The View from Here

New Blog!

2009-12-08T10:11:00.000-08:00

Hey guys, I just created a new blog. I've been way behind on trying to get tons of posts out on this thing, but it just isnt going to happen. Please join me at my new blog where i'll post (as much as i can) things i love, my photography and anything else i deem worthy. Thanks for stopping by!lauradeponte.blogspot.com

Etsy Holiday Sales!

2009-11-28T09:13:00.000-08:00

hey everyone, just want to let you know that ALL photos in my etsy shop are on sale for $6-12! Shipping is only 50 cents. This means you can combine prints and spend less than $20-how great is that? I really am working on updating my entire shop but would love my inventory to disappear, so please check it out!

Los Angeles...

2009-11-24T09:28:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone, I'm the worst blogger in the world. Basically after I got back from Los Angeles I was swept back up into school. Final exams are next week and I'm trying to finish everything (including that dreaded art history paper that I have yet to start). While I'm away and thinking of new and exciting posts to share, take a look at some photos from L.A. We stayed in Venice Beach, went to

Off to Hollywood!

2009-11-04T21:40:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone, I'm going to L.A with my sisters tomorrow for a much needed vacation (loan headaches, school, the weather...ugh.). Can't wait to be sitting on the beach and shopping...I'll post up some pics when I get back. Until then...

Fashion: Little Black Dress

2009-10-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

I love dresses in the fall. You can pair them with leggings and flats and a coat for a perfect outfit. Since tomorrow is Halloween, I thought it'd be fair to find some LBDs that are a little sexy and very cute. Here are a few picks from Urban Outfitters and Forever21. Look for a dress that hugs your curves and has a little extra that sets your LBD apart.

Espresso Martini

2009-10-29T05:00:00.000-07:00

I thought this week's drink should be fitting for a Halloween party-a little dark and very delicious. An espresso martini is super easy to make. 1 part espresso to1-2 parts liquor (I would use Kahlua) and a bit of chocolate to make it yummy. Shake it up with ice, strain and enjoy! You could garnish it with a swirl of orange skin to make it even more devilish.photo via abbyladybug

Etsy Tuesday: Whimsical Treasures

2009-10-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

I came across this adorable shop through a gift guide on etsy. Her designs are super simple, but incredibly sweet. The necklaces and earrings are a perfect gift for girls of all ages. You can find more treasures here. Happy Tuesday!

Tough Luxe

2009-10-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

I love this season's trend of chunky metal jewelry. A perfect mix of attitude and glitter adds an edge to any outfit.necklace by Forever21bracelets by Assad Mounsser

On and Off and Wedding Love

2009-10-07T11:11:00.000-07:00

Sorry to be late on posting, but I'm trying to get settled into a new year at school. So much reading! So much to be done! I promise I'll be back with more to share very soon. In the meantime, check out the long-awaited wedding of Design*Sponge blogger, Grace. The beautiful Savannah, wedding is being fawned over the entire blogosphere, check out all the pics at D*S. So many details from

Fashion: Fall Coats

2009-10-02T05:00:00.000-07:00

Fall is here in Portland! The air is crisp and the sounds of college students roaming the halls is back in full swing. This season coats and jackets are back with an edgier feel. Paired with diagonal zippers and fitted silhouettes, these choices are perfect for pairing with a feminine skirt and tights for fall!

Thirsty Thursday: Kahlua!

2009-10-01T05:00:00.000-07:00

I love Kahlua, Baileys, anything deliciously creamy and on ice! Today's drink is super simple: Kahlua Coffee Cream on the rocks. Sweet and simple! Enjoy :)photo via intoxicologist

Etsy Tuesday: Munted Kowhai

2009-09-29T05:00:00.000-07:00

This week's featured seller is New Zealander-turned-Portlander Munted Kowhai. Her crocheted jewelry is stunning; intricate and fragile threads are paired with chains to create feminine pieces that are perfect for any outfit. We got to ask her a few questions, here we go!Where do you find inspiration for your pieces?My inspirations come from the rare vintage buttons I find online and the

End of Summer

2009-09-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

This week marks my first week back at school-I'm officially a junior! (Hopefully) one more year of college and then I'm out on my own-its quite frightening but relieving knowing I wont have to deal with textbooks, shelling out hundreds for supplies and listening to pretentious 20-somethings in boring lecture classes. ANYWAY. I though I'd leave the summer with a seriously gorgeous wedding shoot

Friday Faves: Optical Illusions

2009-09-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

honeycomb necklace by harbinger co, confined necklace by aroha silhouettes, radiolara necklacedendrite earrings by nervous system by nervous system, I found some great pieces of jewelry that use optical illusion and scientific patterns to create beautiful, wearable art. I especially love the dendrite earrings-how cool are they? Enjoy!

Thirsty Thursday: Ginger-Mint Lemonade

2009-09-24T05:00:00.000-07:00

I found this amazing recipe for Ginger-Mint Lemonade the other day from Appetite for China, a great website about cuisine in China. I really love the tangy zing from ginger and putting it in lemonade almost seems too easy. Ginger-Mint LemonadeAdapted from Cork (Westmont, New Jersey) via Food & Wine Cocktails 2006 Makes 2 drinks 2 lemon wedges and sugarIce12 to 20 mint leaves, plus 2 mint sprigs

Etsy Tuesday: Kari Herer

2009-09-22T05:00:00.000-07:00

I cannot express how much I adore Kari Herer's photography. She captures such mundane objects as if they were precious pieces of art, all with a feminine style and chic approach. A well-known photographer around the web (you can find Design*Sponge gushing about her, among others), she does amazing portraits as well as images of flowers and food. I was able to ask Kari a few questions-here we

Yellow Goat Giveaway!

2009-09-20T21:14:00.000-07:00

I love giveaways-heres your chance to win a $50 coupon at the beautiful shop of Yellow Goat. Her amazing jewelry is innovative and fun, just take a survey to be entered to win!!Take the Survey and visit Yellow Goat on etsy right here!

Fashion: Shades of Gray

2009-09-18T05:00:00.000-07:00

necklace by necklush, sweater coat by forever21, leather bag by valhalla brooklyn, leather bootie by Dolce VitaI love fall colors, aka black, gray and jewel tones. Here are a few pieces that are perfect to complement any fall look.

Thirsty Thursday: Hawaiian Martinis

2009-09-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

I came across this post via Liqurious-a wonderful recipe from Chaos in the Kitchen. Roy's is a fusion restaurant with several locations in Hawaii-not to miss if you're ever in the islands. They create their own pineapple-infused martinis, and frankly look too good NOT to make. Heres the recipe:Hawaiian Martinis makes 2500 ml, prep 10 minutes, allow to infuse about 1 week 2 750 ml bottles

Etsy Tuesday: Labyrinth Vintage

2009-09-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

When I came across Labyrinth Vintage's felt flower necklace, I was instantly in love. Her handmade pieces incorporating vintage designs and fantastic craftsmanship are easy to adore. I love her innovative use of zippers and jewels-they take the statement necklace to a new level. I got to ask the artist a few questions about her work, here we go!Where do you get your inspiration from?

Loving It: New York Fashion Week

2009-09-14T05:00:00.000-07:00

So this week is New York Fashion Week's Spring 2010 runway shows. Kicking off the week with Fashion's Night Out, a night in which big-name fashion houses and stores stay open til almost midnight for a celebration of their craft, as well as a chance to get some badly-needed sales from fashion's elite and the common folk. How fun would it be to run around NYC and see endless celebs, fashion

Friday Faves: Cold-weather Cozy

2009-09-11T05:00:00.000-07:00

knitware porcelain vases by Alyssa Ettinger Design, felt flower necklace by Labyrinth Vintage, OOAK shawl by Knittles, knit rocks print by Resurrection FernI am a sucker for all things warm and fuzzy-call it the grandma inside of me that would rather be knitting in a rocking chair than watching bad VH1 reality tv and downing jager bombs (doesn't that sound like the least fun you could have?). So

Thirsty Thursday: Gimlets!

2009-09-10T05:00:00.000-07:00

I want to introduce a new topic for my blog: drinks! I had an epiphany a couple weeks back-my day job dream is to become a bartender and rake in the dough. Or is that a night job? Well, whatever. I've been a barista for 3 years now and honestly make too little for my hard work. SO-im going to be sharing some drink recipes with you all (shh don't tell my mother im underage!) and in return

Etsy Tuesday: Tickled Pink Knits

2009-09-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

This week's featured seller is the hugely talented Elena from Tickled Pink Knits. A true craftsman, she hand knits each piece in her shop. Lush, buttery knit scarves and wraps are her specialty and each garment looks so cozy! I can see her pieces being a must-have for fall and winter-they are that beautiful! I was fortunate enough to have Elena answer some questions of mine, so here we go!Why

A Few New Pictures

2009-09-07T08:56:00.000-07:00

I finally got around to uploading the last pictures I've taken, along with formatting my memory cards and buying batteries for the upcoming wedding i'm shooting (ack! exciting!!). Here are a few, please check out my flickr site for more. I really have a thing for photographing flowers...Also, sorry for the lack of posts last week, I moved into a new apartment and everything was a mess! This

Stationery Giveaway: Crow and Canary

2009-08-21T14:24:00.000-07:00

I love following Carina from Crow and Canary on twitter and her blog. She gets to showcase AMAZING letterpress and stationery gods like Egg Press, Lark Press, Paper+Cup...ah I wish I had her job. Anyway, she is giving out tons of great cards for the upcoming holidays by a whole slew of artists. Check out her blog post here to enter, and if you are on twitter, tweet about it for an extra chance

Friday Faves: Notebooks, Pencils, Paper, Oh My!

2009-08-21T08:33:00.000-07:00

pencil case, sidney ann; bell jar desk set, Midwest Finds; shoulder bag, Byrd and Belle; letter organizer, the vintageholic frogI love browsing Etsy-it isn't a suprise to anyone by now. They always have great gift guides and guides for men, women and children. They have also curated a great School and Office Supplies guide that showcase fun little notebooks, pencil cases and other supplies one

Fashion: Back To School

2009-08-21T05:00:00.000-07:00

I just registered for my fall classes yesterday (a mix of art history, business and history classes), which got me in the "back to school" mode. Today I've put together some outfits (from Forever21-I buy all my clothes there!) that will make a great first impression for going back to class in. Happy friday!I love neutrals, and a simple tank top, linen pants and neutral scarf will make any girl

DIY: Knit Washcloths

2009-08-19T05:00:00.000-07:00

washcloths by Cocoa BeansI've been seeing more and more people selling hand-knit washcloths and scrubbies on Etsy, and according to many they are even better at cleaning than store bought sponges. Bonus-they are eco-friendly and will last far longer than sponges (and you can pick colors to match your kitchen!) Heres what you'll need:Knit Washcloths-ball of yarn, preferably on the rough side (

Etsy Tuesday: Scabby Robot

2009-08-18T05:00:00.000-07:00

I spotted the great shop of Scabby Robot (isn't that a great name?) during a search for back to school items on Etsy. Jill from San Francisco is behind the brand and creates awesome bags from mixed textiles and leathers. I really love the organic, truly handmade feel that her bags show; her bags can be worn shopping in the city and slinging art supplies to school.I was able to get a little

Friday Faves: Children's Toys

2009-08-14T17:02:00.000-07:00

handmade wooden animals, Happy Squash Toys; socktopus, Friends of Socktopus; doll, Simpli Jessi; momma and baby monster, Danger CraftsThe children's section on Etsy is huge and is built on the love of many artists and crafters. Toys, blankets, clothes and everything in between-each handmade item is worth much more than that plastic toy you bought at Toys 'R' Us. Trust me. The toy section is

Friday Faves: Pre-Fall Fashions

2009-08-14T08:57:00.000-07:00

Today I'm combining Friday Faves with our Fashion post. The weather has changed in Portland (who knows how long-perhaps summer will have its last 15 minutes of fame next week!), and I am already seeing some warmer, cozier clothing coming out of those dusty closets. I love seeing knits, coats and beautiful fall jewelry hit the internet-so here are a few pieces I've found that I love! I really

Etsy Tuesday: Simpli Jessi

2009-08-11T05:00:00.000-07:00

Today's artist I can't gush enough about. Simpli Jessi creates one-of-a-kind handmade dolls for children (and adults-they're that cute!) While browsing the children's section on Etsy (a post I'm saving for friday!), I came across her unique and quirky dolls for a equally unique kid. These dolls are a great gift for a child or friend who is sure to love it for many, many years. I was so

Fashion Friday: Cirque Twist

2009-08-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

Forever21 has just come out with a new line called Twist, featuring circus-themed dresses, jackets and accessories. Now, this style is a bit "out there" for me, but some pieces can look really cute if put together right. The jackets and skirts are perfect to pair with leggings and boots for the upcoming fall season. Visit forever21.com to see the entire collection. But for now heres a preview...

Friday Faves: Workout Wear

2009-08-07T05:00:00.000-07:00

yoga bag by rejenerate; halter top by jmorco; pants, lululemon; wrap top, shiharI own next to no workout clothing, apart from a few pairs of jazz and yoga pants and two sports bras. Etsy has a very small selection of workout clothes but accessories for your yoga mat and water bottle are easy to come by. Inspired by my new goal of exercise/diet change, I found some items that are a great

Loving It: Stylist Lucyina Moodie

2009-08-05T05:00:00.000-07:00

I was just looking over at decor8 and spotted gorgeous photos of stylist Lucyina Moodie. She sets up interior and exterior spaces and the results are breathtaking. I want her to design my entire future house! What an eye for design and just the right touch of lived-in-ness. Visit her site and portfolio here.

Etsy Tuesday: Byrd and Belle

2009-08-04T05:00:00.000-07:00

Byrd and Belle is a fantastic shop run by Angie Davis that features beautifully designed cases for your electronic gadgets. Angie uses thick felt and a modern simplicity to create sleek laptop cases, ipod sleeves and little works of art. Her items are gorgeously photographed and I am pining for a felt laptop sleeve-just look at that detailing! It is great to use something handmade in this

For a friend

2009-08-03T05:00:00.001-07:00

Chelsea Bryant, a coworker and friend of mine (and kindred spirit-total pisces sisters!) recently launched her own blog about her inspirations, poetry and art. No one I know fits the phrase "carpe diem" more than her- shes all about loving and living life to the fullest; whether its throwing paint on an old piece of art or just having conversations about life with friends, Chelsea is a free

Photo of the Day

2009-08-03T05:00:00.000-07:00

Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach, Oregon

Another great Wedding

2009-08-02T09:47:00.001-07:00

OnceWed never disappoints. In fact, almost every single wedding featured on their site has my mind exploding with "I want that!" and "thats sooo cute!!" Their newest wedding lives up to that too. Take a look at some photos from Jordyn and Bradley's wedding.photos via OnceWed and tec petaja

Loving It: Crystal-like Jewelry

2009-08-01T16:10:00.001-07:00

I found this post by refinery 29 via notcouture, and am in love! Mctega's crystalline jewelry line is at once organic and high-fashion. The beautiful chunky jewelry looks as if it was created out of a primordial ooze or in a petri dish. Check out Mctega's website to see their full collections and stockists (one of which is right in downtown portland!).

A New Me

2009-07-28T14:37:00.000-07:00

Instead of the usual Etsy Tuesday post, which I haven't gotten around to doing because I was super busy this week (motocross race, trip to the coast and IKEA, the over 100 degree heat, way too much!) I've been trying to lose weight and be healthy practically all my life with minimal success, and all the while having a thyroid condition that makes it nearly impossible to lose weight. I really

Fashion Friday: Street Style

2009-07-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

I know there are tons of people out there that just love what The Sartorialist has done to show the world how fashion is really worn: on the streets. I really enjoy browsing his and other street style photographer's pages to see what people young and old wear, and it really is quite a treat to see amazing style at all ages. Hopefully one day I'll actually figure out my own style and collect some

Friday Faves: Marie Antoinette

2009-07-24T07:00:00.000-07:00

earrings by Bionic Unicorn, headband by Miss Ruby Sue, macaron photo by food 4 wibowo, necklace by eighty8clothingToday's picks are inspired by Marie Antoinette: feminine, frou frou and totally fun. Wouldn't it be nice to sip champagne all day and be given diamonds and gowns? Well, these will make you feel a bit like that. Enjoy!

Its Here!

2009-07-21T16:37:00.000-07:00

Today on Design*Sponge is the long (LONG!!) overdue guide to Portland, Oregon! I'm so excited and happy that its finally on D*S for the whole world to see. Portland truly is an amazing city that offers something for everyone. LOVE IT! Go check it out right here

Friday Faves: Vintage Kitchen

2009-07-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

Sunbeam mixer and bowls, JaditeKate (she collects Jadite, so cool!); floral drinking glasses, Bettys Kitschen; yellow creamer set, FromMarlo; coral mixing bowl, Brickhouse VintageI love seeing vintage kitchen utensils and serveware on Etsy. It all just reminds me of my grandparent's house and their old bread box and canisters with mid-century modern details. There are so many great vintage

Fashion Friday: Summer Sun

2009-07-17T07:00:00.000-07:00

I love seeing floral prints and color when it comes to summer. All the girls and boys are out having picnics in super cute frocks and sandals, and boys don light cotton tees and shorts with boaters. Its such a relief to not worry about boots and raincoats and freezing rain, but to just enjoy the perfect weather and sip lemonade and read a book during this season.Here are some great summer pieces

Guide to Blogging

2009-07-16T15:07:00.001-07:00

photo by RH photoEtsy just sent me an email containing fantastic resources and tips for bloggers. Check them out!Etsy's Guide to Blogging

Etsy Tuesday: Jean Pelle

2009-07-14T05:00:00.001-07:00

It is safe to say that I am in love with Jean Pelle's wooden candlestick holders and glass chandeliers and jewelry. Her clean, crisp lines and fresh take on home decor have caught my eye as well as others around the blogosphere. A new line of excruciatingly delicate glass orbs strung together to make a necklace is an entirely new concept for jewelry I have seen, and that glass ball chandelier

Fashion Maven: Emma Watson

2009-07-10T08:39:00.000-07:00

We (meaning the entire generation of now 20 something year olds) grew up with the Harry Potter series. The books were fantastic, the movies are spectacular, and now that the 6th movie is coming out, we only look forward to the 7th and final movie in a childhood staple that has been with us since we were in elementary school. With that, we've also grown with the characters of the movie. One in

Uber Fashion!

2009-07-10T08:00:00.001-07:00

This week was the start of the haute couture runway shows in magical Paris. I've been searching through the collections and they are a-ma-zing. Sparkly, out of control, totally ridiculous and makes me want to throw my sheets together into something fashiony...maybe not. Here are my faves! Have a lovely day you fashionistas!Lady Gaga is that you?! Oh no, just a look from Gaultier. Theres

Fashion Friday

2009-07-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today I thought I would put together an outfit for someone on a budget. I always shop at Forever21 for their super cheap but real chic jewelry, and if you can find their shoes in your size before all the other girls have taken them, they are really cute too! I found this basic black dress from Insight at 80spurple.com for $72, and paired it with this bib necklace for $17.80, cocktail ring for

A Cool Drink of Limoncello!

2009-07-09T08:52:00.000-07:00

Heres another great drink recipe I found whilst browsing Tastespotting-you can always find super gorgeous photos of delicious food and amazing recipes (which I write down of course!) This Limoncello and Mint Sorbet is the ultimate in summer refreshment-imagine this on hot summer day in a piazza in Italy. Okay, that may be going too far, but it'd be nice, no? Instead of going through the hassle

Tastes like summer...

2009-07-09T05:00:00.000-07:00

I was browsing Tastespotting when I came across this gorgeous photo of a Watermelon Margarita. Yes, you heard right. Fresh watermelon+alcohol=the ultimate summer refreshment. Heres the recipe courtesy of Food Network, pictures from Martha Stewart Ingredients 2 1/2 cups seedless (or seeded) watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes, rind discarded before measuring3

What I'm Reading

2009-07-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

I went to Powell's the other day to try and find a new book to read. At first I was thinking something along the lines of travel writing (just finished Under the Tuscan Sun so I'm in travel mode), and then I saw Julie and Julia. This book is about one woman's quest to cook her way through Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child, one of the world's most recognized and loved chefs.

Etsy Tuesday: Domestikate

2009-07-07T05:00:00.000-07:00

Today's Etsy seller is Domestikate, purveyor of fine vintage goods! She collects treasures of all sorts (she even has a vintage clothing shop, Sophistikate). I love finding vintage items, they are always filled with history and years of wear and tear. You can find her household items here and her clothing here. Great finds!

Loving It: Stacked Rings

2009-07-06T05:00:00.000-07:00

I just spotted these stacked feather rings by Iosselliani on Not Couture. They are a bit spendy but the rings are made with cubic zirconia (which actually is a real substance, not just something they use to make cheap jewelry!). They would look fabulous with a hippie dress or wear the big stones alone for a statement. You can purchase them here. Loving it!

Fashion Friday!

2009-07-03T19:29:00.000-07:00

Okay, so in order to build up more posts on my blog, I'm going to try and do several posts a day (if im feeling up to it!). Today I went shopping and found some cute dresses at forever21. It was SO hot today and I've been wearing this printed dress all day!Forever21 has sooo many types of cute summer dresses, and theyre always cheap so you can grab several! I love all the floral and ikat

Friday Faves: Nautical

2009-07-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

This week's faves were found searching the Vintage section of Etsy using the term "nautical." The results were sweet and reminiscent of being on the high seas, or kissing a cute sailor. Enjoy!

Guest Post!

2009-06-30T13:34:00.000-07:00

Today I have a guest blog post over at my sister's great wedding site, Pacific Wedding Guide. Today I'm posting pictures from amazing artists and craftsmen specializing in weddings at Etsy. Please read it here and tell me what you think!You can read Tara's blog here and visit her awesome website all about weddings in Hawaii and New Zealand right here. Have a great day!

Etsy Tuesday: reiter8

2009-06-29T00:01:00.000-07:00

reiter8 (reiterate) is Katherine Rasmussen who creates bags, wallets and pillows out of old sails. I love her clean design aesthetic and how cool and summery her bags are! The bold numbers would look awesome with any casual outfit. What a great way to remake something practical into something fun! This week definitely has a nautical theme, look out for friday's post about nautical goodies! You

Loving It: DIY Camera Strap

2009-06-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

I saw this DIY article on D*S a few days ago and I'm so inspired to make one for my camera! All you gotta do is cut a tiny piece of fabric, stitch it and slide it on and *click* instant style! I do have a lot of IKEA fabric lying around. For the instructions, click here.

Loving It: Shoes

2009-06-28T00:01:00.000-07:00

Why hellooo there, lover.Gretchen Stud Pumps, $32.80 (!!) at Forever21

Loving It: Marc Jacobs

2009-06-27T14:23:00.001-07:00

So I have to admit that I'm quite that fan of Marc Jacobs. Hes cute, his clothes are cute (esp. the flats), his bags are to die for (I always get compliments on the tote bag I got from my very fashionable NYC bestie--thanks vicen!) and his fragrances are delicious. Well, as fate would have it, Marc is putting out a new fragrance called Lola (my nickname by some) and I can't wait to get it!

Loving It: DIY Wedding

2009-06-18T12:00:00.000-07:00

Spotted: A DIY-delightful wedding captured by Martha Stewart Weddings via OnceWed. How gorgeous is that paper butterfly bouquet?

Loving It: the near future

2009-06-18T10:00:00.000-07:00

Spotted: these fantastic tea towels from Sydney based thenearfuture on D*S the other day...how cute!!

Loving It: Old Theaters

2009-06-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

I found this link through NOTCOT and had to share it. Photographer Julia Solis went to dozens of abandoned theaters and captured them on her website. Its so entirely eerie yet a great reminder of the passage of time. I love the theater thats built into a pool and one where theres vegetation taking over-so great. See the slideshow here

Travel: Oregon Coast

2009-06-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today and tomorrow I'll be driving out to the lovely Oregon Coast with my fabulous boyfriend to celebrate our 1 year anniversary! I can't believe its been that long already but it been super fun and drama-free (we haven't fought ONCE! hey, if your happy, whats there to fight about right?) So this week's travel post is all about the Oregon Coast.A huge step away from the clear-blue, tropical and

Etsy Tuesday: YAVAglass

2009-06-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

YAVAglass creates super awesome upcycled (or is it recycled?) glasses made from soda and beer bottles. I love that you can turn bottles with cool vintage labels, like the Boylan's sodas, and create a beautiful set of glasses you can use in your house! YAVAglass creates their glasses from all sorts of bottles and even coasters! This would be a perfect gift for Father's Day (with his favorite

Friday Faves

2009-06-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

Top row: Twig solitaire by bmjnyc, Anemone necklace by Abigail Percy, Wood Ring by Zoe and DoyleBottom: Modern Rock studs by Metalicious, champagne diamond ring by onegarnetgirl, chocolate diamond ring by Jesse DangerOkay, as many of you have noticed I'm currently obsessed with all things weddings. Wedding photography of all kinds, jewelry, dresses, you name it-I love it. Perhaps its because

Etsy Tuesday: One Stone New York

2009-06-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

One Stone New York creates gorgeous pieces of jewelry using faceted gems, gold and silver. I've recently become obsessed with watching Jewelry Television at my mom's apartment (is that totally a grandma thing or what?) and seeing faceted gemstones sell for so little is quite exciting. I found OSNY through Etsy and fell in love with Shane's crisp, modern take on jewelry. I especially love the

Travel: Vintage Polaroids

2009-06-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

As I was browsing through some articles on Etsy's main page, I ran across a Vintage section story that had some old polaroid's from a couples trip to Europe in 1969 (see the photos and read the article here). The photos were so old and touching, I had to see more. They were taken from a set from tagurity on Flickr. Looking through each photo was a mini vacation to the past and I wanted to

Etsy Tuesday: Anne Kiel

2009-06-02T08:00:00.000-07:00

Todays post is from uber-talented Anne Kiel. Her jewelry is simple yet stunning, using gemstones, gold and silver, often with organic shapes. I was fortunate enough to ask her a couple questions about her work!When did you want to create jewelry and how did it happen?I started creating beaded jewelry as a hobby about 5 years ago. It's really therapeutic and I still love to bead pieces in my

Friday Faves

2009-05-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

Todays post is all about beautiful wedding photography. All of a sudden I'm absolutely obsessed with looking at wedding photos (don't worry, its not putting any ideas in my head other than being a wedding photographer!) So many talented photographers capture such sweet, delicate moments and I love that people are so willing to share their special day with others. Style Me Pretty and Brooklyn

Daily Inspiration

2009-05-28T08:05:00.000-07:00

Heres a fantastic spread of details from a real wedding on Style Me Pretty. I love the saturated yellow and the candy bar, so sweet! For more breathtaking photos of this couples weddings, check it out at Style Me Pretty. Happy thursday!

Travels: Stockholm

2009-05-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, I just remember seeing several posts about Stockholm on Design*Sponge several months ago and I fell in love! The city looks extremely historical yet produces such amazing designers and artists, like Kajsa Andersson who had a sneak peek at D*S and runs HAPPYsthlm. Also one of my faves, Lotta Jansdotter, is from Sweden! I've only been to a few countries in Europe (the mandatory Scotland,

Etsy Tuesday: Cicada Studio

2009-05-26T08:00:00.000-07:00

This week's post is from textile maven Michelle at Cicada Studio. She designs beautifully fresh textiles that center around organics and modern shape. I have a cloth calendar from Cicada up on my wall and enjoy looking at it every day. Couldn't you see those bright bold patterns on a upholstered rattan chair? So pretty. She just recently began a project called Cloud9 fabrics, which creates

Inspiration Boards

2009-05-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

I am a huge, huge fan of inspiration boards, especially online boards. Finding inspiration on the web is hugely exciting and thrilling, but sometimes its hard to keep track of your book marks or putting them into a cohesive statement. Luckily there are great resources to use out there to help you put images together.I use bighugelabs to make my mosaics for each post-its soo simple. You can

Loving It

2009-05-24T14:43:00.000-07:00

I just saw this post on Brooklyn Bride and just HAVE to share it. I love the french tea party theme, with macarons and champagne glasses. It just oozes Marie Antoinette...love it! That cake stand held up by wine glasses is to die for. Just a little lazy sunday treat to get me inspired!

Turning professional

2009-05-23T23:52:00.000-07:00

So today I took the plunge and ordered a tripod (how have I not had one of these before?!), a new 2 GB memory card and a white/gold reflector for my photography. I had an epiphany that if I really want to be a professional, I need to have the gear. Yesterday I read an amazing article on setting up photo shoots for photographing food by Matt Wright. He really gave some great advice on using

Friday Faves

2009-05-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Todays post I thought I'd put together a little inspiration board. I was browsing some wedding blogs and am really inspired by the color schemes and beautiful photography, I decided to create my own outfit! It can be for a wedding or an Oscar night...lets just say the more dramatic the better! The accessories were all found on Etsy, which means you can have a truly affordable and glamorous

Travel: Sydney, Australia

2009-05-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

The day after me and my sister graduated high school, we went on a several week's trip to Sydney, Melbourne and Auckland with our older sister. Instantly I fell in love with Sydney: the city is hip, trendy yet still maintains its old buildings and classy stores. Hyde Park was right outside our door, where we ate fresh fruit and yogurt and enjoyed the sun.The Harbour is where all the action is;

Etsy Tuesday: Scarlet Beautiful

2009-05-12T08:07:00.000-07:00

Today's etsy seller is a super talented photographer from Washington State. Scarlet Beautiful's shop is filled with amazing photos using the "Through the Viewfinder" technique that allows her photos to become grainy, aged and perfect. I would love to have these framed and sitting on my windowsill, such a joy to look at! You can find her photos here and her other etsy shop right here. Happy

Friday Faves

2009-05-08T11:18:00.001-07:00

Today's post is all things pink and girly. I imagine having a little boudoir thats filled with crystal perfume bottles and jewelry cases dripping in pearls and gems. The weather outside is promising, so I'm going to go enjoy it and you should too! I'm going to have a full week of blogging come monday, so get ready!Clockwise from top: sarahseven, lifelovepaper, dinosaurtoes, myrakim.Follow me

Etsy Tuesday: Ink + Wit

2009-05-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

This week's featured seller is the super talented Tara Hogan from Ink+Wit. She creates really modern letterpressed goods that are super simple and clean. I love her limited edition prints (and they go fast! they are always sold out at her site, drats!). She recently came out with new wedding stationery (that pink is sooo cute). You can buy her goodies on etsy right here and visit her website

Etsy Tuesday: Ika Bags

2009-04-28T08:18:00.000-07:00

I just found Ika Bags when I was browsing another etsy user's treasury and I was surprised at how perfect they are for spring and summer! Feyza is a textile designer and uses scandinavian (gotta love it!) fabrics in her bags. She lives in Paris where she creates super cute things! Love those bags for a sunny day out on the town! You can find all her cool bags here and at her other store,

Snack Time

2009-04-23T16:06:00.000-07:00

Ah...today is over, school-wise. I can now catch up on all my homework that I've slowly let pile up and can breathe easier knowing tomorrow is ANOTHER friday (these weeks are flying by!!). I just made a pitcher of iced tea and threw in some chopped strawberries, so refreshing. Heres a little something I made up for a nice, light and healthy snack.Broke Girl's "Granola" (Cereal) Parfaitfew

Positano and the Amalfi Coast

2009-04-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

Positano is one of those little towns tucked into a nook that look like a dream. I'm still reading Under the Tuscan Sun and can remember in the movie when Diane Lane finds her dream Italian man in Positano. Its myriad of houses sprinkled against the mountain are so charming, I can't wait to make a trip there some day. Positano is situated along the beautiful and winding Amalfi Coast. Just

Etsy Tuesday: Lara Lewis

2009-04-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

Lara Lewis is a super talented jewelry maker on Etsy. Her style is estate jewelry decadence and pure vintage girliness. I love the deep rich jewel tones she uses and her photographs of her items are always flawless! You can buy her jewels here and peruse her blog right here. Great work!(click photo to enlarge)

Friday Faves: Colors of Spring

2009-04-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

Spring has sprung in Portland, with a comfortable mid to high 70s in the forecast, I'm busting out my tank tops and slippers. The look for this spring is bright, clean, fresh (when is it not though?). I searched around Etsy and found these lovely items to share with you all! Have a great weekend!(Click the photo to enlarge)

Santorini...

2009-04-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Its incredibly sunny outside, but that could change any minute! Fortunately the clear blue sky reminded me of Greece. One day I'll be strolling down a narrow lane among bright white buildings and looking out into the impossibly blue sea...ahhh. But, for now, I must dream a little while longer. Heres some eye candy of Santorini, Greece.photos courtesy ehpien, kdludwig

Etsy Tuesday: Miniature Rhino

2009-04-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today's post is one I'm eager to share with you. I just happened upon Miniature Rhino while browsing through Etsy's Treasury section (which is one of my guilty pleasures-people make great collections!). Miniature Rhino is a curator of tiny curiosities and little treasures. I love the custom embroidered initials and constellations. I'm quite taken with their little collections of tiny

Travels...

2009-04-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

Right now I'm reading Under the Tuscan Sun by Frances Mayes. Yes, I'm probably the last person to read it (I've seen the movie a million times), but I can't help but find out the real story behind her acquiring an old villa in the hills of Tuscany and its renovation (how romantic is that?) That made me think that someday I will wind up on a dusty street in Italy, trying to figure out my way to a

Etsy Tuesday: Dinosaur Toes

2009-04-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

This weeks lovely post is from a fantastic jewelry maker, Dinosaur Toes. Her work is so feminine and romantic-I love staring at her beautiful fabric rosettes on chunky chains and headbands. I've just commissioned her to create me a custom bracelet, I'm so excited! Dinosaur Toes' goodies can be found here. Enjoy the weather!

Quiche!

2009-04-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

This weekend was gorgeous! In the 70s and cool, clear sky..it was perfect. Saturday I decided to bake some quiche, because I haven't cooked in a while and I had the apartment to myself. So I created a turkey bacon (my bf is jewish...and its healthier!), potato, onion and cheddar quiche. They turned out perfectly and can be customized any way you like.Quiche2 unbaked 9" pie crusts6 eggs2 tbs

A walk around

2009-04-05T17:38:00.000-07:00

Today was GORGEOUS in portland, its around the 70s, clear, super sunny skies, its just like being back at home in Hawaii on the beach with a nice breeze. So after work I got some photos of cherry blossom trees nearby and some of the waterfront.What a great day for a picnic! Hopefully this weather stays through the week so me and the bf can have a little picnic on the waterfront. Ah..better buy

Friday Faves part II

2009-04-03T14:54:00.000-07:00

Dare I say I love this new something so much I just have to share with everyone? YES. Is it a little sad that its ice cream? Not at all! Haagen Dazs has just released their new line of flavors called Five-each ice cream is created with five all natural ingredients and they come in amazing flavors such as mint (minus the chips! finally!), ginger (I bought this one today, its creamy with a hint of

Friday Faves

2009-04-03T11:24:00.001-07:00

This week I keep seeing beautiful cherry blossoms blooming all over the city. Some trees are like little white cotton balls, while others look like pink popcorn. Its such a treat, I am trying to photograph them when I get some time and before they all lose their flowers. Heres to a new season!

New Developments

2009-04-01T18:09:00.000-07:00

Hey there everyone, sorry for being so lazy about posts this week, its the start of my third term of school and its going to be a busy one. Im taking 4 classes, working part-time and trying time to hang out with friends and have a life in between! I'm taking a painting class which im extremely hesitant about-theres something about it that I'm scared of, maybe because I love being a perfectionist

Friday Faves

2009-03-27T12:47:00.000-07:00

This week my older sister came to visit, so I've been busy shopping and eating! I found some inspiration at a DWR studio in downtown, and mid-century modern is whats on the menu for today. Enjoy! Also, Christine at Akane Designs is holding a contest between four photographers-I'm one of them! Please vote for my photo, "Marketplace Flowers" as your favorite and you could win a print! Vote here.