White & Wander

Busy ...

2012-02-09T20:42:00.000+08:00

Another week has slipped past without even blinking!

I'm back in SA after a few days at the Design and Decoration trade fair in Sydney, which was fabulous and well worth the trip.

This week has been filled with client meetings, some old and some new, finalising some big jobs that are coming up, decorating, treasure foraging, and catching up with friends and family.

Happy days.

I'll make a BIG effort to get posting back on track next week, dear friends, promise xx

(Couldn't think of a cuter image to leave you with!)

Field ...

2012-02-03T07:04:00.001+08:00

Happy weekend, dear friends x

Puppy from here

Clutch ...

2012-02-02T06:37:00.003+08:00

It's a necessary purchase ...

Admiral Boom would approve

Kate Spade via the lovely Matchbook Blog

Dream Home ...

2012-02-01T06:39:00.003+08:00

I talk about dream homes all the time... I've got about 10 of them.

But I've found the one ... the search is over.

It's the home of retired Naval Officer Admiral Boom and his wife, and their ex-pirate assistant Binnacle, on Cherry Tree Lane, London.

I am amazed I didn't remember this from my childhood because I would have seen Mary Poppins countless times! G Barb can attest to us wearing out her tape!

It's perfect in every way.

Such a pretty blue ...

And what an amazingly fantastic roof top with all those ship-shape details!

Happily, my loft is pretty nautical already, but it is more like a lighthouse than a ship ...

But I could add a Captain's wheel to the front deck of course, always room for more props!

See the full Admiral Boom montage here
(Please excuse the blurry screen shots taken from the movie!)

Dinner ...

2012-01-31T06:08:00.000+08:00

Now, this is my kind of Sunday dinner.

Perfectly simple and rustic.

Lovely.

Photographer Gabriela Herman

Transit ...

2012-01-30T07:34:00.004+08:00

I'm happily heading home today after 6 weeks away.

None of my photos are really blogworthy so I'll leave you with this beautiful shot of dinner under the stars at Faraway Downs, from the fabulous movie, Australia. Opinions will be divided here, but I really loved it. I've been in more bush than desert but there are definitely some similarities (sadly no Hugh Jackman)

I'll be traversing the country for a few days so I've scheduled a few posts to keep the home fires burning - including a post of my dream home!

See you next week, dear friends xx

Nearly Home...

2012-01-27T20:41:00.001+08:00

My goodness! Where has this week gone?

I've only got a few days left in the NT and I can't deny, I'm very much looking forward to heading back to the loft and busy city life.

I've got a busy February and March with W&W projects, but work is just going to have to wait as there are a few the things I must do immediately, if not sooner, upon arrival ...

Firstly, catch up on a massive stack of magazine reading ...

Someone better check on me from time to time, I may have passed out with excitement!

Oh, how I lust after a crisp fresh copy of World of Interiors ...

Next, eat some serious meat.

I rarely eat big cuts of meat but a few weeks without it really has me hankering ... I might try this place? Kits, Kimbo, Kate - care to try it with me?

Also in the eating category, is a pilgrimage, preferrably at midnight, to the spiritual home of pies, Vilis - SA readers, you know what I mean. Yep.

Paint my nails a wildly inappropriate shade of some description ... better yet, have someone paint them for me...

Embark on a much needed day out treasure hunting in the Kangoo ...

Top of the list is a tortoise shell... of course!

And lastly, give my great love, Mr H, a suffocating snuggle for at least 15 minutes...

He has defied the odds with his miraculous recovery. Thanks so much again for all your kind words of support.

Happy weekend, dear friends.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Hoorah ...

2012-01-20T20:35:00.000+08:00

Thrilled to report that Mr H is home after making a miraculous recovery.

What a relief.

I can't wait to get home and give him a big snuggle.

Thanks a million for your happy thoughts, dear friends x

Henry ...

2012-01-20T06:32:00.002+08:00

Poor Mr H is very, very sick in the animal hospital after eating some snail bait yesterday.
Clearly his gluttony has finally caught up with him, silly puppy.
Please send all your happy thoughts our way as we wait anxiously for some hopeful news.

Happy weekend, dear friends xx

Holmes ...

2012-01-18T06:42:00.000+08:00

Does anyone else love the old Sherlock Holmes with this hilarious bloke, Jeremy Brett?

When I was living at home Dad and I would religiously watch it and crack up at the overly dramatic flourishes he would splash around.

It's an especially good giggle when he has a fist fight.

Speaking of Sherlock, I can't wait to see the new movie. After seeing the last a nameless sister remarked that Sherlock's apartment looked like the inside of my brain.

Sad but probably very true!

Frenzy ...

2012-01-17T09:09:00.004+08:00

Desire to Inspire have done it again.

Torturing my mind and tormenting my eyes with achingly beautiful images of spaces that I lustily crave to inhabit...

Humph...

Undoubtedly, I'm going to be in a complete decorating frenzy when I get home.

All these lovely inspiring images and nothing to decorate.

I've been known to return from a dinner party at a very late hour and move furniture around all night, so after 8 weeks away from home the loft is in for a right old flip!

Might even finally post some photos... maybe x

Photos above by photographer David Prince

Bath ...

2012-01-16T06:18:00.001+08:00

I adore how this bathroom is both theatrical and utilitarian at the same time.

Loving the mix of crumbling walls, persian rug, damask curtain, tassels and old school sinks...

And that green! I can't get enough of emerald at the moment.

Seriously winning combo.

Here

Specs ...

2012-01-13T18:19:00.000+08:00

Who wore it better?

Of course I'm picking the little Bulldog over the model.
He's just scrumptious.

Happy weekend, dear friends xx

Cool ...

2012-01-12T21:46:00.000+08:00

Johanna Burke has both the coolest apartment in the universe, in New York City, overlooking the East River and Downtown Manhattan ....

With perfectly crumbling paint and a pane of safety glass in her front door ...

And the coolest job in the universe designing whimsical holiday window displays for Bergdorf Goodman ...

Who doesn't want to go to work and whip up a sequinned moose?

Dream job ...

Full interview here and more examples of her fabulous work here.

Italy ...

2012-01-11T07:49:00.002+08:00

I simply adore these exquisite illustrated floor plans by Venetian architect Andrea Palladio.

They are works of art in themselves.

I loved seeing those buildings up close when I was in Venice 10 years ago and I'm hoping it won't be too long before I'm there again...

2012 ...

2012-01-09T03:49:00.003+08:00

Hello again, dear friends!

Happy 2012.

I'm still up in the Northern Territory but happily I once again have internet and mobile coverage after a few weeks without it - despite this unexpected technology sabattical being probably just what I needed, I must say, losing a limb might have been less painful!

This distance has reminded me of just how important balance is - isn't it always when you stop that you realise just how lovely it is to sit quietly? Here's to a well balanced and happy year ahead.

And the happiness has already begun with a lovely little piece in the ever gorgeous Matchbook Magazine. I was thrilled to be asked, tickled pink, in fact. What an honour.

Check it out! (The whole issue, not just me of course! Ha!)

Photo : Matchbook Magazine

Merry Christmas

2011-12-23T19:19:00.001+08:00

From

White & Wander

with love ....

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

There will be a small break in communication while I head off to do some remote area health work in the Aboriginal lands of the Australian Northern Territory until later in January.....minus internet!

Image courtesy of Paperless Post

Love and a Dog ...

2011-12-16T08:14:00.001+08:00

Dogs are the best.

Can't wait to have one of my own again some day...

Tossing up between a Leonberger called Pedro or a Pug called Pepito (yep, I have future dog names all sorted out, sad Emma, very sad)

I guess I'll let the size of my future backyard decide!

Sea ...

2011-12-15T08:08:00.001+08:00

Images on a nautical theme that are seriously floating my boat today ...

shocking pun, I know, but it had to be done!

All from this rad tumblr, Now and Then

Chanel ...

2011-12-14T06:32:00.004+08:00

Prompted by a deliciously tempting picture posted on The Beautiful Soup (above), I was desperate to track down some more shots of the recent Chanel Métiers aD’Art Paris-Bombay themed fashion show.

Hosted at the Grand Palais, the interior was transformed into a Maharaja’s palace complete with long tables set for high tea.

I'm not even interested in the clothes, just the drop dead gorgeous event design.

Trust Chanel to get it so so right.

All other photos from La Chanelphile

Antiquaria ...

2011-12-13T19:36:00.003+08:00

While I should be doing a holiday gift guide of my own, I just can't help reading eveyone elses!

One of the loveliest I've seen is this smashing publication from Antiquaria.
I absolutely adore the hand illustrated lettering and whimsical details.

It is so inspiring for me seeing things that aren't vector drawn and gives me a nudge to get back into drawing some more myself ...

Duffle ...

2011-12-12T05:07:00.005+08:00

I've been travelling quite a bit recently, and will be lucky enough to continue to do so into the new year...

Therefore I think I am quite justified in purchasing this little beauty...

Who doesn't need a sequin dipped duffle bag in cheetah print? That's what I thought- let's all get one.

Achingly fabulous in every way ...

Fete Press ...

2011-12-10T08:06:00.004+08:00

Get to Fete Press now people! Stunning in every way, SA girls going for it in a big and beautiful style!

Congrats Jane and Annabelle xx

Big Puppy ...

2011-12-09T07:30:00.002+08:00

Aw, this looks just like Mr H ... with his equally bad habit of taking up half the bed and a pillow!

Actually, I think a bit of a sleep in tomorrow is a great idea.

It's been a busy week here at W&W and it's only going to get busier from here on in... yay!

Happy weekend, dear friends x

Picture from here

Glee ...

2011-12-07T06:21:00.003+08:00

I love Wednesday nights because Glee is on TV.

Nothing makes me happier than a good old sing along with my favourite characters!

Blaine is my fave. Probably not a secret!

Time to get out more...

From my Pinterest

Flowers ...

2011-12-05T20:15:00.001+08:00

Hooray, the professional photos of my sister and new brother in law's wedding have arrived (September 3... the wait is worth it!)

I'm so happy with how the photos of the flowers turned out ... it was very romantic and rustic.

Such a happy family event...

Don't they look so happy?

More photos to be loaded up on the website very soon x

Hooray!

2011-11-25T07:30:00.001+08:00

I'm doing a wedding this weekend and I can't wait. Even though it's hard work and I'm on the sidelines, I just love bringing these happy days to life. My favourite bit is watching on as it all comes together and people kick up their heels!

I hope you have a smashing weekend too, dear friends x

Fabulous dancing man photo from here ...

Propped Up ...

2011-11-24T07:55:00.000+08:00

J'adore art propped up against a wall... even better on this scrubby old floor.

Art is much better when it is casual and less proper, I think.

Here

Window ...

2011-11-23T08:43:00.001+08:00

From my little loft I've got a view of offices at one end and someone's town house at the other...
But I don't really mind because the windows themselves are lovely.

I love the windows in these photos ... simple, unadorned panes ... although you probably wouldn't refer to that last set as a simple window - how fab?

All shots found over at my new favourite Tumblr, Falling Star

Play ...

2011-11-22T08:14:00.004+08:00

This is fabulous.

Speaking of pirates, someone once dressed up as a pirate for a costume party from items in my everyday wardrobe... what does that say about me!?!

Hehe.

Chapel ...

2011-11-21T05:11:00.001+08:00

I'm so excited to finally find some photos of the extraordinary residence of artist and craftsman Nick Kenny, located in the picturesque and historic town of Faversham on the Kent coast ...

I've had the ripped out pages in my 'beautiful house folder' for about a year trying to get my scanner to work - sad, I know!

I just love everything about it, especially that utilitarian bathroom ...

Photos found here ...

Swim ...

2011-11-18T06:23:00.000+08:00

Hot weekend scheduled for SA ...
I will certianly have to evacuate the loft (insulation is at a minimum) so I think I'll take Mr H for a swim.
Oh, how he'll love me!

Happy weekend, dear friends x

Photo found over at Bathwater Tumblr

Salambao ...

2011-11-17T19:27:00.005+08:00

I'm super excited to share the happy news that one of my great friends Sal has started a gorgeous blog...
Salambao

In her words you can expect to find her sharing a love of
"J Crew, cake for breakfast, seaside adventures and all things nautical".

Sounds fabulous, don't you think?
Head on over for a look ASAP people! You know you want to!

Moo ...

2011-11-17T04:33:00.002+08:00

I adore these beautifully clear and calm photos of Xhosa cattle on an Eastern Cape beach ...
And how about the backdrop?
Perfect pale sand, green mountains and cloudy blue sky atop the grey rolling waves ...

I don't know how the photographer got them so stand still but it is a worthy effort.

Daniel Naude, discovered via my favourite magazine ever in the universe, South African House and Leisure

Little Houses ...

2011-11-16T01:48:00.000+08:00

Stunning Christmas styling by Walther & Co, Denmark...

I love how they've left that grate in the front of the shot - it would have been so tempting to photoshop that out but oh how lovely it is that they left it in...

Bricks ...

2011-11-15T01:42:00.000+08:00

I'm in complete and utter love with every element of this fabulous Stockholm loft space belonging to interior Martine Colliander of White Sense ...

The whole concept is flawless but I'm mainly obsessed with the brick floor - who gets a brick floor these days? Heaven...

Violet ...

2011-11-13T12:49:00.004+08:00

Dreaming of a holiday ...

First stop on this mythical venture would be London, of course - Immediately upon landing I'd make a scurrying rush to this pretty little cake shop in Hackney for a cupcake with Luce xx

Art School Prep ...

2011-11-01T03:11:00.001+08:00

On the weekend we threw a little lunch to welcome Kim back from overseas... it was so lovely to get everyone together again and of course I love any chance to do a drop of decorating... yay!

Sally, Pip, Kim and Kate are the best cooks in the universe so I put up my hand to set the table instead (can't compete in the kitchen!) ... of course I let my mind wander in the week leading up to it and dreamed up the styling plan "Art School Prep'

I'm sure the girls were a bit confused and Kate confessed that she was expecting paint brushes and easels ... but I had it all sorted in my head wanted to make it very 'Kim'. I was going for pretty and classic but not too obvious ...

I had the most scrumptious time on Friday night painting a huge piece of salvaged art paper with many shades of pink in a watercolour wash... nothing like moving the furniture out of the way and standing above it like Pro Hart throwing paint around (this was the art school bit)

PS - never do this in red as it would look like someone has had a nasty haemorrhage ... not great for the appetite...

Teamed with Sal's gorgeous striped napkins (prep bit) the whole thing came together beautifully, if I do say so myself.

4 low vases of sweet peas, carnations in 2 shades of pink and some gorgeous ranunculi finished it all off ... can't get enough of a trip to the flower market on a frosty morning - any excuse to pop in.

I'll let Kate blog about the food as she is the expert in this department but I can vouch that we all thought it was delicious and wolfed it down...

Watermelon and feta salad was my favourite of the day... yum yum.

Pop over to Kate's place for further shots... and she may even share some recipes xxx

Photos by me and Kate

Wedding ...

2011-10-30T14:38:00.006+08:00

Hooray for professional wedding photos! Mine were just not fit to post!

These are some photos of my dear friends Alicia and Derek's wedding in August at Longview in the Adelaide Hills - I was tickled pink when they asked me to help them with the flowers and decorations.

The bouquets turned out so much better than I could have dreamed of!
I used big roses (from Kenya, how cool is that!), baby garden roses, pom pom chrysanthemum, and privet berries, wrapped up in dodder vine and strips of wedding dress fabric.

Baby rose bouquets for the gorgeous flower girls ... Alicia's niece Charlotte is a florist in the making, what a wonderful help she was.

Very simple romantic tables, but they looked smashing at night under all the fairy lights

On the cake table I used a huge vintage demijohn to hold the blossom and little vintage friand moulds as tea light holders

And this is my favourite shot - what a stunning bride!

Happy week, dear friends xx

Photos by Gloss Photography

Live ...

2011-10-26T20:15:00.002+08:00

I think one day I'll live here...

Or maybe here... less boat parking space but more art ...

Either will do!

Pharmacy ...

2011-10-12T08:21:00.001+08:00

Popped past Pottery Barn (online, that is) the other day and realised that they've been mimicking the W&W look!
The cheek of them!

Hehehe... I'm silly.

BUT, we do have an even better collection of pharmacy bottles over at our shop... we are slowly going through the crates and getting them ready for sale ... we mainly have to go this slowly because of the fumes we are breathing as we clean them...
There lies the evidence of authenticity, dear friends, noxious chemicals!

If there is a particular chemical you're after please let us know, I'm sure we have it!

Blindfold ...

2011-10-11T07:54:00.000+08:00

Inspired to blindfold a couple of paintings at my little loft after seeing this gorgeous image above...

Forgive the deliberately overexposed shot - experimenting with my new Hipstamatic App... am I always the last to get in on these things?!

First shot from here... via my Pinterest

Set Love

2011-10-10T19:50:00.000+08:00

I cannot wait to see this movie... for the set design of course! It's going to be spectacular...

Arty ...

2011-10-03T04:35:00.000+08:00

So lovely... could take or leave the Barcelona chairs but the rest of it, yes please!
A little bit like my ship wall only so much better...

Fabulous new tumblr find ... Wit and Delight

Pre-Christmas Sale ...

2011-10-01T16:08:00.005+08:00

I saw Christmas decorations on shelves while shopping yesterday and started getting very excited - only 12 weeks... eek!
Never fear, we've got Christmas covered... welcome to the first White & Wander pre-Christmas sale...!

For the month of October, we are very excited to offer free shipping in Australia on the entire range of exquisite Manifest Destiny candles, exclusively stocked in Australia by White & Wander ... so pop over to the shop and stock up for Christmas...

Customers are raving about them! Go get one, you know you want to...

My own testimonial?

I'm not normally a big candle lover as I think they usually smell so predictably sweet but I've been amazed at the surprisingly heady and unusual scents that these candles contain. Currently, I have Vintage Velvet (cognac and amber) burning and the scent still lingers even when the candle is unlit. Amazing!

And, after my last candle, Hunter's Reign, ran out ( 80 hours burn time) I now use the silvered vessel as a little vase by my bed - lovely.

There are 8 different candles to chose from so head on over to the shop and snap some up as gorgeous gifts. Limit of 3 per customer and yes, free shipping within Australia!

And don't forget to keep your eyes peeled for more gorgeous vintage stock popping up on the shop in the next few weeks...

Happy long weekend, dear friends xx

Horse ...

2011-09-26T20:52:00.002+08:00

Achingly beautiful horse head paper sculptures by Anna-Wili Highfield for Hermes...

No where to put one but oh, how I want one!

Brights ...

2011-09-20T21:17:00.005+08:00

It's funny ... for someone who decorates one way, I sure do dress in another!

I love love love to wear bright colours, crazy statement jewels and of course rainbow flats.
I decorate though in a much more restrained fashion, with a twist I like to think, but never this overtly bright - is anyone else the same?
Or does this in reverse perhaps?

(Blaine gets a nod this week because it is such a colourful and therefore perfectly fitting shot ... plus, I'm so excited that Glee is back on! I love this show like I gave birth to it!)

Cuff - Etsy, shoes- my Pinterest boards xx

Sleep ...

2011-09-16T06:30:00.001+08:00

Exhibit 1 - Mr H, startled after someone dared wake him up from sleeping on the outside table... just like any normal dog.

Hehehe.

Happy weekend!

Props ...

2011-09-13T07:38:00.000+08:00

We've also been busy bees with our prop and furniture hire... this weekend we were thrilled to help Alicia from Akimbo with furniture for her stall at the Eclective...

In case you didn't know, the Eclective showcased artisan wedding vendors in a fabulous old building in Adelaide called the Queens Theatre. It was a brilliant event for Adelaide, well done Scott and Alia!

I would live in this building if I could! Just look at those perfectly crumbling walls...

Our wicker sideboard worked fabulously holding Alicia's gorgeous prints in the top drawer ...

The lovely big old yellow frame is also for hire and can be custom painted any shade you wish ...

Our beloved surgical trolley is an amazing piece as it is so light and airy ... it really let her work stand out, which of course was the whole point!

And lastly, Alicia requested a louvered screen to showcase her gorgeous designs...
so I set about making one!
I had a great time painting it this beautiful shade of Dulux 'Gondolier" and hinging it together ... I really find nothing as satisfying as making things come to life!

If you haven't followed the link over to her stunning site, you must do it now!
I LOVE this phrase - "invitations that won't make you want to vomit" - brill, and so true.

And lastly, all of these props and many, many more treasures are for hire and delivery is included in the Adelaide area. We would love to help you 'prop' your next event so do give us a yell xx

Hello Again ...

2011-09-12T18:57:00.003+08:00

Please forgive my significant absence dear friends... we've been rather busy!
While I have had a fabulous happy month, I wouldn't recommend styling 2 weddings within 2 weeks... its a bit much.

Professional photos to come but here is a sneak peak of my beautiful sister Georgie on her wedding day above. She looked so amazing ... as did the flowers, if I do say so myself!

And here is a shot of the menus that I wrote for the tables... I never knew that printers didn't use white ink when I decided on the design! Each one was slightly different and I was very pleased with the way they turned out.
My other sister Lucy wrote the place names because I couldn't keep my eyes open any longer after writing 110 menus! She is now back in Europe and I miss her dreadfully xx

Photos of the wedding of my dear friends the fortnight before to come - I forgot my camera that day! How silly of me!

And I promise I'm returning to normal blogging from now on... x

Camellia

2011-08-27T07:58:00.003+08:00

Action stations in the hills this weekend... gearing up for the second wedding in 2 weeks!
Apologies for the lack of posting but I've decided to post both sets of wedding photos together when it's all done ... the wait will be worth it!

So, instead I leave you with a photo of the first perfect white Camellia of the season from my parents garden ... a huge tree came down last year and wiped out most of the Camellia trees but fortuitously left the white one.

Chanel definitely had the right idea when they picked it as their flower, didn't they?

Happy weekend, dear friends xx

Wedding ...

2011-08-17T21:34:00.002+08:00

I'll be super busy tomorrow gathering flowers, transporting props and having fun styling the wedding of two of my great friends, so I'm finishing the week here! I'll be back on Monday with lots of yummy photos ...

xx

Photo source here

Print ...

2011-08-16T22:11:00.002+08:00

This vintage Danish stamp and ink set is just one of the new treasures we've popped in the shop... head over for a look!
Midnight shopping is my favourite thing ever... x

Puppy Love ...

2011-08-12T14:33:00.003+08:00

I'm a massive dog lover - no secret there!

Today I discovered a type of dog that I've never seen before - a Leonberger called Bruce.

I was walking back from my car when I spotted him so I chased after the owner so I could pat him (the dog, not the owner...). He was very cute and dopey, super gentle and shy, and absolutely humungous! Made Mr H look like a girl dog even though he is quite big for a Golden Retriever... and Bruce was only 6 months old!

One more puppy to add to the list for when I have a house with a backyard!

Happy weekend dear friends xx

Yes, please ...

2011-08-10T08:31:00.000+08:00

Clearly I need this cushion - it has my name on it!
And while I'm there I'll take those shoes...
And that other cushion...

Pretty pretty

Pony ...

2011-08-09T20:16:00.003+08:00

My Canberra photos were a little bit fuzzy as it was raining but we had one clear day and this little pony was so cute I just had to post him! He was in a paddock all of his own so we felt sorry for him and went to the supermarket to get him some carrots... we loved him to bits.

Pretty ...

2011-08-08T09:13:00.000+08:00

Back from Canberra... had a lovely lovely trip. We actually ended up relaxing more than being tourists which was just what the doctor ordered! Subsequently, I simply have silly photos instead of anything educational... I'll pop them up tomorrow.

But I wanted to post these amazing shots before I forgot - they are by French artist Jean Sonnet and I spotted them over at the lovely Designers Block.
They serve to remind me to see happiness in the small details, as not everything has to be executed on a grand scale to be beautiful.

Happy week dear friends xx

Canberra ...

2011-08-04T16:04:00.004+08:00

Busy busy in the land of W&W... off to Canberra on the red-eye in the morning to hang with my sister and put the finishing touches on her wedding preparations while Mum mans the shop ... I love flying 2 weekends in a row, how spoiled am I?

While I'm there we will also be restyling her house - yay! Love being put to work on fun things like a bit of furniture pushing... no really, I do!

And we are finally going to see the latest Harry Potter movie - I'm very excited. It has been weeks of chaos with the shop opening and lots of wedding planning so it will be great to sit still for 2 hours... bliss!

I'll take lots of photos so we can have a little set of posts on Canberra when I return.

(I had to put in this picture because it reminds me so much of GG - no one has a neater linen cupboard than she does!)

Cobalt Blue ...

2011-08-03T19:40:00.005+08:00

For the final installation in the Brissy series I wanted to show you the amazing ceiling at the Paddington Antiques Centre.
Anna had already prepped Kate and I to look up when we went in ... boy, she wasn't kidding that we'd be amazed!

I almost couldn't concentrate on the stock!
These photos really do it no justice, it is so much more vivid in real life. But the best thing is that it appears to be completely untouched so it has the perfect amount of wear ... just stunning!

It would never be allowed, but how amazing would it be as an empty space for a party??
One can dream...

Make sure you head over to Kate's place for more loveliness from Brisbane ...

Crosstown ...

2011-08-02T09:10:00.000+08:00

Just one of the stops on our custom Brissy tour with Anna was to the Crosstown Eatery - what a find! Housed in a gorgeous historical building in the Gabba, the interior was sort of a cross between a Port Adelaide pub and a 70's bungalow - I'm sure that is hard to imagine but you'll just have to pop past and see for yourselves ...

Details I loved included the wonky industrial light shades and obligatory fish on the wall above...

And a heavenly wall of nautical art ... reminded me a teensy bit of my bedroom wall below (proper photos to come when I really finish the house... soon I hope!)

Then came the food! Yum yum is all I can say but you'll have to pop past Kate's place for her rundown - she is the food expert after all!

Shopping photos tomorrow!

Brisbane Visit

2011-08-01T20:35:00.006+08:00

Hello friends!

I've just returned from a much needed and lovely long weekend away with my gorgeous friend Kate in Brisbane. It wasn't the same without you Kim (but you have a good excuse being overseas and all!).

Kate and I were lucky enough to have an amazing tour guide in Anna from Absolutely Beautiful Things. She did an absolutely smashing job taking us around all of the coolest joints in Brissy right on the back of launching her scrumptious new online shop - I don't know how she does it all!

First stop was Black & Spiro - and yes kids, it is even more beautiful in the flesh than you could imagine. While I decorate with a more muted palate, Anna shows how bravery certainly pays off with her use of colour. - it inspires me to lash out a bit in the colour stakes. These photos just don't do it any justice!

Yep, that's in the vignette! How exciting...

Here we are after a slice of cake ... and a good dose of talking shop! It is so lovely to be able to bounce ideas off each other, respecting all of our different styles and points of view, and finding shared passions.

More Brissy photos (courtesy of Kate) to come during the week - so much to see and do in our new favourite city!

Squirrel Hunt ...

2011-07-23T22:12:00.003+08:00

Isn't blogging a funny thing?

You see, I've been searching for decent squirrel pictures for months and by way of a lovely comment on the opening of our little shop I am led to a gorgeous new blog and one of the prettiest squirrel shots I could have imagined.

What a happy day.

Many thanks to all of you who have waited patiently and are now supporting our little venture - it means the world to us and we are very excited and flattered to have you on board.

Stay tuned for more stock popping up every week xx

2011-07-22T08:51:00.002+08:00

Thanks to the gorgeous Kate for her graphic design expertise xx

2011-07-13T21:30:00.003+08:00

Lots of lovely antlers will be ready and waiting for new homes in just a few short days ...
Oh, how time flies by when you're having fun setting up shop!

2011-07-08T15:39:00.003+08:00

Dear friends,

To those of you fluent in Latin, I hope you've enjoyed your unexpected sneak peek at the shop this morning.
And to the rest of us who aren't, please be assured we certainly do intend to publish in English!

We are working feverishly behind the scenes to iron out these glitches so that in just a few days we can go live.

We greatly appreciate your patience (while ours is wearing a bit thin) ...

Emma and Lisa

(Funniest Keep Calm posters I could find on Pinterest ... nothing to do but laugh right now!)

2011-07-04T21:29:00.002+08:00

Hello dear friends ...

You may notice a different look here at our place! These final changes to the site design are now being implemented and while there may be a few glitches, they'll be ironed out in no time.

Now, I know I've been saying it since January, but after numerous unforeseen hiccups, our shop/prop and styling site is nearly here.

Your patience is much appreciated... stay tuned!

Photo by WhiteWall Photography

2011-06-19T18:35:00.003+08:00

Busy day in the land of W&W today - we've been guillotining my sisters wedding invitations and addressing all the envelopes in wonky calligraphy so they are all ready for the post tomorrow...

Don't you love the 'barn' themed invitations?

They were designed by Laura from TwoCardinalDay on Etsy ... she was a darling throughout the design process and effortlessly whipped up this gorgeous map of the Adelaide Hills (below) - no easy feat for those who know the Hills ... it's a complicated layout!

And here's Mr H site managing the cut-offs... clearly it's an exhausting task!

Happy week, dear friends xx

(All photos by Mum)

2011-06-16T21:15:00.003+08:00

The lovely new Winter edition of Wedding Style Guide is in shops now and W&W were super excited to have our rustic props receive a few little mentions.
This beautiful shoot was photographed and styled by the very talented team at White Wall Photography.

Check out the gorgeous latest edition of WSG for plenty more wedding and events inspiration xx

2011-06-14T09:16:00.000+08:00

I can't get enough of Pinterest at the moment - It is a lifesaver for keeping everything together with credits intact!

Do you Pinterest?

2011-06-13T11:38:00.003+08:00

I'm having a happy weekend busy with lots of W&W stuff ... just spending some time with Mr H before I have to go back to work tomorrow ...

I hope you have had a lovely weekend!
Get up to anything fun?

2011-06-06T06:42:00.001+08:00

Absolutely loving this Dolce and Gabbana star print gown on Britney - what a transformation!

While I decorate my own house with a pretty masculine feel, I love to dress up like a glitter ball for a night out - I've been known to don a sequin jacket on occasion and believe this dress would be the perfect wardrobe addition for such occasions!

Shot by Alexi Lubomirski for Harpers Bazaar June 2011

2011-05-31T07:36:00.000+08:00

Fabulous giant antler found via the lovely Scandinavian Retreat ...
This would be priceless ... oh, how I love it so xx

2011-05-30T01:33:00.000+08:00

I'm reading Dr Zhivago at the moment - it's lovely to have something juicy to sink my teeth into after a while away from any 'proper' literature.

While I love the wordy emotive language, I don't know about this decorating scheme... hehe

'"The ground floor was used for receptions. Its pistachio-coloured curtains, gleaming piano top, aquarium, olive-green upholstery and potted plants like seaweed made it look like a green, sleepily swaying sea-bed"

What are you reading right now?

Image courtesy of the lovely Steward

2011-05-25T05:12:00.001+08:00

I've just seen this fabric in the latest South African House and Leisure (one of my faves) and I immediately fell in love...
It's called Timbuktu by Andrew Martin - desperate to use it...

(Also loving that beaten up chair!)

2011-05-24T06:16:00.000+08:00

Ryan Korban's NYC apartment (photos courtesy of The Coveteur) is completely divinely massively swoon-worthy ... I hope you don't find it yukky for me to reiterate but he actually waited for this zebra to die in a zoo and then had it posed and preserved by taxidermy so he would be the perfect prop... how amazing?
Slightly strange? Perhaps, but I think this sense of curating his own little natural history museum is quite a noble gesture.

My darling little brother is pretty upset by my love of stuffed animals, but while I am vehemently against the act of killing animals for sport or cull, I still think there is something lovely about them 'living on' in a beautiful interior ...

Anyway, my disclaimer is that I'm only interested in very old crumbly taxidermy as anything that looks too new just gives me the heeby jeebies - perhaps people didn't know better 100 years ago...?

Controversial? Perhaps... I try not to think about the ethics too much and focus on 'recycling' as opposed to perpetuating a greater evil.
What are your thoughts?

2011-05-23T09:32:00.000+08:00

Mother nature was blowing such a gale against my little loft last night thought I might wake up in Kansas!
I love wearing coats again xx

2011-05-22T17:06:00.003+08:00

Hello again!
One way to explain my absence of posts is the abundance of weddings we are planning here at W&W... don't get too excited, not mine, rather plenty of friends and family! It's going to be a very busy but rewarding couple of months ... happy days ahead.

Don't you just adore this wedding I just stumbled upon over at Green Wedding Shoes? Come on, who doesn't want to get married in a museum? Love it x infinity squared ...

While on the topic of weddings, W&W have space for one more wedding or special event in the calendar for this year ... please contact me if you would like our super assistance or to talk about our wide array of crazy props xx

2011-05-17T20:48:00.002+08:00

This picture says it all!
Be back as soon as I can, dear friends xx

Photo found on Design Love Fest via my new super dooper favourite new toy, Pinterest
Feel free to look us up xx

2011-05-12T21:57:00.000+08:00

I love love love this image... wishing I had styled it myself in fact!

Here

2011-05-08T19:53:00.002+08:00

Hello friends!
Scarce posting wasn't a bluff, was it?

Much was achieved last week - I started my new job and it all went quite well- it is fun to be back in the thick of a busy hospital after quite a few years away.

And then on Friday Mum and I had our very first photo shoot! The gorgeous Alia and Scott from White Wall Photography kindly agreed to help us out so we spent the afternoon stumbling about in a pear orchard setting up shots of our stock and props.
Mr H wasn't on his best puppy behaviour despite having hundreds of squished pears to snack on, so Mum took him on a walk to calm him down. I think he was overcome by having to pose so beautifully!

Then, I was delighted to find my McQueen Kingdom perfume had arrived from the US after 16 weeks in transit - correct, 16 weeks. Despite this wait I'm sure you'll agree that there is nothing like cracking a fresh bottle of your favourite scent...

And lastly, I hosted family lunch for Mother's Day in my little loft. Can you believe I am 30 and have only just learned how to roast a chicken?
A lovely end to a busy week ...

So, let the new week begin.
Happy days, dear friends.

2011-05-01T20:11:00.003+08:00

Oh, how I wish I could stay in bed tomorrow but I'm starting a new job so that probably wouldn't be a great idea...

Posting will be a teensy bit staggered while I get sorted, sorry, dear friends xx

Photo from here, via Pinterest (my new love)

2011-04-30T21:48:00.002+08:00

Fireworks ... I've never thought of them as static images but they are almost more beautiful this way ...

Here

2011-04-29T11:11:00.004+08:00

Tragic monarchist here... so, I'm clearly super excited about getting home from my last day at work today (yes, another job starts on Monday), and tuning in to the wedding of the century.

Can't wait.
Friends ...

Scones ...

Passion Pop ...

Happy weekend, dear friends xx

2011-04-26T11:18:00.001+08:00

So lovely - this image of Stephen Shubel's fishermans cottage is one I'll never tire of ...

2011-04-23T10:32:00.002+08:00

Loving this extra long weekend. I hope you're having a relaxing time, dear friends xx

2011-04-15T09:42:00.001+08:00

What a little sweety ... happy weekend, dear friends xx

2011-04-14T09:53:00.000+08:00

While my art wall is going to be a little more nautical, this is perfect inspiration ...

How lovely.

2011-04-13T08:42:00.000+08:00

Rustic, simple and seriously beautiful ...

Dreaming of our real life shop... but until then we will be squealing with delight when the online one comes... it's getting very close now...

2011-04-12T08:51:00.000+08:00

I've been happily trawling through by design books (which have been in storage for over a year now) for new house decorating inspiration, and I keep coming back to my favourite Thomas O'Brien book, in particular to the shots of his apartment in NYC ...

I simply adore the masculine vibe and his art wall ... v hard to replicate since my ceiling starts to pitch at nose height but I aim to emulate this look on my one flat wall!

Stay tuned...!

Here

2011-04-11T14:38:00.002+08:00

I love how this space is calming despite the numerous details and contrasts... never would I have thought the 'back' of a horse could be as lovely as this gorgeous piece of art depicts!

(Lamp heaven... anybody know where one might procure a darling like this?? xx)

Skona Hem (where all the best house tours are), photographed by Madeline Soder

2011-04-11T08:45:00.001+08:00

Outfit brilliance... all the better for that monster bow, of course....
But I'm rightly annoyed that I had a skirt just like that until yesterday when I had a massive wardrobe cull and it made the 'donate' list...

Le sigh... must go buy it back!

2011-04-08T10:16:00.001+08:00

Still unpacking, dear friends ... but I'll be back to proper posting on Monday.

Happy weekend xx

Here

2011-03-30T18:57:00.001+08:00

Ticking lots of boxes here...

gold legs ...
zebra skin...
vintage map ...
glossy cobalt ...
pretty blooms...

Gorgeous!

Here

Loft ...

2011-03-30T05:09:00.002+08:00

Busy, busy, busy week, friends!

We are pleased to say that the shop is nearly up ... And just because I'm not busy enough, I'm moving on Friday into a lovely and crazy loft - I lived there years ago and saved the contact details should I ever find myself back in Adelaide. Fortuitously it is vacant so I am flying the parental nest despite a very happy year at home with my darling parents.
So, exciting times ahead with all manner of big changes ... and I must say, this place is an absolute dream to decorate so be prepared to be bombarded with photos...

This photo is a teensy bit similar... gorgeous!

Pug in Slippers ...

2011-03-25T07:52:00.001+08:00

Super cute little dude here! Pip sent this over and I couldn't wait to post it!

Awwww....

Happy Friday, dear friends x

Here

Italy ...

2011-03-23T17:31:00.002+08:00

Dreaming of waking up to a view like this tomorrow ... how divine?

Lake Garda via Decorazione

Art Wall ...

2011-03-20T18:21:00.006+08:00

I had a lovely afternoon on Saturday creating a picture wall for a dear friend to cheer up her rather monastic office ...
She had gathered lots of gorgeous prints from various places so first stop was Ikea for frames, then off to work I went ...

Here I am hanging the last one...
Looks pretty great, if I do say so myself... happy office, dear friend xx

PS - Art consulting, production and hanging will all be part of the W&W range of services. Please email me if you'd like more information or stay tuned for more details on our website (any day now!)

Photos by me xx

Sleepy ...

2011-03-16T18:14:00.003+08:00

Mr H isn't very well... poor darling. So, while he slept ...

... I attempted to style some of our 'finds'. I really must learn how to take proper photos because these really aren't done any justice on my mini camera!

Great vintage globes are becoming harder and harder to find, but we have already done the hard work and one of these little treasures could be coming home with you very soon...
Aren't they lovely?

Photos by me...

New Friends ...

2011-03-14T16:08:00.002+08:00

I had the most fabulous dinner on Friday night with my girls and our new dear friends, Anna from Absolutely Beautiful Things and the lovely Miss French Navy.

It was just the most beautiful night full of riotous laughter, stories shared and like minds clicking. I left feeling uplifted and with new found energy and enthusiasm for our little White & Wander venture.

Anna, you are a super star and your support and encouragement means the world! And Miss FN, I can't wait for our next catch up as I always leave our meetings feeling like I can conquer the world - your support is invaluable!

Here's to making new friends and looking out for each other - we business girls need to stick together!

Sparrow Kitchen and Bar

Brambles ...

2011-03-13T04:56:00.002+08:00

Here are some photos I took of Dad and his trusty side-kick Henry out searching for blackberries in the brambles at the edge of our property yesterday... I was meant to be painting but couldn't resist the photo-op!

Henry is great at sneaking into the undergrowth to find them but, of course, instead of simply pointing them out (like any good truffle pig would) he just gobbles them up! And amazingly, he knows to leave the red ones alone to mature... clever puppy.

The result? A teensy but delicious little crop...

Yum!