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February 28, 2011

Out and About – Student Art Inspires


Art is not what you see, but what you make others see. – Edgar Degas

Last night I had the honor of judging local student artwork for a juried art competition that is near and dear to my heart.  You’ve heard me mention my beloved art teacher Sue Hand.  She is the mastermind behind the locally famed Rosetti art exhibit and puts as much passion into curating this show as any of her stunning watercolor paintings.  Each year I am brought in along with respected teachers and designers to accomplish the nearly impossible task of judging student works.  I know first hand the time and grueling passion that goes into creating art; it is a very personal and intense experience.  Submitting your work for scrutiny in a competition only magnifies those feelings.  BRAVO to everyone who entered their work.  Myself and all the judges were blown away by the level of talent, keen eyes and creative pursuits evident at every turn in the gallery.

A few of my favorites include this piece titled “Chinatown”.  Innovative composition, an inventive color palette and a refined use of brushstroke and glazing produced a look that caught everyone’s attention.

From left Red Rockingboat, the Doorway,  a Trompe l’oeil masterpiece and Snowscene in oil.  It is one thing to work from a photo, because as artists we all do this at one time or another.  Capturing the intense sunlight and the joy it ensues or bringing to life a scene that peeks hauntingly into the interior of a barn takes skill yes, but also passion.  Passion in every brushstoke, dedication in each delicate glaze of paint, patience with each shadow and highlight created are the mix of elements that make good work epic and apt artists, iconic.

Thanks for following along…I hope you are inspired by these young artists as much as I am.

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March 5, 2010

Out and About – A Momental Girl in Austin


Okay, I know the blog title is cheesy but here I am still in Austin and loving every minute of it!  I had the great fortune of working with some amazing individuals over the last three days and feel truly inspired to be creating art with them.  Caroline, from Paloma’s Nest is a kindred spirit of sorts and collaborating was a treasure.   I even had the privilege of painting for several hours on her very own studio table – how cool?!!  My time here has been quite magical, between eating a generous spread at the Famous Salt Lick to having my work photographed by the genuinely talented and sincerely sweet Jesse Ryan, I feel incredibly grateful.

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Caroline made me feel completely at home in her studio.
Good music playing and a sunny breeze filtering into the space made for a peaceful few hours of runner painting.

Yesterday, I met up with a long time friend who has called this city home for the last few years.  She was my personal tour guide and is an artist herself, so seeing Austin through her eyes was quite special.  A stop at Whole Foods headquarters for the best salad of my life began the day, then a walk to Anthropologie…I cannot stop thinking about their decorative doorknobs.  We then ventured to South Congress and entered the visual jungle that is Uncommon Objects, which can best be described as an artistically organized haven for rare vintage goods.

Sharing my adventures of the past week in detail is off limits for now but until then have a look at some watercolor goodness fresh my my hotel room!  Brooke from Pollen Floral Art let me take this beauty with me after the shoot and I just couldn’t let it go to waste!  Curious to hear a bit more about #Austinshoot…?

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I can hardly wait to be back in the studio to transform this into invitation loveliness.  The Juliette roses and blooming succulents were my favorites to capture; love the shapes and colors of each and how the delicate petals of the roses contrasted with the round, pod-like shape of the succulents.

So thank you again to all who made me feel so welcome in Austin.  I had the chance to meet so many lovely people and work side by side with such good and generous industry talent.  I can see why Austin residents are so proud of their city.  Their is a certain magic here, in the places and the people.  A magic that is already inspiring my next adventure!

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November 30, 2009

Out and About – Southern Weddings Launch Party


Several weeks ago I had the privilege of attending the Southern Weddings Launch Party at Bridal Bar Atlanta.  Take a look here at our feature in the new magazine. I must say I am becoming quite a traveler and admittedly loving every minute!  I hopped on a plane early Friday morning and was heading home by early Saturday morning; a whirlwind trip – yes, but so worth it!

sw_launch1The Smilebooth by Our Labor of Love was clearly a hit!

I stayed at the W Perimiter Hotel and although spent very little time in my room, was quite impressed with the modern styling and luxurious comforts.  The down comforter and sumptuous pillow were certainly welcomed gratefully when it was finally time to sleep!

Finally having the chance to meet the Mammoth Men in person was a thrill and the After Party impromptu Dance Party was no less exciting.  Believe me, these guys are talented photographers and have rhythm – who knew?

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My good friend Sharon created this sweet masterpiece for the evening.  Red velvet was the flavor of course in traditional southern style.  I savored every bite – delicious!

A big thanks to Jeannine Favor (who just launched a very cool new blog) and Eliana of By Your Side Events for the very warm welcomes!  Jeannine and Eliana chauffered me around town this making my stay quite a bit more comfortable and affordable!  Thanks ladies – you rock!

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June 9, 2009

Giveaway on OneWed.com


A big thank you to the ladies at OneWed for the lovely words about Momental. I was thrilled to offer a Momental giveaway for their readers this week. The contest ends June 12th and all you need to do is leave a comment on the OneWed blog! So hurry up, comment and subscribe to this resourceful blog now!

Oh and by the way, if you are looking for local vendors be sure to stop by their main site for a wealth of information including reviews!

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May 20, 2009

Momental in the City!


Jessica and I spent a whirlwind day in NYC on Monday at The National Stationery Show. The show albeit smaller than other years was a challenge to cover in one day but we did it and managed to leave feeling invigorated and brimming with ideas!
We spent nearly an hour rummaging through the trims and ribbons at the Raffit Ribbon booth. I can hardly wait to receive my first order tomorrow!

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The Dutch Door Press booth drew me right in. I was so taken with the simple imagery and bold colors.

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Perhaps my favorite find was the Mother/Daughter team from Doodlespark. Hand-drawn pattern is their story and elegantly bold color is their palette.
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Joy

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Celebrate

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Magic

Every glance at these patterns reveals something new. I am obsessed with the negative space in “Magic” – so mysterious, textural…Take a moment and visit their site, comment on their blog and share their amazing talents!

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February 3, 2009

Guest post on Wishpot Wedding Blog


Take a look – I was the guest blogger today on the Wishpot Wedding Blog!

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Photo Credits:

Kim V Glass Pendant
Tanager and Pomegranate Pin by Bijou Graphique
Original Artwork, individual greeting card by JulieAnna

New Arrival Handbag by Lovcat

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February 2, 2009

Grand Cayman here I come!


My alarm was set so there was NO way I was missing the registration this morning for Engage! 09 Something Blue. Last October I took a leap of instinct, I will call it, and booked my spot at Engage! 08 The Encore, (check here for my recap of that amazing event) . When I received official word about Engage! 09 I knew I must attend. Engage is THE definitive wedding industry symposium.

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This year’s line-up is nothing short of jaw dropping. The best of the best in the industry will attend to share their insights and expertise.

Sylvia Weinstock – Sylvia Weinstock Cakes
Millie Martini Bratten – BRIDE’S Magazine
Antonia van der Meer – Modern Bride & Elegant Bride Magazines
Rosie Amodio – In Style Weddings
Susan Moynihan – Destination Weddings & Honeymoons Magazine
Lara Casey – Southern Weddings Magazine
Michelle Rago – Michelle Rago, LTD
Randy Fenoli – Kleinfeld Bridal
Sean Low – Preston Bailey Designs
Harmony Walton – The Bridal Bar and Get Married
Abby Larson – Style Me Pretty
Laura Novak – Laura Novak Photography
Liene Stevens – The Smart Planner
Alison Hotchkiss – alison events llc
Thayer Allyson Gowdy – Thayer Photo
Joanne Brown – Celebrations LTD
Simon T. Bailey – “Release Your Brilliance”
Rebecca Grinnals & Kathryn Arce– Engaging Concepts

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