HOUSE OF PARKER

Happy Friday

2012-03-02T00:00:00.001-08:00

This is how I spent last Friday afternoon:

And I have an appointment in Napa today, hmmmm....where will the day take me??

I know, I know. I've been neglecting you all. All 10 of you ;)

If it makes you feel any better, I've been neglecting myself too....

I have so many projects and things I'd like to be spending time on, including my blog. But lately it's been 6 day work weeks and trying to close deals, cause let's face it: broke ain't a cute look on me. It has been a rough transition, but I think I've finally started to make some progress...knock on the proverbial wood.

We have so much to catch-up on!

I've been working on some pretty amazing projects that I can't wait to share with you. I've been meaning fill you in on my trip to Boston for a design symposium on our new Tesoro product line. I just got trained on our new iPad app (iPad included!) and found out that one of my wine room designs from San Diego is going to be added to it.

And I was serious about my online store. That is coming soon! I have inventory already, I just need to do the photo shoot and get everything uploaded. You'll be the first to know :)

Hope you'll stay tuned...

Much Love,
Heather

Portlandia: Season 2

2012-02-16T09:22:00.000-08:00

Now that I finally caught up on season 1 of Portlandia, it's time for season 2...so excited!

"Welcome to the sausage party..."

Adele

2012-02-12T22:31:00.000-08:00

In anticipation of Adele's sweeping Grammy wins, here's a videos I took from her show in San Diego last year. She's covering If It Hadn't Been For Love by The SteelDrivers...

Words with Friends

2012-02-06T11:35:00.000-08:00

Source: 9gag

I know it's been a bit since my last post...did you miss me? I've got some updates coming soon; stay tuned!

:) Heather

Uncle

2012-01-12T21:26:00.000-08:00

Images via Pinterest

Lately I've been feeling like I just want to hide out in a cabin in the woods and not come out until the Universe decides to play nice.

I'd take long walks in the woods and enjoy the cold, fresh air.

I'd make big pots of soup and eat it by candlelight with homemade bread and red wine.

I'd read this book by the fire.

I'd take long naps.

I'd knit a scarf or two.

I'd bring a dog.

Anyone care to join me?

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T10:52:00.000-08:00

Source: Mr. Ojey

Here's to keepin' it real in 2012...

Today I'll be creating a vision board for 2012 and working on my new online store (stay tuned for details...). What about you? Any New Year traditions to share with the group?

Looking forward to a healthy and prosperous new year and wishing the same for you!

Bring it, 2012!!

Cheers,

Heather

Holiday Cheer

2011-12-24T12:45:00.000-08:00

Last night I attempted my first Fizz cocktail and can I just say, it was amazing!

I started with the inspiration from this Sidecar Fizz recipe that I blogged about here. I swapped a few ingredients to make it more of a Kentucky Colonel Fizz, a la Starlight Lounge.

I used the following ingredients and ratios:

1 egg white
3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
2 oz Bourbon
1/2 oz ginger simple syrup (see below for more info on how I made my own)
Splash of club soda

1. Combine egg white and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously 20-30 times.

2. Add bourbon and simple syrup. Fill with ice and shake another 30 times.

3. Strain into a cocktail glass. Add a splash of club soda and garnish.

The more you shake, the more froth you get from the egg. I'll shake it more next time, I like a bit more froth, but adjust to your preference.

The only thing that was missing was one of these maraschino cherries...next time!

Also, I made my own ginger simple syrup from this recipe and I love it. Looking forward to trying it in more cocktails...

Happy Holidays!

Cheers,
Heather :)

Music: Rolling in the Deep

2011-12-19T13:30:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday :)

Happy Friday

2011-12-16T09:56:00.000-08:00

Source: Tumblr

What's everyone up to this weekend? I'll be working and am going to make a ginger simple syrup to use in some fun holiday cocktails (a Kentucky Colonel Fizz, perhaps??). More on that to come...

Have a great weekend, everyone!

:) Heather

Drink: Fizz Cocktails

2011-12-14T20:25:00.000-08:00

Sidecar Fizz from White on Rice Couple

Today in the blogosphere, someone was asking for suggestions on what to do with an excess of egg whites. Being the ~~lush~~ beverage connoisseur that I am, I immediately thought of fizz cocktails. I've never made one myself, but love to order them where I can. My favorite so far is the Wimbledon Fizz at Craft and Commerce in San Diego: Pimms, lemon, egg whites & fizz. If I remember correctly, they even make their own Pimms...

The Sidecar Fizz pictured above looks like it would make a nice cold weather drink. Think I might have to give it a try!

Cheers,
:) Heather

Food: Pizza

2011-12-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

I have been craving a pizza with arugula since eating at Skool on Friday night and having their four cheese flat bread.

Tonight I made a pizza to satisfy that craving...

All ingredients are from Trader Joe's:

Whole wheat pizza dough

Pesto

Goat cheese

Sun dried tomatoes (or fresh)

Pine nuts

Arugula

Prepare pizza dough according to package

Top with pesto, goat cheese, tomatoes and pine nuts

Bake for 10-12 minutes at 450 degrees

Remove from oven, top with fresh arugula and enjoy...

Don't forget the wine!

:) Heather

Music: Ice Cube + Eames

2011-12-12T17:31:00.000-08:00

L.A. gangsters and modern architecture, two of my favorites in one video...

Word.
:) Heather

Day Dreams

2011-12-11T00:00:00.000-08:00

Here's what I've been day dreaming about lately...

A progressive dinner party...in Paris, of course...

Source: Oh Happy Day

Wine with a friend by candlelight...

Source: Orangette

ginger cocktails...

Source: Morris Kitchen via Design*Sponge

But mostly I've just been day dreaming about an amazing apartment...

...with a fireplace...

Source: The Selby

...and french doors...

...and amazing windows...

...and wood floors...

Source: Design*Sponge

What about you??

:) Heather

Trends: Ink Blot

2011-12-08T22:25:00.000-08:00

My latest trend obsession is any and all things ink blot inspired...

Pillows:

Source: Etsy

China:

Source: Luna & Curious

Art:

Source: Mothology

Fashion:

Source: Rachel Rose

Source: Olivia Malone

How amazing is Olivia Malone's photography??

:) Heather

Tiger in a Jar

2011-12-06T21:51:00.000-08:00

I just discovered the most beautiful and charming blog: Tiger in a Jar.

I've been completely mesmerized by their videos:

I want to hang out with these girls...

...and sip mulled cider...

cranberry mulled cider from tiger in a jar on Vimeo.

...and eat beet cake...

beet cake from tiger in a jar on Vimeo.

...and make Christmas ornaments...

diy christmas ornaments from tiger in a jar on Vimeo.

So inspiring!

Enjoy,

Heather :)

Dear Santa

2011-12-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

It's been difficult, but I've narrowed my Christmas wish list down to one thing:

Image source: Google

I'm pretty sure I deserve it...

;) Heather

p.s. love this Ryan Gosling Outfit to Home post on AT

Music: The Black Keys

2011-12-05T09:57:00.000-08:00

Image source: KCRW

The Black Keys live on KCRW Morning Becomes Eclectic today at 11am!

Enjoy,

Heather :)

Eat, Drink and be Merry

2011-12-04T22:50:00.000-08:00

Where does the time go??

Thought I'd share some of my latest {mainly culinary} adventures in SF...

I finally made it to Tartine Bakery:

Photos from The Selby

I had a croissant and a cappuccino and took home a piece of spinach quiche. I'm looking forward to going back for their Humboldt Fog grilled cheese sandwich!

I caught up with my friend, Heather at The Mosser while she was in town. We had dinner and drinks at Annabelle's then headed to Bourbon and Branch for some tasty craft cocktails...

Photos from Bourbon and Branch

Think Noble Experiment but bigger and darker. And I love the history of the building: it was a real speakeasy in the 20's with five secret exit tunnels still in effect today.

Would love to take one of the classes at their Beverage Academy!

Cheers,

Heather :)

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

Source: With Style & Grace

Hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving! I'll be toasting to family, friends and health with this ginger sparkler...

Cheers,

Heather

DIY: Studded Clutch

2011-11-23T10:28:00.000-08:00

Source: Because I'm Addicted

Loving this DYI studded clutch from Because I'm Addicted...would make a great holiday weekend project.

Happy Thanksgiving!

:) Heather

Work of Art: The Sucklord

2011-11-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

OMG, I can't believe I have a photo with The Sucklord from Work of Art on Bravo....

AKA, Morgan from Si*Se. Comedy! I knew he looked familiar!!

:) Heather

Thrift Score: China

2011-11-15T11:16:00.000-08:00

I just picked up this amazing set of vintage Mikasa china:

It's a complete 44 piece set in mint condition. It's my favorite color combination of the moment: white, gold and grey. It's a little tribal, a lot 80's glam and totally me!

I waited patiently for it to go on sale at a local thrift store and it finally did! I'm feeling pretty lucky and it's only Tuesday.

Now if I could only find an amazing apartment to go with it...

:) Heather

Music: Gotye

2011-11-14T23:33:00.000-08:00

A little belated Monday music post...Gotye live on KCRW Morning Becomes Eclectic tomorrow at 11am!! (yes, that's worth two exclamation points)

:) Heather

ps: Kimbra will be making a special appearance with him tomorrow, too!

Friday: Food

2011-11-11T08:13:00.000-08:00

Thought I'd share a few food related things I've discovered recently...

Some packaging inspiration for your holiday canning projects from Jme, Jamie Oliver's food line:

Discovered on Creature Comforts, available at Williams Sonoma

I just started following this gorgeous and touching food blog, Versus from my Kitchen:

Chocolate and bourbon pudding

Pumpkin, coconut and lime soup

Cider Rum Punch

Happy Friday,

:) Heather

Dead Man's Bones

2011-11-08T22:31:00.000-08:00

Why am I just now finding out about this?? I'm going to be very upset if you all knew about this and didn't share it with me...

I especially like the track Lose Your Soul. No video, but definitely worth a listen:

:) Heather

What's new?

2011-11-06T20:34:00.000-08:00

Hey All, have you missed me? You know you need to update your blog when your mom calls you out...

So what's new?

First off, I'm trying something new with the layout of House of Parker. I'm using the new Blogger Dynamic View. Notice in the upper left corner where it says 'Classic'? You can click that drop-down menu and select how you'd like to view the blog. I like the Classic view, but maybe you'd like something different. Feel free to use the one that appeals to you.

Things are in full swing up here in the bay area and I've definitely been keeping busy.

You already know we had our California Closets grand opening party last month...

That's me with my previous manager and my new manager :)

I also attended an opening for a new European Furniture store in San Francisco: Arttitude. Here are a few of my favorite pieces:

The pink and blue chairs are kid sized...so cute!

In other news: the weather up here has finally cooled off and we've had rain the past few days so you know I'm in fall fashion heaven!

Now that we're caught up let's keep in touch, ok? :)

Much Love,

Heather

Music: Lana Del Rey

2011-10-17T00:00:00.000-07:00

Have you heard this incredible artist yet? All I can say is wow! I'm am absolutely in love with Lana Del Rey's voice and retro Hollywood style. Her double A side single drops on October 16th and includes the tracks Video Games and Blue Jeans. You can pre-order here on iTunes.

Take a listen and hear for yourself...

Video Games:

Blue Jeans:

Enjoy,
Heather :)

Grand Opening

2011-10-14T08:42:00.000-07:00

If you're in the Bay Area stop by our grand opening next Wednesday and say hi!

PLEASE JOIN US FOR THE GRAND OPENING OF

CALIFORNIA CLOSETS

Berkeley Showroom and Corporate Headquarters

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19TH

5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

COCKTAILS AND HORS D'OEUVRES

CALIFORNIA CLOSETS

1716 FOURTH STREET

BERKELEY, CALIFORNIA

RSVP Now!

I Can't Make It

WHERE

California Closets

1716 Fourth Street

Berkeley, CA 94710

Driving Directions

WHEN

Wednesday October 19, 2011

from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM PDT

Add to my calendar

INQUIRIES

Fumie Collier 510.763.2033

GrandOpening@calclosets.com

Design*Sponge Book Tour

2011-10-12T10:26:00.000-07:00

To all my San Diego readers: the Design*Sponge book tour is coming to you on Nov. 10th at West Elm and includes a craft workshop! Should be a fun event and you know I'd be going if I was there...all the details here.

Cheers,

Heather :)

Vocabulary Boutique

2011-10-07T21:39:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to share that one of my favorite San Diego boutiques, Vocabulary, has just launched their website which includes online shopping! This is especially exciting to me since I just moved away from San Diego.

Here are a few items that I'm already coveting for fall...

Colorful Print Dress:

Trench Cape:

Convertible Maxi Skirt:

Gold Feather Earrings:

Colorblock Waterfall Earrings:

Be sure to check-out the men's section, too!

And the Vocabulary website is more than an online boutique; it's also a lifestyle magazine with features on travel, arts & culture and home interiors including closet tips from yours truly :)

Stop by the site and show some love for this fabulous independent boutique!

Happy Shopping,

Heather

DIY: Geometric Necklace

2011-09-29T08:36:00.000-07:00

I love this DIY post from Dismount Creative. Would make a great craft club project! Check out the link for full instructions...

:) Heather

Moving Sale

2011-09-23T21:04:00.000-07:00

Hey All,

House of Parker is now being brought to you from San Francisco! I've been hard at work up here (as evidenced by the lack of posts lately) but I'll be back in San Diego this weekend packing up and I'm having a moving sale on Sunday.

Here's a peek at a few items on the sell list:

Side chair:

Sofa:

Mirrored coffee table

Desk/console table:

Ikea Pax wardrobes:

Ikea Malm dresser:

Ikea shelves, 2 white, 1 espresso

Lateral file cabinet:

...and many more household items.

Details on craigslist here:

http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/hsh/2614501723.html

Hope to see you there...

:) Heather

Happy Friday

2011-09-09T08:28:00.000-07:00

Source: darlingcatastrophe

Happy Friday; have a great weekend!

:) Heather

DIY: Witches Curtain

2011-09-07T00:00:00.000-07:00

I know it's only September, but I'm already getting excited for Halloween! Especially after I saw this cool witches curtain made from garbage bags on the Martha Stewart website:

More fun Halloween ideas to come, my pretties...

:) Heather

What's New?

2011-09-01T22:28:00.000-07:00

House of Parker has been busy!

You might be asking yourself: "Where has she been...?" but you'd be asking the wrong question. The question you should be asking is: "Where hasn't she been?!"

Here are a few hints:

Source: Perfect Lullabies

I know I owe you lots of posts and updates, but right now you'll have to be patient.

I'm going to leave you with a bit of encouragement for the holiday weekend (because I need it myself these days...):

Source: Print Liberation

Have a great weekend!

:) Heather

Trends: Lighting

2011-08-11T11:21:00.000-07:00

Source: unknown

Source: WhyrHymer via Apartment Therapy

Source: Caviar 20

Source: Simply Grove

Source: unknown

It' almost the weekend....

:) Heather

Craft Club: Solid Perfume

2011-08-08T13:31:00.000-07:00

Well it was another fun and successful craft club yesterday. Thanks to Nina, Heather, Cait and Iizel for making it so much fun :)

This round we made solid perfume inspired by this post from Design*Sponge. We were all curious to smell the recipe provided in the post so we followed the recipe exactly, only multiplying it to make enough for all of us. It did not disappoint!

Supplies...

Grate bee's wax...

Double boil wax...

Mix oils...

Pour into containers...

They make awesome gifts...

Can't wait to find more cool containers and make another batch!

:) Heather

Wish I was here...

2011-08-06T14:34:00.000-07:00

Source: unknown

Source: justbesplended

Have a great weekend...

:) Heather

Thrift Score

2011-08-02T09:25:00.000-07:00

Last week while prowling thrift stores in search of a locket or pocket watch for our upcoming craft club project (more on that next week!), I stumbled upon the exact lamps that I've been looking for since I clipped this photo:

Source: Refinery29

You'll have to pull your eyes away from those adorable dogs for just a moment to see the lamps in the background. I love their geometric shape, the gold/brass color (duh!) and the striped lampshades.

So you can imagine my excitement when I saw these two staring back at me:

And for the incredibly amazing, ridiculous price of only $5.95 each. Oh, and did I mention they were half off?! Two lamps for under $6?! Too bad the most expensive part of lamps is usually their shades...

Stay tuned for a DIY lampshade post where I will attempt to replicate those striped shades!

Have a great day!

:) Heather

Happy Friday

2011-07-29T00:00:00.000-07:00

I'd love it if my weekend included these:

Source: The Makers

In case you can't read the card, those are Brooklyn Bootleg S'mores from Blue Bottle w/ Mast Bros Chocolate, house made graham crackers & Kings County Distillery Moonshine marshmallow. Yes, please!

Have a great weekend!

:) Heather

Ritual Union

2011-07-26T18:30:00.000-07:00

The new Little Dragon album, Ritual Union is out today and I highly recommend it!

You can also catch their live performance on KCRW here.

Enjoy!

:) Heather

DIY Hand Wash

2011-07-24T11:57:00.000-07:00

I just ran out of the amazing Lemon Hand Wash I picked up at C.O. Bigelow when I was in New York.

In a moment of inspiration I realized that I have a bottle of C.O. Bigelow lemon essential oil. And it just so happens that I recently bought a refill of Method Unscented Hand Wash. So why not make my own lemon hand wash?

Supplies

1 Cup of Method gel hand wash

Add 10-15 drops of essential oil and mix well

(amount of oil can be adjusted to your preference)

Pour into recycled container

Viola! Your own homemade hand wash. Couldn't be easier.

I should point out that when using oils for use on the body, you want to make sure they're pure essential oils NOT home fragrance oils; they will irritate skin.

Enjoy!

:) Heather

Happy Friday

2011-07-22T08:09:00.000-07:00

(Source: whosetruths, via kivafree)

Enjoy your weekend!

<3 Heather

Trends: Wicker

2011-07-21T07:38:00.000-07:00

Wicker is back in a big way and I love it...

Source: Domino Magazine

Source: Hayneedle

Source: Neoteric Luxury

Source: Parker Hotel, Palm Springs

Source: Two's Company on Amazon

Source: Anthropologie

Source: Emily Henderson blog

Source: Unknown

Source: Dainty and Dangerous

Source: Country Living

Thoughts?

:) Heather

Homesick

2011-07-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

This blog post from Centsational Girl might just be the tipping point that sends me packing back to the bay area...

All images from Centsational Girl

Now I'm homesick and craving oysters....

:( Heather

Closet Envy

2011-07-13T09:33:00.000-07:00

Here's a little closet and organization eye candy for you...

Source: Lonny Magazine

Source: Domino Magazine

Source: Misha West via Pinterest

Source: The Glamourai

Source: Wit and Delight

Source: Made by Girl

Source: Victoria Loraine

Source: Misha West via Pinterest

Source: That Kind of Woman

A girl can dream...
:) Heather

Bohemian Rhapsody

2011-07-10T18:57:00.000-07:00

It's summer in California and I've been feeling very bohemian...

Source: Rue Magazine

Source: Moon to Moon

Source: Rue Magazine

Source: You Are The River

Source: Loom Rugs

Source: Simply Grove

Source: Trend Hunter

Source: The Girls of Lincoln Park via Pinterest

:) Heather

Holiday Weekend

2011-07-03T14:13:00.000-07:00

Here's a fun DIY project for your holiday weekend: lamp globe bird feeders...

Source: Design*Sponge

And click here for a little music to go with that...

Have a great weekend!

<3 Heather

Vanities

2011-06-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

Vanities, often referred to as dressing tables, are one of my favorite luxury items of furniture. I had one growing up and even bought one as an adult that I had for years until I sold it 4 or 5 years ago. I really miss having one. There's just something indulgent about having a place to sit in front of a mirror and primp.

I have been keeping my eye out on Craigslist and in thrift stores for an inexpensive one, but in the meantime I've been bookmarking photos as inspiration...

Lucite! Source: C MacKenzie via Pinterest

Modern wood. Source: Sophie McNabb via Pinterest

Vintage. Source: Marlise Gunzenhauser via Pinterest

Built-in. Source: The Decorista

Deco. Source: Rue Magazine

Simple vintage. Source: The Selby

Hopefully I'll have a cool one of my own to post someday soon...

:) Heather

Have you heard...

2011-06-28T21:32:00.000-07:00

There's lots of great new music out and I thought I'd share a few of the albums I've been enjoying lately...

My favorite new album has to be Foster The People, Torches:

I'm also loving Friendly Fires, Pala (but you probably knew that from this post):

And this week I've been obsessed with the track Play by Heart off the new album Special Affections by Diamond Rings...has a very Bauhaus/Joy Division sound:

What music are you loving these days? Let me know! I always enjoy discovering new music...

:) Heather

Organization

2011-06-21T10:51:00.000-07:00

Today is officially the first day of Summer; did you get all of your Spring organization projects done? Here's a fun project I did for a client recently:

We created a work space in her garage with locking file drawers, a drawer for office supplies, a pull-out wrapping paper drawer and pull-out shelf for wrapping gifts. So fun!

:) Heather

Day dreams

2011-06-20T10:46:00.000-07:00

Here's what I've been day dreaming about lately...

Source: randomitus

Source: Domino Magazine

Source: Concevoir

Source: thatkindofwoman

Source: sunsurfer

Source: 24.media

Source: unknown

How 'bout you...?

:) Heather

Happy Friday

2011-06-10T00:00:00.000-07:00

:) Heather

Trends: Geodes

2011-06-09T15:19:00.000-07:00

Another one of my favorites...

Source: Misha West via Pinterest

Sconces: Matthew Studios

Rings: CosaFina Jewelry

Georgia Varidakis Jewelry

Source: Nate Berkus

Source: Brook & Lyn

Source: Kate McNellis via Pinterest

:) Heather

Oh Happy Day

2011-06-06T09:02:00.000-07:00

Oh Happy Day is hands-down my favorite blog and now she's giving away a trip for two to Paris! Click here to get all the details on how you can enter to win.

And while you're there be sure to check out a few of my favorite posts and projects...

Confetti invitations:

Envelope surprise DIY:

DIY pop-up cards:

Photobooth props DIY:

My absolute favorite, a dinner party beneath the Golden Gate bridge:

I could go on and on and on...her creativity and genius will amazing and astound you!

Good luck...and if you win you're going to take me, right??!!

:) Heather

Happy Friday

2011-06-03T12:29:00.000-07:00

Maybe you've already seen this commercial but I just discovered it...

Happy Friday!
:) Heather

Upcoming Shows

2011-06-01T15:17:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of great shows coming up in and around San Diego. Thought I'd share a few of my favs...

Thurs. 6/2
Sezio & Filter present: Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr., TV Girl & So Many Wizards @ The Casbah, San Diego

Wed. 6/8

Adele @ Humphreys by the Bay, San Diego

Sat. 6/11

Mayer Hawthorn & Ikah Love @ El Camino in Little Italy, San Diego

Sat. 6/11

Goldenvoice & KCRW present: Friendly Fires @ The Music Box, LA

Tues. 8/23

Sade & John Legend @ Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre, San Diego

See you on the dance floor...

:) Heather

West Side

2011-05-26T19:08:00.000-07:00

I'm going to give you all time to catch up on my blog while I hang-out with my bestie from Detroit for the weekend...

Happy Memorial Day!
Much Love,
:) Heather

Trends: Grey & Gold

2011-05-24T07:58:00.000-07:00

If you haven't heard yet, then you heard it here first...

Source: Kelly Wearstler dinnerware

Source: Greige Design

Source: NY Times

Source: Four Walls and a Roof

Source: Style-Files

Source: sfgirlbybay

Source: The Glam Lamb

Source: i'm swell

:) Heather

Tuft Love

2011-05-22T11:04:00.000-07:00

I've never met a tuft I didn't love. I mean, really, is there anything more glamorous than a tuft...

Source: Bonni via Pinterest

Source unknown

Source: Chic Modern Vintage via Pinterest

Source: Lord Ship Park

Source: Marcus Design

Source: Viewty

Don't get me started on Chesterfields...

Source: This is Glamorous

Source: Desire to Inspire

Source: Laura Montgomery via Pinterest

Source: The Brick House

Source: Ditte Isager

Source: Viewty

Source: The Selby

...and the sofa's pretty hot, too!

:) Heather

Tim Burton Exhibition

2011-05-20T00:00:00.000-07:00

The Tim Burton exhibition is coming to LACMA! I missed it while I was in New York but I'll be sure to catch it in LA...

May 29 - October 31, 2011. How fun would it be to go around Halloween? Get your tickets online here.

There's also a Tim Burton book signing on May 28th. More info here.

Happy Friday!

:) Heather

Have you heard...

2011-05-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

It's National Small Business Week and I thought I'd share a few of my favorite small businesses here in San Diego...

My friend, Mark Alan's FeeLit creative retail store has been uniting people through music, art and fashion for over three years now. Located in the East Village, stop by for unique gifts, clothing and accessories, local art and vinyl.

Be sure to follow his blog to get updates on upcoming art shows and in store performances. Current featured artist is Bret Barrett.

Cathedral in Hillcrest is my go-to store for candles and gifts. They carry some of my favorite lines including: Voluspa, Tokyo Milk, Kai, Royal Apothic, Times Frasier Fir and Jonathan Adler pottery.

Pigment in North Park is another great store for gifts and unique home items. It's also the best place to go for terrarium and living wall supplies. They carry a variety of Wolly Pockets...love!

If you're looking for great vintage and mid-century home furnishings, don't miss Nest Vintage in Golden Hill. They always have new items and their prices are amazing! If you see something you like, grab it fast because things get snatched up quickly here...

Finally, for the fashion-minded, I highly recommend Vocabulary Boutique in Little Italy. Owner and stylist Cecelia Church brings in amazing items that you won't find in other San Diego boutiques. This is a great store to find the perfect party or summer dress, along with accessories. She carries items for men, babies and the home as well.

Show your love for small businesses by supporting them!

Happy shopping,

:) Heather

Trends: Staghorn Ferns

2011-05-17T00:00:00.000-07:00

Antlers are so 2010. 2011 is all about staghorns...

Source: Design*Sponge

Source: Cocoon Home

Source: Apartment 46

Source: Desire to Inspire

Source: Lizette Pitout via Pinterest

Source: Sunset

Source: Martha Stewart

Source: Grunievuus

Source: Matthew Addonizio via Pinterest

One of my favorites! You will be seeing one (or more) in my home soon...

:) Heather

Terrariums: Round Three...Four? I've lost count...

2011-05-16T10:14:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, I'm OBSESSED with terrariums but I can't help myself! I just discovered these by Terri Planty and I had to share:

Is that a bear playing ping-pong in there?

Zombie escape!

Yogi headstand!

I absolutely love her vessels and adore her sense of humor. And they do custom terrariums! I think her prices are really reasonable, too. Hope you agree...

Much Love,

:) Heather

New Layout

2011-05-15T14:28:00.000-07:00

Just keeping you all on your toes...

:) Heather

Weekend Playlist

2011-05-13T14:45:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday, everyone! I got out my summer hats and I'm ready for the sunshine; how 'bout you?

Here's a little weekend playlist for your listening pleasure...

http://www.rhapsody.com/myrhapsody/playlists?playlistid=mp.146696901

Enjoy!
:) Heather

Support Art

2011-05-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

Hey All,

Support your local, independent artists this week by attending the following events:

Redlight Photo Show
Friday, May 13th
6-10pm
Space 4 Art
325 15th St. in downtown San Diego
Photographers Jimothy Hoang, Doddy Porter, Heather Quinn and Joseph Castillo will be presenting an exhibition of all hand-printed black & white darkroom photography

Closing show: "All great art is horse shit, buy tacos"

Friday, May 13th

7pm

Jett Gallery

989 West Kalmia in Little Italy area of San Diego

It's also Kettner Nights in Little Italy on Friday so plan to hang-out for a bit...

Oh Snap!

Saturday, May 14th

5-10pm

Thumbprint Gallery

2637 University Ave., North Park area of San Diego

If you didn't know, now you know...

Peace,
Heather

Have you heard...

2011-05-10T11:05:00.000-07:00

Heath Ceramics + House Industries = House Numbers

(Source: Heath Ceramics)

You can also catch a glimpse of the home of the founder of House Industries, Andy Cruz, here.

:) Heather

Brass Lamp Terrarium

2011-05-10T09:33:00.000-07:00

I finally cleaned up that brass lamp I bought and planted my terrarium (inspired by this post). I opted for a simple orchid. What do you think?

Before:

After:

I used a little Brasso to polish up the lamp and it worked great.

:) Heather

Dreamy Interiors

2011-05-07T16:36:00.000-07:00

This must be what it feels like inside a bottle of Butter's Rosie Lee nail polish:

Photos: Aaron Ruell

Learn more about Aaron Ruell and see more of his photography here (hint: you already know him)...

;) Heather

Missoni for Target

2011-05-06T07:55:00.000-07:00

Image source: Shelter Pop

More info here and here...

Can't wait!
:) Heather

Summer Lovin': Swimwear

2011-05-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

The weather has been heating up down here in San Diego and it's got me thinking about beach days. Which, of course, leads to thoughts of swimwear...and you know I love a one-piece:

Missoni

Palma Sola, Seductress & Gypset Solids: Trina Turk

Laughing Gull, Frolicking Seahorse, Ruffle Wrapped Halter, Elephant Ears & Shades of Night Maillots: Anthropologie

Don't forget your sunscreen!

:) Heather

Aloha Sunday

2011-05-05T15:54:00.000-07:00

Can't wait to check out this cool new shop coming to North Park; but mostly this video just makes me want to move back to Northern California:

Aloha Sunday Welcoming Soon from Aloha Sunday on Vimeo.

House Tour: Round One

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

I know I promised a house tour way back when I started my blog, but I haven't been satisfied enough with everything to share much until now. I mentioned that I did a rearrange last week and think I'm finally ready to share some photos (yes, I have a touch of OCD). You know I'm working with my camera phone, so forgive the quality.

So what changed? Well, let's start with what prompted this whole rearrange in the first place: my desk. I've never been completely satisfied with the original placement of my desk. It was good enough. It was in my dining room in front of the window and I liked the light and my large, sprawling work space. And although it made the dining space a bit crowded, it still worked.

What I really didn't like was that it wasn't in my living room. Why? Because I don't have TV or a stereo, so my computer and speakers are my entertainment center. But I really didn't want my big desk and filing cabinet in my living room. I finally decided to get rid of my desk and found an inexpensive one at the thrift store that I'm going to paint. It fits perfectly in my living room (yay!) and I moved my filing cabinet. Here are a few photos...

Before:

After:

I moved my bar and bookcases where my desk was and that really opened up the dining room:

I love that I can watch a movie on my couch and hear it! (My laptop speakers aren't loud enough on their own, so I could never hear anything.)

You already know I removed my heater:

Before:

After:

And here are a few more shots of the rest of the room:

That's about it for now. I have lots of projects on my list and I'll post more as I complete them.

Thanks for following along...

Much Love,

:) Heather

Closet Voyeur

2011-05-04T18:46:00.000-07:00

New Closet Voyeur Post: Think Outside The Box

Source: Design*Sponge

Trends: Watercolor

2011-05-03T23:18:00.000-07:00

Pillows: CB2

Settee: Anthropologie

Dinnerware: West Elm

Business cards: Oh Happy Day Letterpress

DIY party cups: DesignSponge

:) Heather

Home

2011-05-01T20:10:00.000-07:00

It's been a crazy few days ($2200 car repair??!!) but this brought a tear to my eye and a smile to me face:

Enjoy!

Much Love,
Heather

Happy Friday

2011-04-29T16:18:00.000-07:00

Source - MikeyH on flickr

Happy Friday, all! Anyone else need a nap?

Artwalk is this weekend in Little Italy; are you going? Maybe I'll see you there...it's also Craft Club on Sunday :)

It has been an absolutely insane week with work, house projects, workouts and even a little fun. I think I've seriously overdone it but I'm too motivated to stop!

On a side note, saw this video today from Closet Visit and had to share. I love everything about it: the cinematography, the music, the fonts, of course the clothes and even the model's tattoos!

Enjoy your weekend...
:) Heather

What's wrong with this picture?

2011-04-27T21:00:00.000-07:00

I just did something that I've been wanting to do since I moved into my apartment; can you guess what?? Here's a hint:

That's right, I finally removed the ugly brown heater in front of my non-working fireplace. Hear that huge sigh of relief? Know what you don't hear? The constant low whistling of said brown heater. Yay! You also don't see that big brown eyesore...see:

There's still the matter of capping off the gas valve (even though it's turned off) and hiding that big hole. But really, how hard could that be in comparison to trying to divert attention away from Downtown Ugly Brown?

So what finally possessed me to remove it? Well, for one, the weather's getting nicer and even if it gets cold, I have a space heater I can move around. Also, it was a free improvement. Hooray for freeeeeee!

Mostly though, it's because I got inspired and did a big rearrange in my apartment last night. That photo I posted of my bar? Yeah, it's not there anymore, I moved it. Can't wait to show you the whole place but I need to finish a few projects first. Like painting my desk and curtain rods and hanging my curtains and artwork. Stay tuned...

Much Love,

Heather

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T11:45:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter, everyone! I'm going to visit my Grandparents and that reminded me of this photo of me and my Grandpa :)

Much Love,

Heather

Bar

2011-04-22T18:06:00.000-07:00

I finally hung my piñata over my bar...

What do you think?

On a side note, can you tell how desperate I am for a new camera? I am so over these mobile pics. Been waiting for Canon to get the one I want back in stock. Patience is a virtue, but not one of mine...

Have a great weekend!

:) Heather

MarchForth

2011-04-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

Going to see MarchForth Marching Band Friday night at the Belly Up Tavern with Vokab Kompany. What I'm wondering is: how are they all going to fit on that small stage??

Maybe I'll see you there...

Cheers,
Heather

Organization: Kelly Wearstler

2011-04-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

Loving Kelly Wearstler's organized studio. See more here.

Much Love,
Heather

Trends: Union Jack

2011-04-20T10:41:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't follow design blogs like I do, I thought I'd start sharing trends that I'm seeing more of.

First up and in honor of the royal wedding: Union Jack...

(By Miss Mustard Seed, seen here)

(By Mackenzie Horan, seen here)

(Chaise and pub seen here)

(From Halo UK)

(Seen here)

So much cooler than Old Glory...

Cheers,

Heather

Happy Monday

2011-04-18T10:45:00.000-07:00

(Image: The Selby)

How amazing is she?? You can see more of her and her home here.

Weekend Recap

2011-04-18T10:43:00.000-07:00

So how was everyone's weekend? Mine was pretty fun-filled...

On Friday I stopped by Jett Gallery for a Bukowski-inspired art show: All Great Art is Horse Shit, Buy Tacos...

Stop by Jett and check it out!

On Saturday I went to a housewarming party and a BBQ, and on Sunday I went on a tour of the Midway with my dad.

I missed the Butter and Egg Day parade back home, but my mom sent me a few pics:

I'm not sure what Storm Troopers have to do with Butter and Egg Day, but there you have it...

Have a great week!

Much Love,
Heather

Online Magazines

2011-04-13T13:09:00.000-07:00

Update: so I thought Anthology offered their mag online, too, but it's only a preview. You can order a hard copy of the quarterly magazine here.

More and more online magazines are popping up these days; have you been keeping up?

My favorites:

Enjoy,

Heather

Lincoln Room

2011-04-06T14:00:00.000-07:00

Have you been to The Lincoln Room in downtown San Diego yet? It used to be Confidential but they recently redid it. If you haven't been to The Lincoln Room but remember Confidential, you're in for a big surprise. It is a complete 180 degree turn in regards to design. Where Confidential was open, airy, sleek and modern, The Lincoln Room is dark, cozy and warm with an intimate, saloon vibe. Think Lincoln Logs, penny covered tables and good 'ol Honest Abe. This trend seems to be the direction that most bars in major cities have been going. In San Diego Craft and Commerce and El Dorado immediately spring to mind.

We got lucky and stumbled in on a Thursday night when Night and Day was having an open bar event...merci beaucoup!

A few snapshots:

Who wants a cocktail??

Cheers,
Heather

Craft Club: Pinatas

2011-04-04T11:25:00.000-07:00

Well it was a marathon craft session yesterday but we did it! These piñatas turned out SO great but I would recommend doing them in stages and not trying to complete all the steps in one day. Unless you have loads of time and patience.

What I loved about this project, besides how great they all turned out, is that we each had our own vision and used a few different techniques. Here's how it all went down...

First, we drew inspiration from Confetti Systems AMAZING piñatas:

Then I set about finding a web tutorial. I liked how easy (no paper mache!) this one was from the Giddy Giddy blog and it would be perfect for re-creating the Confetti System style.

Caitlin, Iizel and I stuck with simple triangles and made the Confetti System piñata shown above, while Monina and Tania decided on a style closer to the Giddy Giddy tutorial.

Here's how they turned out...

Tania made her doggie, Shea:

Monina made Hello Kitty and even put a bow on the back:

Caitlin's:

Iizel's:

Mine:

And here they are together:

These truly were a labor of love but so worth it. And they're just too cute to smash!

Happy Crafting,

Heather

Terrariums: the next level

2011-04-01T08:41:00.000-07:00

I saw this terrarium post today on Design*Sponge and thought: "Been there, done that." That is, until I saw these amazing gnome and mushroom figurines they hand made:

(photos by Lauren Ross)

So cute! You know i have to try this. And I have the perfect vessel just waiting to be filled :)

Happy Friday,

Heather

Say Cheese!

2011-03-30T10:58:00.000-07:00

(Photos by Jamie Beck for Cup of Jo)

Seems as though I've got cheese (and food) on the brain today. I couldn't resist re-posting this handy cheese plate guide from A Cup of Joe's blog. I found it extremely helpful; hope you do, too!

Bon Appetit,
Heather

Artichoke, Kale & Ricotta Pie

2011-03-30T09:12:00.000-07:00

(Image: Leela Cyd Ross)

Doesn't this pie look amazing? I think I'm going to make it for Craft Club on Sunday. You can find the recipe here.

It looks much simpler than the quiche I made last week (no crust!) and very similar to a fritatta. I plan to use my springform pan since I've only used it for my Guinness cake so far.

I might also try making homemade ricotta from this post on eat love drink.

I'll let you know how it turns out...

Bon Appetit,
Heather