Tea For Two - Takashimaya New York

To say I'm a lover of tea is an understatement. The freshness of lemongrass invigorates, calming chamomile soothes and those laced with fruits satisfy my sweet tooth. One of my favorite tea companies, Takashimaya New York, offers a wide variety of tea. Your tea-loving bridesmaids will love the wooden boxed sets. Be sure to try the budding flower with the glass teapot. So beautiful to watch. Enjoy!

Rose Tea
Lemongrass Tea
Budding Flower Tea
Simplistically beautiful glass pot

A Bowl Full of Blooms

After we wrapped an event on last Friday, I had some beautiful orange and peach roses to take home but I wasn't quite sure what to do with them. With all of my glassware, I didn't have anything quite small enough for the shortened stems. Then it hit me! Calgon take me away, lol. Yes, I was tired but seriously...a hot bath seemed like just what the doctor ordered but I digress. An image of a gorgeous bath tub filled with rose petals flashed in my mind. I dug out one of my hardly used Pyrex dishes, filled it with water, a snip here and there and voila. A floating mini-tub for my coffee table! And yes, Will Smith loves it...

Discovering The Z

It all started with my move to a new apartment. Since I was making a new start, I wanted a new environment as well. Keeping some of the old things but making room for the new and fabulous. With that in mind, I reached out to my cyber friend and fab interior designer Franki, who put me on to Z Gallerie. People...I am hooked on this store!
These safari lanterns are perfect for a wild night of partying (sorry, I couldn't resist)!
I love this stylish Gatsby storage cube. Great for hiding secrets.
I am so loving this Barcelona bowl...it's bold and glam...exciting tabletop!
I still can't believe these pillar holders are made of wire.
This Leslie bed is so glamorous, I can barely contain myself.
These orange and brown vases are gorgeous. I believe only the brown and clear remain.
Is it just me or are the boxes even better than the candles?!
I want to make a table linen out of this curtain!
This Cassina silk bedding is incredible! I love these colors.
I MUST have these capiz bowls!
I love this bedding for a man's room. Very virile and strong looking.
See how perfectly these beaded placemats go with the lanterns?

Mental Relaxation

If your week has been anything like mine, you are so ready for some R&R. I'll let you in a little secret, I collect pictures of beautiful, exotic locales and create a vison board of sorts on my computer so that I can escape for a quick mental break when things get a bit hectic at the office. One of my absolute favorites is Bora Bora. Have a great weekend if only in your imagination:)
What I love about this resort is how remote it is, you are alone in your own little world.
Look at that water!! It looks as if you could see all the way to the ocean floor.
Perfect little deck to take breakfast, catch some sun or just watch the water.
Imagine waking up to this view.
I love round beds, they are just so decadent!
Imagine a massage with a glass-bottom floor. Truly luxurious!
That is the cutest little tub.
Ahhh, what a way to fall asleep. The sound of the waves, the gentle breeze...heaven on earth, indeed!! Shall I book the tickets?

**I've had these pictures for over a year and they work like a charm. I'm not sure who the photographer is but if you know please advise so that I may give them proper credit.

The Art of Sicis

I first heard of Sicis while reading AD and was instantly captured by the beauty of their ad. For those of you who have no idea who/what Sicis is, the company produces high quality mosaic tiles and they are true artists. Most people think of tiles as strictly for the bathroom, but I disagree. Tiling can be used to enliven the kitchen, a vanity or even as wall decor. They would be spectacular for a different table element at a wedding. Think along the lines of floral designs under glass. I've found a few of my favorite designs which are excellent starting points for color combination and inspiration. Hopefully I will be able to visit the company's New York showroom while I'm in town in a few weeks. Enjoy!
This reminds me of a larger scale version of Chanel's iconic camellia.
The artistry of this wall design is breath taking. Imagine the number of hours it took to create this, not to mention the mannequin!
This entire room is decorated with the tiles except the table and chairs.
Imagine if your bathroom looked like this one Would you ever leave? I don't know if I would!
Again, that wall design is incredible. It's intense yet subtle.
I am so loving this mirror!!

BNO Design

Because I love my bed, (no seriously, it's painful for me to get up in the morning just ask my mother) I have developed a serious jones for great sheets and bedding which leads me to the inspiration for today's post. I received Frette's newsletter regarding their designer of the month and oh boy, have they chosen well.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I have the pleasure of introducing to you, the utterly fabulous Benjamin Noriega-Ortiz of BNO Design.


His designs are lush, glamorous and even a bit whimsical. His projects include private homes as well as commercial properties. Do yourself a favor and visit his site. Now, on to the good stuff...

Talk about a sexy room!! Perfect idea for a cozy lounge area for your reception.

These cabanas would be perfect for an outdoor reception or engagement party by the pool or on the beach.

Ok, this lobby blows my mind. Great lighting, it just glows!!

Feminine and soothing without being frilly! Take notice of the color selections.

How fun is this room??!! Yes, it was for a Florida design-house.

Words To Live By

I was reading one of my new favorite blogs, La Dolce Vita, written by Paloma when I came across these quotes. Paloma features a great quote each week and these really struck a
cord.



All three quotes are very similar in theme to a few of the books I've read over the last few months.

The story of one woman's journey to recover after a horrendous divorce. Though I've never been married, I can certainly relate to the need to nurture your inner voice and embrace your spirituality. Plus I hear Julia Roberts is set to star in the movie version.

Kimora is glamour personified, but trust me when I say there is more to this lady than bling and stilettos.

The ultimate ode to the power of intention.

So, Where Are You Registered?

Every couple must do them and every couple procrastinates until the last possible moment: the dreaded registry. Well Crate and Barrel has decided to make the process a little less traumatic. I went with one of my couples last year and we had a great time (yes, even the groom). Food, music, picking out fabulous houseware and champagne! RSVP with your local store.

The Art of Living Well

Lifestyle expert (and my professional guru/mentor) Colin Cowie has done it again with his latest book, Colin Cowie Chic, the ultimate guide to living life and entertaining graciously. When I learned the book was available for pre-order, I quickly secured my copy. Needless to say, when it arrived this afternoon, I was totally beside myself with excitement! As expected, Mr. Cowie does not disappoint. I love his thorough tips on organization, (can you say "couture ice cubes"?) and the decor ideas for entertaining at home. The tablescapes and florals are totally translatable and real-world practical. I am so trying out one or two for my next private party. Don't think this book is only for the party-throwers among us, there are plenty of tips and reminders for guests that will ensure you'll be invited back again and again. The photographs and step-by-step instructions alone make this book a must have, so be sure to pick up your copy pronto!

Until tomorrow, dear readers...

Here's To Growth

2008 is about growth. My wish for all of us is abundance in all facets of life, both professional and personal. So here's a toast to the New Year 2008 and may growth be yours. Cheers!