verbena cottage

My Oh My!

2011-08-10T15:43:00.000-07:00

It has been over a month now that I have been having difficulty logging-in via my google account to leave comments on your blog. I am very sorry if you feel ignored by me after your visits here and your "likes" as a follower. It is just about time to move on ~ and I ask if you would visit me at my other VC blog, www.theverbenacottage.blogspot.com.

click image

Thank you and this will mean a lot to me!

Besos,

Mary Ann

And how this body form can be transformed

using your own creativity or

I can make the skirt for you with a vintage pin

at your request for free!

VC Market New Arrivals

2011-07-31T02:07:00.000-07:00

This is a staple in most European kitchens. Technically it is used to dry bottles after washing. It can be used to hold coffee cups by the rings or spools of ribbon or yarn, again you use your own creativity a 100 ways! It can also be used in the garden to hold small terra cotta pots waiting to be planted. It is an exact replica of an antique French bottle tree and it is very sturdy. No assembly required!

This is one of our book boxes with a cleverly disguised safe inside. It comes complete with a key (2). The outer cover is shredded linen with an aged antique design. Amazing design book box cover!

Shop here & get 10% OFF entire store

French Inspired Home

2011-07-12T10:55:00.000-07:00

one easy way to bring the outdoors in is through the use of cloches. we love how carolyn westbrook incorporates these

beautiful cloches in her french-inspired designs

a re-post from http://www.theverbenacottage.com/

The French Inspired Home

Photography by Keith Scott Morton

Visit our cloche collection www.theverbenacottage.com

oh so heavenly!

2011-06-19T12:10:00.000-07:00

treat yourself to a wonderful company of great friends and the calming sips of tea!

Tea does our fancy aid,

Repress those vapours which the head invade

And keeps that palace of the soul serene.

~Edmund Waller, "Of Tea"

Get 10% OFF Entire Store & Free Shipping

on all new Jewelry & Selected Items!

Click Here!

embrace your own creativity

2011-06-04T05:31:00.000-07:00

adding your personal collection of old containers, cake stands with cloche, or any heirloom pieces into your floral displays is a lovely way to personalize your center table...an easy DIY!

a & d ~ verbena cottage floral reproductions; b & c~ table center from cave; e~tablecenter cake stand, may 2011 issue wedding flowers

The Pink Ribbon Boutique

2011-05-17T07:14:00.000-07:00

We are excited to announce that we will be adding more products from our favorite local artists who are also willing to give back to cancer.

visit The Pink Ribbon Boutique and take 10% off

Blue Glass Collection

2011-05-16T12:29:00.000-07:00

newly added vintage blue glass collection

Cranberry and Pink Art Collection ~ vintage & classic

2011-05-13T15:26:00.000-07:00

Shop Here

a new look for your door

2011-05-09T15:55:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite. Consider this slim woven willow basket on a distressed leather strap the new front door wreath. Fill it with seasonal decor and pop it on the door!

shop from the garden collection

A Special Day

2011-05-05T13:44:00.000-07:00

Mother, the very word brings across an image of a lovely woman in our mind, a woman who believes in selfless love for her children. She expects nothing in return, perhaps except for some love and care on their part.

"I love Spring anywhere, but if I could choose I would always greet it in a garden." ~Ruth Stout

2011-04-12T22:00:00.000-07:00

Mossy terra cotta pots and cloche are great garden accessories. They are great for your favorite herbs.

verbena cottage shop

It is LIVE!

2011-04-09T15:53:00.000-07:00

You are the first to view! Visit our website @ www.theverbenacottage.com/

Have a great weekend!

Remnants of The Past Antique Fair With Rachel Ashwell

2010-10-22T15:56:00.000-07:00

California coastal weather in combination with delectable seafood, and a breathtaking antique fair made for an enjoyable getaway weekend trip. I am looking forward to doing it again next year....Have a great weekend!

Smashing Pumpkins

2010-10-17T19:29:00.000-07:00

Avila Beach, CA

Here it comes! Are you ready to switch your gear to Autumn mode? California seemed to have a late start of cool weather this year but the pumpkins are in abundance and never fail to bring in the spirit of holiday decorating.

BHG

country living

Got your pumpkins? Have fun decorating!

The Wine Walk With The Ladies of Robin's Nest

2010-10-16T12:09:00.000-07:00

Lady embellished in vintage jewels and sea shells by Michele Wills Collections and Designs by Alice

Joann's Vintage Collection

Designs & collections by Janell

Haviland dishes and other collectibles and repurposed inspiration boards by VC

Collection of vintage furs

Hope you enjoyed the photos from the wine walk. It has been a busy month for me. I can't wait to visit your blogs soon. Enjoy your weekend!

Mary Ann

Timeless Elegance

2010-09-04T19:54:00.000-07:00

reinvent, recreate, and bring the old glamour back...

what better gift you can have...

a sneak peek of VC on-line store and I can't wait to see the day it will be ready to share with you all the vintage treasures and new finds of timeless elegance.

hope you are having a great weekend...
see you soon!

mary ann

images 1 & 2 here, image 3 by verbena cottage

marie antoinette

2010-08-10T06:04:00.000-07:00

The Cooks Mannequin Collection offers a variety of handmade miniature mannequins

for jewelry display and storage, and a perfect decor for the vanity table.

The Marie Antoinette is my favorite boasting its opulent designs and colors.

image (1) here (2,3,) via Rachel Ashwell ,(4) here , (5,6) photography by verbena cottage

Dried Flowers

2010-07-30T18:13:00.000-07:00

.. .and infinite possibilities.

Have a Great Weekend!

image (1245) here, (3) verbenacottage.net

Dusty Pink and Cream

2010-07-23T05:42:00.001-07:00

'blush' resonates tranquility....such a beautiful color.

image via here,viahere,here,wedluxe,here,Vogue

Something Old

2010-07-22T23:16:00.000-07:00

Something old is new again.

I am captivated by timeworn furniture and mirrors... The elegance of blue...

And the simplicity that surrounds it.

images (1)verbenacottage.net, (2) here, (3) here, (3)here, (4)here

Bloggers Recognition

2010-07-21T00:25:00.000-07:00

I had a brief moment (truthfully, a little longer than that) feeling like an Oscar award recipient after I found out I have been tagged by Pemberley of Pemberley Designs for the Sugar Doll award. As a regular visitor to her blog, not only do I get inspired by visual experience (you should visit her on line store) but also I learn design tips from this pro. And where can you get these all in one? Thank you Pemberley!

I also received two awards from Catherine of The Shiny Pebble. Yes, two awards, so an Emmy and Oscars moment combined. One of my very first visitors was Catherine. She will always shine in my book. I remember reading her first comments numerous times because I just chuckled with laughter each time. I realized then that blogging can be fun. Thank you Catherine!

The rule to these awards is that I have to say 10 things about myself. To save you from boredom, I will just share one. Today I am to reveal a little fleeting fantasy that has been lingering on and off. I have been wishing for our own blogger convention wherein all of the bloggers will come together for fun and learning experience (how about learning photography, staging designs, anything better than that?). Could you imagine meeting all our blogging friends from all over the world? Wow, what a fantasy! This may be possible, but the truth is I just want to meet everyone and give each one big hugs for being my source of inspiration. In my Academy fantasy world, you are all my superstars!

I am passing on these three awards to bloggers who have always made me laugh each time I visit their blogs. Before you visit them, I would like to pass a disclaimer that I will not be responsible for any unexpected events (to name a few: running out of breath, drinks spilling)

brought about by their posts.

Struggling To Be Stylish - Pauline The Versatile Blogger Award

1 Funky Woman- Megan Trendy Blog Award

Bringing Pretty Back- Kristin Sugar Doll Award

Simple Pleasures

2010-07-07T10:33:00.001-07:00

Life's simple pleasures through gardening. I would like to share with you some photos I took of different gardens I visited this spring/summer. Aren't these so relaxing? Hope you are also recovering from the long weekend holiday fun. I had over a week long of RRR (Rest, Recovery, Relaxation). Thank you to those who visited my blog and your emails. Nothing better to share than good news from my doctor. I am glad to be back!

Twigery

2010-06-21T00:09:00.000-07:00

I knew the moment I walked through this courtyard, some beautiful artwork would await me. Twigery, located in the heart of Carmel by the Sea, is the design studio of Michael Merritt, a renowned master in the world of floral art, a visionary in his field with a unique style in floral creations. Michael's art creations have been showcased in respectable garden clubs, museums and political events in Washington, DC. As a member of AIFD (American Institute of Floral Designers), Michael has been in the forefront of promoting the art industry through his involvement in training seminars for upcoming designers. His recent work has graced the pages of Sunset Magazine , June 2010 and Le Soleil Magazine, Spring 2010.

image here

photo by VC

Michael Merritt, AIFD

by VC

image here

Vintage Decanters and Jewelries

2010-06-17T10:03:00.000-07:00

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Some of Robin's Nest collections by Michele. Decanters for bath salts and scented oils.

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Party Time @ The Shiny Pebble

2010-06-16T11:38:00.000-07:00

I am feeling much better now after my surgery. I have looked forward with anticipation and excitement to the day of this grand celebration in honor of the 8 best designers who inspired us through their gifted eye for beauty. Thanks to all who dropped in yesterday with warm wishes, you just made my day! As proven by so many women out there, one great attribute we have is resilience. I must start moving before the limousine arrives. Catherine would love to see you, too. Come over later and meet us at the Shiny Pebble...it will be fun!

I heard Eddie Ross will design a tabletop for Catherine and I am hoping I will get a seat next to him. I am looking forward to get some tips on using flea market finds in a well designed tablescapes.

I would like to present a gift of appreciation to these great designers who had inspired me every Wednesday with their design presentations. First things first, I made a phone call to the best floral artist designer based in Carmel, California, Michael Merritt, to confirm the arrival of the flower arrangements he made for Catherine's guest designers. Michael also created this special flower bouquet (below) for Catherine.

I have to get started packing the hostess gift.

The package includes Joe Malone's summer fragrance,

My very own favorite Verbena Scented Candle

And a variety pack of designers matches

in floral design,

portrait design,

and two of my favorite cylindrical designer matches.

And the most awaited package from Rachel Zoe,

I am wearing this ensemble hand picked by Rachel. Ann happened to wear this for Rachel's photo shoot.

and my pick for Jimmy Choo handbag and shoes

I heard the talented and fabulous Splenderosa will be sharing some of her favorite musicals for the party, visit her blog to know why. I am looking forward to a relaxing evening and mingle with all my friends,

enjoy a Cosmopolitan or Lychee martini

and end the night with a feast of my favorite chocolate cake.

Say Yes To Life!

2010-06-15T00:19:00.000-07:00

Just with the right essentials...now a survivor living the LIFE

It has been 2 years now that I have survived the biggest challenge I ever faced. Early detection had afforded me the strength to fight against breast cancer. I was quick to learn that life is too short to waste. Today marks the day for being one step closer to full recovery. I am having my second surgery and I will be gone for a very short time, hopefully not for long. I can't wait to be back soon to visit all the wonderful bloggers. You are a blessing to me and I thank you for all the inspiring posts you share... Don't forget tomorrow will be Catherine's finale party for the DESIGNER CHALLENGE at The Shinny Pebble. I will be a bit late for the party but am sure everyone will have a great time...just another treat to look forward to. See you all soon!

Vintage Lampshade Makeover

2010-06-08T16:58:00.000-07:00

Hello to you all lovely bloggers! I have been looking forward to this day...I am guesting at One Crafty Fox and I am sharing one of my favorite hobbies, 'upcycling' vintage lamps. Please visit Diana's blog to view my complete tutorial makeover! Diana's blog is always full of wonderful surprises, have fun!

Also, the counting begins...don't forget to visit Catherine at The Shinny Pebble, for the exciting finale of the designers challenge next Tuesday! Have a lovely weekend ahead!

Things of Great Beauty

2010-06-05T15:01:00.000-07:00

One of the most beloved and timeless inventions of fashionable accessories comes in a bottle. Its most distinct attraction stems from the senses of those who wear them. Tracing back biblical times, women have identified that prestige and luxury are bestowed in these bottles.

Antique Gold

This led to my own curiosity and once again exploring the history of perfume making. What I have been drawn to are the beauty of vintage perfume containers and how these pieces had been shaped in history to hold the most luxurious drops of liquids.

Antique Bohemian

While the Greeks were attributed for creating the first liquid perfume, the Egyptians took pride in creating elaborate bottles to store the perfume and were considered as 'things of great beauty.' The bottles were artistically crafted from gold, alabaster, ebony and porcelain. When the glass containers first surfaced in Egypt around 1558 BC, these bottles were considered more precious than jewels.

Liquid perfumes were once made from crushed petals or herbs mixed with rich oils which produced a strong blend of aroma. The Arabians revolutionized the creation of perfumes through the process of distillation. Arabian chemist, Avicenna, created the process of extracting oil from the plant using roses as his first subject of experimentation. Today, this same process is still commonly used in perfume factories.

Gilded Caryatid Figural Atomizer 1928

If you are around the vicinity, please visit the Robin's Nest where you can find a variety of vintage perfume bottles.

sources and images from here, here

DIY Projects

2010-05-28T05:15:00.000-07:00

I love to create projects from salvaged materials. I can often visualize its potentials and transform them into useful objects. Here are some of the inspirational boards I created from trash (old frames) to fab!

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Have a wonderful and safe Memorial weekend!

Fairy Tale Cottages of Hugh Comstock

2010-05-22T00:14:00.000-07:00

click on photo for original link

I am fascinated by the works of Hugh Comstock, the builder of "Fairy Tale Cottages" in Carmel, California, during the 1920's. With no formal education in engineering and architecture, his fairy tale style shaped the landscape of Carmel. Originally cost hundred dollars to build, these cottages still stand strong carrying a value worth millions of dollars (average home sale about $4 million).

Comstock started with the "Hansel Cottage," (shown above) in response to a shortage of space of his wife's doll making business. This led to other cottages being built not only by Comstock but by other business owners who remodeled their storefronts in the fairy tale style. Today, their beauty and charm give visitors great enjoyment and offer inspiration to artists and designers. You can view more of Hugh Comstock's cottages via Linda Hartong photography. For information on walking tour, click here.

You would all agree that Hansel will not be complete without Gretel. Appropriately so, Comstcock named this house (above), "Gretel."

Sources: photo credits here, congletonarchitect, best of remodeling, carmelcalifornia.org

Charming Garden Shed

2010-05-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Would you like to escape and relax in your own backyard that looks like this? I do! So charming and serene.

country living magazine, better homes and garden magazine

A Place of Miracles

2010-05-14T05:50:00.000-07:00

Over the past few months, I have shared with you my passion for 'salvaged' designs, but today I would like to share with you the everyday reality of the world I live with the little preemies. There have been sad days but also countless days of jubilation. Overall, I find it rewarding to think that there can be a future waiting for them...but my heart goes out to those who won't... and until you see their little hands and feet nestled on the palm of your hand, you will know a miracle just happened and the rewarding responsibilities that follow. This is my job and my other passion...

The Sweet Swedish Look

2010-05-10T06:25:00.000-07:00

If I were to build a new house and for the first time meet my architect, I would describe my dream home with a single picture of a furniture and my home will be built around it. I am talking about a Gustavian, Scandinavian, Swedish style, considered all in the same category. Long before shabby chic became a trend, painted furniture were already evident in the early 18th-19th century. One could be characterized as high style with furniture produced in the fashionable Empire or Regency manner and the second is the more provincial pieces with the rustic look, popularly known as the Swedish Neoclassical style.

Started out with King Gustav's enthusiasm for french furniture, he invited french cabinet makers to Sweden but later he was unable to pay them. As a result, Gustav used local craftsmen to produce similar furniture in a less ornate style that became known as "Gustavian." Local woods were used then painted rather than gilded because it was cheaper.

Whether it be shabby chic or Gustavian, for me an interior decor will not be complete without incorporating a rustic piece that will complement well with vintage style.

Sources here, House Beautiful magazine, Judith Miller Furniture

The Rain Forest Beauties

2010-05-05T07:00:00.000-07:00

Orchids...I do not even know where to begin,

I have long admired orchids and just as surprised to know they do not require a lot of care, or I should say, professional care. Orchids come in thousands of varieties of species and countless hybrids. A selected few can be found in your local garden centers. Costco and Trader Joe's are common centers that carry the friendly breed of orchids. Which means, these chosen few can grow indoors and in your OWN living rooms. I am sure you already have encountered an orchid specie in your own kitchen. Vanilla is extracted from the seedpod of the genus Vanilla orchid, naturally grown in tropical regions.

The rain forest is the natural habitat of orchids. Most orchid plants come from the tropical climates but they grow in any climate and in any country, even in cold regions like the Alps and Alaska. With the influx of new hybrids, ORCHIDS easily acclimate to any environment with the proper lighting, watering, air, and fertilizer. Most variety of orchids can bloom from once to 4 times a year. Depending on the species, the blossoms can last for weeks to months. Most plants you buy from the garden centers already come in full bloom for you to enjoy the instant beauty. For this post, I would like to focus on the type of orchids that commonly thrive in our normal living room settings.

I am not an expert grower by any means, but I have grown a few and rescued some bad ones from my own neglect. Even those that looked like they were clinging to the last thread of life, I was advised to continue the care and sure enough it spruced up over time. Orchids are not that delicate as they appear and with the proper environment and loving patience, it will survive. If I can do it, so can you!

This plant, left by the window through the winter, was on hibernation the last few months but new buds are starting popping up. I should start seeing some blossoms in a few months, or maybe weeks. Here are few tips I gathered from the experts:

Strong light, but not direct late-afternoon sunlight. Find the right spot by your window or window counter by your kitchen with filtered/indirect sunlight. It always works!
High humidity-occasionally, allow the plant to sit near your shower room or near your kitchen faucet so it can get the vapor exposure from the hot water. I have not done this for awhile, yet I am still getting great flowers. This shows that they are far from being delicate with the proper care implemented.
Allow turbulent air flow around the roots. Regular periods of drying, alternating with drenching rain-that is 'watering' for the home growers. Do not over stuff the pot with barks.
Maintain temperatures between 50 degrees and about 85 degrees.

Most orchids are considered 'air plants', which means they grow outside the soil and will not require too much watering. The barks or the special potting mix will absorb the water and become the source of nutrients. Above photo is a good example to avoid. The pot contains the wet moss packed around the plant, this kind of environment is to be avoided. If left without a period of drying, it will eventually kill the plants. Weekly watering is recommended during the summer months. Let the water drench the roots and fill up the pebble tray (this will provide extra humidity). During the growing season, weekly application of a weak solution of powder or liquid fertilizer is recommended. Many growers use Peter’s 20/20/20 fertilizer diluted at quarter strength. There are organic manufactured fertilizers available and homemade recipes (here) that are easy to follow. During winter months, keep your plants warm and water monthly. Mist it every so often to make sure it stays hydrated. Don't fertilize it.

Orchid pots come in plastics or clay pots that have holes at the base so water can easily run through the potting mix. Orchid mix are commercially available and often made from charcoal, bark chunks and foam material.

Experts advise re-potting every 2-3 years.

So there you have it... it is not bad as it looks. Just find the right table or counter by your window, set the orchid pot on a pebbled tray, water it weekly (run water from your faucet or use water spray bottle to avoid carrying the pot to your sink), fertilize as per manufacturer's recommendation (I do not necessarily fertilize it regularly-that's how easy it is, but imagine if I do), set it and forget it! You may have long months of waiting but you will be rewarded with endless beauties to enjoy.

sources of information & images other than my own are found here: www.orchids.com, www.answers.com, www.orchids-all.com

Can't Wait To Unveil My Upcoming Project

2010-05-02T16:23:00.000-07:00

I just want to share with you a preview of products on my new website. I will be having flea market finds and a mixture of other handmade designs just at your fingertips that I am sure you will love!

Have a great week!

Ancient Beauties

2010-04-29T10:52:00.000-07:00

I have learned to fall for vintage jewelries. One classic beauty is CAMEO jewelry. The earliest known use of shell cameo carving was during the Renaissance in the 15th and 16th centuries. Before that time, cameos were carved from hard stones. Stone cameos of great artistry were made in Greece dating back as far as the 6th century. Today, the great gemstone carving center of the world is Idar-Oberstein, Germany, famous for their gemstone and agate carvings. This type of carvings is much more difficult because of its hardness of gemstones and agates. Stone cameos are very resistant to chipping and will not peel, crack, fade or discolor with age, making these type of cameos as an "Investment". Shell was not used until a much later date. Shells became extremely popular and eventually the art of cameo carving. Today, the center of shell cameos lies in a small town of Torre de Greco, located at the Bay of Naples. Fake cameos have also been around since ancient times. These are referred to cameos that are not carved from a single stone, but from several stones glued together.

Coral cameos were popular during the Victorian era as a symbol of good luck.

Ivory

Marble

Wedgewood Cameos

If you are looking for a classic cameo collection at an affordable price, visit the Robin's Nest.

Vintage Is Beautiful

2010-04-24T06:42:00.000-07:00

I was supposed to choose three photos I took this morning for this blog...can't help but share with you all the pictures I took. Vintage jewelries, collectible tea cups, and fresh roses were all out in the garden with me on this beautiful Saturday morning...these are just my most photogenic subjects. Happy Weekend!

A Thank You Roses

2010-04-19T08:01:00.001-07:00

Good Monday to you ALL! I was delightfully surprised to see a surge of visitors on my blog the last few days. As I was doing my routine stroll to my fav blogs, I found out that I have been featured on Brenda's blog, Cozy Little House. Her blog never fails to inspire everyone who comes and visit her. The photo collection of her garden speaks of a caring and generous homebody who would never fall short of a warm welcome on your visits. I can imagine myself enjoying a stroll barefoot through her garden on a lazy afternoon and holding a big glass of lemonade. To top it all, I was given a WELCOME party and am very honored to be one of the special guests. Thank you so much Brenda and HAPPY ANNIVERSARY to you! I gathered some roses in my garden for you. I was also invited by Brenda to join the world wide game where I would post my #6 photo featured on my blog. Above is the photo I posted in February 2010. It is a shot of an old re-purposed hutch that I turned into an upright floor cabinet currently housing my creamery collectibles at Robin's Nest. As part of this game, I am to invite 10 wonderful bloggers to also participate and carry on the torch. I thought it would be easy to just choose my most favorite ones...however, that is not the case as I saw my list multiplied in numbers. So, I have randomly picked the following: (1) Kerri, Driftwood Interiors; (2) Daniela, Dream Shabby Chic; (3) Janet, Gardeners Cottage; (4) Jamilyn, Living It At Home; (5) Ever Chic Bardot In Blue; (6) Debby Lee, Inspired Design; (7) The Zhush; (8) Catherine, The Shiny Pebble; (9) Mckenzie, Design Darling (10) Chania, RAZMATAZ This is my first game to have been invited to participate and I wish to invite all my other favorite bloggers to join me next time which I am looking forward to. Yehey, blogging is EXCITING...have a great week ahead!

Let's Move On To The Kitchen

2010-04-15T12:12:00.000-07:00

I am just taking a break from gardening and I made this delicious RED VELVET chocolate bar cake. It is so easy and fast (oops, did I give out the secret?). I think I am ready for a tea break! It is so goooood that even Gretchie agrees!....although in this picture, I made her a special K9 cake for her birthday. Here is the recipe courtesy of my friend, Neila Williams (contributor for the NICU Cookbook 2009 edition).... Red Velvet Candy Bar Cake...(excuse the prints, I am trying to edit this recipe entry) 1 (18.26 oz.) package red velvet cake; 1 1/2 cups milk; 3 eggs; 3/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 (3.4 oz.) package instant vanilla pudding mix; 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened; 1 cup confectioner sugar; 1 (12 oz.) container frozen whipped topping, thawed; 1 cup chopped pecans (or any nuts of your choice); 4 (1.55 oz) milk chocolate candy bars, broken into pieces (optional/any chocolate bar of your choice) Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease and Flour 2 or 3 (8 inch) pans. In large bowl, combine cake mix, milk, eggs, oil and pudding mix. Beat at slow speed with an electric mixer until blended. Scrape bowl and beat 4 minutes in medium speed. Pour batter into prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cakes stand in pans 10 minutes; turn out to cool completely on wire racks. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese with white sugar and confectioner sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped topping, pecans and chopped chocolate. Spread between layers and on top and sides of cake. Garnish with additional chocolate pieces, if desired. Yield 12 servings.

Sprawling Summer Beauties

2010-04-12T15:20:00.001-07:00

Will these beauties ever come back? Every year I always wonder if my garden will look the same as the previous year. I try to capture as much photos as I can because every passing season brings a new look of appreciation. Here are some photos of my front yard from last summer. I have lost a few during winter and these sprawling petunias could have been saved if my gardener did not chop them off (sigh-what a waste!). I am hoping most of them will spruce back this year...maybe something to look forward to! I

New Inspiration For Gardening

2010-04-10T14:14:00.000-07:00

I can't wait to bring home Minna's new gardening book. Check out some of the photos from her website and hope these will inspire you for Spring gardening. Have a great weekend!

Vintage or Reproduction?

2010-04-07T14:32:00.000-07:00

I visited ITO KISH website and found these gorgeous lampshades. They look so perfect to be vintage and just irresistible. I think these are fitting for any designs! I love these ceramic stools. I have not seen one like these before. Lovely plants around. Again, are those real? And why do I always wonder? I should stop and just appreciate the beauty! This is a nice website. Check it out!

Thrown Away Elegance, A Style On A Shoestring

2010-04-04T14:47:00.000-07:00

One designer who tops my list is Annie Brahler from Euro Trash. Her style exemplifies the elegance of vintage which I truly adore. She owns her own store/design business located in Chicago. As a wholesale supplier for designers and shop owners, she also offers a shopping trip to Europe (Belgium, France, Holland). I have been a huge fan and I have corresponded with her over the last two years for my antique business. The following photos were featured in Country Living. This is going to be my favorite post as I always turn to these photos when I seek for inspiration. Her designs are just timeless and elevate the beauty of any vintage pieces. I would like to leave this post with a design tip from Euro Trash: Open shelving is a wonderful way to enjoy the things you love everyday…display things you need in close reach right along with the bits you enjoy just for the color, shape, or texture that they possess. Books in the same tones as your display are a great way to elevate your special things to present them. The shelves themselves can be given interest by giving them soft curves, or arranging them in a series of vertical and horizontal lines rather than the traditional stacked shelving….we also like to paint, stain, or upholster the interior of cabinets to give them a bit of an unexpected touch of special attention…(Annie Brahler)

Repurposed Inspiration Board

2010-04-01T22:27:00.000-07:00

I was inspired by this photo to transform an old frame into an inspiration board. I did not find the right frame to go with the chicken wire so I used regular fabric with a foam material. Here's how you can personalize your own board by using old frame. Hope you like it!

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if you are the owner of the above photo i used for my sample, please email me for proper credit. i completely forgot where i grabbed it from. my apology!

Easter Tablescape

2010-03-31T12:52:00.000-07:00

decisions...decisions and decisions...here are some wonderful ideas to brighten your easter table with easy and simple steps...well, according to martha of course!

I love these vintage eggcups with flower cuttings from the garden over a rustic tray easter tree certainly not for your table, but a vista to enjoy!

egg shaped ball covered with flowers sitting on a moss covered vase becomes a nice topiary for the season

cherry blossom branches to stay for the entire season

easter bunny chocolates randomly placed around the garden themed tablescape

hmmm...maybe this is something achievable after digging your cupboard for the perfect pedestal tray and a trip to michael's

beautiful robin's nest carefully tucked in where it would naturally nestle

table napkin decoupage meets easter eggs

breakfast treats in disguised.....yummy and sneaky!

a trip to your garden or a trip to trader's joe.... you can achieve this look!

easter eggs beautifully arranged on existing flower pots

flowers on stained eggshells on eggcups

chocolate nest.....try it with pretzels....yummy!

irish moss with eggs and birds....as simple!

dogwood and cherry blossom branches to enjoy indoors as well

wheat grass as a table runner centerpiece

tiered bouquet of flowers...all images from marthastewart.com

Antique Fair Giveaways

2010-03-29T16:46:00.000-07:00

Thank you to those who were able to make it to the Antique Fair last Sunday. Expect the giveaways coming your way!

Flea Market Drive- My First Antique Fair

2010-03-29T15:05:00.000-07:00

Wow, it was quite an experience! I was up at 5 am getting ready for the 1st antique fair of the season. I felt I was watching a behind the scene show, watching all the vendors setting up their booths and unloading valuable items from the trucks, and restaurant owners going around selling their breakfast goodies on a cool breezy Sunday. It was a good turnout with lots of people treasure hunting. At the end of the day, I was exhausted yet very grateful of my first experience. I took a few snapshots of the show from our booth...and look further down, are downloads of some rooms with flea market finds. Treasure hunting season......welcome!

I just love how these rooms are put together using flea market finds.

Images from Country Living magazines

Antique Fair

2010-03-23T22:27:00.001-07:00

If you are around the area, join me this weekend at the Clovis Antique Fair, Sunday, March 28. Visit me and the ladies of Robin's Nest @ 5th and Pollasky. You will find vendors from all parts of California, lots of antiques, collectibles, food and fun! Our booth will be located right in front of Robin's Nest. Please stop by to say HI!

A Symphony of Beauty

2010-03-22T16:47:00.000-07:00

This photo truly reflects all elements that inspire me. I had the chance to visit Tobi Fairley's blog and found this photo she posted months ago and I would love to share this with you. It's warm and simple, vintage furniture with a splash of modern fabrics surrounding thE classic white slipped sofa, iron patio table, old furniture and accessories accentuated with fresh flower arrangements, an orderly stack of inspirational books, painted flooring, it is clean, crisp, fresh, playful, you name it...a visual imagery that stimulates my olfactory nerve...yeah, I can imagine this place exudes the fragrance of lilacs!

Inspiration for Gardening

2010-03-20T20:56:00.000-07:00

I had the drive (expecting some visitors) to start cleaning my patio yesterday, revived all outdoor furniture to its freshness, and laid out freshly washed pillows and tablecloth....next on my checklist, gardening...and will I ever do it this year? I'm a bit lazy right now and not feeling the drive, but I will keep on digging for inspiration. But first, let me stroll through my garden from last year...please join me.

2010-03-19T11:44:00.000-07:00

DRESSING EM' UP

2010-03-17T09:51:00.000-07:00

I am always inspired by interior designs with garden elements. Here are some floral pillows and images from Jackie Von Tobel's Spring collection.

Contemporary floral prints are great combo to modernize a vintage look for those who love vintage furniture with a modern twist

Notice this beautiful vintage patio iron chair used indoor, just lovely!

This vintage iron table also used indoor. Love the look!

Upcycled Lampshade

2010-03-16T08:14:00.000-07:00

I wanted to be a bit productive last night and with a little creativity, I decided to update this vintage lampshade (with aged bronze patina) that has been sitting in my car waiting for magic to happen. Here is my guinea pig before the transformation. I think this lamp base will stay with this shade.

After

Calling All Anthropologie Fans

2010-03-07T09:51:00.000-08:00

Anthro lovers, meet Kate Burger, display designer for Anthro. Click here to check her amazing portfolio. I love the garden elements she uses in her displays. It is so inspiring-need to think how I'm going to decorate my displays next!

A Sign of Spring - FINALLY!

2010-03-04T13:43:00.000-08:00

So looking forward! Anthropologie has never failed to inspire me once again.... Imagine a simple top accessorized with these precious jewels.

Verbena Cottage-Vintage Painting Inspired by Anna Spiro's Designs

2010-02-21T16:58:00.000-08:00

First thing that came in mind when I saw this painting was a vignette created by Anna Spiro. I tracked back through months of her posts to share with you one of her creations. I could not help but grab other pictures I came across that truly inspire me. I hope you will enjoy viewing them as I do. I love how Anna uses vibrant colors in her designs yet keeping a clean and sleek finished look. Check out her vintage items blended with modern accessories. Amazing....enjoy the view!

This painting is currently available at Cedar Cafe'

Anna Spiro's Creations

The following images are from Absolutely Beautiful Things

Verbena Cottage- Vintage Lamps

2010-02-19T23:44:00.000-08:00

Beautifully restored hand blown vintage lamp

dressed with crystals available @ Robin's Nest

sold

Vintage table lamp with intricate curvings available @ Robin's Nest

sold

Ultimate Beauties-Hydrangeas

2010-02-17T13:31:00.000-08:00

Inspiring images from Euro Antique Market

Oh, yeah! You can recreate your own with these beauties!

Dried Hydrangeas available at Robin's Nest

The beauties before then...

Pattern on Pattern

2010-02-16T17:16:00.000-08:00

Pattern on Pattern? Who says there is a rule?

Check out how Anna Spiro pulled this look together.

Simply loving it and I want to share this with you!

http://absolutelybeautifulthings.blogspot.com/

Verbena Cottage at Cedar Cafe'

2010-02-16T01:33:00.001-08:00

Topiaries, paintings and other accessories at the cafe. Also Chesterfields Antique's painting collections on display. YES, you can take them home with you!

Cedar Cafe's vintage paintings & Verbena Cottage candle stands with crystals

Vintage Mirrors

Antique and Vintage Paintings by Chesterfields' and Verbena Cottage

A Day For Lovers And A Day To Recount Your BLESSINGS!

2010-02-14T10:33:00.001-08:00

HAPPY LOVE DAY!

Happy Valetine's Day

YUMMIES!

2010-02-13T22:12:00.001-08:00

Marissa Negrete's Sweet Box Collection

for Verbena Cottage

will soon be available at

Cedar Cafe'

Please email for more information:

verbenacottage@yahoo.com

Verbena Cottage is Simply About:

2010-02-13T21:55:00.000-08:00

Upcycled Furniture, Vintage and Collectibles, A Blend of Old and New

vintage lamp paired with Anthropologie's retro embroidered shade

Pennsylvania Quilts (circa 1940s-1950s)

Verbena Cottage Upcylced Table.....And Other Goodies!

2010-02-13T21:49:00.000-08:00

Verbena Cottage At Robin's Nest

2010-02-13T21:21:00.000-08:00

A new home for Verbena Cottage!

The Robin's Nest Gifts and Collectibles

453 Pollasky

Clovis, CA 93612

Robin's Nest In Downtown Clovis

2010-02-13T21:20:00.000-08:00

my verbena cottage

2009-03-20T09:10:00.001-07:00