A New Year Celebration: 5 Years of House Appeal!

January 2012-January 2017:  5 Years Of House Appeal
January 2012-January 2017: 5 Years Of House Appeal

Another milestone. 5 Years of a blog that began in January of 2012. 5 Years of sharing. Five years of compiling images. From behind my lens and sourced from the vast world of the internet.  All with the continuing goal of delving deeper into creating a greater appreciation of what surrounds. Life is a gift. Attitude is destiny.  Appreciation and gratitude is a worthy goal, indeed.

Thank you to each and every one of you that have stumbled upon this blog and have followed along on my journey of sharing and expounding on those things that comprise our world and our lives. With the intent of redefining appreciation for what surrounds us in all aspects of life.  Awaiting our focus. Perhaps it is a greater awareness that brings furthered appreciation. For certain, in every moment there is something beautiful to focus on.  Something to find appreciation for or merely gain a renewed appreciation upon connecting historical background. Renewed perspective. Life moves swiftly. What better goal in our daily lives than to look at the world closer. Ponder with appreciation what surrounds. Ponder what is beautiful, timeless and enduring…

It was in 2014 that I had deemed the word “Onward” as my mantra. In 2017 that word still holds true. A word that is defined as “In a continuing forward direction; ahead” and “going further than coming to an end or halt; moving forward”.  Since 2012 my life has changed vastly. I made personal choices and decisions in 2015 that would change my life forever. Yet change is good. Deciding to make changes, no matter how difficult the journey through them, and actually following through with those decisions, is the key. When you know without any doubts that you are forging in the right direction, it is merely owning the challenges every step of the way. Moving forward. Moving onward. Never doubting yourself. That, therein, is personal growth. Onward, indeed.

So for a blog that covers the world of fashion, interior design, nature, life’s events and city inspirations…onward with the goal of inspiring with ponderings and inspirations of living a beautiful life. Although the blog posts have lessened, the desire to share has not faded. That passion will never fade.

Thank you for being a part of the journey thus far. Onward to inspire…

Onward,

Kristin Abrahamsen


“You must do the things you think you cannot do” – Eleanor Roosevelt

Selfie.  New Years Eve, 2016
Selfie. New Years Eve, 2016

The Adornment Of & Celebrations With A Fragrant Herb: Rosemary

Aromatic Delights:  Celebrations With A Scented Herb
Aromatic Delights: Celebrations With A Scented Herb

Rosemary.  Termed “Rosmarinus officials”, rosemary is an aromatic woody evergreen perennial herb native to the seaside regions of North Africa and the Mediterranean. This fragrant herb presents  flat pine needle-like leaves  that grow on an evergreen bush. Who knew that rosemary joins the ranks as member of the mint family, Lamiaceae? The name “rosemary” derives from the Latin for “dew” (ros) and “Sea” (marinus), or “Dew of the Sea”. Of note, the ancient legend that rosemary grows “where one can hear the sea”. The Rosemary plant itself is also sometimes called anthos, from the ancient Greek word ἄνθος, meaning “flower”. Rosemary is said to resemble lavender when shimmering blue flowers appear in mid-Winter in native climates. The leaves themselves can often appear to be touched with silver.  But commonly green and fragrant, this woody citrus offers so much to our world beyond the culinary and herbal health benefits.  Beyond its aromatic offerings this fragrant plant that offers us  natural beauty when gracing events of our lives and brought within our interior worlds.

However, the past precedes this coveted plant.   It is noted that rosemary held a strong association with ancient Greeks and Romans. “As early as the Fifth millenium B.C. references to rosemary were found written in cuneiform” (the earliest system of writing of wedge shaped slash marks) on stone tablets.  Ancient appreciation of an herb, indeed. Coveted for what was believed mystical and healing properties, it was the Roman armies who would eventually bring this herb to Britain.  From there, this scented herb would travel through Europe and eventually reach the New World…

“As for rosmarine, I lette it runne all over my garden walls,
not onlie because my bees love it,
but because it is the herb sacred to remembrance,
and, therefore to friendship . . .”

-Sir Thomas More,(Aka Saint Thomas More, (1478-1535)  English lawyer, author and stateman

*

A “rich crown of stone and pearls set with
rosemary in her hair” 

-English royalty, Anne of Cleves,King
Henry the Eighth’s fourth wife /1540

Long associated with remembrance of romance and matrimony, rosemary has been used for centuries in courtship and weddings. Oh, the beauty of tradition. In fact, French legend holds that “if a man didn’t like the scent of rosemary, he would be an inferior lover”. Who knew?  Empress Josephine is said to have asked Napoleon to wash in rosemary water before entering her bedchamber. The power of an herb, indeed. Interesting that rosemary is said to have been Napoleon’s favorite fragrance. A love affair, indeed.

French Royalty: Josephine & Napoleon
French Royalty: Josephine & Napoleon

As for this scented aromatic herb traditionally appearing during the holiday season, perhaps its history can be linked to the entertaining in the Middle ages. It is said that rosemary was spread on the ground so its fragrance would fill the air when guests would walk upon it. The belief was that those would smell rosemary on Christmas Eve would have a year of health and happiness.  A tradition of celebration with nature, for certain. It is no wonder that rosemary would continue as a traditional embellishment during the holidays.

In appreciation of the rosemary herb and the adornment of and celebrations of an herb of visual and fragrant delight….

Tabletop Delight With Sprigs Of Rosemary
Tabletop Delight With Sprigs Of Rosemary
Rosemary Within The Interior
A Woody Citrus: Rosemary Within The Interior
Natural Tabletop Inspiration Of Scented Delight:  Rosemary
Natural Tabletop Inspiration Of Scented Delight: Rosemary
Wedded Infusion:  Scented Rosemary
Wedded Infusion: Scented Rosemary
Scented Affairs:  Rosemary As Decoration
Scented Affairs: Rosemary As Decoration
Events Of A Lifetime:  Rosemary Infused
Events Of A Lifetime: Rosemary Infused
Celebrations Of Memorable Moments:  Infused With Rosemary
Celebrations Of Memorable Moments: Infused With Rosemary
Wedded Delight With Rosemary Sprigs
Wedded Delight With Rosemary Sprigs
Wedded Adornment:  Rosemary
Wedded Adornment Of Natural Appeal: Rosemary
Weddings Graced With Nature:  Rosemary In Decoration
Weddings Graced With Nature: Rosemary In Decoration
Celebratory Sprigs Of Memorable Visual Appeal: Rosemary
Celebratory Sprigs Of Memorable Visual Appeal: Rosemary
“Moments” With Rosemary
Scented Needles Of Fragrant Appeal:  Celebrations With Rosemary
Scented Needles Of Fragrant Appeal: Celebrations With Rosemary
Rosemary: Scented Delights
Rosemary: Scented Delights
Rosemary & Events: Scented & Visual delights
Rosemary & Events: Scented & Visual delights
Decorating With Rosemary:  Tabletop Delights
Decorating With Rosemary: Tabletop Delights
Tabletop Additions With A Fragrant Herb
Tabletop Additions With A Fragrant Herb
Tabletop & Decorative Delights In Sprigs Of Rosemary
Tabletop & Decorative Delights In Sprigs Of Rosemary
Holiday Embellishments With Rosemary
Holiday Embellishments With Rosemary
The Scented Herb: Rosemary
The Scented Herb: Rosemary
Nature's Gift Of Scented & Herbal Delight:  Rosemary
Nature’s Gift Of Scented & Herbal Delight: Rosemary

Consider the natural delight of the fragrant and distinctive herb, rosemary. Nature’s bounty offers us the scented delights with which to appreciate. Beyond a mere herb, rosemary will certainly grace our worlds in simplicity with natural beauty. Scented and natural appeal, indeed.  Onward to the celebration of life’s moments with the tradition of a fragrant gift of nature…

Onward,

Kristin

“There’s Rosemary, that’s for remembrance. Pray you, love, remember”

– William Shakespeare
(Ophelia to Hamlet)

A Scented, Distinctive & Fragrant Herb:  Rosemary
A Scented, Distinctive & Fragrant Herb: Rosemary

Checkered in Classic Style: Gingham Fabric

Checks Of Classic & Modern Appeal:  Gingham
Checks Of Classic & Modern Appeal: Gingham

Gingham. The pattern that never seems to fade. Granted, its appearance and reappearance into fashion proves that it is an enduring classic of crisp and fresh appeal. Fashion evolves and styles change, but the timeless checked pattern of distinction will always thread through fashion’s world. A classic pattern that returns with a fresh, modern spin, once again. Referring to “Striped cotton”, this timeless and classic pattern typically consists of “medium yarns in varying qualities and woven of plan cotton fibers”. Originally, gingham was a bright colored stripe.  Who knew? Gingham evolved into the check pattern that has brought it to its iconic and classic status.

Ranging from medium to light weight and from very small to very large checked patterns, The iconic coloring and pattern is a balanced pattern, with no right or wrong side, since the fibers are colored before they are woven together.  Gingham is most common in blue and white yet gingham would eventually gain its acclaim as a red and white pattern of delight. Of course, there are other colors that have arrived to the forefront that echo the classic checked style.  And of this pattern of checked style?  A look to the past…

 The Iconic "Wizzard Of OZ" Gingham Dress
Judy Garland & The Iconic “Wizzard Of OZ” Gingham Dress

Perhaps the iconic blue gingham dress worn by Judy Garland as Dorothy from the Wizzard Of Oz remains as the most poignant American link to this checkered blue pattern. Yet this patterned fabric that has endured through time to transcend style that would include the mod 1960’s appeal and beyond, deserves a look back. To appreciate this classic pattern that appears in fashion archives since its inception in the world of textiles, a brief background of the pattern of checks….

During the 16th century gingham fabric was manufactured within the Dutch-colonized Malaysia and Indonesia, which excelled in their use of rich, color fast textile dyes that would produce textiles like gingham that wove bright colors through the fabrics. This checked pattern, known as “Malay ginggang”held the meaning of  “With space between, hence striped”.  It is believed that the term Gingham was introduced to the English language by both Dutch and French traders in 1615.  Yet having claim to the word “Gingham”, evidence links that the Italians and Indonesians may have also had a part in the name that stems from the same root, meaning “Striped”.

During the 17th century this brightly colored textile of striped cotton-weave fabric was widely exported to Europe and colonial USA from India and Indonesia through the East India Trading Company. In the mid-18th Century, England’s textile mills produced the checked gingham cotton fabric using imported cotton and dyes. In fact, Manchester, England was the center of gingham fabric production. It is stated that there were 108 cotton mills in Manchester at the peak of its industrial boom. That is quite a lot of gingham to satisfy the rage of fashion’s call.  Fabric of fashionable style, indeed. In America, cotton mills were also established to produce the fabric that was “All the rage” across Europe and in the United States- gingham!

Perhaps Gingham, which has links and symbolism to youth and nostalgia, will continue to  evolve in fashion and in style within the 21st Century.  What is certain is that although it may appear to go “in and out” of fashion, classics never fade.  Always to return, the patterned print of checks will always find its way to fashion’s forefront

Tried & True:  Vintage Gingham Fashion
Tried & True: Vintage Gingham Fashion

One cannot mention gingham without the mention and visual nod to Brigitte Bardot.  In 1959  Bardot married Jacques Charrier in Paris. Donning a wedding dress of pink and white gingham designed by couturier Jacques Estérel, Bardot made the French Vichy pattern  highly fashionable with worldwide appeal. She is even said to have nearly single-handedly brought French glamour to the classic gingham pattern. Of course!

1959/Brigitte Bardot/Paris, France
1959/Brigitte Bardot/Paris, France
Brigitte Bardot (France/1959) Bedecked In Gingham
Brigitte Bardot (France/1959) Bedecked In Gingham

Another nod to the past of checked style…Gingham and Hollywood united and icons and stars such as Ingrid Bergman, Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, Marilyn Monroe, Katherine Hepburn and other icons of style, such as First Lady Jackie Kennedy, would don the checked pattern of stylish fashionable statements.

Icons Of Style:  Bedecked In Gingham
Icons Of Style: Bedecked In Gingham
Vintage Appeal:  Gingham &  Its Fashionable Past
Vintage Appeal: Gingham & Its Fashionable Past
Audrey Hepburn:  Adorned In A Checked Pattern Classic
Audrey Hepburn: Adorned In A Checked Pattern Classic
Marilyn Monroe & Jane Fonda:  Gingham Appeal Of Hollywood Style
Marilyn Monroe & Jane Fonda: Gingham Appeal Of Hollywood Style
Icons Of Fashion In Gingham Fabric
Icons Of Fashion In Gingham Fabric
Fashion's Gingham:  Evolution Of Style
Fashion’s Gingham: Evolution Of Style
Icons & Fashion's Appeal:  Gingham
Icons & Fashion’s Appeal: Gingham
Fashion's Gingham:  Always A Classic
Fashion’s Gingham: Always A Classic
Gingham Style On The Cover Of Magazines
Gingham Style On The Cover Of Magazines
Gingham Style:  Magazines & Fashion's Style
Gingham Style: Magazines & Fashion’s Style
Gingham:  Covers Of Fashion
Gingham: Covers Of Fashion
Fashionable Gingham: Checks Of Style
Fashionable Gingham: Checks Of Style
Modern Appeal:  Gingham & Fashion's Fresh Perspective
Modern Appeal: Gingham & Fashion’s Fresh Perspective
Super Model Gingham: Enduring  Style In A Classic Pattern
Super Model Gingham: Enduring Style In A Classic Pattern
Fresh Appeal:  The Modern Take On Gingham
Fresh Appeal: The Modern Take On Gingham
Moden Gingham:  Fashion's Evolution Of  A Classic Pattern
Moden Gingham: Fashion’s Evolution Of A Classic Pattern
Jcrew:  Gingham Checks Of Modern Appeal
Jcrew: Gingham Checks Of Modern Appeal
Gingham Of Modern Interpretation
Gingham Of Modern Interpretation
Gingham Style: Colorful & Vivid Checked Appeal
Gingham Style: Colorful & Vivid Checked Appeal
Timeless Blue & White Checked Fashion:  Gingham
Timeless Blue & White Checked Fashion: Gingham
The "Guess" Models In Gingham
The “Guess” Models In Gingham
Masculine & Classic  Style:   Gingham
Masculine & Classic Style: Gingham

Of course, the dapper man bedecked in classic gingham… a visual nod of appreciation, indeed…

 Dapper Classics:  The Man & Gingham
Dapper Classics: The Man & Gingham

The world of entertaining and grand events of life are not without the inclusion of this checked pattern of timeless style. Checked style of celebratory appeal endures…

Wedding  & Entertaining  In Gingham Style
Wedding & Entertaining In Gingham Style
Gingham Style :  The Dapper Groom & Groomsman
Gingham Style : The Dapper Groom & Groomsman
Entertaining Bliss In Checked Style:  Gingham Delights
Entertaining Bliss In Checked Style: Gingham Delights

Of course, a visual appreciation of gingham outside the world of fashion and into the world of the interior. Gingham is certainly a statement of bold appeal when found within the interior. Interior, appeal, for certain…

Interior Delights In Gingham Style
Interior Delights In Gingham Style
Gingham:  Interior & Exterior Appeal
Gingham: Interior & Exterior Appeal
Vivid Appeal In Checked Style:  Gingham Interiors
Vivid Appeal In Checked Style: Gingham Interiors

Consider the classic pattern of checks. Whether it is a modern take on the timeless fabric pattern that adorns our fashionable world, embellishes events and celebrations or boldly proclaims itself within our interiors, gingham is worthy of appreciation.  Now a modern classic with a historied past, indeed…

Onward,

Kristin

“The fabric of existence weaves itself whole” -Charles Ives

Enchanting Hues Of “Rose Gold”….

Rose Gold Color Hue Delights
Rose Gold Color Hue Delights

“Rose Gold”.  A beautiful color hue that varies in tones and is termed to relate to gold rather than as a color itself. In terms of actual gold, pure rose gold does not exist. Of note, gold itself is only one color: yellow.  The “colors” found in gold are produced by mixing pure 24K yellow gold with various other metals.  Rose gold is actually an alloy of gold and copper. Copper offers a bold pinkish-orange color and the addition of this alloy to gold produces a beautiful pinkish gold color.  A lesson in gold, indeed. But oh, the beauty of rose gold found in metallic lighting, appliances, fabrics, paint, and a myriad of interior accessories.  Interior delights of visual appeal.  And of the rose gold hue enriching life’s poignant celebrations? Oh the sweet elegance that this enchanting hue offers when swathed and layered in celebrations of love and life. A visual appreciation of this appealing and captivating color…

Stunning Jeweled Delight:  Rose Gold Ring

Rose Gold:  The Hue Of Sweet Metallic Appeal
Rose Gold: The Hue Of Sweet Metallic Appeal
Metallic & Brilliant:  Rose Gold Hues
Metallic & Brilliant: Rose Gold Hues
Metallic Delights of Rose Gold Hues
Metallic Delights of Rose Gold Hues
Metallic Hues Of Rose Colored Appeal
Metallic Hues Of Rose Colored Appeal
Rose Colored Hues:  Interior Delights & Accents Of Rosy Appeal
Rose Colored Hues: Interior Delights & Accents Of Rosy Appeal
Rose Gold color Hues In Entertaining
Rose Gold color Hues In Entertaining
Rose Gold Hues Of Enchanting Delight:  Celebrations
Rose Gold Hues Of Enchanting Delight: Celebrations
Wedded Delights In Rose Gold Hues
Wedded Delights In Rose Gold Hues
Captivating Rose Gold Hued Tabletops Of Celebration
Captivating Rose Gold Hued Tabletops Of Celebration
Celebrations In Hues Of Rose Gold
Celebrations In Hues Of Rose Gold

Consider with appreciation the mere beauty of the rose gold hue. For certain, a hue that offers a lovely, sweet appeal can also offer a modern mix of distinction when stylized within the interior. And as a hue that dreamily layers events of wedded bliss? Enchanting and memorable. Enchanting hues of “Rose Gold”, indeed…

Onward,

Kristin

“The sunset faded and blended from pink to peach to mango in a smoothie in the sky. For as long as she doesn’t love me, I will love her.”
― Jarod Kintz

Winter White: Wedding Blooms Of White Delight

Winter White:  Wedded In Floral Bliss Of White
Winter White: Wedded In Floral Bliss Of White

The Winter wedding. At a time where snow flakes dance and the world is layered in frozen snow, visions of a Winter white wedding bedecked in blooms of hues of white evoke a pureness of the season itself.

It is interesting to note that the term “White Wedding” refers to a traditional formal or semi-formal wedding originating in Britain.  The term itself “originates from the white colour of the wedding dress, which first became popular with Victorian era elites after Queen Victoria wore a white lace dress at her wedding”. Of course the term would evolve to cover the Western wedding traditions (Fashion’s Iconic Dress Of White: The Wedding Dress). The color of white represents purity in its neutrality. Perhaps a sign of a fresh beginning. How befitting, as a New Year and Winter and its effects settle in, to layer a wedding in white blooms. Whether massed in a wedding bouquet with natural elements of Winter,  a boutonnière gracing a groom’s lapel or bedecking tables of celebration, blooms of white in the Winter are stunning and striking in their own simplicity and sophistication. Of course, flowers of white and various hues therein are elegant during any season. Yet Winter is white. Visions of white and a Winter wedding are dreamy combinations, for certain. Beautiful and lovely, a visual appreciation of pure white delight…..

Snowy White Delights:  Winter Flowers
Snowy White Delights: Winter Flowers
Winter White Flowers Of Wedded Style
Winter White Flowers Of Wedded Style
Hues Of Winter White:  Wedding Style
Hues Of Winter White: Wedding Style
Elegance Of White:  Winter Weddings
Elegance Of White: Winter Weddings
Whites & Pastel Flowers Of Sweet Appeal:  Winter Weddings
Whites & Pastel Flowers Of Sweet Appeal: Winter Weddings
Crisp Elegance Of Winter White:  Wedding Flowers In Hues Of White
Crisp Elegance Of Winter White: Wedding Flowers In Hues Of White
Sophistication of White:  Winter Flowers Of Pure  White Hues
Sophistication of White: Winter Flowers Of Pure White Hues
Wedding Bouquets bedecked With Winter White Appeal
Wedding Bouquets bedecked With Winter White Appeal
Black And White:  Elegance And Sophistication of Winter White Blooms
Black And White: Elegance And Sophistication of Winter White Blooms
WInter's Celebration In Floral Delight Of White
WInter’s Celebration In Floral Delight Of White
Sweet Elegance Of Wedded Appeal In White
Sweet Elegance Of Wedded Appeal In White

Consider the elegance and simplicity of blooms of white. Pure beauty of neutral appeal.  Forever a classic visual when paired with a bride swathed in white.  Timeless with enduring appeal.  Winter white delights, indeed…

Onward,

Kristin

“Simplicity is the ultimate form of sophistication”
-Leonardo di Vinci

Anchored: The Anchor & The Universal Symbol Of Strength & Steadfastness

“The Anchor”: The Universal Symbol Of Steadfastness & Security

The anchor. A universal symbol of steadfastness and security. Strength. A practical instrument, whether temporary or permanent, used to connect a vessel to the bed of a body of water. Achieving holding power through “hooking” into the seabed, with the goal of preventing a boat from drifting due to wind or current, the anchor and its representations of strength and steadfastness deserve a weighty focus

“The Anchor”

The word “Anchor” derives from Latin word “ancora”, from the Greek ἄγκυρα (ankura). Of historical interest, the earliest anchors date back to the Bronze Age. Anchors of one or more rocks or hollowed stones that were tied with flax ropes. Ancient nautical function, for certain. The ancient Greeks also created anchors with “baskets of stones, large sacks filled with sand, and wooden logs filled with lead”. Formed of stone and sometimes made of wood, these anchors held the vessel merely by their weight and by their friction along the bottom of the sea bed. Evolution in form and function, iron would eventually be introduced and endure in the construction of anchors. Alas, the iron anchor and its enduring representations of strength. A steadfast emblem, indeed.

Of note, the term “aweigh” describes an anchor when it is hanging on the rope or chain and is not resting on the bottom which is also linked to the term to “weigh anchor” (to lift the anchor from the sea bed, allowing the ship or boat to move). The iconic phrase “anchors aweigh” references when the anchor has been ‘broken’ out of the bottom and is being hauled up to be stowed. The ability to move forward, when ready. Embedded in the sea bed, permanent anchors are used in the creation of a mooring, and are rarely moved. And of the anchors temporarily resting on the seabed? Their holding power is linked to the chain that connects between the ship and anchor. The chain of connection. Strong, indeed. Yet the importance of where to drop the anchor…that is key. Introspectively, life has a way of showing you where to decide to “drop anchor”…often with clarity. But always, the anchor will hold the vessel in strength.

Steadfast in form and function, the visual of the anchor has embedded itself within our personal worlds. A visual appreciation of the anchor within our worlds and as an emblem of celebration….

The Boat & The Anchor As An Emblem
The Boat & The Anchor As An Emblem
Nautical Inspired:  The Symbol Of The Anchor
Nautical Inspired: The Symbol Of The Anchor
Exterior Embellishments:  The Exterior & The Anchor
Exterior Embellishments: The Exterior & The Anchor
Nautical Influences Of Strength:  The Anchor
Nautical Influences Of Strength: The Anchor

And of the celebrations of life that are embellished in theme with the anchor? Nautical delight grounded in strength and hope, for certain…

Celebrations Of Life Paired With Symbolism :  The Anchor
Celebrations Of Life Paired With Symbolism : The Anchor
Life's Celebrations: Anchored
Life’s Celebrations: Anchored
Celebrations “Anchored” In Stylish Appeal

Of course, the stylish appeal of a moment on the water, anchored in fashionable appeal

The Boat & The Water: Anchored In Fashionable Appeal
The Boat & The Water: Anchored In Fashionable Appeal
Anchored & Afloat:  Life's Journey...
Anchored & Afloat: Life’s Journey…

Consider the anchor and the representations and links to strength and steadfastness that it offers us. For certain, anchors allow a ship or vessel to be poised above the water, holding the boat safely. Under blue skies or stormy skies, sunrise and sunset. When you consider the inward storms of life we face, and whether our road ahead is uncharted or mapped, the anchor that holds us, when needed, will always provide the strength needed. An anchor that does not weigh us down, but rather, supports the vessel we are floating upon until we are ready to set sails again. Perhaps in our own lives there are those that uphold us, like an anchor. Fortunate are we. The mere quote “You are the anchor when the waves come crashing down” carries us onward. Paired with a nautical love, it is easy for me to find gratitude and appreciation. Either way, the emblem of the anchor will endure in its strength, indeed…

Onward,

Kristin


“Life’s roughest storms prove the strength of our anchors”
-Unknown

“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure”
-Hebrews 6:19

“If hope anchors the soul, you have anchored mine. High tide or low tide. Anchored.”
-KDA

My Mother, Donna  & Her Sister/Circa 1952
Fashionable Anchors: My Mother, Donna & Her Sister/Circa 1952
Setting Sails:  Anchored In Strength & Steadfastness
Setting Sails: Anchored In Strength & Steadfastness
(EAVB)

Wedded Bliss Under Nature’s Canopy: The Outdoor Wedding Reception

Natural Delights:  The Outdoor Reception
Natural Delights: The Outdoor Reception

The outdoor wedding reception under nature’s canopy. Sheer delight of dreamy appeal. On a day in which the moment of a lifetime culminates into a celebration of significance under the sky of natural wonder, those that gather are seemingly transported within the magical setting set forth. Perfection. The scenery that is offered, courtesy of Mother Nature, offers breathtaking, natural elegance that pairs with the elegance of a grand affair. Nature itself provides a spontaneity and perhaps even an unexpected element that brings another dimension to a memorable celebration of life. The natural atmosphere paired with the embellishments of wedded celebration is simply magical. For certain, the charms of nature paired with the joy of a lifetime event are a perfect marriage in entertaining.

Simply stated, the visuals of magical moments of elegant affairs of wedded bliss under nature’s canopy deserve attention and mere appreciation. For those that will plan a moment under the brilliant sun filled sky or under the twinkling, star dotted sky perhaps the images, sourced and compiled from the wide world of the web, will offer inspiration of a grand event yet to unfold. And for those that merely seek inspiration for creating an event under the canopy of nature, may inspiration follow….

Breathtaking Delights Under Nature's Canopy:  Outdoor Wedding Receptions
Breathtaking Delights Under Nature’s Canopy: Outdoor Wedding Receptions
Evening Delights:  Wedded Bliss Under The Stars & Twinkling Lights
Evening Delights: Wedded Bliss Under The Stars & Twinkling Lights
Soft Hues Of Beauty:  The Elegant Outdoor Wedding Reception
Soft Hues Of Beauty: The Elegant Outdoor Wedding Reception
Evening Elegance:  The Outdoor Wedding Reception
Evening Elegance: The Outdoor Wedding Reception
Events Of A Lifetime:  Surrounded By Nature
Events Of A Lifetime: Surrounded By Nature
Outdoor entertaining:  The Elegant Wedding Reception
Outdoor entertaining: The Elegant Wedding Reception
Ambiance & Natural Appeal:  The Outdoor Wedding Reception
Ambiance & Natural Appeal: The Outdoor Wedding Reception
Candlelit Delight:  The Wedded Delight Of Outdoor Receptions
Candlelit Delight: The Wedded Delight Of Outdoor Receptions
Under Nature's Canopy:  The Elegant & Natural Outdoor Affair
Under Nature’s Canopy: The Elegant & Natural Outdoor Affair
Natural & Stunning Delights:  The Outdoor Wedded Event Of Elegance
Natural & Stunning Delights: The Outdoor Wedded Event Of Elegance
Outdoor Entertaining:  The Wedded  Outdoor Celebrations
Outdoor Entertaining: The Wedded Outdoor Celebrations
Outdoor Delights Of Wedded Celebrations
Outdoor Delights Of Wedded Celebrations
Wedded Enchantment:  The Outdoor Affair
Wedded Enchantment: The Outdoor Affair

Consider the beauty and elegance of a wedded celebration under the canopy of nature. Whether the event is filled with beaming sunshine or the twinkling stars from above, the outdoor event will offer memorable moments experienced by all. The beauty of nature is everywhere. Pairing that beauty with the beautiful moments of life? Perfection. Wedded bliss under nature’s canopy, indeed…

Onward,

Kristin

“There is something of the marvelous in all things of nature”- Aristotle

Elegance In Sugar: The Decadence & Artistry Of Fondant Cakes

Sugared Delights:  Fondant Cakes
Sugared Delights: Fondant Cakes

The coated confectionary decadence of fondantelegance tailored to personal and sweet perfection. There is perhaps no other cake that presents itself with such a grand effect as the wrapped, smooth layers of indulgent sugary appeal with rich, sweet cake awaiting inside. Pure delight.

Fondant is a type of icing used to decorate cakes that offers a mysteriously seamless layered confectionary appeal. A thick, sugar paste of decorative topping. Fondant icing, also commonly referred to simply as fondant, (fɑndɑnt in French) is termed as an “edible icing used to decorate or sculpt cakes and pastries”. In French the word refers to “melting” and is derived from the same root as “foundry” in English. Interesting. Rolled fondant was derived from traditional British fondant recipes of pouring the sweet, thick concoction over a cake and allowing it to harden to seal in moisture. Poured fondant is a creamy confection used as a filling or coating for cakes, pastries, and candies or sweets. “In its simplest form, it is sugar and water cooked to the soft-ball stage, cooled slightly, and stirred or beaten until it is an opaque mass of creamy consistency”. British immigrants are said to have brought their recipes to Australia where changes were made in the 1950’s to advance the art of sugar craft. Of note, the earliest “rolled fondant” recipes found in American cook books date back to the early 1980’s. Who knew? Perhaps considered as a newer art form within the industry of baking it is no wonder that creativity with fondant has risen to the ranks in creativity of sugared wonder. Although fondant can be bought ready-to-use it is the skilled art form of the baker that creates the fondant from scratch and embellishes with unique and elegant wonder that my attention focusses upon. As artisans of sugar craft, the creations that result are to the sheer delight of the guests that are smitten with their elegance and beauty. The artistry that goes into these confectionary wonders is craftsmanship and experience in sugar, for certain.

In appreciation for the elegant details and grand, sculpted statements that await the world. A visual celebration of masterpieces of sugar….

Golden Beauties:  The Elegance Of Fondant Cakes
Golden Beauties: The Elegance Of Fondant Cakes
Artistry In Sugar:  Fondant Cake
Artistry In Sugar: Fondant Cake
Pastel Hued Confectionary Delights:  Fondant Cakes
Pastel Hued Confectionary Delights: Fondant Cakes
Fondant Cakes:  Elegant Objects Of sweet Decoration
Fondant Cakes: Elegant Objects Of sweet Decoration
Spectacular Presentation Of Confectionary Delight:  Fondant Cakes
Spectacular Presentation Of Confectionary Delight: Fondant Cakes
Icing Of Sugary & Sweet Elegance:  Fondant Cakes
Icing Of Sugary & Sweet Elegance: Fondant Cakes
Modern Appeal Of Confectionary Wonders:  The Fondant Cake
Modern Appeal Of Confectionary Wonders: The Fondant Cake
Fondant Cakes:  Masterpieces In Sugar
Fondant Cakes: Masterpieces In Sugar
“Tiffany Blue” Confections Of Sugary Delight: Fondant Cakes
Pink, Vibrant Delights Of Sugary Confections: Fondant Cakes
Pink, Vibrant Delights Of Sugary Confections: Fondant Cakes
Sugared Beauties Of Confectionary Wonder:  Fondant Cakes
Sugared Beauties Of Confectionary Wonder: Fondant Cakes
Celebratory, Sunny Appeal In Sugar:  Fondant Cakes
Celebratory, Sunny Appeal In Sugar: Fondant Cakes
Pink Delights Of Sweet Presentation Of Elegance:  Fondant Cakes
Pink Delights Of Sweet Presentation Of Elegance: Fondant Cakes
Wrapped & Decorated Perfection:  Fondant Cakes
Wrapped & Decorated Perfection: Fondant Cakes
Spectacular Presentations In Sugared Delight: Fondant Cakes
Spectacular Presentations In Sugared Delight: Fondant Cakes
Fondant Cakes:  Decorated Sugared Elegance
Fondant Cakes: Decorated Sugared Elegance

I fell in love with these sugared beauties since the moment I first sighted these creations of distinction. As with everything, taste must prevail. It is the elegance of simplicity that truly creates a memorable confectionary creation. Creating a spectacular, elegant presentation for those events of life that require stunning celebratory confections. As for the first fondant cake I required to be designed for our own personal celebratory event? It was a cake with embellishments of gold with a striking “pop” of color with a sugared orange poppy…vivid & sweet recollections, indeed…

Personal Design:  Our Fondant Cake Of Celebration
Personal Design: Our Fondant Cake Of Celebration
Decorated Elegance:  The Artistry Of Embellishment With Fondant Cakes
Decorated Elegance: The Artistry Of Embellishment With Fondant Cakes

Consider with appreciation the sweet sugary elegance of fondant cakes. Stunning and unique, the possibilities in sugar are endless. Tailored to one’s own preferences, the hues and embellishments of sugary delight as celebratory focal points of sweet and elegant impact await. Decadent elegance in sugar, indeed…

Kristin

Elegant Blooms Of Colorful Hues & Sweet Appeal: Ranunculus

Colorful Blooms Of Delight:  Ranunculus
Colorful Blooms Of Delight: Ranunculus

Oh, the beautiful blooms of layered appeal of Ranunculus! The colorful offerings of these long lasting cut blooms brings with it further distinction as a masterwork of nature. Pure delight is found within these often highly lustrous and brightly hued flowers. The visuals of these blooms adorning the bouquets of brides offer captivating and timeless appeal. Showy blooms of delight. A mere visual appreciation of bright and brilliant hues are certain to bring forth an appreciation of the flowers that arrive from tuberous roots in Springtime…

Ranunculus is “a large genus of about 600 species of plants in the Ranunculaceae” which include “Buttercups”, “Spearworts” and “Water Crowfoots”. The name “Ranunculus” is Late Latin for “Little Frog” from “Rana” (Frog). Who knew? Grown as either annuals or as frost hardy cool-season perennials, these flowers are said to perform best where the Winters are relatively mild and the Spring is long and cool. Fortunate are those in climates that will render these striking layered blooms of beauty! Perhaps similar to the ruffled Camellia, the layers of petals offer a delicate appearance to these blooms of beautiful soft headed flowers with whorls & spirals of visual delight. Of interest, the Ranunculus flower is native to Asia and is celebrated for its bright and soft beauty that ranges from white to pink & red to orange. In the language of flowers, a bouquet of Ranunculus is said to visually relay “I am dazzled by your charms”. Dazzled. Indeed, these blooms of sweet, layered appeal are dazzling…

Layered, Ruffled Beauty:  Ranunculus Flowers
Layered, Ruffled Beauty: Ranunculus Flowers
Brilliant Blooms Of Celebration:  Ranunculus
Brilliant Blooms Of Celebration: Ranunculus
Bright Beauty Of Showy Style: Ranunculus
Bright Beauty Of Showy Style: Ranunculus Flowers
White Delight:  The Elegance &  Beauty Of Ranunculus
White Delight: The Elegance & Beauty Of Ranunculus Flowers
Orange Crush:  Delightful Ranunculus
Orange Crush: Delightful Ranunculus Flowers
Delicate Blooms Of Layered Distinction:  Ranunculus
Delicate Blooms Of Layered Distinction: Ranunculus
Sweet Appeal:  Ranunculus
Sweet Appeal: Ranunculus Flowers
Soft & Sweet:  Layered Delight Of Ranunculus Blooms
Soft & Sweet: Layered Delight Of Ranunculus Blooms
Mixed Beauty Of Striking Appeal:  The Glorious Blooms Of Ranunculus
Mixed Beauty Of Striking Appeal: The Glorious Blooms Of Ranunculus
Ranunculus Flowers:  Blooms Of Sweet Elegance
Ranunculus Flowers: Blooms Of Sweet Elegance

Consider with appreciation the mere beauty of the Ranunculus blooms. Life is full of vibrant, colorful beauty and wonder in nature. Whether found within the bouquet of the bride, on the lapel of a groom, gracing a table of life’s celebrations or in a vase within our interiors, the striking, layered beauty and vivid array of hues of the Ranunculus bloom is sure to provide visual delight. Memorable as an element of wedded bliss, indeed. Elegant blooms of colorful hues and sweet appeal, indeed….

Onward,

Kristin


“There are always flowers for those that want to see them”
-Henry Matisse

Bells Of Ireland: Green Hues Paired With Elegant Form Of Botanical Delight

Wedded Bliss With Bells Of Ireland Blooms
Wedded Bliss With Bells Of Ireland Blooms

In the language of flowers, “Bells Of Ireland” symbolize “Good Luck”. A perfect nod to the “Spring Green”, Luck-O-Irish that the onset of Spring brings. It is no surprise that these formation of “bells” of the tall stems would link these flowers to wedded bliss of the bride and groom. “Wedding bells”. Of note, the tiny, white flowers tucked within the cupped blossom are surrounded by pale and apple green leaves of delight. “Bells” of botanical distinction. Of interest, it is the Calyx (a cup-like structure and outermost whorl of the flower parts) which is considered the be the blossom. Leaves on stems of pure appeal. Tall in form, the blooming stems provide striking appeal in arrangements, providing visual line and accent of spikes of flowers and colorful hue. For certain, a striking visual addition when found within the bouquets of the bride and an element within events and the tables of celebration that follow. Green hues of botanical delight.

Of note, although given the name of “Bells Of Ireland”, they are botanically known as “Moluccella Laevis” (Bells-of-Ireland, Bells of Ireland, Molucca balmis, Shellflower and Shell flower) and are members of the mint family. Who knew? Offering a pleasing fragrance, these Summer flowering annuals are native to Turkey, Syria and the Caucasus. The domestic fast growing plant is self-seeding, prefers hot, humid climates and grow to a height of 24-36″ tall. Impressive additions to floral displays, for certain. Simplistic in form with an elegant stature, these tall blooms add drama, color and visual interest. Botainical delight in hues of green

Celebratory Moments Of Life With Blooms Of “Bells Of Ireland”
Green Hues Of Distinctive Form: “Bells Of Ireland” And The Wedding…
Green Delight Of Simplistic Elegance Incorporated Into Life’s Events: “Bells Of Ireland”
Fresh Appeal Of Visual Delight: Green Hues Of “Bells Of Ireland” In Weddings
Bright Hues Of Green:  Bells Of Ireland
Bright Hues Of Green: Bells Of Ireland
Bells Of Ireland: Elegant Stems Of Colorful & Visual Delight
Bells Of Ireland: Elegant Stems Of Colorful & Visual Delight
Bells Of Ireland: Vivid Green Botanical Delight Paired With Life’s Celebrations
Bells Of Ireland: Vivid Green Botanical Delight Paired With Life’s Celebrations
Striking Display Within The Interior:  Bells Of Ireland
Striking Display Within The Interior: Bells Of Ireland

Consider the impressive yet simplistic elegance that Bells Of Ireland offer. Aside from the visual height and rich green hue, Bells Of Ireland provide memorable, decorative additions to life’s events and striking bouquets within our interior worlds. Appreciation of a bloom, either way. Green hues paired with elegant form of botanical delight, indeed…

Kristin

“Every flower of every tomorrow are in the seeds of today” -Anonymous