Gracious Inspiration

Way Cute Ice Cream Cake Truffles

2011-09-09T08:00:00.017-05:00

Say ice cream's a little messy for you? A little melty?
Try these darling i ce cream cone cake truffles. If you haven't made cake truffles before, they're super easy!
And Miss Candiquick has puh-lenty of other recipes sure to entice you - s'more bars, fresh peach torte, whoopie pies.....

Relationship Hierarchy - Stationery is Top Tier

2011-09-08T08:00:00.013-05:00

More on the post we had last week about putting relationships on paper! Watch the video + let us know what you think - are your top tier friends getting handwritten notes from you? Does a paper greeting mean more than a digital one? {That used to be a no-brainer, but with sites like Paperless Post and the Cartolina iPhone app, not anymore.}

Are You Ready for a New Paperclip?

2011-09-06T08:00:00.012-05:00

Don't act like you've never seen pretty paperclips and thought "Nah, that's silly."
If you love stationery, chances are, you love all the accessories, too. Pens, pencils, colored inks, lined envelopes, and yes, paperclips.
So the brand ACCO has come up with a new style of paperclips - what's your take?

Stationery's Getting a Boost!

2011-09-02T08:00:00.008-05:00

Stationery is getting a boost from an unexpected source - bloggers + tweeters. As digital relationships form, people are using traditional stationery + mail to solidify those relationships. Check out the full article in the Wall Street Journal.

Another Recipe from the Ice Cream Contest

2011-09-01T08:00:00.013-05:00

Another fave from our Ice Cream Contest was the Chunky Monkey flavor. Num num num - peanut butter, banana {but not too much}, and chocolate, topped with raisinets or brownie crumbles.
Not quite the same as this, but I'd say just as good.

Find the recipe here.

Winning Ice Cream Recipe!

2011-08-30T13:08:00.000-05:00

We had an Ice Cream Contest in our sweet little town this weekend. Haile did make the Goat Cheese ice cream, but her official entry was Peanut Butter with Chocolate Chips + boy was it good! The Goat Cheese was great {if you like goat cheese}, and we decided it should be paired with something sweet like a strawberry jam or blood orange syrup. But the PB.... oh my. Plus it was super easy! I'll have to get the official recipe from Haile, but she said it was just pb, sugar, and a little cream, then pop it in the ice cream maker.

One of the official winners this weekend was a Strawberry Basil ice cream - I personally voted for it. It's waaaay yum. Here's a link to the recipe, and a few pics from the contest.

Make Your Weekend with PB Ice Cream Sammies!

2011-08-26T15:09:00.000-05:00

Wouldn't this just make your weekend? I know it would make mine. A peanut putter ice cream sandwich with strawberry ice cream.... nummy! Go here for the full-on recipe {from Paula Deen} with everything made from scratch. Or just buy some PB cookies + strawberry ice cream and go crazy.

Oh yes - Bonbons!

2011-08-23T09:58:00.000-05:00

Homemade bonbons - who knew they were so easy?! I'm hoping Haile will make a goat cheese version of these for her entry in an upcoming ice cream contest. Jaclyn from Food + Words has made a dandy little tutorial and she promises we can all make these.

Ice Cream Party!

2011-08-19T08:19:00.000-05:00

Ok, how cute is this?

And exactly how cute is this??

Who wouldn't want an ice cream party? This one's a baby shower, but would be perfect for a kids party or even a silly bachelorette party. Or an end-of-the-summer party, or end-of-the-school-year party, or I'm-bored-let's-have-a-party....

Happy Friday!

Ice Cream: Did You Know?

2011-08-16T09:20:00.000-05:00

Am I the only one who thought Europeans came up with ice cream? Apparently the Arabs and the Chinese had a jump on them. (Snow! In caves!) But leave it to the Italians to make gelato.... my personal fave.

More interesting history here, including an old English recipe from 1718!

Very Vanilla Ice Cream

2011-08-12T09:28:00.000-05:00

I tend to think of vanilla as boring, but if you have a really good vanilla, it's out-of-this-world good! This recipe is for said good vanilla - from the man himself, Alton Brown. It's a no-egg recipe, if you prefer that sort of thing. And it uses a real vanilla bean, so like I said, out-of-this-world good!

Get the recipe at Food Network here.

Margarita Ice Cream

2011-08-11T11:23:00.000-05:00

Num num! Perfect for the last few weeks of summer - it's time to have a pool party. All you need is fresh salsa (a cinch to make!), a 7-layer dip, and Nigella Lawson's Margarita Ice Cream. This is a no-machine recipe, so whip it up!

Just a few ingredients:

1/2 cup lime juice
2 tablespoons tequila
3 tablespoons orange liqueur
1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
2 cups heavy cream

And then you get this:

Fro-Yo Without A Machine!

2011-08-09T10:14:00.000-05:00

One of my fave food blogs, Poor Girl Eats Well, just posted a recipe for homemade blueberry fro-yo. It's the season for blueberries, and I've been out picking a few times, so I have puh-lenty of berries for this recipe. And blueberries are the hubbs' fave, so that makes this doubly good.

Did you know you could make homemade ice cream without a machine? It's a little more leg-work (arm-work), but totally doable. You just freeze-check-stir, freeze-check-stir. Then there's ice cream! Or frozen yogurt, in this case. And this recipe has the real yogurt tang. So looking forward to it! Get the recipe here.

Lovely Lavender Ice Cream

2011-08-05T06:20:00.000-05:00

Have you eaten lavender? It's one of those love or hate things, like cilantro. {I'm a cilantro hater, lavender lover} It's a bit like eating a subtle herby perfume and if you like Japanese sake it might be right up your alley.

Check out this recipe from Eat Drink Better for Lavender Ice Cream.

I'm Screaming - Are You?

2011-08-04T07:08:00.000-05:00

We all scream for..... ice cream!! This month, the hottest month, it's all about ice cream. Yum yum yum!

Via

Haile Just Scored Some Indie Goods!

2011-07-29T12:53:00.002-05:00

Haile's out West with the fam + she just scored a handbag made by indie leather artists Black Sheep Custom Leather. Her purse is based on a saddle from the 1920's that Brian was repairing - she met the artist in Bozeman.

Happy trails to all of you this weekend!

Indie Absolute Goodness

2011-07-28T11:24:00.000-05:00

There's nothing better than surrounding yourself with handmade, freshly created, special, one-of-a-kind items that are just plain loved into being. Meet R. Wood Pottery. There's a real R. Wood - Rebecca - and she and her peeps really do make each and every piece of this fabulous stuff. Plates, cups, bowls, serving pieces, vases, you name it. It's all gorgeous, but not too stuffy. Fall in love here and be inspired here.

Sweet Little Indie Label

2011-07-26T11:31:00.000-05:00

I am in total L.O.V.E. with Pip-Squeak Chapeau! Linen and silk, lots of it, cut to flatter. No trendy style here - just timeless classic pieces. Check them out:

Indie... Jewelry? Candy? Candy Jewelry?

2011-07-22T10:43:00.000-05:00

Do you remember all the CANDY you used to eat during summer vacay? I do! All my teeth are sweet + I used to enjoy Nerds, Dweebs, Lemonheads, Boston Baked Beans, Gobstoppers, you name it! {Nerds are still a secret fave}

In honor of the magical time of summer vacation + the sweet memories it holds... meet With Sugar on Top. Faux, sometimes wearable concoctions for my sweet toothed friends.

{Those are all faux!}

More Indie Jewelry

2011-07-21T07:28:00.001-05:00

Perfect for Fall... wooden jewelry by Loewestamm... earthy, warm, true.

Indie Clothing

2011-07-19T07:29:00.000-05:00

Circa 24 is an indie clothing label led by this gorgeous native of Jamaica {Asanyah Davidson} who now resides in NYC.

I love the bags especially:

And how fun is this?

Indie Toys

2011-07-15T09:08:00.002-05:00

I love this sweet indie line of toys - Gifts Define! I like to make little stuffed toys as gifts, and this gal took that fun project to the next level. She started making them as a way to ward off homesickness when she moved to the U.S., but it grew into a business. You can read on the website about her philosophy and the great charities she supports - and you can pick up some handmade goodness for yourself!
{Plus they have a cute blog here.}

Indie Beauty

2011-07-14T14:20:00.000-05:00

The name of this indie beauty brand is just too funny - Bunny Butt. Uh-huh. They {apparently} smell like a spring meadow! Check out their whipped cream, mineral lip tints, and body polish.

Indie Info

2011-07-12T08:13:00.000-05:00

We love a good independent magazine, don't we?

Meet Neet. Filled to the brim with indie designers, dressmakers, jewelry, writers, artists, tutorials, travel tips, and so very much more.

You Can Walk All Over These Indies

2011-07-08T09:24:00.000-05:00

Super cool shoes from indie designer Mohop. Pick a style of sole, then customize with ribbons - a set for every outfit! And the company supports fair trade. Love!

Indie Jewelry

2011-07-07T08:06:00.001-05:00

I'm loving the Sea of Bees line of jewelry.....Find them on etsy here.

Give Your Laundry the Indie Treatment

2011-07-05T11:06:00.000-05:00

Even laundry needs to get a little independent now + again. Check out Lindy Sue's Laundry Chic.

And pick up an extra flash drive while you're there.

New Theme!

2011-07-01T07:35:00.000-05:00

I'm sure you can guess it..... but where will we take it?

The Last Days of Monogram Madness

2011-06-29T06:53:00.000-05:00

It's almost July - can you believe it? The 4th will be here in a flash - and with it, a new blog theme... can you guess it?

Monogram Madness ends with this:
Some free clip art for 3-initial monograms, from Just Something I Made. A little tip for your family monogram - it goes Your First Initial, Last Initial, Hubbs's First Initial. So Elizabeth + James Roberts would have the monogram ERJ. (R would be big)

And in honor of summer, the 4th, and a nice long weekend - these are too cute not to share (From Alphamom):

Monogrammed Costmetic Cases

2011-06-24T08:44:00.000-05:00

The ultimate travel accessory is a monogrammed cosmetics case. You'll use it each time you travel, and it's handy to have it monogrammed in case you're staying in a French country hotel and you have to share a bath.

This one from Pottery Barn is very classy:

This one from Whitney Caroline Designs is fun + perky:

For the ultimate monogram - appliquéd - from Leontine:

For a simple, classic look, try Carolina Clover:

And for the gentlemen, Orvis has got you covered:

The Monogrammed Table

2011-06-23T11:24:00.000-05:00

You know, there's more to a monogrammed table than just the hemstitched linen napkins...

There's the runner - found this cute one at Emersonmade, via Tobi Fairley's blog. Have you heard of Emersonmade? I hope so. They started out making the cutest linen flowers ever seen, hand-cut, hand-stitched, and purely loved. Then they ventured into a few clothing items, and now they're a full blown company. The pictures alone are worth checking out.

Then there's the table cloth. This one is by Fullerworks on Etsy.

And the napkins are essential, here are 2 faves - Bella Lino (for those who love Leontine Linens), and A Touch of Lace.

Monogrammed Rings

2011-06-21T10:13:00.000-05:00

I have a friend with a monogrammed ring - and let me tell you: I covet it. But I suppose I could get my own...

From Max + Chloe, who have loads of nicely monogrammed jewelry

And Kim from My Life in Pink + Green has a great post about monograms in general. L.O.V.E. the monogrammed weekender she has listed, from Periwinkle.

{P.S. Haile - she had her swimsuit monogrammed!}

Monogrammed Stamps

2011-06-17T07:26:00.000-05:00

A must-have for graduates + newlyweds alike! Or just because. It makes your mail look cute - and have you seen the state of mail lately?

This little shoppe - Sweet Papery - has a monogrammed stamp or address stamp for everyone. Check out their Etsy shoppe here.

Monogrammed Passport Covers

2011-06-16T07:51:00.000-05:00

For your oh-so-stylish international travel! I should get a matching set for me + the hubbs for our France trip in the fall....

A nice leather one from The Monogram Merchant

From WrapCycle {Etsy} - some fellow Georgia peeps!

From Jenni20 {Etsy}

Monogrammed Scarves

2011-06-14T07:00:00.000-05:00

I know, I know. Waaaay too hot to be thinking about scarves. But they are pretty cute! And a nice way to add a monogram. A good gift for a grad who's moving to a cold climate, or for back to school. Or for sororities.

Marley Lilly has oodles of monogrammed goodies....

Calico Daisy had some of these last fall. Check out the current stock on Etsy....

And if you need several choices of color + pattern, check out Pretty Personal Gifts....

Monograms From Head to... Toe

2011-06-10T10:20:00.000-05:00

I do think monogrammed shoes border on the tacky, but let's take a walk on the wild side. I think they can be gotten away with, with the right outfit.

Casual cuties

Formal beauties

Driving mocs

For the tots

Monogrammed Towels

2011-06-09T13:12:00.000-05:00

Look - Country Living knows it - and we know it, too. Monogrammed towels are a must-have for any home! I just got some today from our darling little Lavish... some sweet Matouk towels. Yum.

Find this one on Etsy here.

For the kiddies this summer

And if vintage linens are more your style

Monogrammed Necklaces

2011-06-07T08:05:00.000-05:00

Laverne had the right idea - sport your monogram daily! Check out these darling necklaces...

This one's a little Victorian looking to me:

How about this one for luck?

This one's vintage + modern all at the same time:

Monogrammed Cookies

2011-06-03T07:26:00.000-05:00

You know you want some of these! Doesn't matter that you're not getting married today. Doesn't matter one little bitty bit. Monogrammed cookies are just specialer than regular cookies. I would order some of these for a party, for sure, but I've also been known to order them for no reason at all. They've also got some lovely non-monogrammed designs...

Getcher Own Fancy Monogram

2011-06-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

Right here! You can order a custom designed monogram - look at these cutie-pie samples!

Monograms Galore!

2011-05-31T12:53:00.000-05:00

Looking for just the right monogram? This place has it. It has all of them. Every last one.

The Monogrammed Home

2011-05-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

Monograms everywhere would be a bit... distracting. But a well placed monogram here and there is nice. It's custom. It expresses your personal style. Are you a circle monogram or a Roman stack?

For the kitchen...

For the bath...

{paperwhite scent - you know these smell good}

For cocktails with friends...

One of Our Fave Monogram Shoppes

2011-05-26T08:00:00.011-05:00

Of course, Fontaine Maury is our very favorite. But our next favorite - and your favorite, too, if you like to shop online - is The Monogram Store.

This shower curtains makes me think of Haile. I think it's the chipper green-on-white monogram.

These are too cute for bridesmaids gifts, birthdays, etc.

How about these little darlings? All summer long, baby. And summer in the South started in March.

I'm pretty sure I need this.

Make Your Own Monogram

2011-05-24T08:43:00.000-05:00

Wanna make your own? You can use Harold's Fonts to make your own monogram {there's a section just for monograms}. Print up cards, stickers, canvases, art prints... anything!

Lots of styles available....

Lovely Linens

2011-05-20T08:54:00.000-05:00

I periodically cruise Etsy looking for vintage monogrammed items - I've gotten some darling saucers with a gold "B" and a silver nut dish. You can always find vintage linens, too. But if vintage isn't your thing, or you can't find your letters, try this shoppe. Linen Whites has the traditional hankies, but also carries runners, sachets + jewelry rolls. Of course, there may just be someone in your town who does monogramming... look them up!

A Monogram for Everyone

2011-05-19T08:29:00.000-05:00

Oh-so-pretty.... the perfect compliment to any style.... Only Leontine Linens....

Monogrammed Glassware

2011-05-17T10:52:00.000-05:00

Don't you just love the look of a monogrammed tumbler or highball? It dresses up any party, adds class, and looks a little expensive. But it doesn't have to be - Williams-Sonoma has a charming selection of monogrammed glassware, including an ice bucket. Cheers!

P.S. - I'm really digging this W-S monogrammed flatware...

Monogram Inspiration

2011-05-12T11:15:00.000-05:00

Looking for some monogram tidbits for gift tags or design projects? Dover Publishing has a wealth of resources -- books full of vintage, Art Nouveau, Victorian + needlepoint monograms.
{They've also got loads of other clip art books}

Find them here.

May is for Monograms!

2011-05-10T08:55:00.000-05:00

This month we'll talk about monogram styles, monogram etiquette, monogram everything!

We're big monogram fans around here - Haile had a monogrammed bathing suit as a child, and I hand-monogrammed all my shirts in high-school. I recently brought back my killer eyeliner style from high-school, so I'm thinking the monograms are next.... look! Marilyn sports both!

And here's a funny little post about monogrammed shirts.

*mwah!*
-FM

The Ultimate Pattern

2011-05-06T12:35:00.001-05:00

Of course this is only my opinion, but let's end our little study of Pattern with The Ultimate Pattern - cane print.

Ever classic, easily modern, preppy + boho all rolled into one. Whether it's from the East Coast or Morocco, cane print is hip. Cool. Hot. Perfect.

Pattern How-To

2011-05-05T07:39:00.000-05:00

For those who are just dying to know how designers make those fab patterns...

Patterns for Swim!

2011-05-03T08:59:00.000-05:00

As I *may* have mentioned, I'm in the Keys this week - where 'keeping it Keys-y' is an actual slogan. {Did you know??} So we'll do some swimmy-swimmy, some fishing, some beach walking, some eating, some drinking of Key Lime wine.

Here are some pattern faves for swim:
Of course, J. Crew....

And Lilly P....

Don't you just wish Jonathan Adler had a line of swimwear??

FM Featured on One Kings Lane!

2011-04-29T07:57:00.000-05:00

We lurve One Kings Lane - all the hottest designer goods, designer tag sales, etc.
Oh - you're not a member? By all means, use my personal sign up link here!

Aaaaannnddd......OKL is featuring our trays! The sale starts 8am PST and runs until Tues at 8am PST- but if you want a tray at a great price, don't wait! OKL regularly sells out.

Happy Friday + happy shopping!

XOXO

Pattern for the Beach!

2011-04-28T10:14:00.000-05:00

Who doesn't love a good beach towel? Lay on it, wrap up in it, hang it over the back of your chair to dry - it might as well show the good taste you're know for, yes?

Designer towels might be a bit much... or they might just be your thing. And if not, I'm sure you'll find a knock-off somewhere during the season.

Try Tory's terry towels....

Or this uber-preppy Lacoste towel....

Too bad these Tommy Hilfiger towels are sold out....

I'm heading to the Keys next week - I definitely need a proper towel!

XOXO Bunny

Pattern for Your Bedroom

2011-04-26T09:13:00.000-05:00

What is it about fluffy duvets and super-soft sheets that just make us feel good? Whether you're a snuggler-inner or a duvet-resting-smoothly-on-the-top kinda person, fresh sheets are like no other micro-heaven I know. Bad days go bye-bye and good days live on in our sweet dreams.

Have some sweet dreams of your own in these pretty darlings by Dwell Studio, Rikshaw Design, and John Robshaw Textiles....

Summer Prints for Your Table

2011-04-22T08:18:00.000-05:00

A Facebook friend posted that there were only 3 more Mondays until summer {she's a teacher}. Just reading it made me excited + reminded me of the anticipation of summer break. Summer was when you could do absolutely nothing, absolutely everything, sleep late, run wild, go on trips, go to camp, hang out with your friends all day and all night - there's nothing like it!

I started thinking about sum-sum-summertime + all the fun I like to have as an adult. Outdoor parties are pretty up there on the list. Check out these hot summer prints from Anthro + World Market...

Here's to Summertime!

XOXO - FM

Pattern for Your iPhone

2011-04-21T09:39:00.000-05:00

Sadly, most companies haven't started making preppy covers for the Droid, which I use. Haile's already switched from Droid to iPhone, so she's got a cute cover. Here are some patterned covers we love, and I'm hoping they'll become available for my Droid!

Here's a sweet preppy print from A Fresh Bunch:

And some from the ever-patterned Lilly:

And I really like this one, a little more masculine, from The Pink Monogram:

Have you found a cute cover for the Motorola Droid? Let me know!

Pattern for Pups!

2011-04-19T07:44:00.000-05:00

You don't have to dress your pups in full formal regalia to get a little bit of style in there! Make 'em look sharp without looking silly - try some patterned leashes, beds, even bowls!

Find this collar + many more here.

From Harry Barker.

I know this is a little country, but I liked the pup.... and here's the free sewing pattern. Make any bed you like!

Pattern for Kids!

2011-04-15T07:41:00.000-05:00

When shopping for friends kids, I feel like it's hard to find cute stuff with cute patterns.
I like here and here, and I'm sure there are lots more. Really, they can start wearing some bold, graphic 'grown up' prints pretty early, if paired with some simple white accents.

What's your fave kiddie line?

Here are a few cutie-cute patterns for kiddies....

Patterns for Floors

2011-04-14T08:24:00.000-05:00

I've been thinking about hardwood floors lately {don't ask}, and I'm really liking the painted ones. Not sure I'll take the time to replicate one of these, but they look great.

But this one is just skeery.

Pattern for the Men

2011-04-12T08:41:00.000-05:00

Yes, men can do pattern, too! Critter shorts, printed bows, and the like. A man wearing a preppy pattern just exudes confidence.

find this bow here.

Who knew there were this many shades of seersucker!

How To + How Not To

2011-04-08T09:29:00.000-05:00

How To:
Fab up your bedding:

Fab up your bath:

How NOT to:
Fab up your kitchen.....yes... that's a wallpaper covered fridge.....more than one person tried this??

Pattern: Jonathan Adler Pillows

2011-04-07T09:40:00.000-05:00

You know how much we love Jonathan Adler.
So clean, so chic, so mod + hip.
So perfectly patterned.

April is for Patterns!

2011-04-05T10:40:00.001-05:00

April is an inspiring month, don't you think? Full of hope and promise of Spring. Full of bunnies and bumblebees and dogwood trees in bloom. One of the most inspiring things about Fontaine Maury {to me} is the patterns. Haile's color pallet is so complementary that you can mix and match within a set and still look utterly fab. Like you have good taste. Like your taste is so good and so sharp, that you can mix patterns and it works.

Our friend, Nancy, over at Lavish blogged this perfectly patterned entry by David Cafiero - I'm loving the preppy green.

Here are some of my fave FM patterns:

Travel Basics: Accommodations

2011-03-30T07:44:00.003-05:00

The options are almost limitless for accommodations: hotel, hostel, B+B, condo, rental house, campground.

I think where you like to stay says a lot about you....

Hotel: "I want to travel, but I want my luxury, too." Nothing wrong with that!
Hostel: "I want to travel so bad that I'll go back to dorm living!" Or maybe you're not out of the dorm yet....
B+B: "I want to travel but I want to stay home, too." And pretend like you have a maid and a cook.
Condo: "Hotels are for common people."
Rental House: "Condos are for common people."
Campground: "Who needs their own shower?? I'm here to see stuff!"

I personally like hostels, hotels, and campgrounds for short trips and rental houses for longer ones. I just need a place to crash, because I'm out seeing sites and soaking up the local culture, but I also love to cook. I normally cook on almost all of our trips, using local ingredients and recipes. It's part of the fun for me!

A great resource for accommodations is the site Vacation Rental By Owner - you've probably heard of it. But if not, here you go! http://www.vrbo.com/

Where do you like to stay?

Would Love to go to.....Egypt

2011-03-25T09:29:00.000-05:00

I've always wanted to go to Egypt. Like, for-evah. I hope, someday, I make it there.
Such a mysterious place, so intriguing, so MUCH history. There is this feeling that you may not come back alive - or you may discover the greatest artifact the world has ever seen.
Or I may just enjoy a boat ride down the Nile, a glimpse of the pyramids, and some crazy-good {+ authentic} food.

Luxe Luggage

2011-03-24T09:07:00.000-05:00

There's a luggage style for every traveler.....

Classic - You're traditional and set in your ways, and you only want the best. Leather's the best there is, and this has got great lines to boot.

Rugged - For those adventurers headed away on safari trips, pheasant hunting, or trout fishing. Or maybe it's just your look.

Mod - Ultra-stylish and sure to stand out - you'll never wonder which bag is yours. And you like it that way.

Travel Basics: Language Prep

2011-03-22T09:40:00.000-05:00

It's always a good idea to learn a bit of local language before you travel. I remember going to China and drilling myself on the symbols for 'emergency exit' and 'bathroom.' It's all you need! The Chinese are so helpful and nice, my friend and I had no trouble getting around, riding the subway, etc. We almost missed our train to the Great Wall, but an off duty police officer ran to the train before it sped away and made sure we got on. And at the Great Wall the restroom attendant unlocked the special Western bathroom just for us!

White people certainly stand out, and we had some requests from people to take their picture with us. To prove to their friends they had seen a white person. And I have green eyes .... apparently very interesting! One boy riding his bike down the street told me I looked like Julia Roberts. Nothing - I mean NOTHING - could be further from the truth, and I was highly amused.

If you need to learn a little language to say 'bathroom' or 'I am not Julia Roberts' - the BBC has you covered. Free, convenient + fun.... BBC Language Courses.

Have you been mistaken for a celebrity in another country?

For Japan With Love!

2011-03-18T08:13:00.000-05:00

For Japan.... with love.

Irish for a Day

2011-03-17T08:23:00.000-05:00

Let's hop over to the Emerald Isle....

How to Find a Good Restaurant While Travelling

2011-03-15T10:22:00.001-05:00

While brunching with friends on Sunday, we started talking about how to find good restaurants while travelling. I mean, you don't want to go where the tourists go, right? Right.

One friend said he always uses his nose. He sniffs out a good place to eat! He says this method rarely fails him. But for those of us with less confidence in our olfactory senses, what to do?

Haile uses the Urbanspoon app for her Droid {iPhones didn't work down here until recently!}. It's pretty handy and we've used it in NYC, Atlanta, etc. You can specify where, how much - and you can also use it like a slot machine for a surprise suggestion.

Another friend likes the Zagat ratings, and there's an app for that, too.

Of course, if you can find a local food magazine, that's a great start. And you can always ask the fellow selling you a baguette or egg roll where he likes to eat. It's sure to be tourist-free and authentic.

{Did I sound a little like Rick Steves there?! I think I did.}

And Then There's Palm Beach

2011-03-11T09:48:00.001-05:00

Haile zipped off to Palm Beach for a quick getaway - and I hope she remembered her big bonky sunglasses!

I also hope she gets to do a little shopping...

Van Cleef & Arpels - this reminds me of her bold graphic patterns, like the Ogee pattern.

J. McLaughlin - I know she'll go here... at least once.

Stubbs & Wootton - This isn't really her style, but this is where I'd be.

Traveling in Style: Basics

2011-03-10T10:13:00.000-05:00

There are some things you've just gotta have for travel! Big bonky sunglasses - check. Scarf - check. Cute luggage tag - check.

Big Bonky Sunglasses - all the stars wear them, and have for years, because they work. They're classic and chic, and they can hide puffy eyes or dry skin and make you look like a million bucks. Here are our picks for sunglasses!

By William Rast (BTW, that's Justin Timberlake's line), an updated version of the classic.

By Kate Spade, this version would pair perfectly with navy or cream.

By Marc Jacobs, a little funky, but not too much.

By Juicy Couture, retro styling, especially for those who don't quite love the big ones.

The perfect pair of sunglasses is a great way to start planning your trip!

Get in a Travelin' Mood

2011-03-09T11:33:00.002-05:00

A friend shared this super-dee-duper too-cute video on her blog. If you weren't planning a trip to France, this *might* - just maybe - change your mind. Well, this and the thought of a piping hot croissant every morning for breakfast.

Travel Hacking

2011-03-04T08:00:00.001-05:00

We love some Seth Godin around here, and if you follow Seth, you'll realize that there's an array of Seth groupies who are all doing their own fantastic things {us included!}. One of these peeps is Chris Guillebeau - a traveler, writer, and general life-liver.

Here's a link to his list of countries - he's aiming to visit every one of them by 2013! He travels the world on free points, and now he's started a site to help you do that, too. I haven't personally tried the new site, as I am averse to credit cards {no judgement of others!}but you can find it here.

And here are our lists:

Haile
China - someday
Scotland - soon with the kids
New Zealand for Ben's next big birthday
Paris for Nan's next big birthday
Africa - someday... we may have to go get Uncle Marty if he gets lost on Safari
Bahamas - like next week? I wish!!

Bunny
India - someday
France - this Fall!
Scotland - trout fishing with the hubbs - in the next few years
Italy - I'd love to go on an artist in residence program... and EAT my way through the country
New Zealand - the hubbs is dying to go
Egypt - this is my trip of a lifetime - I hope it happens in my lifetime!

Where do YOU want to go?

Cruisin'

2011-03-03T08:00:00.004-05:00

You know Haile + I both love toodling around town on our vintage-style cruiser bikes. We bike to work, lunch, generally anywhere downtown. And since Haile decreed March as Travel Month, let's look at bike tours!

The hubbs + I are planning to go to France in the fall, and some friends of ours highly recommended a bike tour. They toured several wineries + I can seriously see how fun it might be to bike, drink wine, bike, eat French food, bike...... and drink more wine. I'm thinking I may want a tandem in case I get tired!

This place has some great tours, and the Brittany one looks super with those killer ocean views. But I'm leaning toward touring the Champagne region... for obvious reasons.

Now, they provide you with a bike, but if I got to pick, I'd pick a cruiser. Comfy seat, easy riding tires, what's not to love! If you're in the market for a really rad bike that no one else will have - and that will cost you a fortune - a FORTUNE - take a look at the Gucci bike:

Or the Chanel bike {only $17,000} <--- yes, you read that right.

I hope we're not making our Northern friends too miserable, but it's perfect bike riding weather down here + we're just giddy with Spring Fever!

The Future is Here!

2011-03-02T09:44:00.000-05:00

Check out the latest news from Fontaine Maury - The Future is Here!

A Fresh Bunch Exclusive! Wholesale...

We Love.... Islands

2011-02-24T13:32:00.000-05:00

Island time.
Island hopping.
Island attire.

Ahhh... islands. Whether they're just off the coast or miles at sea, there's just something about being on an island. You're isolated. Away. Detached. You can relax + decompress.
Can you tell I'm looking forward to our next vacation in the Keys?

Here are a couple of our faves:

Fisher's Island + Sea Island
Both have long been places of paradise for the wealthiest families in America. They're secluded and unassuming without a lot of development or traffic. The perfect place for family vacations.

Mustique
Privately owned + destined to remain unspoiled.

Bermuda
Pink beaches, blue water, this is the place for sun!

Fiji
Some of the best diving in the world.

And if you're in the market for your OWN little island, check out this site.
What's your favorite island?

More Stuff We Love

2011-02-22T10:48:00.000-05:00

Oh-but-of-course we love the preppy life!
Here are some new preppy finds, when J. Crew + Lilly just aren't enough.....

Sara Langley - bags, aprons, stationery, wedding...

and Preppy Vines - no idea if they're any good, but golly aren't they cute!

Lovey Dovey!

2011-02-18T15:42:00.000-05:00

We lovey dovey Nan + you can see her dahhhling store here.

She had this inspirational post today about rutabagas + a fab mag.
If you're looking for a way to kill the rest of your Friday {the only thing keeping you from weekend bliss}, try these:

Lonny Mag

Sweet Paul

Anthology

Love Love Love!

2011-02-16T12:33:00.001-05:00

The V key on my computer is sticky + it's hard to write LOVE without it!

Something we loe... loVe... is this new little gizmo called Card Gnome. Super cute, super easy, super personalized. Just like we like it. And een, eVen, better is the fact that they're using A Fresh Bunch designs! {Including FM, or course}

Get yourself some Card Gnome here, and send some loVe, personalized.

Is Your Home Well Appointed?

2011-02-11T10:49:00.001-05:00

It is if you've got some Fontaine Maury about! The gals from The Well Appointed Home agree - you can find Fontaine Maury among their many lovely treasures. You know, now is a great time to start thinking about Mother's Day..... you don't want to leave such an important gift until the last minute!

They've also got a great blog about style..... check it out here!

Another Book for Haile!

2011-02-09T10:18:00.000-05:00

This girl gets around! Around the book + blog world, that is. And the travel world to. But we're talking about travel next month, so I'll save that one.

The latest book to feature our own crafty cohort is Country Living's The Mom's Guide to Running a Business: Strategies for Work Success and Family Balance.

Haile + I are both entrepreneurs at heart - as are many of our friends. We're lucky to have so many like-minded gals to share our passion with, but if you're not so lucky, this book will be a big help. It profiles 28 mom-entrepreneurs and asks all kinds of questions about how to balance work and family, and how to get work done at home.

The ladies in this book come from all different backgrounds and work in different fields. But if you're in the stationery + gift world, I encourage you to check out our partner, A Fresh Bunch. A Fresh Bunch is a curated community of designers who band together to collaborate + collaboratively sell their work. You have to apply for membership, but once accepted, you'll have access to a wealth of information about licensing, wholesaling, tradeshows, etc. Not to mention a large community of other designers who want to see you succeed.

Gotta get this book? Click on over to Amazon!

XOXO
{FM}

A Pirate Flag... Of Sorts

2011-02-08T15:40:00.000-05:00

There's nothing like the Jolly Roger to say 'I Love You' to your sweetie. Right?
Well, ok, maybe not. Maybe she'd rather have chocolates. But your kiddies will still enjoy a Pirate Valentine party - so here's another free printable!

Pirate Bunting Flags - print several sheets + connect with ribbon or string.

Bunting Flags Pink Pirate

Some Bling for Your Drink!

2011-02-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

Now where is that rum punch we were talking about a few days ago? If one of the deck hands made off with yours, here's a recipe for some hurricane punch - I used it at a party once, and it went fast. You'll feel like you're in the tropics, anyway! {And before you think I'm a total alky, I only served this ONCE...}

Hurricane Punch
1 cup crushed ice
1 ounce rum
1 ounce coconut flavored rum
1 ounce vodka
1 ounce gin
1 ounce triple sec (orange-flavored liqueur)
2 ounces orange juice
1 ounce pineapple juice
1 ounce grenadine syrup
1 ounce 151 proof rum
1 orange slice (optional)
1 lime slice (optional)
1 maraschino cherry (optional)

And here's a straw cover for your Pirate Valentine's party - easy peasy + cutey cute.

Straw Cover Pirate Girl

Still Cold? Warm Up With This Download!

2011-02-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

Are you wishing you could sail away right this very moment? Into the wild blue, where the palm trees sway + the waves crash, and where you stumble upon some hidden treasure?

Well, we feel for ya - so here's a little treasure from Fontaine Maury. Another download!
If you make a regular cake or even cupcakes, you need a sail for that Pirate Ship! For cupcakes, just cluster them in a diamond shape on a platter or cutting board + insert the 2 sets of sails so that it looks a bit boatey.

Download away, mateys!

Mini Sail Pirate Girl

Pirate Cake Sail

More Pirate Valentines, Landlubbers!

2011-02-02T11:57:00.000-05:00

Haile's still in the City, so if you're at the show, cruise on by - she's got some new stuff for you! {Booth 7575}

But if you're at home, and especially if you're in Snowmageddon 2011 {as our friend Jenny likes to call it}, then..... take a deep breath. Close your eyes. Imagine a sandy beach on a deserted island. Ooo - where did that glass of rum punch come from? Ah! And that parrot? Yes, that's it... be the pirate. BE the pirate.

It's still Pirate Valentine's over here, and here's your next download! Aaaaannnddd.... you can personalize this one! Just download it, and open the PDF to personalize.

Pirate Hat CUSTOM

FM @ The NY Gift Show!

2011-01-30T12:29:00.000-05:00

Our Dear Haile is in New York rightthisveryminute - sprucing her booth (with our own Jackie O)!
If you're at the show or in the area, stop by booth 7575 {easy to remember, right?} and see what Haile's been cooking up down here in Thomasville.

Valentine Pirate Pinwheels!

2011-01-21T11:25:00.000-05:00

Ahoy there - we've got more Piratey goodies for you and your mateys!

These pinwheels are super cute + easy peasy to make. You can also use the sheet of Pirate circles as doubloons - or attach to other non-piratey items to make them instantly Pirate-riffic.

Download pinwheels here + doubloons here.

Another Pirate Valentine Freebie!

2011-01-20T11:45:00.000-05:00

Have you been thinking about the Pirate Valentine Party?? A great change from the usual - and plenty of fun games to play! Walk the Plank, for one......

Here's the second freebie for your party! Fun menus just *make* the party - and this freebie is fillable, so you can list whatever you decide to have.

Just download the PDF here, put on your eye patch + hook, and let your imagination run wild! AAAARGGH!

New Year, New FM Goodies!

2011-01-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

The Fontaine Maury Super Secret Laboratory has been hard at work.... and we're finally ready to start unveiling..... just in time for Valentine's!

These super-cute cupcake wrappers would be dahhhh-ling for a pigtail-pulling, sweet-n-sour Valentine's party!

And the best part? We've got a free download, just for you. We've got a lot more in store, so come on back!

Click here to download + print!

{Looks different on the screen, but once you download it, the whole image appears!}

XOXO

{FM}

How Do You Cure Those Winter Blues?

2011-01-11T16:46:00.000-05:00

A friend of mine... well, a pen-pal really, posted on her blog about having the winter blahs. Now, mind you, I have never met this friend of mine, never laid eyes on her, but I feel like I know her from reading her blog, and from becoming friends with her: sister-in-law, brother, sister, parents, nephews, and cousins. You know how small towns are!

When I read her post I thought: funny! I'm not feeling blah at all! No?? No. Why?? Because I just got back from 8 days in the Florida Keys, that's why! Yes. It was WARM. And the weather was FANTASTIC. And I ate Key Lime Pie on a Stick. It's dipped in CHOCOLATE.

So that's my cure for the winter blues - get away! Get warm!
But if you can't? Try some of these:

1. Look at pictures of beautiful beaches
2. Cuddle up with a good book
3. Catch up on your blog reading, especially travel blogs + wedding blogs - they're always full of dreamy photography
4. Have some Mexican Hot Chocolate - it involves cinnamon, apparently
5. Make home-made, baked macaroni, and use some Sweet Grass Dairy cheese, if you want those socks properly knocked off

Stay warm!

XOXO
{FM}

Happy New Year!

2010-12-30T09:24:00.000-05:00

What a year!

We saw you at the Stationery Show, we sold trays like crazy, we blogged about everything from cocktails to creative gifts, and boy have we had fun!

So what's up for 2011??

Ahh, my dearies.... most of it's Super Top Secret.

But be on the lookout for new products {Haile's always in the lab!} + some great freebies coming your way!

For now, have a Happy New Year!

{FM}

FM Gift Guide: Fusspot Friend

2010-12-23T08:30:00.000-05:00

For the: Fusspot Friend

Maybe this is your bestie. Maybe it's you. Either way, she only wants the best. Is that so wrong?
{Leave it to the Southern gals to employ the term 'fusspot."}

The best lip gloss......Dior Lip Glow

The best hairbrush......Mason Pearson Brush

The best ear muffs......J. Crew Ear Muffs

FM Gift Guide: Sister Super-Chef

2010-12-21T08:30:00.001-05:00

For the: Sister Super-Chef

Part Earth-mother, part sartorialist, she rocks it in the kitchen + in the street. Always nattily dressed, even when she's whipping up some Sole Meunière, she loves to try new things.....so make her Christmas {and probably yours, too!}.

This Indian Spice Set is sure to speak to her Ethnic wanderings - it even comes with a few recipes to get her started.

Apparently paninis aren't the only thing you can make with this Panini Press... do you see that? Looks like French Toast to me. Like the biggest, baddest Texas French Toast you ever ate. Yes please.

THE best cheese this side of the pond. Maybe on the other side, too, except for there's France. Box options from small to large.....Sweet Grass Cheese Gift Box:

And you know how hard it is to find decent looking linens for the kitchen. This one's cutey-cute. Handmade Pot Holder:

FM Gift Guide: Giddy Up Godmother

2010-12-20T08:30:00.001-05:00

For the: Giddy Up Godmother

Tally Ho! This gal loves her horses so much that she's driving your son to his riding lessons. And she's a hoot. Think: a spotlight on her Suburban for when she needs to 'shine' something. She's rowdy + hilarious + can drink you under the table. She's also got an impeccable sense of style. Horse people are like that.

You know, deep down, that if you get her this Oughton Limited Handbag, she'll love you forever. Like forevah-evah.

And she'll think this is the most thoughtful thing anyone's gotten her in the longest time. Well, except for the whisky rocks you got her last year.....Toile Saddle Pad:

Sure, she's got a buh-zillion pairs of boots, but couldn't she always use one more? 'Specially ones that aren't all mucky yet......Sweet Riding Boots:

And she'll hug tight this nifty Horse Pillow when she's watching National Velvet for the millionth.

FM Gift Guide: Crafty Cohort

2010-12-17T08:30:00.003-05:00

For the: Crafty Cohort

Absolutely everybody knows one of these. The gal who's always giving the uber-cute home-made gifts at showers + whose kids wear the most delightful hand-smocked clothing. If you're not crafty yourself, you certainly keep this girl around for ideas + help when you've got to produce a gift fast... or when your kiddies need costumes for the school play. Of course, since she's creative, she's also lots of fun to hang around with, + if she has a slightly off-color sense of humor, all the better.

Did you need some things monogrammed? She'll whip some up for you with this Silhouette Vinyl Cutter:

Need some nifty invites for Junior's party? She'll have them done in a Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah {and they'll be one-of-a-kind} with this super-handy home Letterpress Kit:

I'm sure she can find infinite uses for this Crafting Tool Kit....

And she'll probably adore this DIY + retro-funky Bottle Cap Jewelry:

FM Gift Guide: Gran in the Garden

2010-12-16T10:09:00.001-05:00

For the: Gran in the Garden

Do all Grans garden? Both of mine did. One was a camellia + gardenia sort of gal, and the other was a day-lilies, clematis, veggies, ivy-on-a-rusty-wheel-barrow, all-out kinda gal. Whether she's refined or exuberant, Gardening Grans everywhere could use some of these thoughtful treats.

I think this is what hooks one to gardening: it is the closest one can come to being present at creation.--Phyllis Theroux

She can feed the hummers with a pretty little Hand Made Hummingbird Feeder...

Snazz up her potting shed with some Monogrammed Garden Tools....

Ensure fresh ingredients for your summer Caprese Salad with the The Great Tomato Book....

Add a dash of color to her already lush landscape with some darling Heirloom Roses....

FM Gift Guide: Dapper Daddy

2010-12-14T10:26:00.001-05:00

For the: Dapper Daddy

Almost all of us know one, and some of us have one. A Dapper Daddy. He's the man who's just as comfortable with a scotch in his hand as a fly rod. Equally at home whether it's 5 stars, or stars under the open sky. He seems to know how to do everything, and by gosh if his teeth don't actually twinkle when he smiles.

These are just for him.....

Of course he has an iPad, probably got you one, too.....so here's the perfect Leather iPad Case:

Fun underwear is just his style - keeps him chuckling to himself even while in boring meetings.....Vineyard Vines Underwear:

If for some reason he hasn't got one, or needs another...... a proper Tuxedo:

And you just can't go wrong with one of these babies....Barbour Moleskin Jacket:

*** We've been featured on AisleDash.com! Check it out!

FM Gift Guide

2010-12-09T11:15:00.000-05:00

For the: Nasty Nephew

Oh, you know this kid. Yep. The one shooting you with a water gun... in January. The one putting salt in the sugar bowl. But - he's your brother's/sister's pride + joy! So you've gotta get him something.
Other than coal + a bag of switches, I mean.

You will come to regret this, but not as badly as the pellet gun you got him last year....
Nerf Blaster

Ew. Gross. Sick. Icky. Perfect.The Burp T-Shirt

Another regret-in-the-making, especially after your sibling brings it to your annual Wassail Party.....
Disco Karaoke System

Easily the best + most necessary item on the list. Get that sticky-icky kid a bath!
Mr Bubble Bubble Bath