Author Archive

September 9th, 2010

Me & Martha

What I found visiting Martha this morning.

DIY Ribbon Runners from purlsoho.com are not only easy, but machine washable.

Freshen clothes with cedar blocks from woodlore.com. When their scent weakens, sand them slightly to bring out their aroma!

Contour Spray Bottle from containerstore.com is a must for mixing homemade all-purpose cleansers.

Stackable boxes (PP Make Box) from muji.us are the perfect way to get little things organized.

32. The Trousseau Leaf sheets by Martha Stewart (macys.com) feature intricate contrast stitching.

33. A Buddhist knot on the Gobi embroidered sheets (serenaandlily.com) gives Zs a Zen backdrop.

34. Bamboo-cotton 300-count bedding (thecompanystore.com) is ultra soft, with a nice hit of texture.

35. The subtle block print on the Jala Khaki duvet (johnrobshaw.com) mixes easily with other patterns.

36. The fun, updated polka dot on the Henny Cirkel bedding (ikea.com) is great in a kid’s room.

37. Fair warning: The plush Eileen Fisher Crushed Silk quilt (garnethill.com) may make it hard to get out of bed.

38. A Glacier National Park blanket (pendleton-usa.com) is as cozy as it was more than 100 years ago.

39. Handmade in Maine, the wool Winter blanket (swansislandblankets.com) will last a lifetime — or two.

40. The all-cotton Herringbone weave blanket (brahmsmount.com) is an ideal weight for Indian summer.
I don’t think there needs to be anymore explanation. The colors, textures, and patterns are perfection.

Last but not least, I was completely terrified by this picture. Girl, if you were going for horrifying you totally nailed it! What the What?!

all images courtesy of Martha Stewart Living

 

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September 8th, 2010

Fall Is Coming

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September 8th, 2010

To My Boji, Boobie, Joanna, Jomanna

 

Dear Joanna,

      Happy Birthday! In class today I learned that Sept. 8th is not only your day of birth but has two very significant historical events.

1) Today in 70 CE  Titus (Emperor of Rome)besieged  and conquered Jerusalem, destroying the Temple!

2) In 1504 Michelangelo unveiled the famous Statue of David in Florence.

Didn’t your birthday just get so much cooler?  I’m going to research my birthday now so we can compare events…Anyways, I just wanted to give you a Bella Life shout-out because you are my boo and I love you! We have had ups and downs, some serious cries and laughs, and eaten a lot of food together at 12:30 am. Thank you for being my secret keeper and sharing my love for anything ancient. I wouldn’t want to talk about the Vikings, Celtic languages, and Roman literature with anyone else.  You forced our friendship down my throat with your quick wit and generous heart and I am so glad my pride finally crumbled ;) Cheers to 25 more years of friendship.

xoxoxo

Keighley

Post Script: Remember how I was horribly rude to you on campus 2 weeks ago? Forgive me… I was a total biotch. My only excuse being I was stressed and standing outside in 115 degree whether. (wow, my excuse is so lame. sorry.)

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September 8th, 2010

shopping with the girls: Moth House Etsy

I am a little flustered right now. I just stumbled upon Moth House Shop on Etsy and I am completely head over heels for this jewelry! Not only do I love the jewelry but the artist is adorable and obviously has such a great personality. Check it out!

Tell us a bit about yourself.

Hi! My name is Sharina. I’m 24 years old and I live in sunny Jacksonville, Florida with my boyfriend Alexander and our adorable Old English sheepdog, Clementine.

I am enamored with all things vintage. I blame this condition on my grandparents’ old farmhouse in Iowa. I spent countless summers there rummaging through drawers, reading old cards, and trying on the fur capelets and floor-length dresses still hanging in the closets. The name Moth House comes from this idea of exploration and history. I often daydream about one of my pieces being found years from now and being loved all over again.

Apart from creating things, what do you do?

Even when I’m not creating, my mind is never far from conjuring up new designs. That being said, the bills still have to get paid. Unfortunately, this is not a “Quit your Day Job” interview so I work two part-time jobs besides Etsy. Although balancing three jobs can be hectic at times, the thought of working 8-5 every day makes me cringe. I like having the freedom to travel and take afternoon naps. Naps are very important to me.

Please describe your creative process.

As fashionable as I may be in my mind, the reality is you can usually find me in a grey t-shirt and jeans. So that’s where I start. I love the idea that one piece of jewelry can completely transform an outfit from grungy to chic. It is the best feeling to know that people are buying something you made to express their personal style.

I work with as many vintage materials as possible, so the most exciting part of beginning a new collection is the treasure hunt. Once I have collected all my new goodies, I sit and stare at them. Sometimes the answer is obvious and a piece will just kind of make itself. Other times, it takes me weeks to realize that the chain I bought to use as a bracelet really wants to be pulled apart and made into a pair of earrings.

In ten years, where would you like to be?

I would love to have my own studio where I can work and hang out with my pup all day. I’d like the rest to be a surprise.

I love gold and I heart Sharina. Check out Moth House

xoxo

 

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September 7th, 2010

Celebrating Blog Week with…drumroll…. Decor8 Blog!

Tomorrow, we officially finish our week (and a day) celebration of International Blog Day. When we originally discussed the possibility of celebrating International Blog Day we planned to only spotlight a handful of our favorite blogs on August 31st. We quickly realized that we loved TOO MANY blogs and it would be nearly impossibly to narrow down our favorites to fill only 1 day. So version two of International Blog Dayquickly took shape and we concluded that if we  highlighted two blogs each day  for an entire week we would be able to get a good amount of content up from some of our favorite reads. It was only a matter of hours however that option 2 quickly went kaput due to an overwhelming amount of responses from some of our favorite bloggers! Not only were we flattered they responded to “little ol’ us” so quickly, but we were honored that these amazing Blog-ettes trusted us to use parts of their original content. {This may not make sense to some of you, but in the blogging world using someone else’s blog content is a big “No, No” without written approval.}

Anyways, one of the bloggers we where most anxious to hear back from but also resigned to not getting a response from was decor8 blog. Decor8 blog, (to us) started the home decor blogging revolution and when you are that important,  a lot of people tend to want your time and attention . We didn’t think getting a response was even possible since (most likely) there are hundreds and thousands of emails flooding her inbox on a weekly basis. Boy, were we wrong. As we sat in our office one bright and dreadfully hot Arizona day, I opened our email account to see that we had a response from the one and only Mrs. Holly Becker! (The Founder & Editor of decor8) I think I may have fallen off of my chair when I saw her name pop up in our inbox. and then I proceeded to faint when I read that she thought I was “cute”.  Got chills? Me too.

Emailing back and forth with Holly was like a blogging dream come true. It is no secret that we brag to anyone who will listen that WE have been following decor8 blog from some of her earliest posts…. I’m talking 2006 people! It feels like only yesterday that I stumbled upon decor8while sitting at my mothers kitchen table with my boobie Joanna. Since then, decor 8 has been apart of my life and I have loved every minute of it. Wow, I digress. Although it is near impossible to sum up the awesomeness of decor8 blog  in one post, I will attempt to highlight some of the best aspects- in my personal and professional opinion *wink.

 

 

Meet Holly Becker, an American writer and design consultant who splits her time between her offices in Portsmouth, New Hampshire and Hannover, Germany.  Through extensive travel throughout North America and Europe, along with working for major magazines and interacting with talented artists and designers worldwide, Holly’s catalog of daily finds keeps her closely tied into the field.  Plus, it allows her to work as a design consultant & writer (while keeping her style fresh and creative).

In addition to decor8 and her design practice, Holly is a weekly columnist at Real Simple magazine online and she maintains a second blog, Haus Maus, where she documents her life as an expat. {Sidenote: Haus Maus is Holly’s little diary for documenting how an american sets up house in Germany. Haus Maus is also the nickname her husband Thorsten calls her.}

Holly also founded Blogging Your Way in February 2009, a series of online workshops that she instructs virtually for 200 students about creative blogging, writing from the heart, and making a blog and personal reflection of your own style and taste.

That’s not all folks! Holly has also worked for a number of top magazines, newspaper and television networks. Some of her most recent work includes: working as a columnist for Domino magazine online (2006-2009), Cookie magazine online (2008-2009), and as a bi-weekly columnist for the Boston Globe (in their Style & Arts section reporting on design trends). In addition to this, she has worked on assignments for HGTV, HGTV Ideas magazine as a Style Editor, Boston magazine, Adorn and LUXX magazine in Singapore.

Phew.  Let me take a moment to catch my breath.

Now do you understand why we were NOT expecting a reply?!  Although Holly has all that on her plate she still makes time to: email back bloggers in the making like us, be active with friends and family, travel, be a wife, and get this……. remodel and move into a new place in Germany!

 

 

This is one of the rooms in her new place. It’s all so dreamy. You must Go HERE to check out more! Oh, the floors.

Another aspect of decor8 that I absolutely love, is seeing Holly’s own personal style. Yes, she highlights amazing artist, designers, and products, but there is something about seeing her own purchases that makes my heart pitter patter. For example, Holly bought a 1940′s Jugendstil Style Vintage Buffet and these Wood and Wool Stools for her home! Seriously, how can you not love her after seeing her incredible purchases. It is obvious that she puts a lot of thought into her own purchases and I am completely inspired by it. (I tend to grab the cheapest thing around to fill the space in my home… totally backfires! Within a week I am completely over it.)

 

 

Holly also knows the value of “the Martha”. Her post Martha, Where Art Thou? made me appreciate the access I have here in America to “the Martha”. I often shake my fists at “the Martha” but, in all reality, I think she is an absolute genius. (even if she has thousands of Martha minions working for her and coming up with ideas.)

Like I mentioned earlier, decor8 highlights some of the best products and designers around. What makes decor8 posts so unique is her global perspective.  One of my absolute favorite products EVER is Sandra Monat’s (from Herzensart) collection of viking plates. I have posted about these amazing plates before, however they deserve another shout out!

 

Sandra is a German artist/designer and without decor8 I would never have stumbled upon these. That is why Holly’s perspective is so inspirational for readers. You will always find unique at decor8.

 

Lastly, decor8 is more than just a blog highlighting home decor trends and products. Holly makes it a point to get in touch with her readers and their personal lives. She often does “Real Talk”  posts, where she makes an observation or poses a questions in which readers are asked to give a “real” response.  My personal favorite is  Talk It Out: Half Empty, Half Full.  She writes, “I will call this space the “Half Empty, Half Full” corner today. It’s where you can literally dump what makes your life, or job, or anything “half empty” but make sure that before you end your post you include your “half full” feelings, too.”

I encourage you to go read her readers responses.

In conclusion, we adore decor 8 and you will too!

 

www.decor8blog.com

Haus Maus

decor8 Twitter

Facebook

decor8 Amazon Store

 

 Holly,

Thanks again for your kind email response.  You made our day year!

xoxo,

The Bella Girls 

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September 7th, 2010

Taking Timeout Through Music

It’s back to work! Take a timeout and listen to these two version of the song Parachute. Which do you like better?

Original artist, Cheryl Tweedy! She super sexy but the question is… does her voice give the song  justice? I heart this video.

Post Script: Can I be Cheryl? She is seriously gorgeous and is an awesome dancer. sigh.

This is Ingrid Michaelson covering Parachute. Pure bliss, but definitely misses the sexy Cheryl Tweedy element!


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September 7th, 2010

Quote of the Day

The end of labor is to gain leisure. ~Aristotle

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September 6th, 2010

Chocolate & Hazelnut Meringue Cake by Tartelette

 

Since you have all been so good I am rewarding you with another recipe (with pictures) from the talented Tartelette! Enjoy.

Chocolate and Hazelnut Meringue Cake, adapted from Martha Stewart.

That cake is sublime! A flourless, creamy, complex and yet not so rich that you have to stop after one bite – more like control yourself from not wanting it for dessert at every meal.

Makes one 9-inch cake

Prep Notes:
- Now is not the time to use the cheap-o chocolate! Get the best quality bittersweet chocolate you can find as it is the star of the recipe. (Guittard, Callebaut, Valrhona, El Rey, Scharffen Berger, etc…)
- To toast the hazelnuts, preheat oven to 350F and spread the nuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake 10 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
- To skin the nuts without driving yourself crazy, place them in a mesh bag (like a recycled orange or lemon bag) and rub the nuts between your hand over the sink. The skins will fall and only the “naked” nuts will remain in your bag.
- The cake at room temperature is excellent but served really cold, it becomes even fudgier and the meringue gives slightly under your tooth like a soft pavlova. Brilliant!

 
For the cake:
10 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for pan
3/4 cup firmly packed light-brown sugar
6 large whole eggs, separated
12 ounces bittersweet chocolate, melted and cooled
1 1/2 tablespoons espresso (or vanilla)
1 1/2 tablespoons rum (optional)(not with us!)
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the meringue:
4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, roughly chopped (1 cup)
1 cup hazelnuts (about 4 ounces), toasted and skinned (see notes)and roughly chopped
1 tablespoon cornstarch
4 large egg whites
3/4 cup sugar


 

 

Prepare the cake:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9-by-3-inch springform pan. Line bottom with parchment paper. Butter parchment and set aside.
In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, whip the butter and brown sugar until pale and smooth at medium speed, about 3 minutes. Add egg yolks, one at a time, beating well after each addition and scraping the bottom and sides of your bowl if necessary. Add the melted chocolate, espresso (or vanilla), rum, if using, and salt. Beat until combined. Transfer to a clean bowl and wash your mixing bowl thoroughly.
In a clean mixer bowl fitted the whisk attachment, beat the 6 egg whites on high speed until soft peaks form, about 2 minutes. Fold one-third of the egg whites into chocolate mixture. Fold in remaining egg whites and pour batter into prepared pan, and bake 25 minutes.

Prepare the meringue:
Combine the chopped chocolate, nuts and cornstarch in a small bowl, and set aside. Place remaining 4 egg whites in a clean mixer bowl fitted with the whisk attachment, beat on high speed until frothy. With the mixer running, slowly add the sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form, about 8 minutes. Fold in hazelnut mixture.

Assembly and Finish:
Remove cake from oven. Using a large offset spatula, spread meringue mixture on top of cake using as little strokes as possible not to deflate the meringue, and return to oven. Bake until meringue is lightly browned and crisp, 25 to 30 minutes. Transfer pan to a wire rack; let stand 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edge of the cake to loosen, and release sides of pan. Let cool, about 30 minutes, before slicing and serving.

 

All images approved by My Tartelette

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September 6th, 2010

24 hours

It’s been a fabulous weekend so far! We will be back full force tomorrow with our last Celebrating BLOG WEEK (and a day) Highlight-ee! I would say we have saved best for last however everyone that’s joined us in celebration has been pretty incredible. For now I leave you with pictures. These are a few pictures highlighting mine and Onions 24 hour road trip to the “Cottage”.  We decided a road trip was necessary when we found ourselves staring at each other Saturday afternoon bored to tears. It truly was a fabulous time until hour 23 when Onion and I started arguing about Elin and Tiger Woods child custody agreement. I have no idea why this topic even came up (Neither of us know  much about it) but I almost dragon scratched Onions face off! He liked to think our discussion was a intellectual debate, I thought it was completely LAME! Anyways, cheers to the previous 22 hours.

The cottage!

Yes, the colors were that vibrant.

Onion is super bugged I made him pose like this and am now posting it. I just want to make it clear… Onion would never lean against a fire escape and smile so prettily without major incentive.

This picture leaves me speechless. I look so BoHo chic with my scarf tied around my head, greasy hair, and my makeup free face! HA. Im not going to even mention the fact I had been eating Wendy’s, Reese’s and taffy.  Anyways, this was the final moments of bliss before the Elin/Tiger discussion and I feel it is only fitting I post this picture.  ALSO I wanted my girl Chanel to get mad at me for lack of blush… again.

Taffy #’s 126, 127, 128!

Keighley

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September 2nd, 2010

Celebrating Blog Day with A Life More Fabulous

 

Sharelee from  A Life More Fabulous  (escapade) writes, ” I’ve always been one to be perpetually caught up in ‘smelling the roses’ and inspired by beauty in all its forms. I grew up in Zimbabwe and have been lucky enough to have travelled in lived in many different places across the globe. This blog is dedicated to beautiful design in all its many forms and inspiring you with something fabulous to leave your day a little better…”

Sharelee’s ability to find beauty in everyday moments shines through in the content of her blog.  This is another one of the blogs I like to visit when I need to escape life (i.e. laundry, bills, dusting, killing toddler crickets {just threw that one in there to see if you’re still paying attention}).

Here are some of her more recent posts that I find unique and intriguing: Ostrich Feather Chandelier, Rock Cushions by Ronel Jordaan and Toffee + Cream

 

OSTRICH FEATHER CHANDELIER

I was recently reminded of this stunning ostrich feather chandelier by South African designer Haldane Martin while trying on boots at a favorite boutique. Inspired by the lightness of dandelions, Haldane created this pendant to be able to create an angelically from the energy saving CFL lamps. It has been named after Dalene Mathews book “Fiela se Kind“. This heart-warming South African story is set in Oudtshoorn, the same ostrich farming district where the feathers that form the diffuser, are sourced.

I love how the softness of the feathers contrasts with the rustic wood and very smooth lines of the dining set. I think it would be equally effective in a more traditional space with ornate moldings and classic architecture.

haldanemartin via A Life More Fabulous

haldanemartin via A Life More Fabulous

 

Rock Cushions By Ronel Jordaan  

{ MUST READ THIS STORY… Inspiring & Amazing. ~keighley}

I was recently reminded of these fantastic rock cushions made of felted wool, while reading this interview with Vicente Wolf, where he mentioned that his most recent purchase for his home was a set of ‘felt cushions that look like rocks’ . While I’m not sure of the source for his recent purchase, I’d venture a guess and say it might be some of these beauties by South African designer Ronel Jordaan. I’ve known of her work for quite some time, and have been lusting away after these beautiful and unusual cushions ever since. Wouldn’t they be just perfect in a casual seating area? {We have to agree! Also, wouldn’t they be a great conversation piece? }

Ronel in 2005 began to explore the concept of using felt as a creative medium. By patiently rubbing and coaxing threads of pure wool into shapes in nature that inspire her, she found her direction and started a small home industry; her most recognizable creations being her pebbles and rocks.

Soon outgrowing the limitations of a home business, Ronel expanded and trained a group of over 40 women from disadvantaged backgrounds in the art of felting.These women are now closely associated with all of her creations. While they produce items with Ronel, they have also begun to create their own designs with her help. Through this project, they are able to earn a decent income for themselves and their families, and are felters of international standing.

With a strong ethical conscience, these pieces are produced with ecologically friendly dyes and soaps. They have even developed organic food gardens at the plant using the waste water from production. The vegetables grown are for the women who work there to either take home or sell.

To learn more about Ronel and her beautiful creations, visit her site here.

 

All images from Ronel Jordaan

 

Toffee + Cream

The fresh snow against the last of the toffee colored fallen leaves is such a beautiful contrast – warm, rich cognac tones against a stark white. There’s something so appealing about this rich combination – perhaps because of the reminiscence of delicious toffees and caramels cream white whipped cream.

 

 

 

 

 

{No wonder I love this combination so much – exactly like little Javier’s coat.}

I had to highlight this post for Javier’s presence ALONE! Us Bella Girls melt at the sight of any dog. Side note: Camberley won one of Sharalee’s giveaways (photographyartstore.com) and was awarded an adorable picture of a Boston Terrier.  See contest, here.  See winning announcement, here.

 

Rachyl and Charlie by Kenneth Chou

 

Here’s The Deets:

www.alifemorefabulous.blogspot.com

http://twitter.com/alifemorefab

Top 100 Interior Design Blogs Mention

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September 1st, 2010

Celebrating Blog Day With Simply Seductive~

All of us girls here at the Bella Life love Simply Seductive. The Simply Seductive blog has been a favorite of ours for over a year (it was one of the first blogs on our Fashion Favorites List). Simply Seductive is not a blog filled with 700+ word posts or loud and obnoxious dialogue, (umm that sounds strangely like our own blog… ha) it simply captures your attention and lets you escape. You’ll get lost looking at the inspirations highlighted on Simply Seductive before you know it… and then you will realize you’ve been browsing for 45 minutes and you need to switch the laundry and your dog wants to go out and you’re really really thirsty…. true story.

Simply Seductive writes, “I love Champagne, chocolate truffles, traveling, movies, playing tennis, martinis, treasure hunting, high tea and daydream of being a glamorous nomad living in a custom decorated Airstream.” uhhh look no further people! This is a woman/blog for the MASSES!

1.) who doesn’t love traveling?

2.) treasure hunting should be a requirement!

3.) she wants a custom decorated Airstream!?

Anyways, over at Simply Seductive you will not only find amazing images and worth-while reads BUT she has a *For Your Perusal* list that makes browsing extra fantastic! Here are the catagories.

*Noteworthy Covers *In the Spotlight *Interiors *Destinations *Inspirational Quotes *Shoe Love *Colour Inspirations *A Moment in Time *Fashion Editorials *Details *Lovely and Unrelated

Today we will be highlighting tree posts from Simply Seductive; Inspiration:{Designer’s Atelier + A Wedding Boudoir} , Inspiration: {Chanel ~ Couture Fall 2010}, and Canadiana Explosion.

{Designer’s Atelier + A Wedding Boudoir}

( I stumbled upon these photographs of Maria Lucia Hohan‘s atelier to discovered the photographs were taken by the Cherry Blossom Girl, which when I visited her blog realized she was recently married in a dress made by Maria Lucia Hohan, yet designed by the Cherry Blossom Girl herself.)

I just had to repost this because it’s heaven. I want to drape myself in all of those dresses/garments. ~ Keighley side commentary

{Chanel~ Couture Fall 2010}

I adore couture, especially Chanel couture

Canadiana Explosion

Canadian Photographer (Chris Nicholls), a Canadian model (Heather Marks) shot for a Canadian Flare magazine… talk about national talent! I soooo love these images. Ms Marks looks so different, her make-up and the styling is fantastic. Check out that coat, with raccoon fur trim, matched with a silk/ostrich-feathered dress and the boots… Source, Chris Nicholls Photography.

Ohhhhh Canadaaaaaa! These images are simply SEDUCTIVE.

(I want that giant plaid skirt so bad I could to scream. I would wear it to all of my classes on the days lecture revolved around the Scots! ~keighley side commentary

Reach Simply Seductive

www.simplyseductive.blogspot.com

http://twitter.com/simplyseductive

cmoisimplyseductive@gmail.com

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August 31st, 2010

Celebrating Blog Week With Our Beauty Mark!

I would like to introduce you to the TWO amazingly talented girls over at Our Beauty Mark blog.

Bella Readers meet Courtney Rogers and Hillary Darner….. Hillary and Courtney MEET our Readers. Ok, now that introductions are out of the way let me tell you a little bit about the two creators behind Our Beauty Mark.

 

Courtney Rogers: Professional makeup artist and aesthetician. Wannabe stylist. Fashion connoisseur. Lover of vintage. Celebrity obsessed. Has a one year old named Dean and has been married for 4 years. She worked at MAC Cosmetics for 3 and a half years and continues to do freelance work as a makeup artist and aesthetician. She mostly works on weddings and photo shoots, but has also worked on fashion shows, such as Justin Timberlake’s clothing line William Rast.

 

Hillary Darner: Hair Stylist. Home Maker. Enthusiastic shopper. Also has a one year old, named Paisley and has been married for 4 years. She has been a hairstylist for 8 years. She was professionally trained by the exclusive New York Bumble and Bumble university and lives by the quote, ”a girl should be two things: classy and fabulous.” -Coco Chanel

 

Gorgeous Right?

Now I’ve taken the liberty of highlighting some posts of them doing what they do best; Hair and Makeup! Enjoy.

 

Hair By Hillary

 

Product Must-Haves To Get Your Favorite Celebrity Look.

Here are my Salon Secrets just for YOU:

Looking for dreamy smooth hair like Reese Witherspoon? I would suggest using Goldwell Flat Marvel on wet hair from mid-head down.

 

 

Beachy waves like Jennifer Aniston? All you need to do is  spritz a little Bumble and Bumble surf spray on your noggin while wet. After the Bumble & Bumble spritz some Biologe Thermal Active Setting Spray then proceed to curl with your large barrel iron.

 

For the sleekest of sleek, healthy hair dot com (like Kim) try some Moroccan Oil. For treating/repairing frizz and/or damaged hair. Welcome to silk-fest.

 

 

Don’t worry I didn’t forget about your man. Or you manly readers ;) My favorite styling product for guys like David Beckham? Goldwell Composer …it goes a long way too.

 

 

Makeup by Courtney… THE elusive SMOKEY EYE

 

You Can Check Out More By Going To

BLOG -- WWW.OURBEAUTYMARK.BLOGSPOT.COM

FACEBOOK -- THE BEAUTY MARK

 

Or if you are wanting some questions answered or to learn more about the services they provide EMAIL them at

OURBEAUTYMARK@HOTMAIL.COM

 

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August 31st, 2010

Celebrating Blog Week With ME OH MY!

Me Oh My is the blog of a wife, mother and student named Nicole! {sounds busy} I happen to come across her blog randomly about a month ago and it has become one of my favorite blogs to visit. Not only does Nicole have amazing style, but her pictures are flawless and her life in California makes me want to say Me Oh MY! (I think my desert dwelling days are numbered people…) Anyways, we wanted to highlight Me Oh My because Nicole is obviously knowledgeable about home decor, has some incredible DIY projects and you need to see her KITCHEN TABLE! Oh Vey, her kitchen table is ridiculous. Ridiculous = Amazing.

So please feast your eyes on some of Nicole’s (Me Oh MY) DIY projects.

#1

Me Oh My loved this garden planter above from Anthropologie for a while however she wasn’t wanting to  want to fork out $40! Makes sense to us!

Then one day she saw this at Homegoods-$9.99 are you out of your mind?

So she bought a can of cream textured spray paint, and gave the planters a good first coat.

Me Oh My then sprayed the planter with white spray paint (she always has cans of white laying around) After the white spray paint she again went back over it a few more times with the texture spray. This time concentrating on where she wanted thicker texture- at the base and at some of the angles on top.

She writes, “Of course the Anthropolgie one is much prettier, but there pass the test- especially mixed in with the other plants!”

Personally, I think these went beyond passing the test. They look AMAZING!

#2

This Garland seems complicated by the steps, but it is so simple! You must try it. I made them a while back, and found the tutorial here.

I wasn’t sure which fabrics to use, so I bought a few different kinds.

The silkier fabrics create a softer floppy flower, and the stiffer fabrics created a more of a structured flower. I preferred the sturdier fabrics. I got about a yard of each color of fabric I wanted to use. I then folded it a few times and cut it at about 3-4″ wide.  (Each cut varied.)

Unfold your fabric and thread your needle. Fold the fabric back and forth to make your stitch. This was the fastest way to get through all the fabric.

Once all of your fabric is thread, pull to gather the fabric down the thread to create your flower.

Knot the thread a few times to keep the middle of the flower tight.

After you finish all your flowers, glue onto selected trim. I went with a thicker more substantial trim, which I think really helped with the weight of the flowers.

THE FINISHED PRODUCT!

This post has inspired my Halloween Decor for 2010. Thank You!

Lastly, here are a few pictures of Nicole’s home…. look at the table.

 

We love Me OH My

For more information:

www.meohmymama.blogspot.com

meohmyblog@gmail.com

 

All images courtesy of Me Oh MY

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August 30th, 2010

Post Script: Live Your Life

I just wanted to throw up two more things!

1.) This is my absolute favorite Live Your Life aka Brittany Barnes Post ………………. Dear Granty Poo Poo Poo!

2.) I spent the whole post talking about her style and did not post any pictures! Ugh… here is some highlights.

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August 30th, 2010

Celebrating Blog Week With Brittany Barnes {aka Live Your Life}

When us Bella Girls were sitting around discussing who we wanted to highlight for Blog Week a name came up in our discussion…  after a few minutes of talking and blog stalking it was clear a post about this particular person was a MUST. Brittany Barnes the face behind Live Your Life, blogs solely to document her life. Although her blog is mostly about herself, her honey, and her hobbies it is a blog filled with inspirations! Another element to Live Your Life that we just adore is Brittany’s ability to blend  something classy and unique into every post. Not only does Brittany have an Etsy Shop and Wardrobe Styling Service BUT she is an amazing thrifter. {Hello… how can you not love a thrifter?} Even though there are a number of posts we would love to highlight today we are specifically highlighting Brittany’s style advice, personal style and of course some of her amazing Thrift Store Finds!

Its Just In Our Blood

so i decided to do a little showing off. unfortunately most of our favorites from thrift stores, yard sales and antique shops are locked in a storage unit miles away. we have lots of finds from home decor, clothes for both of us and even things for our future children. i only included stuff for me in this post, all things found in utah. it is funny how feminine these all are, i used to be very very feminine. floral prints everywhere and anything sparkly. there is a lot of that still inside me, however i feel my style has headed more into a classier and simple direction. when wearing or using any of these items, i try to balance the femininity with more masculine styles (darker colors, sharper angles and stiffer fabrics). mixing things up is the best part.


austrian earrings from the 1940′s. the woman i bought these from has a yard sale every summer in orem. she has an english accent and knows a lot about her things. the minute these sparkled before my eyes… i had to have them. they are more gorgeous in real life and i’m excited to pass them down.

i just love vintage suitcases. i found the one on the left at a vintage shop in salt lake.  the one on the right is from deseret industries in provo, utah. i paid $2.00 for it. on our cruise in february i used it for all my bathroom products and i’m not gonna lie, i felt like the cutest thing carrying it everywhere.

oh the butterfly dress. the best part about this dress is that it fits perfectly and i didn’t have to get it tailored. i feel very happy when i wear it. don’t remember where i bought it but i do remember that it was $17.

don’t remember the price on this. from “decades” in salt lake. i love the birds and the gold chain.

i love belts. i rarely pay full price for a belt. belts can be ridiculously expensive. i have a lot of belts in lots of colors (except for these three brown), i like to get different textures to add visual interest to my outfits.

one thing i know about treasure hunting is that you shouldn’t buy unless you absolutely love it. and if you ever see something that just tugs at your heart, you better grab it.

Lastly, I asked Brittany to send me her Do’s and Don’t of fashion. Read closely because this girl knows how to look classy/HOTT without appearing like she spent 5 hours getting ready. That my friends is talent!

DO’s

1.) To feel your best, you want to project your best self. Taking time to appear your prettiest helps your self esteem, motivation and happiness.

2.) Choose clothing that reinforces who you are. We are all smart enough to determine whether someone is comfortable or not. In times where you feel down on your looks (we all do occasionally), try to focus on what makes you different and let that be the theme of your shopping trips.

3.) Always wear clothing that is appropriate for the occasion. Pajamas are for bed time. Work-out clothing is for exercising.

4.) Do have an imagination. For me, I like to pretend as though I’m playing dress up. I pick out whatever I’m in the mood for (whether it be a princess or a smart librarian nerd) and remind myself that choosing what to wear should be easy and fun. Never Stressful. We can all wear whatever we want! Isn’t that cool?

5.) Be happy for other and their style or creativity. Love other for their uniqueness and learn to appreciate it.

DONT’s

1.) Don’t become a slave to what blogs, windows displays or fashion magazines tell you is in style. The people that dress cookie cutter to the latest trends appear the most clueless about who they are.

2.) Don’t buy clothing that does not fit. This is where people loose their credibility the fastest. Just remember when your clothing pulls horizontally in your widest areas… it’s too tight. When it falls with vertical lines (gaping) it’s too loose.

3.) We’ve all read a million times in this last year that “matching is overrated”. If you take it too far… you are just going to look like an idiot. Always look for things that have something in common. Have a focal point. Think of having a dominant actress and two supporting actresses in your outfits. If there is too much going on, people will focus on your clothing instead of you.

4.) For heaven’s sake before you leave the house… look at what you’re wearing from all angles! Check to see lines and make sure nothing interesting is poking out where it shouldn’t be. See through clothing is most of the time going to appear white trash, wear the right bras. And about bras, armpit hole in blouses that are so wide that we can see your bra? Not so good either.

5.) Don’t stress too much! Have fun. That is the most important thing. If you love fur and you also love silk, find a balanced way to put it together and pull it off. And once you do… don’t worry about what other’s will think and just own it.

To check out more about Live Your Life aka Brittany

Blog: www.grantandbritt.blogspot.com

Etsy: http://www.etsy.com/shop/prettyvisage

Wardrobe Styling Services: http://grantandbritt.blogspot.com/2009/10/wardrobe-styling-services.html

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August 30th, 2010

Celebrating Blog Day With TARTELETTE!

Where to start?

We discovered Tartelette over a year ago after she kindly commented on my Stories of a Sick Housewife.  Helen the artist, pastry chef, photographer, writer, stylist, French expatriate (currently living in Charleston SC… lucky them) and creator behind Tartelette  left a sweet comment expressing her sympathies regarding my Ovarian Cyst ordeal. This comment not only lifted my spirits (I love to find fellow cyst survivors) but led me to one of the most incredible blogs in all of the blogging world. Although I am challenged in all things culinary, her blog is such an inspiration to me.  Every time I visit Tartelette I leave feeling not only inspired but calmer. That may sound strange, but I swear the images, recipes, and writings of Helen (aka Tartelette) literally have a calming effect. Tartelette opened my eyes to the beauty of food styling. Anyways, to refrain from sounding like a total creep I will stop my ramblings now and highlight some of Tartlette’s amazing posts!

After sending some emails back and forth with the beautiful and talented Helen we’ve decided on some amazing recipes. So cheers to Celebrating Blog Week With Tartelette! Enjoy.

Blueberry Sorbet Macarons:

Makes about 30-35 filled macarons and about 4 cups sorbet

Blueberry Sorbet, adapted from Richard Leach in Sweet Seasons:

3 cups fresh or frozen blueberries

1 cup sugar

2 cups water

zest and juice of one lemon

In a medium saucepan set over medium high heat, place the blueberries and the rest of the ingredients and bring to a quick boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool completely. Puree until smooth in a blender (or food processor) and then strain through a fine mesh strainer. Process in your ice cream machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Macarons:

For the shells:

90 gr egg whites (use egg whites that have been preferably left 3-4 days in the fridge)

25 gr granulated sugar

200 gr powdered sugar

110 gr almonds (slivered, blanched, sliced, whatever you like)

1 tablespoon cherry pink powdered food coloring

Prepare the macarons:

In a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, whip the egg whites to a foam, (think bubble bath foam) gradually add the sugar until you obtain a glossy meringue (think shaving cream). Do not overbeat your meringue or it will be too dry. Place the powdered sugar and almonds and powdered color in a food processor and give them a good pulse until the nuts are finely ground. Add them to the meringue, give it a quick fold to break some of the air and then fold the mass carefully until you obtain a batter that falls back on itself after counting to 10. Give quick strokes at first to break the mass and slow down. The whole process should not take more than 50 strokes. Test a small amount on a plate: if the tops flattens on its own you are good to go. If there is a small beak, give the batter a couple of turns.

Fill a pastry bag fitted with a plain tip (Ateco #807 or #809) with the batter and pipe small rounds (1.5 inches in diameter) onto parchment paper or silicone mats lined baking sheets. Let the macarons sit out for 30 minutes to an hour to harden their shells a bit. In the meantime, preheat the oven to 280F. When ready, bake for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on their size. Let cool. Once baked and if you are not using them right away, store the shells in an airtight container out of the fridge for a couple of days or in the freezer for up to 2 weeks (longer and the sugar starts to seep out which makes them sticky).

Finally, fill the macarons with the sorbet and store in the freezer in an airtight container. Eat them within the week if you can.

Salade Composee:

Serves 2 hungry people

For the salad:

4 golden beets

1 large handful mixed greens

1 large handful savoy salad

1 bunch radishes, washed, stems cut off and quartered

1/2 fennel bulb, washed and sliced thin

1 small handful of Italian parsley

dried cranberries

feta cheese

Preheat oven to 350F. Wash the beets and cut the stems off. Place them in a piece of foil and close it tight. Roast the beets for about 30 minutes. Remove from the oven, let cool, and carefully open the foil packet. Peel the beets and set aside.

With your hands, tear the salads and parsley in small pieces and divide all the vegetables evenly among 2 large plates. Top with some feta and some dried cranberries. Drizzle with vinaigrette.

Amazing Right? Maybe if you’re good we will post a few more of her recipes to close Blog Week!

xoxo Keighley xoxo

 

Follow Tartelette on her:

Blog – http://www.mytartelette.com/

Twitter – @sweetTartelette

Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/tartelette

 

All images and recipes provided and approved by Tartelette

 

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August 27th, 2010

Company C

Company C is having a SALE! {selected items}

To check out what rugs are available, stop by the Company C Website. However if you stop by The Bella Life Blog on Monday you can check out what rugs and what prices Bella Fine’ Design can get you… don’t freak out BUT they are even cheaper!

I heart Company C.

Check Back To See What I Can Get You!

xoxo Keighley xoxo

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August 27th, 2010

Picture Perfect

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August 26th, 2010

Natural Products For Your Teeth

Being Tooth Fairy Week I thought it was fitting to do a post on natural toothpaste products. It’s time we throw out the sugar and chemical infused pastes for the Natural! Who’s with me?
 
 
 
 
Tom’s of Maine Natural Toothpaste

Pack of six, 6-ounce per tube for $19.02 @ Amazon!
Natural Calcium base cleans teeth thoroughly and effectively right down to the gum line.
100% fluoride free
Features hydrated silica purified from the earth for whitening and stain removal

Nathan Vegilo writes, “I really like this toothpaste. Tastes like it’s actually something good for you, not like some of the “candy” toothpastes you see on store shelves lately. Have had good results from using it with good checkups from the dentists. And my teeth look great!! I was a bit skeptical about switching from so many years of getting bombarded with ads telling me how good this brand or that brand is. Never have seen an ad for Tom’s, just had recommendations from friends. Finally gave it a show and am glad I did.”
 
 
 
 
 
Jason’s Healthy Mouth – All Natural Tea Tree and Aloe CoQ10 Tooth Gel -
$23.92 @ Amazon
Freshen up your smile with Healthy Mouth all-natural Tea Tree & Aloe tooth gel.
Get whiter, brighter teeth without chemicals or harsh abrasives.
CoQ10 helps heal and protect gums
*Tea Tree, clove and Cinnamon Oils freshen breath to blast halitosis away
*With fluoride for cavity protection
*CoQ10 helps to heal and strengthen gums.
Nomom writes, “I love this toothpaste. It’s easy on the mouth unlike many brands I have used. I like that it has teatree oil. Makes my teeth feel very clean. It has a bit of an aftertaste which I don’t find unpleasant and a splash of mouthwash takes care of it. Over all a great product, highly recommended. “

 

Desert ESSENCE Natural Tea Tree Oil Toothpaste
$5.11 @ Amazon
The ingredients in this product are:
Purified Water
Glycerin
Polysorbate 80
Organic Tea Tree Oil
Aloe Vera Gel
Witch Hazel Distillate
Ascorbic Acid
Calcium Ascorbate
Citric Acid
Essential Oil of Spearmint
Savannah writes, “I have tried so many natural toothpastes over the past two years and have never finished a tube due to the fact I have a hard time getting past the taste. I finally have found one with a mild, minty taste that cleans my teeth well, and leaves no bitter aftertaste- and I’m sticking with it! This paste is so mild and fresh that I have converted my husband and two daughters over to it- something that would have never happened with previous pastes I have tried. I love how fresh and clean my mouth feels after brushing with this- we have a winner!”
My only objection is that the boxes look really drab. Oh well.

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August 26th, 2010

Kate Ridder

When I see Katie Ridder’s work it makes me want to buy a house so bad! Every room is going to have a different wallpaper by Ridder. Ok, not every room but at LEAST one. These prints are stunning.

Check her out HERE

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