fashion notes. With such a statement of her needs in hand, there is no occasion for the shopper to spend time looking at fur coats, Japanese kimonos, or Turkish bath towels. She knows she wants to look at blue tweed coats of a given price range, and proceeds forthwith to the matter at hand. She may have to forego the leather buttons or make other concessions, because of the limitations of the store, but in every way the possibility of getting what she wants is greater because she knows what it is.

I love these books. They make such wonderful bedtime reading. I also love knowing the costs of things and the necessities of other periods.

This old George Washington was found at a thrift store for about a dollar. I kept him in a closet for a long time, while considering painting over his face to save the frame, or trying to fix the unattractive scratches. Eventually, I pinned on a bow with some vintage lace I had found at the flea. (I collect old lace, I wish I knew how to place them in decades!) The sweet little deer was given to me by a friend, and the heavy damask gold curtains are a secret.

My fireplace is made of unsightly yellowed tile, very unfitting to the lovely rich wooden frame, and a first matter of business was masking that with pages from a 1950s heath and business book. Until I found a better solution. Which I still have not. Here upon the mantle sits a handmade leatherbound journal I bought at a street market in Florence, Italy, a framed and lace-embellished page from a 1930s screenplay, a wooden Cloverbloom cheesebox (rare, circa 1940s?) I found at the Fairgrounds Flea to house some tea lights, a music box from Sloane, and scrabble letters from my table at a friend's recent wedding. Offset by old bronze deer, Fairgrounds Flea (I think these were $3?!), old books from a friend, including "Due to Lack of Interest Tomorrow Has Been Cancelled", weathered brown tags which I use to label items and instructions around the home and for gifts, flowers in a tiny Dulce de Leche jar (another gift from S). I keep lots of old jars around the house for flowers. I think that's very important.

People keep telling me to google specific things and I just keep forgetting because it is such an affair. I still love not having the internet, but it is still quite inconvenient for a small percentage of my week.

Vacation Day

2010-08-15T20:24:00.005-05:00

I never really get vacations. Even when I go out of town, I combine work and don't get much rest. Today I had the perfect vacation day. We rented a pontoon at the lake, grilled out, swam to several islands, tanned, and relaxed sans distractions. I got in a little embroidery, but mostly I set guinness world records for times jumping off the 2nd level and sliding down the slide. Pontoon day is my favourite day of the year. I already can't wait for next summer.

Spools of Lilac

2010-08-01T15:54:00.001-05:00

Home sweet home... nesting is fun. I do wish that I could share more of my creations lately since I was on such a blogging kick, but I'm really enjoying my limited (eh hem, very very limited) access, (as in if I'm online for more than 3 minutes you'll see a post from me here). I'm enjoying summer, and I'm enjoying work. I'm also enjoying quality time with friends. And specifically, my darling friend Lori.

I could gush for hours about her, but I will basically let these photos of her home do the talking. She is so creative and good at spilling her vivid imagination onto everything she touches. I wish I could be more like that. Lori is an aspiring children's storybook writer, and you can see sparklings of that here! And OH MY GOSH. Look at the photos of her parents with deer?!

If Martha Stewart came out with a Barbie Doll, it would look like Lori, head to toe.

Today a wish sat next to me on the train ride home.
She didn't say much.
Just smiled.
Ever so sweetly.
Ever so simply.
I didn't need words.
I didn't need a touch.
I just needed to know she was close.
And within my reach... when I was ready.
(by Lori)

I have some great little updates on Say Ooh. Be on the lookout!

Kelly & Danny

2010-07-06T21:04:00.004-05:00

This sweet couple was wed just a month ago. I had the honour of creating matching bride and groom accessories, along with the boutonnieres for the groomsmen and hair pretties for the bridesmaids. It was a fun project for a stylish, laid back (as in fairly stress free!) wedding. I was there day of to help things flow in the right order, and really enjoyed being a part of it on that level as well.

Philip Chad shot some lovely photos of the couple lounging in the park, enjoying their first las paletas as Mr. and Mrs. How cute!

Building Things

2010-07-02T13:02:00.002-05:00

I had a couple realisations last night.

One, I own nearly as much vintage/ remade lingerie as I do clothing. Could easily be more. I should probably start selling again.

Two, I spend more time at Home Depot than online, at the mall, and at the gym combined. I try to split my time between two Home Depots and a Lowes so they don't get to recognizing me every few days. I have 4 drills at my house right now, but do not actually own my own electric. I spent 30 minutes last night drooling over a cordless black and decker. The employee in the aisle probably thought I was faking it, as I was wearing a 50s cocktail dress.

Auxiliary

2010-06-21T21:01:00.004-05:00

I try to be versatile in my vision for my own creations, but it's always fun to see the designs and settings through someone else's eyes. Molly, a stylist for NY fashion mag Auxiliary saw my lingerie at Splash Panic and asked me to share some pieces for a swimsuit editorial. I checked out the photographer, Luke, and was thrilled to be a part of it. I tend to showcase my fashions in a very innocent, playful, sweetheart manner... but I adore the attitude and sassyness dripping in these shots. Check out the pdf version of the whole issue on their site, or order a copy!

DESTROY fashion!

2010-06-11T18:27:00.006-05:00

Forgive me for my lack of posts; there's certainly not a lack of action and creativity on my end! This project is quite old, in January 2009 I sewed costumes for a music video for Destroy Destroy Destroy. I think the video looks pretty great... I love the old timey, creepiness to it. And Mom, it's metal.. so you might want to mute the volume and just look at the costumes! Watch here or below.

This week I rewarded a long day and night at the office by taking in a film at The Belcourt, the only place I go to see movies (rare). In the late 90s, I briefly dated a graffiti artist and got really into it. Not tagging, just appreciating. I even got to see some real Banksy tags while I was studying in London, exciting. Exciting! I really love his stuff, but in a way that I don't really know what to say about it. That is exactly how I felt about the film Exit Thru the Gift Shop. I saw it with my friend Paul, and we tried to talk about it for a few minutes afterwards, but phrases were jumbled and I couldn't put my finger on what or how to think. You just need to see it. It's incredible on so many levels. I hope it's playing in your city right now! There's a trailer on the site, in case not. I think this quote from Banksy sums him up well, "Think outside the box, collapse the box, and take a f***ing sharp knife to it." Thierry Guetta is pretty mind-boggling too.

Some of you are probably thinking "Colleen works literally ALL the time. She must be rich now. What is she doing with all her money?!" Well, you're correct. I am now devastatingly wealthy, and putting that money to good use. How? Well, In this 95degree heat, I drive with the driver's side window down.. and the AC on. Luh-luh-luxuuuurious!

$35

2010-06-04T12:23:00.004-05:00

I don't do a ton of "mid-range" shopping. I prefer to shop dirt cheap at the flea market, or get nice things from Anthropologie (okay almost always on sale, but still good quality). I stop by Target or Forever 21 on occasion for quick things, but it's a rarity. I just want to own things that will really last, which is ironic considering my new job, more on that later. But brand new pots and pans are expensive, especially when you have lots of things to replace from moving altogether too many times in the last 6 years (approximately 12, I just did a rough count). Anyhow, I passed a TJ Maxx the other day and just so happened to have received a $40 gift card in the mail recently. Since December, I have been searching high and low, far and wide (NY, LA, NASH, eeeeeverywhere on the WWW) for the perfect, nude coloured heels. No. Luck. ANYWHERE! So doesn't it seem wrong that I stumble upon them (literally, tripped over the only cute shoes in the whole store that happen to be a size 7) that I find the exact style, height and colour at a discount store? Thanks Steve Madden, but why did your cutest shoes not even hit Macy's? I found them for $34.99 tho, so I was more than happy. This purchase would be easily covered with my gift card, but what I REALLY needed was pots to cook all my yummy vegetables in. Cute, matching pots. Pots with non-stick power. I had searched high and low for two weeks for such a product that was not $79.99 per pot. Lo and behold TJ Maxxx.. you win again. You had several half sets, non-matching sets, and ugly pots. But... there was one full set of three ADORABLE pots to match my cute new vintage kitchen. These great pots are the prettiest soft turquoise, which just so happens to match the inside colour of my white, french bathroom trash tin. Granted, how many people will notise that my pots match the innerworkings of le bain?! Well, I catch these things. The set of 3 was only $35, a breath of fresh air post drooling-sesh at Le Crueset. What's a girl to do? Use the gift card for the shoes, which were way cheaper than she expected to pay, or use it for the much needed pots, which were cheaper than she expected to pay?

Obviously I got everything, completely guilt-free.

Here is a snippet of my new place. It's coming together, I can't wait to share more! I found the gorgeous two-piece brass outlet cover at the fairgounds, 2 for $1. This old trunk (I don't know, early 1900s at least) is quite ragged but easily worth a couple hundred. It was marked $10 at the flea market, and while I love bargaining with the vendors there, I almost wanted to offer him MORE! The books I have been collecting for awhile, mostly rare vintage children's books, random old stories with strange titles, french method books, and a 1930s book of Parisian maps from my Grandfather.

Today I googled: lace vinyl placemat. No luck.

Cancer & Bicycles

2010-05-30T20:26:00.000-05:00

More than a few of my close friends and very close family have passed from, or braved through cancer. I'd say that almost all of us love(d) someone who has had the deadly disease. My best friend, my sweet mother is participating in "Ride for Roswell". Please pray that she has the motivation and strength to finish the 30 mile ride, and if you feel so inclined, PLEASE donate towards her ride specifically! All proceeds benefit Roswell research and patients.

Plus, bike riding is just the best ever.

Straight from my mom:
Hi! I am participating in the "Ride for Roswell event" to raise money for research and treatment programs at Roswell. On June 26th, I plan to join others on a 30 mile bike ride along the Niagara River in support of this effort. If you are able, please consider donating. Every pledge matters and makes a difference. Roswell's vision is a world without cancer. As I ride, I remember loved ones who were victims of cancer, and rejoice with those who have survived.
Sincerely,
Betty

You can donate at her personal page here.

Also, I'm super excited to trade in my Schwinn Varsity (that I bought in NY like 8 years ago) for a fancy custom bicycle from Halcyon! There's my friend Wade with his pretty bike (he lives on a farm now). And some cute girl with a cute bike, I don't think I know her. Summertime on the East Side...

Overdue

2010-05-25T01:51:00.006-05:00

Sometimes I'm bad with being overdue. I have an unfair speeding ticket that has been sitting on my dash that must be paid by this week. I let my etsy fees become so overdue that they deleted 25 items (it was only 1.45, why didn't I pay it?) And I'm completely overdue in posting these gorgeous wedding photos.

I was honoured to create Save the Dates for my friend Liz and her new hubby Paul. They recently moved from South Africa to England, and had their wedding in an old castle in London! Glamorous. I sent a peacock hair accessory and veil over to her which coupled elegantly with the gown that she designed with one of her friends. Correct me if I'm wrong; I believe it was influenced by an Oscar de la Renta. I know I posted a lot of photos, but they're just too charming not too. I'm sure my other favs will sneak into later blogs.

Photos by Cicely.

Instead of googling, tonight I just danced. It had been far, far *too long.

*not including a fun double date to the honky tonks last week, where I also danced my butt off

2010-05-24T21:54:00.007-05:00

Carry Me Away

2010-05-24T00:32:00.002-05:00

I need a vacation. And to relearn how to "sleep in".
(Today I googled diy bed canopy)

Craigslist

2010-05-19T19:36:00.006-05:00

I will no longer be perusing this site daily (eh hem, hourly) for apartments or jobs! Or gigs! Now, I will pretty much only be looking at missed connections. Guilty pleasure. And, coughcough, maybe you know my missed story from a year ago. Gotta love it.

One of my exciting new things is that I'm moving (I won't admit to how many times I've moved in the last 5 years, or last 1 year even). To my own place! A cozy little home in the heart of East Nashville to call my own. Let me know if you'd like me to mail you a letter with my new address! Or better yet.. if you'd like to help me move ;) Or better yet... if you'd like to buy things I can't take with me. Art included. Name your price. I'm really excited about the cute little retro kitchen I will have, with soon-to-be ballet slipper pink walls. They will match my new apron just delightfully! My dear friends Rebekka and Manley are adopting a sweet little baby girl, Beda Beulah, from Ethiopia. She is making and selling gorgeous aprons to help fund part of the adoption. I think they are even prettier than the ones at Anthro. Rebekka also helped give me some advice for efficiency living, as they recently moved into a loft downtown. I need to visit her again soon at her yummy work! This gal does it all, I tell ya. What an inspiration.

As for the job factor, well, ask me in person if you can actually catch me not working or moving. I'll blog about it down the road!

omgOMGOMGOMGomgomg

2010-05-13T21:56:00.005-05:00

OMG! I have so much big news to tell y'all! (what like I have 100s of readers? No, the few of you) Okay. I'm so so excited. Things are happening. Things HAVE HAPPENED!

I'm going to start telling some of you in person and then I'll make fun blogs about the things here and there. It's 2010 y'all! Be excited with me!

PS I swear this isn't going to become just a personal diary. More design posts soon.
PPS Today I googled "omg hipster" to find a funny picture to go with this post, but ended up settling on the funfetti I already had saved as inspiration.

Inspired, &again

2010-05-10T19:43:00.004-05:00

I'm so easily inspired (although not easily impressed). I suppose I may already make that clear. This particular image (via lelove) has both inspired and resonated with me recently. So much so, apparently, that I accidentally put it in my "Inspirations" folder twice in the year 2010. Also, I am often given just the right words at just the right time. Today on my lunch break I read:

In this life, many of your questions will simply not have answers. But through it all, God himself will never change. This is why our faith must rest on his identity and not necessarily his activity. -Pete Wilson

What comfort.

Timbre & Tetra

2010-05-07T19:03:00.006-05:00

Life has been crazy lately. I don't even know where to start, so let me simply say that Nashville has been turned upside down due to torrential storms and flooding.

The night it all went down (or started to!) my dear friend Timbre had her cd release at the Rutledge. I had the fun assignment of making her a little hair wreath! So... here's a picture of her, and one of the lil flowers modeled by yours truly!

Her sweet sister Tetra is planning a three month trip to Mozambique this summer. She'll be working with Iris Ministries, run by Heidi and Rolland Baker. They work with orphans, villagers of Pemba Mozambique, and people of the Bush. Tonight, she is hosting a handmade craft and baked goods fair in East Nashville to help raise funds. You can get your hands on some cheap Say Ooh accessories, along with other lovely surprises.

Babies & Fringe

2010-04-24T02:44:00.006-05:00

Babies. I love babies. I love all my many friends with new babies or babies in their bellies. Babies are just EVERYWHERE these days. And how can that not make one giggle with joy? I love making cute baby things, like these moccassins, attributed to my native heritage. (made with yummy Marc Jacobs wool and NOT deer skin)

I just visited my dear friend Jill and her brand new, adorable little boy, Addison. They and daddy Russ are a darling family! I was excited to see a picture of Addi on her blog wearing the lil moccs. He's growing so fast, they probably won't fit too long, but they were so cute I wanted to touch the screen and pinch his toes. And check out his handsome woodsy sweater. Yep, the ever-talented Jill knit that for him. Make sure to sneakpeak their creatively decorated nursery and her fun pregnancy (in a minute) video.

Moccs for purchase at Social Graces in Hillsboro Village. Baby headdresses available upon request.

Today I googled "lion face".

Profiles

2010-04-21T11:35:00.012-05:00

One of my favourite illustrations has always been silhouetting. I think it's so fun to layer them, or leave them plain and simple for a nice, stark contrast to crisp white paper. Recently, I've been seeing the work of Jenny Lee Fowler popping up all over the world wide web. Fowler's art has been featured in print/ online in House Beautiful, Martha Stewart Living, OhDeeDoh, Elle Decoration South Africa, Craft, Small Magazine, Inhabitots, The Frisky, etc. Her custom illustrations are really delicate and wonderful, but it's the nature inspired leaf and birch series that has captured my heart!

Though I have done a decent amount of profiles in my day, checking external drives for work is such a daunting task! Here is an old Save the Date card I did awhile back for my brother and his lovely wife. It's simple, the first sample I could find.

This sweet lady also has some great art. Aside from some interesting profiles, I adore her drawing/ painting style, PLUS she has a dainty little swan sewing pattern, and the cutest name to boot.

Ages ago, I spent the better part of a year finding A Child's Garden of Verses with the silhouetted illustrations (there are many publications, versions, and illustrators to these wonderful stories). Eventually I ended up with TWO vintaged copies. I never did get a tattoo from one of the pretty drawings as was my original intent.

Today I googled "Paris Hilton's British Best Friend". I watched it last night while babysitting. Y'all, it's GOOD. I have a love/ hate relationship with Meddy (and maybe with the show in general).

BFLO represent

2010-04-10T00:00:00.006-05:00

I guess it's inevitable for disappointment to run in my blood. I mean, look at how many times the Buffalo Bills lost the Super Bowl. (& yeah, we always wore the previous years sweatshirts)

Today I googled Ted Danson. He got OLD.

The Pursuit of Happiness

2010-04-06T18:53:00.013-05:00

I realised I hadn't shared my new(ish) setup at Local Honey! Most of you know I can be found at the cute boutique once a week, but for you out of towners, here's a little visit to my corner of the shop. Shea and co. keep the shop stocked with oodles of great vintage finds! The great, colourful collages to the left of the suitcase are made by Shea Steel.

I recently found this great video on my friend Paul's blog. Reasons I had to reblog:
a. I love Kid Cudi.
b. I totally "get it"... right now I feel like I'm looking for happiness. Walking around with a somber face, no smile. But hey, I'm wearing a cute hair accessory and a bad-a red sweater that is covered in knitted desserts. So, I'll be fine once I get it.
c. Okay the video is incredible?! The way it is shot reminds me of this one I shared.
d. PS this version is soooo good too. But less relate-able for me.

Obviously today I just googled Kid Cudi lyrics. OBVIOUSLY.

Splash Panic meets Say Ooh!

2010-04-03T13:38:00.006-05:00

And it was a lovely, albeit removed (by location) introduction. Splash Panic is a hip, fun boutique in Buffalo, NY that I had visited last Christmas. They just started carrying Say Ooh accessories, nighties, and leotards in their new spring lineup. I'm excited and honoured! A piece or two quickly debuted with Splash Panic's involvement in a fashion show at UB.

Before sending off a trunk of goods to SP, I had an impromptu photoshoot with the lovely and talented Brooke Waggoner. Please check out her music, it's quite addicting (my iTunes play counts are embarrassing). Okay, I can't stop uploading photos so just check out the rest here.

It's spring and I'm just loving it. Today I googled: biodynamic farming.

Catfight!

2010-03-23T16:13:00.005-05:00

My dear friend Mia is throwing this great show tomorrow, March 24th at 9pm. A Not-So-Battle-Royal at Mercy Lounge Featuring Nashville's Fiercest Lady Songsters: Come party with Kink Ador, Mia Calderon, Esseri, Kat Smo and DJ Jarrid Lezcano (Puerto Rico Spinster) spinning in-between and late night.

FREE GIFT STASHES FOR ATTENDING RSVPs* with goodies from HUE, Clothing Xchange, Local Honey, Smack, and coupons from me!

...there will be dancing. Hope y'all can make it!

The End, The Beginning...

2010-03-17T13:32:00.007-05:00

Okay I have big news that I've been holding onto. BIG news. The cloud that has been hovering my head/ life for more than 2 years is being lifted. I have been caught in this awful lawsuit which has kindof put my future on hold. Well, it's finally OVER! I didn't "win" (I was not the sue-er so I couldn't) but my lawyer settled and I don't have to declare bankruptcy, which was my fear. It's been a long struggle, and it still is as I sort out finances and determine what to do with my life now. I'm trying to take it one day at a time so I don't get stressed out, but let me just say that God is providing, and I'm both scared and excited at possibilities for my future.

Anyhow, I never get that personal. But it's such a major part of my life that I had to share! I know I didn't put any details, but if you are a close friend you might know, and if not, well, I'll keep you up to date about whatever changes this means in my life and Say Ooh. Oh and unfortunately, due to recent events partially involved, I will not be making it to Buffalo next week. Aaaand my ticket was nonrefund so I'm not sure when I'll make it. Oops.

My friend Rachel recently sent me this video and said that this is how she pictures the inside of my head. It moved me because a. I love Müm and b. this is a pretty good representation of my mind (especially lately).

This weekend is the Feedback Fashion Show. I love doing it because Aubree and Kallie take care of eeeeverything. All I do is give them clothes and accessories and set up my little table. No drama, no setbacks, no.. wait.. Well... there WAS the flashflood last year but that was beyond their control! Anyhow, it's $5 at Belmont at 7pm on Friday. I'll have some GREAT deals on cute spring headbands.

Today I googled: "Qingdao" And today my mother gets here for a visit. Ecstatic.

Nudes: week 2

2010-03-16T00:08:00.003-05:00

While the first model was quite lovely, I'm glad it changes up weekly. I'm definitely enjoying the class and look forward to it each Tuesday. The first week I worked in black and white, this time I worked in yellow ochre, burnt sienna, raw sienna. Kindof a Renaissance feel. It's fun to work small, but I'm afraid I'm pushing the canvas (and my borders) too much.

I have been making so many headbands, and remade so much lingerie that I had to go out for more supplies on Sunday. As I was snapping shots, I realised I never posted pictures of my room after I moved (in August!) I'll have to share those with you soon. Here, you can see some watch faces I collaged for jewelry (which I forgot to try to sell), a vintage golden jewlery box, a golden framed embroidery, deer statuettes from my brother's girlfriend, and a hint of a vintage deer lamp from my mother.

My gorgeous roommate Meg posed for some quick shots for me. More of those later, and hopefully on my website soon. Trying to revamp that! Another fun shoot today with a special surprise model/friend/guest/talent.

Today I googled "wormwood tea". (Okay, I haven't been on the computer to google anything today, but I did yesterday!)

A bellydancer, A snakecharmer...

2010-03-13T13:07:00.005-06:00

So, I'm pretty excited about my most recent inspirations. I just started taking bellydance classes with my friend Jenn (you may recognize her from Say Ooh shoots), and I'm already OBSESSED! I'm getting to know new muscles in my body I never knew existed. I absolutely cannot wait until I can break out a shimmy on the street.. if you know me you know I love to dance. Aside from the actual dancing, I adore the bedlah. It's certainly going to influence some upcoming accessories & fashions. I'm already on the lookout for pearls, coins, mooooore lace and silk, etc. I had already been starting to layer my work more, and this is another step in that direction. Hopefully I can have some goodies together in the next couple months. If you live in Nashville and want to come to class with me, Thursday nights and Saturday afternoons!

Also, I have some great finds from an estate sale yesterday. I have been wanting a vintage trunk for as long as I can remember (10 years?) and finally found a beautiful one I could afford. As in, under $100. Photos soon. Today I googled: Rachel Brice.

Nudes: week 1

2010-03-10T11:11:00.005-06:00

I have been wanting to take a figure study class for a long time. I haven't in about 7 years. My first year in college, I went to a very conservative liberal arts school, and the models were not allowed to be nude. They wore bathing suits. Before that, my very first figure study class, I was about 16 years old and pretty darn innocent to the male form, outside of text books. I signed up for a class at University at Buffalo and showed up to a room half filled with college students, half older adults. I was going to impress! I remember taking out my charcoal and oversized drawing pad, setting up my easel, looking up as the class began. An oddball character in his 80s was situated on the platform, basking in the halogen lights, ripped off his robe to reveal himself, struck a pose... and left me nervous, probably with my jaw hanging. We'll just say he was known around campus as "horse".

Plaza offers a great variety of classes, and that's where I'm taking figure study. My forté was drawing large scale, so I decided to paint small scale. I suppose my goals are to get a better feel for the human form, it's lovely curvatures, shades, proportions, expressions. It's a been frustrating because I haven't tried drawing the body in so long, but I know that I'll make progress week to week. My style should (hopefully) develop more into the images I have in my head.

Here is my first painting from the first class. I aim to paint a pose every 30-45 minutes.

Today I googled "what on earth should I do with my life". One link pulled up a self help book, another said to go out to lunch with the love of my life.

and... Cut

2010-03-06T16:28:00.004-06:00

Well, Peter and Lance finished editing the commercial in one night. Hope you enjoy. Please feel free to repost, or I'll probably email pester you to do so later on! Edith cover by Pomplamoose.

Watch here. Please rate it (stars) or comment here if you like it! Or if you don't like it, you're free to say that as well. Today I googled "veg irish recipes".

and... Take One!

2010-02-23T19:56:00.005-06:00

Today I had the honour and pleasure of working on a Say Ooh commercial with my friend Peter and my new friend Lance. We set up at Justin's downtown loft with minimal props (as Justin is amazing at creating environments and having interesting things all around. Sidenote, he creates and builds the look in Urban, as well as designer pop up shops around the world), and a ton of lighting and film equipment. It was a lot of excitement in a little bit of space, on a gloomy Nashville afternoon. Never you mind, the spirits of models Kris and Lauren were high, and they fit into the roles I threw at them quite effortlessly.

I can't wait to see everything edited together, and share with you. For now, here's a little collage from our day's work. Please click on it to see much better!

Oh, and Justin made us muffins before heading to work at 5am. ...what a guy.
Today I googled "vintage tap dance costumes".

Lesson

2010-02-17T16:17:00.004-06:00

Strangers and my best friends always pronounce my name wrong. My birth name, and my company name. No matter how many times I correct. It's kindof silly. So, here is a lesson for you to refer to.

Colleen Wandel
rhymes with
"Y'all Seen Pond Ell"

Say Ooh
rhymes with
"Pay Boo"

End of class.
Today I googled "millinery techniques".

A Girl & A Little Boat

2010-02-16T20:50:00.008-06:00

I love using treasures bestowed from my Grandma, or gems found at estate sales that once belonged to another's Grandma! A couple months ago I had the pleasure of an impromptu backyard photoshoot in the crisp early winter air with my dear friend, Chelsey. It was fun and everything looked so darling on her. I wish I could describe music, but if you know me you know I am poor at it. So, rather than trying (and embarrassing myself on the internet, where everything is public and permanent), I will just say that it is very pretty. Check it out for yourself.

Today I googled "moussaka"... which I cooked... and it was WONDERFUL!

Bonne Saint Valentin

2010-02-13T02:02:00.006-06:00

Oh Goodness. Tomorrow is officially Valentine's day! People who hate Valentine's Day (which I do completely understand) blame it on commercialism and pin it as the invention of Hallmark. But you know what? Hallmark was founded in 1910, and Pope Gelasius determined February 14 a holiday after Valentine(s?) in 496. So... it's REAL! VALENTINE'S DAY IS REAL! It is so much more than cards and candy and flowers and another silly date for your beau to forget and drop the ball. It's about LOOOOOOOOOOVE! /an excuse to get giddy over what to wear and go on a date or two. And I am not one to pass up that type of opportunity. A favourite of Vday is a cheesey, off-the-wall vintage valentine. Of course it's fun to make your own (mostly when you are in grade school)... but it's such a treat to find some adorable old timey ones, especially if they're signed and dated. Here's a lovely one I got last year from this lil lady. Followed by some others I found online.

Today I googled "Vintage Valentine's Poems". I'm a girl. I love love.

When first I saw thee, dearest one, Chief among the young and fair,
Little did I think that then, Cupid's self was lurking there,
Knew not till I felt the dart, Thou hads't borne away my heart!

Be Mine

2010-02-06T13:53:00.007-06:00

Listen up gents, it doesn't matter how insignificant or dumb you think Valentine's day is. Chances are, even if she won't admit it, your lady is into it. And expects a token of your love. Flowers and candy are sweet and all, but this year why not show her that you know fashion?

These comfy, flirty leotards (on AA) are just the thing. A variety of sizes and colours, available via email or visit Local Honey. If you're looking for the perfect négligée instead, let me know in the next few days and I can swing a custom order.

Oh and ladies, if you need the perfect Vday hair accessory, come to Local Honey or Feedback. Baskets of Valentiney accessories for under $10. As in, most are $5. Soooo cheap!

Today, I googled "how to peel an orange in one piece"

Tellier Nights

2010-01-27T01:49:00.005-06:00

Mainly, a few preferred photos from my shoot with Chels. These pieces are currently sprinkled about Mesh, Local Honey, and my etsy. Next goals are to stock up in my studio for an upcoming collaboration as well as the next runway show, and knock out some of these fun wedding projects I have going on for a few ravishing brides-to-be. Oh, please be on the lookout for more fun at LH.

Today I googled Conrad Roset. (again)
And tomorrow, I will be on the West Coast.

Googling

2010-01-24T22:50:00.008-06:00

Custom projects: love/hate relationship, certainly thankful for them. A little bit of cash, and always a learning experience. My friend Brian asked me to sew a onesie for his daughter out of his fiance's favourite VS pajamas. Initially we wanted to just use the top as fabric so they could have a lil matching set, but that pattern demanded every inch of fabric. I found a vintage Simplicity onesie pattern on etsy. In my past experience (we're talking high school here, looong time ago), Simplicity patterns are quite... simple. As in, 1hr or less and no questions asked. Not the case. This one was a nightmare, to be honest. BUT! If I wanted to make another, I could certainly do it in less time. The directions were not very clear, I ran out of fabric, and I had a problem with fray. Nonetheless, I finished it in two days. Approximately 5 or 6 hours, start to finish, including pattern confusion and fabric cutting/ planning. I'm the girl who won't look at directions, I just want to figure it out myself. 90% of the time I revert to directions because I've really screwed up and possibly broken a brand new product (building something out of wood, coffee pot assembly, automobile problems, anything requiring directions really). That said, I detest and almost never use sewing patterns.

Enough rambling.

Also, I have a fun, new game. With every post, I will share something I googled that day. I'm not quite sure what my life would be without googling. I can imagine life without internet. I cannot imagine life without google search. This is definitely a window into my soul. So please never make fun of what I google. (okay, fine, just do it in good nature). Today I googled "tangled bobbin 1/4" elastic fix". (sidenote, if google doesn't help, call your mother) Whew. That was just to ease in. After learning what to do for that, I googled "olsen twin boyfriends".

Don't ask. Never ask.

Furry Vintage Friends

2010-01-18T17:52:00.004-06:00

I claim no rights or talents to being a photographer in any manner, as the extent of my experience is film photog in highschool and 2 semesters in college (in conjunction with easy-to-learn Italian cds). But I do enjoy the physical act of composing and snapping easy shots. And it's always convenient to shoot your own work.

I'm really excited about the mini shoot today over breakfast at a friends. I took a quick 5 minutes to edit one photo and share with you! More to come...

Pointless

2010-01-17T00:17:00.003-06:00

I'm beginning to realise that January 1st is a pointless date. I tend to place too much emphasis on it, and "fresh starts". I'm often tempted to write about my personal life here, but thank goodness I don't. A lot of you read this and then randomly tell me months later, when I'm surprised. Which isn't to say I won't share with you, but words are always better in person, and much is better left unsaid anyhow. All to say, 2009 was, as a whole, the most difficult year of my life. Which started 2010 off to be possibly the best, and most hopeful year. For a couple days. It's been a difficult two weeks, and I'm struggling to fight feelings of hopelessness. Sound depressing? Sorry.

That was just an introduction to my NEW resolution! To find, create, contribute to, and appreciate as much beauty as I can get my hands and eyes on. Truly. Typically this is a staple of my life, but I'm going to place even more emphasis on it.
This video is what inspired me. I relate to it on a lot of levels. Erika Janunger is pretty incredible.

Here are a few newer pieces I shot, as modeled by my friend Alanna. If you snoop her tumblr a bit, you'll catch a couple shots she took of me. & my home! We had a little playdate with her camera, but my d70 is back from Dr. Wolf; I am oh-so-excited! (Lingerie photoshoot tmrw.)

Beauty Sleep vs. Workaholic

2010-01-13T01:24:00.010-06:00

I'm in Nashville for a while now. So I might as well get comfortable. Which, in winter, usually means snuggling in my four poster white bed, space heater on low, and some type of french film or my lala (ehhem, email me for an invite to connect) on the speakers. All the while working on something crafty, obviously. I admit tho, it's difficult to successfully sew via machine from under the covers. And Mom... you're probably reading this. My cross stitches are getting vulgar. I'm sorry. It's supposed to be funny, tongue in cheek, they're not hanging around my house I'm just selling them. I promise!

When I was in Buffalo, I restocked a shop where I sell, Urban. If you live there, you've probably been. I was addicted during my high school snowboarding phase, and they still carry great brands like FCUK, David Bitton, Penguin, etc. If you're bored with your hair, don't get a cut or dyejob, just go there and buy some Say Ooh accessories. I've gotten back in the game of updating my online shop too, so please check it out! If you're local I won't charge you shipping, and I'll probably give you a cupcake or apple or something too. In typical fashion.

Everyone knows I'm obsessed with deer. If you didn't, then we've never met and you've certainly never seen my bedroom. I've been looking for the perfect golden deer ring for awhile, but everything is $500 or really ugly. I finally found THE ring during my setup at The Market last month, right smack next to my table. His jewelry is fashionable, unisex, and absolutely gorgeous. Pleeeease, I beg you, do yourself a favour and checkout Digby And Iona. You will certainly have an urge to impulse buy at least 50% of the pictured product. Your credit card may hate you for it, but definitely worth it.

Ugh, deer, okay, bringing me back. I was going thru old files and found some art I had made three years ago, when I was concentrating more on curating as well as getting my own work into shows. Here's some old textile work I did. Stitching and screenprinting backed on a wooden frame. I think these were abt 4ft wide. Just for old times sake...

I've been frequenting my favourite Nashville spot, Patterson House, a little too much. I used to just go for special occasions, birthdays, celebrations. In the tiny handful of days I've been back in Nashy, I have found myself there "when I have a good day", or "when I need to help a bad day", um that covers it. Good day, bad day. It's probably the winter blues. But it somehow seems justifiable to my dreary bank account if I eat cottage cheese for dinner and follow it up with a yummy Juliet & Romeo.

Anyhow, it's much too late, and certainly impossible for me to get a proper amount of beauty rest necessary. Bon soir, mes amis.

Home is Where the Heart Is

2009-12-26T17:03:00.004-06:00

...and my heart is in my chest so I suppose everywhere I go truly does feel like home to me. I've only been gone from Nashville for two weeks and while I miss the good people and good dancing and my wonderful life there, I'm really enjoying my little journey.

The Market in Nolita went well, disregarding the awful timing of a nor-easter snow storm. My car got stuck twice, and it took a little over an hour to drive about 2.5 miles over the Brooklyn Bridge. It was absolutely freezing, I was tired and hungry, and not many people showed due to weather, but it was worth it. I hope to return in the spring! Aside from that, my trip was very inspiring and I caught up on some well-needed sleep (due to some rigorous Bikram in Union Square). Also, I ate a lot of yummy vegan food.

My time in Buffalo has been full of movies, hot drinks, sewing, cuddling, puppy bites, mom-time, Best Fitness, friendly snow, and some of the following:

I will have lots of new work to share with y'all soon! $280 and 4 weeks from now I should have my old Nikon back... sob sob.

Ode to Betsey

2009-12-17T22:43:00.005-06:00

I've been in NYC. Walking lots, seeing friends, getting kicked in the butt by bikram yoga on a daily basis, finding inspiration in big and small places, handstitching lace in places like the Roebling Tea Room (amazing), and umm, of course. Shopping. Fortunately I have Christmas as an excuse, so I can just buy for other people. Today tho, I did buy for myself at the Betsey Johnson sample sale in Times Sq. When the girl who rang me out realised it was to be my FIRST Betsey dress (or 3), she almost had a heartattack and we bonded for about 10 minutes, and she told everyone in the room how exciting it was that it was my first. And that she was honoured to ring me out. And then everyone told the tales of their first Betsey dresses. It was kindof magical.

I mean, sigh... I would get married in something like this. (Not the ones I bought)

Speaking of... why is Betsey Johnson not designing WEDDING CAKES?! Or at least cupcakes. Her cupcakes would probably be the prettiest ones in the world. (PS Google image search "gourmet cupcakes" and find the picture of Tori Spelling... hehe)

Timbre

2009-12-11T13:07:00.003-06:00

I am so blessed to have such a network of creative friends in Nashville. One of my favourite musicians, Timbre Cierpke plays the harp and sings like a siren from The Odyssey. Every year, she plays a Christmas concert with her family. The first one I went to, I teared up. Not even kidding.

She is playing tonight with her family and a choir. A ridiculously low $5 at the door, The Anchor, 7:30pm. This year, local vendors will set up for a holiday market. I'll be there with Say Ooh all night. It will be a great chance to do some holiday shopping and support local crafters/ artists/ bakers/ what have you.. but the most exciting part will be the music.

Rainy day at Local Honey

2009-12-08T16:31:00.005-06:00

Here and there I work at Local Honey, a great vintage shop where I sell some of my creations. I tend to only work on really rainy days, which was fine today as I had gossip girl, my glue gun, and lots of velvet & lace. Along with a few visitors.

Here is Jordan. She said she feels like a J Crew model today, in her $5 estate sale boots, leggings, (my) white ruffled dress, and cozy flannel. You still have an hour to visit and buy that darling luggage as pictured.

Also, new lace pendants on sale here & special order via online. I just finished a new set of lovely gold... all shapes and sizes!

Naked

2009-12-03T01:52:00.007-06:00

vs. fashionably clothed. Naked Without Us is our local fashion networking that hosts runway and trunk shows. I've written about previous events. A couple weeks ago, NWU had a 2 day market chock-fulla designers at Mai, complete with afterparties with lights and dancing. I was nestled between friends Shea Steele and Carmen Jaudon. That same weekend, I did a photoshoot with my lovely and talented friends, the Jensen twins. We had much fun! Below are just a couple shots from the market, and LG pictures of things I had at the market. Golden bows adorning sweet, silky, lacey playfulware seems to be my favourite right now.

My goals for the month:
blog more
sewsewsew (already accomplishing that one)
market in Nolita
get my nikon fixed

NAKED WITHOUT US:

Nonfash, primarily

2009-11-10T23:05:00.005-06:00

Here are some recent, non-fashion-related projects. Some wedding cards and the cover of the cd I did for Austin. We were really pleased with the results, and can't wait to see it in print! He's having a cd release next Thursday, 8pm at Mercy Lounge. It will be wonderful, come out if you can! Here's an insight to his music: "Austin cites two of his influences as Claude Debussy and Jeff Buckley. Debussy's sense of romance and space and Buckley's willingness to rock and soar are echoed in his work. Envy uses strings, horns, and crackling electrics to round out his sound in a way that is classically indie."

Last week was spent in Black Mountain, just outside of Asheville, NC. I holed up in a cabin in the woods with my dear family. When I wasn't in the hot tub, playing card games, or cooking, I was sewing. Be on the lookout. Photoshoot coming up, right before Naked Without Us fashion market, this Saturday and Sunday, 1-10pm at Mai. There will be some great afterparties too, of course!

Envy the Moon

2009-10-30T01:12:00.007-05:00

Last night, I was under the influence of some yummy wine and the exhaustion of a long day's work. Lying on a couch, trying to continue contribution to the sewing of Kris's Pinnochio costume. (best leiderhosen of the year, to be sure) Suddenly, I perked up at the mention of album art... to the tune of... ms paint?!

I just could NOT have that, especially to a dear friend, and ESPECIALLY in conjunction with an absolutely wonderful record. So, in a deadline of less than 48 hours, I am hoping to pull together amazing album art (to be reflective of content) for my favourite Nashville indian native boy, Austin Manuel.

Be on the lookout.

PS: On an unrelated note, I have fallen upon the best post-breakup music to date. Rotating Lily Allen, It's Not Me It's You with Mumford and Sons, Sigh No More. It's the ultimate mix. It is perfect to drive and sing with. You have your "Oh tell me now, where was my fault in loving you with all my heart" and your "f* you very very muuuuuch" in a cute British accent. Thank me later, when you and your loved one have departed.

Much Love!

Old Films, older fashion

2009-10-22T14:50:00.004-05:00

Yesterday I was asked about my fashion design influences. You can get a good idea from skimming thru my blog, but two big things are films from the 50s, and old 20s French fashion. I mean anything French is dapper, elegant, sophisticated, and ridiculously sexy, but not trashy. EVER. As for the films, I have always been a lover of Hepburn, Hitchcock, old Barbara Streisand. (think funny girl, which I just rewatched... appropriately subtitled in french). The extravagant costumes in any of those are to DIE for! I mean, they just knew how to do it right, and how to do it in a timeless fashion.

Let's play dress up everyday!

Nature in Market

2009-10-08T22:27:00.005-05:00

Last weekend was the final Walden Artisan Market in East Nashville. I was honoured to be part of the first, and a handful along the way. It's rounding out to just short of a year, and the lovely Alison Egerton has rented the space to a soon-to-be veggie restaurant. Exciting!

Tho it rained much, we all had a nice time at this market. Thanks to Alison for organizing the event time and time again!