Simple Stripe

Summer wedding

2012-01-26T06:00:00.001-05:00

A few details from a wedding I had planned last summer.

Programs

The bride and groom wanted cookie cake for dessert. We displayed the cakes on vintage cake stands at different levels. It was different and so pretty!

Place cards

1, 2, 3

2012-01-25T06:00:00.001-05:00

A fun way to display the months as baby gets older.

Cut out felt numbers for each month, take the picture and hang both on a clothesline!

So simple!

The tiny clothespins are too cute :)

Felt flower beanies

2012-01-24T06:00:00.001-05:00

Felt flowers that I have been making. Where else to put them but on a sweet hat for a little girl!

Pinterest has kept me very busy!

Birdies on branches

2012-01-18T06:00:00.003-05:00

I love craft birdies - vintage or new. I think they are sweet and add a little bit of color when needed.

Above my kitchen sink is very blah. I wanted to do something different - that would add a little color. This is what I came up with and it looks so sweet!

Instead of buying curly willow from a craft store - I gathered a few branches from my backyard and wired them to a few copper nails. I placed my birdies accordingly and voila!

This was my inspiration:

2012-01-16T06:00:00.001-05:00

Addicted. Love it.

Not sure how I managed before without it.

What a great site!

Everyday Plaid

2011-12-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

A fun new blog done by my friend's creatively inspirational Mom! It's fun to see what she is up to and her photos are always full of color!

I am super happy she decided to share her creativity! I am always wondering what that talented family is up too!

Way to go!

Rifle Design Co.

2011-12-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

I can't remember if I have blogged about this super cute company before or not!

You can shop here, read the blog here, and check out customizations here.

The hand painted designs are whimsical, and organic. A trip to this website will always put a smile on your face.

These are a couple of my favorite prints.

There is no way I can chose a favorite card or set from their abundant selection:

These coasters would make a perfect hostess gift:

I am pretty sure that if this notepad was on my desk - I would never write on it because it is too beautiful!

Happy + Friday

2011-12-16T06:00:00.001-05:00

I collect vinatge milk glass cake stands. I think they are so beautiful and look good on display. Here are a few from Etsy that I have my eye on:

LaGaleria DeDual

Barking Stands Vintage

Junking for Joy

Happy Friday everyone! Hope you have a great weekend!

Ball fringe

2011-12-13T06:00:00.000-05:00

I love it and I am going to use it more often. Gifts, pillows - you name it - I am going to wrap it in ball fringe.

Etsy image credit here.

Holiday Gift Wrapping

2011-12-12T09:25:00.000-05:00

The thing I love most about the holidays is the giving. I LOVE giving gifts. Second to giving is the wrapping. I LOVE wrapping gifts. It's my favorite to watch someone open a beautifully wrapped package.

Here are some of my favorite wrapping papers (soon I'll figure out Pinterest)!

Paper Source (a trusty old favorite):

Snow and Graham:

Loop:

It sometimes makes me sad I can't keep our present under the tree where they belong. Dozer and Matty would have a field day with that!

Surplus of pillows

2011-12-08T14:29:00.006-05:00

These beauties are on sale!

Originally $30 per pillow - now $22! The sale is limited to the pillows pictured. They come wrapped and are the perfect gift!

If you are interested - email me! (My email address is located on the left of the blog)

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T06:00:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone's day is full of family, friends, and an abundance of turkey and delicious side dishes!

Pretty candlesticks that would be beautiful in a tablescape!

I made the paper

2011-11-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

Granted it's only the Brighton-Pittsford Post, but any press is good press right? I thought I would die when my Grandpa called to tell me I was in the paper!

(I swear I am not posing for the picture)

This was my first show - so even thought I only sold 2 (really 4) pillows - I got my name out there even more!

Holiday Market at Midtown

2011-11-22T06:00:00.000-05:00

Simple Stripe will be there hoping to sell more pillows than last time. I am even going to run a a sale: pillows will be $25 instead of $30!

A rep from Stella & Dot (LOVE) is going to show the jewelry line...

The talented Handy Ma'ams will be there ready to jump into any project you may have for them!

As well as Gock's Frocks!

A few more vendors are in the works - but for now - stop by and say hi - we would love to see you!

Handy Ma'ams

2011-11-21T06:00:00.004-05:00

Love these girls :) Two sisters that decided they would combine their talents of design, refinishing, building, rebuilding, refurbishing and general awesomeness to launch Handy Ma'ams!

(Jill)

(Karla)

On their blog you can find monthly how to's, recipes and a full list of their handy work! I don't think there is anything these two can't do!

Stay tuned - Simple Stripe, Handy Ma'ams and Stella & Dot are teaming up for a small holiday show in the next week! Details to come soon!

Simple Stripe goes public

2011-11-14T06:00:00.001-05:00

Setting up my 4' x 8' table on Saturday, at the Holiday Market I participated in, brought me back to the days of Knock Knock when I would set up for the trade shows in NYC. Of course - my teeny tiny table could not compare to the booth KK had. KK booths took months to plan and days to assemble. Set up for Simple Stripe in Rochester, NY? 3 minutes. And I had helpers (Thank you Peter and Mom).

My "goal" was to sell the pillows I had made specifically for the show (10). I have been preparing for this all week, staying up late in the basement, cutting, sewing, stitching, stuffing, wrapping, packing etc. with Tony Soprano by my side (I'm addicted - now on Season 3). I was convinced pillows would fly off the table. I would take so many orders that I would have to turn people down: "I'll be in touch after the first of the year when things slow down". I really wanted to say that. But unfortunately none of that happened.

(my order forms)

I sold 2 pillows.

Actually 4 but I made my sister and friend come in and order so I didn't feel completely defeated. Surprising I am not upset. Those 2 pillows are the first two pillows that I have sold to complete and total strangers and I am thrilled!

(my official sign)

I got my name out there and that's all that matters. I handed out a lot of business cards and talked to a lot of people. Overall I think it was a Saturday well spent. I am doing another show, Crafts for a Cause on December 3rd and I am excited for that.

Hopefully I'll sell 3 pillows!

Back....again

2011-11-04T15:28:00.007-04:00

Once again - I stopped blogging. This time it has been almost a year. I've been busy. That's a lie. I forgot about my blog. Shame on me. But I have been up to some cool things over the past year and I figured it was time to share. Here's what has happened since my last post:

Got pregnant.

Had a beautiful baby boy.

Went on maternity leave for 9 weeks (I have no picture of maternity leave).

While I was home - I started making pillows.

Who makes pillows when they have a newborn?

Me.

I am going to brag. I have the most chilled out kid in the world. He sleeps and eats like a champ. He rarely cries - and when he does - it's super easy to figure out what he wants. I couldn't ask for a better baby.

I am not going to make any promises to blog regularly. When I can - I will. If I take another year break - well - I'm sorry. But for now, I am back.

P.S. I also sell the pillows.

Birdies

2010-11-17T05:30:00.002-05:00

I get made fun of for liking birds. Fake birds that is - I can not stand the real ones - they creep me out.

Cute felt penguins and christmas trees from All Things Small:

Birdie ornaments from Recycled Parts:

And these hysterical little ones from The Felt Menagerie:

Color

2010-11-16T05:30:00.000-05:00

Why do two colors, put one next to the other, sing? Can one really explain this? No. ~Pablo Picasso

Peter and Jason's shower

2010-11-15T05:30:00.000-05:00

I don't think I ever posted the pictures of the shower Lindsay, Sonja and I threw for the boys. I was looking through some pictures yesterday and thought everything looked so pretty:

Pics to come

2010-11-11T05:30:00.002-05:00

Hang tight. It's been a busy week!

Happy + Friday

2010-11-05T05:30:00.000-04:00

I stumbled on melangerie, by looking here. I love Amy Atlas. But that is besides the point. I have posted on her before.

Melangerie is a Brooklyn based design co that specializes in paper goodies (like these Dirty Landry Bag guest books - genius). Guests at a party can write "air out" any dirty laundry on the guest of honor. Pretty cute idea.

Melangerie is also behind these beautiful genealogy bouquets. A great concept. Guests at a party know who is who and how they are associated with the guest of honor.

You can now pin point who the really drunk girl is on the dance floor!!!!

Happy Friday!

Cowl

2010-11-03T05:30:00.003-04:00

I am working on a new knitting project - the cowl. Basically a pretty neck warmer - or a scarf with no ends.

Inspiration here.

First run at the cowl:

Halloween has come and gone

2010-11-02T09:00:00.002-04:00

I can not believe it is already November 2nd! Where does the time go?

On Sunday Bill and I spent our Halloween with a caveman, a dinosaur, a chef, minnie mouse, a fairy and a storm trooper.

We were the barn yard animals.

Garland

2010-10-27T05:30:00.001-04:00

In my craft attack I have started a new love for garland. So sweet.

How to here and here:

I am for sure making some garland for our tree this year!

Crafty

2010-10-26T05:30:00.001-04:00

I have been crafting my ass off lately. Yup. Crafting.

I am elbow deep in a Christmas project - hostess gifts for the parties we may (or may not) go to. I want to be ready. No last minute "what should I bring?"

But this is what I wanted to ask everyone - what do you typically bring as a hostess gift? Don't say wine. Everybody brings wine.

PLEASE comment - don't be afraid. I get depressed when I ask a question and no one comments. Like the post here. The two people who responded? My husband and Mom. They have to respond. It's their job.

Don't depress me people it's only Tuesday.

Herb Lubalin

2010-10-25T05:30:00.005-04:00

I love typography. Type classes in school were always my favorite. There are so many type faces and fonts out there - sometimes (most of the time) it can be extremely overwhelming.

In one type class we were assigned a famous typographer and we had to mimic their style and design in an 18 x 20 poster.

I chose Herb Lubalin.

I admired his style and the way he positioned type. This is my poster design:

I think I did a pretty decent job of depicting Mr. Lubalin's style.

Happy + Friday

2010-10-15T05:30:00.003-04:00

Yet another weekend without anything planned - LOVE!

Another great find on Etsy with April Ink:

Vintage woodcut letters:

I am obsessed with the retro spirograph sets:

And these pretty circle designs:

Have a great weekend everyone!

Fetch Dog

2010-10-14T05:30:00.003-04:00

I caught a glimpse of this catalog at my parents house over the weekend - so I thought I would check out the website.

They have some great stuff (reasonable too) for my furry friends! A nice big dog bed to get them off my couch!!!!

Who wouldn't love these guys? (Maybe just when they're asleep).

Anthropologie has wallpaper?

2010-10-13T05:30:00.008-04:00

I die.

I am usually not a fan of wall paper - never even have attempted it - but I could get used to these patterns from Anthro:

It's like wrapping a room like one pretty package!

The holidays

2010-10-12T05:30:00.000-04:00

I know we are a month and a half away from Christmas - but if the fall is anything like the past summer has been - it's gonna be 2011 before we know it. I am annoying over organized when it comes to Christmas cards. I will probably have them ordered by the end of the month.

I'm not kidding. I like to get them out the way.

Last year I ordered our cards from Paper Source:

I can't decide if I want to stick with what I know (Paper Source), make my own, or try another designer.

These caught my eye from Mr. Boddington's Studio:

I guess I have time to decide.

Lovely Design

2010-10-11T05:30:00.004-04:00

I stumbled upon this sweet blog one afternoon to find that the author has a shop as well - score!

Come to think of it - I may have written about lovelydesign before...hmmm I can't remember, but this file system looks familiar (and beautiful) to me:

Anyway if you check out her blog - on the right hand side - Sharilyn has created (free)
downloadable patterns that are beautiful! LOVE!

Happy + Friday = NOTHING over the weekend

2010-10-08T13:09:00.004-04:00

After three consecutive weddings the past month - we have a weekend off!

I hope everyone has a great sunshiney weekend!

Print found here.

Inspired

2010-10-06T05:30:00.001-04:00

My latest project:

Inspired by this talented woman. For two of my favorite guys on their new home:

Does anyone read Simple Stripe?

2010-10-05T08:57:00.001-04:00

I am curious. If you do - please let me know!

Happy Tuesday!

Gold Teeth Brooklyn

2010-10-04T05:30:00.006-04:00

I wasn't sure what I was going to see when I visited this site. I was pleasantly surprised. I appreciate the beautiful simplicity of these cards and prints. The designs are unique and child like. I am going to have to get some Gold Teeth!!!

You can check out their Etsy shop here as well!

Taking a week off...

2010-10-01T05:30:00.001-04:00

Going to re charge the creative juices!

Happy + Friday = October 1

2010-10-01T05:30:00.000-04:00

I am excited Fall is here.

Pumpkins, cider, donuts, hay rides, apples, I could go on and on! - Fall is definitely my favorite season in upstate NY. I love getting the Fall issues of Martha Stewart Everyday Food and Living...such good ideas and recipes! Here comes the comfort food - better hit the gym hard!

So pretty

2010-09-30T05:30:00.006-04:00

It's the little things that make me happy. Good wrapping paper is one of those things.

Whenever I wrap a gift - I always use craft paper. I bedazzle the gift with a fun colored ribbon and card. It's the prefect way to wrap...until I saw these beautiful prints from Snow & Graham. Swoooon!

A Printable Press

2010-09-29T05:30:00.001-04:00

Great concept!! You pay for the design - they send you the pdf file and you can print as many as you'd like! Why didn't I think of that?

Darn it!

We're back

2010-09-28T05:30:00.002-04:00

What a great weekend!

Back at it again! Another wedding this weekend as well!

Happy Tuesday!

Happy + Friday

2010-09-24T05:30:00.002-04:00

We're off to another wedding in Long Island this weekend!

I wish we were traveling in this retro vehicle - but our Honda will have to do!

Happy weekend everyone!

I love you Bill

2010-09-23T05:30:00.002-04:00

This poster sums it all up.

There is an app for everything

2010-09-22T05:30:00.001-04:00

I love Cartolina Cards - when I was checking out their website I noticed they had an app that spices up your email or text messaging using their design.

Necessity? No.

Fun? Yes.

Will I spend the $2.99 on it? Probably.

It's the little things that make me smile!

Whew

2010-09-20T05:30:00.004-04:00

What a weekend! We went to a beautiful wedding on Saturday - the bride and groom were stunning:

Back to the grind we go! This week and next are four day work weeks - we have another wedding in Long Island this weekend!

Happy Monday!

Happy + Friday

2010-09-17T05:30:00.001-04:00

Ahhh Friday - I love and miss you.

Have a wedding this weekend - excited to go to a party and relax!

I hope everyone has a nice weekend! It's starting to get cold and the leaves are slowly starting to turn - my favorite time of year!!!

Print from here.

Clambaking

2010-09-16T05:30:00.000-04:00

At a clambake today! No work for me!!

Pillow

2010-09-15T05:30:00.000-04:00

These are not the pillows I have been working on for the family room (which are done).

I made this for my niece Reese for her new bedroom.

I think it turned out quite cute.

Who doesn't love a baby?

2010-09-14T05:30:00.001-04:00

Even if it's a chick, bunny, or goat?

I adore these prints from The Animal Print Shop:

These definitely make me smile today!

Back to School

2010-09-13T05:30:00.000-04:00

I know, everyone has been back to school for a few days now - but I was window (online) shopping for school supplies wishing I could go back to school for a bit. I loooved getting new supplies. New notebooks, pencils with perfect sharp tips. Markers and crayons that had never been used. Bliss!

If I were to go back to school - this is what would be in my backpack:

A brightly colored spiral notebook from Paperwink:

This sturdy apricot colored binder from Russell and Hazel:

And, these super fun pencils from Jonathan Adler:

If I were to go back to school, I would like to go to high school again and only for a week! I still have nightmares that my homework is not done!

Happy + Friday

2010-09-10T08:45:00.000-04:00

Linda & Harriett makes my Friday happy.

Look at these darling 2011 letterpress calendars! They will be available in October as well in West Elm stores {I heart West Elm almost as much as Anthropologie}.

It would be really neat to dress an entire wall in calendars (nice letter pressed ones of course) - like wall paper. Hmmm that give me an idea!

Check out Linda & Harriett's blog as well!

Pictures of my beautiful pillows are to come - I have just been lazy in taking the pictures!

Nada

2010-09-09T05:30:00.000-04:00

Not posting today - look for pictures of my pillow tomorrow!

I beat the sewing machine!!!

I heart Dude and Chick

2010-09-08T05:30:00.001-04:00

How great are these cards? Dude + Chick = Stationery Sweetness!

I think mullet love is my favorite. Who doesn't love a good mullet?

Check out their Etsy shop - these are two fly peeps who definitely got it going on!!!

Meredith vs. The sewing machine

2010-09-07T05:30:00.002-04:00

Meredith - 0

Sewing machine - 1

Ahhh!

Cheers

2010-09-06T05:30:00.001-04:00

To sweet Darcey and JJ on their 1st wedding anniversary!

What a great day to remember! Congratulations!

Happy + Friday

2010-09-03T05:30:00.000-04:00

Seriously. Where did the summer go?

Happy long weekend!

Cheers

2010-09-02T05:30:00.004-04:00

It is a day late {so sorry} but Happy Anniversary to my beautiful sister and amazing brother in law Andrew!

Can you believe it's been 3 years {and one day}?

Birdies

2010-09-01T05:30:00.004-04:00

I love the birdies, the felt, and the pillow! I need to work on some new pillows for our family room. The standard pillows that come with the couch are not cutting it anymore.

Mom - I need you!!!!

Things I need. No. Things I would like.

2010-08-31T05:30:00.005-04:00

This.

I would really, really, REALLY like this for my home.

I only have one carpet - but the idiots (please see picture below for said idiots) leave their fur everywhere. Actually - the big one sheds - the other one - just exists. But the hair drives me BONKERS.

I never thought I would (or even could) get excited over a vacuum cleaner - but has anyone used one? It. Is. GREAT. I've borrowed one from a friend and I am hooked.

My dinky Shark sweeper isn't going to cut it anymore.

Dyson - I'm coming for ya!

Snuggle

2010-08-30T05:30:00.000-04:00

Can someone PLEASE find me a baby so I can put them in this? How cute!

I stumbled upon Smallable - a great kids clothing site - GORGEOUS! Check out the Sping/Summer 2010 Catalog. You will melt!

Happy + Friday

2010-08-27T05:30:00.004-04:00

This print makes me smile!

Have a great weekend!

FOUND

2010-08-26T05:30:00.001-04:00

Why couldn't I think of this idea! Hats off to the founder Jeni for finding FOUND!

{I have been using FOUND so much - it is starting to not look like a real word}.

The main objective of this fabulous idea is renting out vintage furniture and accessories to make your event unique, adding that extra special detail that we all love.

I can't pull any pictures from FOUND - but head over there and waste a bunch of time looking through her inventory - it is soooo worth it. Definitely inspirational!

Happy Thursday!

Inspired

2010-08-25T05:30:00.003-04:00

I love when creative people inspire me.

Right now I am inspired by yesterday's post featuring Little Pink House on Etsy.

It just so happens that I have a lot of felt lying around and I thought I would try something new for a card:

I am working a felt design right now that I am going to attached to canvas - more to come on that as soon as it's done!

Little Pink House

2010-08-24T05:30:00.003-04:00

Could these little creations be any cuter? Oh my goodness!

Little Pink House on etsy - crafts these little gems custom for your home - I love them! What a great housewarming or baby gift!

Check out Melissa's blog here!

LOVE

2010-08-23T05:30:00.000-04:00

Anything that sparkles. Sequins, glitter, metallics - you name it. If it shines, sparkles and glimmers - I am all over it.

I am kicking myself (just a little - because I did have the best. wedding. ever.) that I did not find these wonders before the big day! What a fun thing to have at your wedding - or just even a party!

Happy + Friday

2010-08-20T05:30:00.003-04:00

My favorite picture of Reese from the summer! How can this picture not make you smile? I sometimes can't look at it she's so cute!

Happy Friday!

Vintage

2010-08-19T05:30:00.006-04:00

Lately I have been obsessed with vintage pieces i.e. furniture, chandeliers, candle sticks, you name it. If it's old and has that shabby chic look - I am into it. Check out the fabulous piece of furniture Bill refinished for our sun room!

If you haven't been to Anthropologie for hardware - go! They have the BEST selection of door knobs, cabinet handles, hooks, brackets, and knobs:

Cool hardware is a great way to dress up or add a special touch to a piece!

Bad blogger

2010-08-18T09:35:00.002-04:00

I just need to own up to the fact that I have a hard time following through this blog. I have a hard time consistently blogging, exercising and eating right. I am working on the exercise, and eating - but for whatever reason I can not get in to a routine of blogging! Sometimes I think I have so much on my mind (creatively that is) that I don't even know where to begin. I would like to blog more.

So I will. I am going to try my hardest to make this a priority.

Sometimes I feel like no one is reading - so what's the point? But then again - why would anyone read a blog that someone does not update?

Starting today 8.18.10 I will update Simple Stripe daily (during the work week)!

Happy Wednesday!

Happy + Friday

2010-08-06T15:47:00.003-04:00

I am back - and I have been bad. I have been a bad blogger - and I am sorry.

Lots going on this summer - but I will get back in to the swing of creative things - I promise.

I hope everyone has a great weekend! I know I will! Celebrating 1 year of wedded bliss with my hubby!

Have a great weekend!

Happy + Friday

2010-04-02T06:05:00.000-04:00

I love the fabric, I love the size, I love everything about these sweet beegee clutches!

Fridays are amazing - more so when you don't have to work!

Blast from the past

2010-04-01T06:05:00.003-04:00

I was checking out one of my favorite sites yesterday for inspiration (a family friend has enlisted me for some wedding planning advice - hooray) and I came across my guest blogging week on Elizabeth Anne Designs. Check out these links:

This one

This one

AND

This one!

It's been busy this week. My sweet Mom is in town and leaves tomorrow. So sad.

Happy + Friday

2010-03-26T06:05:00.006-04:00

My good friend Darcey if Paperwink informed me yesterday that they have NEW stamps! These are a few of my favorite new designs: Check out the rest at Paperwink!

Happy Friday!

Collision Kit

2010-03-25T06:05:00.004-04:00

I smiled when I discovered the Collision Kit from Buttoned Up. Now, I don't want anyone to get into an accident and have to use this amazing tool, but this handy binder brings creativity and organization to the insurance industry and auto accidents:

The Collision Kit should be the staple of each glove compartment on the road!

Vintage bling

2010-03-24T06:05:00.000-04:00

I have always been a fan of vintage cocktail rings - or any sparkly rings for that matter. I have started a small collection of oversized rings that I love. It seems like vintage cocktail rings are the "it" accessory right now. I could be wrong - I know nothing about fashion, fabulousness, or accessories for that matter - but I don't care if they are "in" or "out" - I'll wear 'em all day everyday!

My latest purchase was in NYC at the West 25th Street Market. There were two floors of an old parking garage filled with antique jewelry, clothes, books - you name it - it was there:

Banana Republic:

J.Crew - has a few (I can't get the pics for some reason)...

There are also A TON on Etsy:

Gloomy

2010-03-23T06:05:00.002-04:00

It is rainy and I have had a dull headache since Saturday.

The creative juices will come back - I promise.

At least I post that I am not going to be posting.

Happy Tuesday.

Proud Aunt

2010-03-22T06:05:00.000-04:00

Oh lordy do I love this kid. She has the most amazing personality - I can't take it! She is going to give Lauren and Andy a run for their money and I can not wait to watch every step of the way.

It's hard to believe that in a few months - Reese will be 1!

I love you mini soul, more than you know!

Happy + Friday

2010-03-19T06:05:00.001-04:00

Here are the boutonniere's I made for J & P for when they are married tomorrow! Ooooooh I can't wait to hear all about it and see pictures!

Shoot me an email if you want the "how to" on this one!

"Middle age is when you're sitting home on a Saturday night and the telephone rings and you hope it isn't for you."

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2010-03-17T06:05:00.006-04:00

Here are some greens goodies from around the web! 8 years ago today - I was at the Gravity Bar in Dublin Ireland - enjoying a beer with my pals Erica and Sarah! So fun!

Green masking tape from Paperwink:

Tons of green wedding bouquet ideas at Martha Stewart:

Wash down your corn beef and cabbage with a Green Carnation:

Happy St. Patrick's Day everyone!

Exciting times

2010-03-16T09:03:00.004-04:00

Peter and Jason are going to tie the knot this weekend in Vermont. Wahoooo!

Words really can't explain how perfect these two people are for each other. It makes me smile that they are taking the time for themselves this weekend to symbolize their love and commitment. I am really excited for June 12 when we all get to celebrate together at the reception!

Peter and Jason,

I wish you nothing but the best, now and for the rest of your lives. You guys have an amazing connection that few people are lucky to find. May you spend your days making each other laugh and smile. On days there are tears, lend a shoulder to each other to cry on. The best is yet to come and I am so excited for the both of you! These are the years to remember!

xoxo

Off day

2010-03-15T08:32:00.001-04:00

I tried not to miss a post - but my week and weekend got away from me.

Look forward to tomorrow!

Happy Monday!

Happy + Friday

2010-03-12T06:05:00.007-05:00

Here is a teaser of some professional pics by our photographer Mary Corcoran! I know I have written before about how much I loved working with her. That was BEFORE our wedding! Mary is amazingly talented and every time I look at my pictures, I get that nostalgic feeling from the day!

She captured every single detail I had worked so hard on - and to me that is priceless.

I can't thank her enough.

P.S. Mary - I know you just had another baby - but you need to blog more - show us what you're doing!

"Pretend like it's the weekend, we could pretend all the time."

Short and sweet

2010-03-11T06:05:00.001-05:00

I must have these straws from Jack and Lulu:

That is all.

Has spring sprung?

2010-03-10T06:05:00.000-05:00

I try not to get too excited about the beautiful weather we are having in upstate NY right now. At a moments notice, the snow could could crashing down and we'd have to start all over again.

I can't help it though. The sun brings out a smile and makes me happy. I get excited about opening windows in our house and buying fresh cut flowers! I love the spring!

Check out this great floral gallery on Style Me Pretty. You can choose any color, and the site will find floral arrangements and bouquets for you to look at for inspiration.

I went straight to the hot pink - so pretty!

Images by Jennifer Davis Photography and Twin Lens LLC.

MUJI

2010-03-09T06:05:00.009-05:00

NYC was wildly successful! Bill was surprised and we had a blast. I could not have asked for the weekend to go better!

On Friday morning, Bill and I had breakfast on the upper east side with my friend Jen. She told us that MUJI was a must.

Oh boy. I was in heaven. I fell instantly in love with MUJI's simplistic and minimal design.

We bought the following items:

Stainless grater:

Nail clippers:

Pill case:

Stacking case:

(Who the hell knows what I'll use this for). If I smoked pot - "I'd put my weeeed in there"

Anthropologie, I love you

2010-03-08T06:05:00.008-05:00

I am always inspired with the displays and window installations in Anthropologie.

Anthro just came to Rochester (it's a huge deal - we have the crappiest shopping) - and I am delighted! I don't have to travel to NYC, Washington D.C. or Los Angeles to get my fix!

It's amazing how they use everyday objects to create such beauty:

Happy + Friday

2010-03-05T06:05:00.002-05:00

"Friday clears the rust of the whole week."

Happy Friday!

NYC

2010-03-04T06:05:00.002-05:00

Today is the big surprise!

I am taking my hubby to the Big Apple for his 40th birthday!

I CAN NOT WAIT to see the look on his face!

Darcey and JJ

2010-03-03T06:05:00.013-05:00

Talk about a beautiful, inspirational wedding!

Darcey and JJ got married in Sun River, Oregon. I have never been to the Pacific Northwest and all I can say is wow. The beauty of this resort was breathtaking.

I knew this wedding was going to be amazing as Darcey, her Mom and sister are amazingly creative. Talk about attention to detail!

Everything was handmade by Darcey's Mom:

Darcey's color palette was not limited to 2 or three colors - she had the whole rainbow. It was unique and I had never seen something come together so well! Her entire family was a part of the bridal party and the men's tie's corresponded with each woman's dress. Perfect!

Here are some more photos of this spectacular day! Enjoy!

Ecojot

2010-03-02T06:00:00.002-05:00

Love this site.

They have great desk top wallpaper that you can download for FREE! (Opposite of free? The $5.13 soy latte I had last week. That's going to stop).

Check out these notebooks. Super cute right?

I love the colors and the wallpaper brightens any dreary desktop!

Quilling

2010-03-01T06:00:00.016-05:00

I saw this in my latest issue of Marth Stewart Living:

I tried it - and came up with this:

It worked - but I had a hard time keeping the heart glued down (without it looking junky with gobs of glue).

I think it would be really cool to do a wall in quill. Time consuming yes, but the colors and texture would be really unique. Now I am wondering if Anthropologie has ever done a display with quills.

Hmmmm...

Happy + Friday

2010-02-26T06:00:00.006-05:00

Yeah! It's the weekend and we are suppose to get a HUGE snowstorm. Finally. If it's going to be winter I want snow on the ground dammit, and lots of it.

Letterpress makes me melt! Check out these fantastic winter inspired card by Paper Lovely:

Adorable! Not sure how I have not found this site before!

Happy Weekend!

"Weekends don't count unless you spend them doing something completely pointless."

Obsessed with pink and orange

2010-02-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

I love this color combination. The bright colors together makes me smile. Pink and orange threw up at my wedding and now in my basement studio. What else was I suppose to do with the polka dot fabric?

I am storing my sister's sewing machine - until they move home - and I am going to put it to good use. I know the basics of sewing. One would start off with something simple, like a pillow. Not me. I am going to make this quilt from Manhattan Craft Room if it kills me:

This is going to be my newest "how to" project (aside from planning The Boy's wedding - more to come on that).

Happy Thursday! (Who am I kidding? Friday is the only day that deserves an exclamation point).

Happy Thursday.

New Years Resolution gone bad

2010-02-24T13:14:00.002-05:00

I am the queen of New Years resoultions. I will lose weight, post more on my blog, eat healthier, yada, yada, yada.

I am also the queen of never following through to the so called resolutions.

I am going to start right now and resume writing on Simple Stripe. It has been a nice creative outlet for me, and I need that back. My creativity was drained after our wedding. I am re-charged and ready to roll.

I'm back. I'm bad. And I am ready to make Simple Stripe super inspirational for 2010!

Thanks for waiting patiently!

xoxo

A lot has happened

2009-11-12T15:19:00.010-05:00

I have been very busy since July 10 (the last post). I now feel I have some time and I am creatively re charged!

Here's what has happened since:

My best friends Jen and Danielle both had babies:

Bill and I closed on our house and immediately started to give the kitchen a facelift:

We went to see Jason Mraz for my bachlorette (awesome)!

Bill and I tied the knot!

We went to Keuka Lake for our honeymoon

Darcey and JJ got married

Cousin Nick and Becky got married

My early New Years Resolution is to blog on a more consistent basis.

I am going to try as hard as I possibly can!

HOUSTON...

2009-07-10T14:58:00.005-04:00

...we have a baby and I am an AUNT!

Reese Lynn Lauterbach (my sister's kid).
Born: June 29, 2009
Weight: 6 lb. 2 oz.

I have no idea how long she is - but I know she has big feet.

I am going to say what everyone else says. She is the cutest. baby. EVER. I love her and can not wait to spoil the ever-loving-crap out of her when she gets a bit older :)

Candy before dinner? Yup.
Over the top gifts and clothing? Absolutely.
Stay up late? You betcha ya.
Play games? All day long. (And I don't play games)!

We are going to have so much fun - she has no idea.

51 Days and 14 weeks

2009-06-18T15:10:00.001-04:00

51 days until the BIG day! Holy cow. I would say that time flies - but it doesn't. Maybe it's because I am super excited to get married. Maybe it's because my sister is having a baby in 2.5 weeks. Time has been going very S L O O O W.

14 weeks is how old little Dozer is (pics to come soon). Bill and I joke about how we are farming poop and pee. It seems all we do is clean up poop and pee. Great. Why I thought it was a good idea to get another pup - I'll never know - but I had to get him out of there (there being that cage he was in - all by his lonesome).

For some reason I have kicked in to high gear with the wedding. Check out my do list:

Address invitations, get stamps and send them out - (more on this later)
Buy wedding shoes at unforgettablemoments.com - DONE
Go to Crescent Moon to look at toilets Friday 6/19 @ 2 pm
Get Bill's suit tailored - DONE
Order headpiece - DONE
Finish programs
Pick out and order wedding bands/rings - DONE
Pay awesome photographer last payment - DONE
Email caterer to fin dout final $$$ amt. due - DONE
Buy hot pink tissue paper for puff balls
Get jars from Sharon - DONE
Marriage license (county offices)
Guest book @ Michael's - DONE
Bill - shoes?
Wedding gifts
Call Jojo for rehearsal dinner - DONE - but they haven't called back
Find a birdcage for wedding cards
Buy garbage cans for reception
Reserve valet service - DONE
Make confetti out of misspelled invitations
Assemble mason jars with wire

I also started moving all finished wedding projects to Peter and Jason's house (thank you)! This is my list of things that are residing at Peter and Jason's:

Votive candles
Battery operated tealights
Flip flop basket
Trifle dishes
Scoops
Favors
Napkins and matchbooks

This is what still has to travel to Peter and Jason's (thank you!):

Crystal candle sticks
Candles
Buckets for kids tables
Organza
Photo booth fabric
Guest book and pens
Polaroid camera and film

It's alot - but it is super fun!

Now Lauren - HAVE THAT BABY!!!!

82 days, 10 weeks and 503 hours

2009-05-18T15:05:00.004-04:00

82 is the number of days 'til the "big day"!

503 is the number of hours that my battery operated tealights are going on. Yes - they have lasted this long! If anyone needs tealights for ANYTHING - check out the Christmas Tree Shop and pick up a pack or two. Six lights for $2.99 - you can not go wrong!

Also please meet the newest member to the Williams/Rietz household: Dozer. 10 is the number of weeks he is!

163 hours 23 minutes

2009-05-04T10:54:00.003-04:00

That's how long the battery operated tea lights have been on. I bought them last week to "test" their strength and I have to say, I am pretty impressed. These little suckers haven't evened started to dim or flicker.

The whole purpose for the tealights is I am going to put them in mason jars and hang them from all the trees. It's going to look like 100's of firefly's in the sky - I can't wait!

101 Days

2009-04-29T12:53:00.005-04:00

I have an iPhone application titled "Days Until". It is the countdown for my wedding. I have 101 more days. On Friday, I will be in the double digits - 99 to go. People keep saying "it goes by so fast" and to be quite honest - I think just the opposite. Maybe it's the anticipation that is making it drag - or the fact that I am so damn organized. I don't know.

This weekend I got all supplies for the wedding: votive candles that already have the wax in them (genius):

Battery operated tea lights that I am going to put in mason jars and hang from the trees in the yard:

I am running a test on these little suckers right now. I turned them on 45 hours ago and they are still on! I am pretty excited about this - now I don't have to worry about them blowing out on their own. I actually have to worry if they'll ever turn off!

I'm back!

2009-04-23T13:08:00.006-04:00

Ok - so I didn't fall off the face of the earth, I was just busy and quite frankly my creativity left me for a while.

I think I am back! The weather is {finally} starting to turn nice and I have a smile on my face! Cruising through the good 'ol world wide web I found this great site: Kindred. They provide beautiful wallpaper designs, and photography for your desktop (sometimes the picture of the dog - gets old - love you Matty).

Check out these cool patterns {this is what is on my desktop}

I am really excited to because my shower and my sister's baby shower is this weekend! I can't wait!!