PAPER + SPACE

loved: settling in and the fam

2012-02-12T11:25:00.000-05:00

So we have been in Virginia for a little over six months. It has been quite a change form NYC. I miss the big apple, but I wouldn't change it. Life a little further South is pretty good. I've been busy with my new job, which I LOOOVE. Here is a look at what we're working on at WDS, pretty sweet, eh?

I got to meet my sweet little Selah recently as well. That little girl is just so smiley and happy. I think she has her Mother's temperament. She has this adorable thing she does, she tilts her head sideways when she is looking at you...

I gotta say, it was love at first sight. Je t'adore.

Since we are on the topic of the little loves of my life... look how big my Ethan has gotten! He is all boy, but he has such a sensitive caring heart. He loves his Mama and Daddy and his sister and the new Baby in the way! Love you, E-man.

And then there is Gabi, well this little little one... well she is a girl after my own heart. She is a loud crazy redhead, who loves cheetos and cats, sparkly things and "whip gloss". She is my love.

I guess I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the "other" children... two of my sisters have blessed our family with these these awesome little humans, but some of us have little ones of the four legged variety. Not quite the same, but we love these little monsters.

There are some other kids who are pretty special to us too...

I guess I just felt like spreading the love today. My mom once said, when my sisters and I were growing up and fighting like sister often do, that we should be nicer to each other, because when we grow up we will be each others best friends. Well, Mom, you were right.... ;)

When I take the time to think about all the ways my life is blessed, all I can think is

God is good

and

Love is a BIG Deal.

xoxo, Lea Hart

Happy Valentine's Day

Source: carrieandersonphoto.blogspot.com via Lea on Pinterest

12 by 2012

2012-01-23T21:48:00.000-05:00

close, but no cigar...I've always wanted to work that phrase in.
So, lets see how far I've gotten on my list of goals...

1) organize my Etsy shop - epic fail. nothing. I really need to get it organized, but in my defense, I'm changing my name and rephotographing my work... so its a veeery slow work in progress.

2) host housewarming party! - we did, and it was super fun, y'all.

3) meet my adorable new niece - FRIDAY! I cannot wait! I mean just look at how adorable cute this one is! Her Mama took this one- she is telling her blankie a secret...

4) be a regular blogger, at LEAST once a week - well, I got really busy over the holidays? Yeah, I'm back on the wagon again.

5) go all out decorating for the holidays this year, because I haven't had a front door or a porch to decorate in years! The house looked pretty... but next year will be bigger and better

6) sponsor a child through Bright Point for Children if you want to read about my sister's trip to Cambodia this summer it might inspire you to sponsor a child in need too - M and I sponsored a little girl from Mexico, she is such a cutie! And we are still wanting to host a "NIGHT IN" to raise money to help support an organization that is helping to feed these kids!

7) start the LOVE IS A BIG DEAL project God planted the seed for this amazing idea and I can't wait to spread the LOVE y'all. ok I think I'm a little scared to start this and I need a little push here... yeah... still needing that push. I listened online to This One Thing from Buckhead Church, my old church in Atlanta, a few weeks ago and it really resonated with me. So, perhaps this is my great work. I need to remind myself that this is what God wants me to focus on. And... LOVE is a big deal

9) find a new church - we have been attending Grace Community Church and we both really like it! Let me know if you want to come with us sometime!

10) learn how to make my Mom's date nut bread for Christmas - I did it! And its pretty easy and so delicious. I will post the recipe for y'all too.

11) explore our Nation's Capital, my new hometown! - I've been to a few MORE fun places, but there is lots more to see!

12) plan honeymoon + update M and my passports - We are thinking two mini honeymoons. The beach for a few days like next month and then Paris in the Fall! AHHHHH PARIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :)

Source: hannahsdore.tumblr.com via Hannah on Pinterest

xo Lea

designed: Holiday Pinspiration

2011-11-27T18:55:00.000-05:00

Pinspiration- I'm pretty sure thats a word... I seem to be daily Pintrest-inspired, especially now that its officially Christmas time. Shhhh, don't tell my sisters, I've been "cheating" and listening to my Pandora Christmas stations for a while now! And so my holiday pins have really started add up. I'd love for y'all to look at all the pretties on my boards, but I think this right now I going to show you the ones I think I'm going to actually do this year. Like this one, I just want to put these little guys everywhere.

Source: weheartit.com via Lea on Pinterest

I love the way this little present is packaged, simple and natural, with a bit of shine. I usually wrap all my presents in kraft paper but I like the contrast either way.

Source: google.nl via Lea on Pinterest

These are totally going to be on the porch, en masse. I'm thinking 3 or 5... :)

Source: nedesignbuild.com via Lea on Pinterest

I love this table setting, and I've got tons of pinecones!

Source: redredcompletelyred.blogspot.com via Lea on Pinterest

I've already started on this for the stairs in the front hall. I'm not using a bunch of colors, just a glittery silver and a steely colored satin ribbon. Its gonna be so cool. I'll show y'all when I'm finished.

Source: junkgardengirl.blogspot.com via Lea on Pinterest

And lastly, since this is a reality based Christmas decor post and my unlimited time/budget dream... I think I will try to make these too.

Source: projectwedding.com via Lea on Pinterest

If I manage to do all these I will be a happy camper and our home will be warm and sparkly for the Holidays. Cheers!
xoxo Lea Hart

designed: glittery fabulous FREE decor

2011-11-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

so, um, I'm sure this is gonna be a shocker...
I... like... no, ummm... I LOVE glitter. a lot. really like sooooo much.

M is luke warm about sparkles, especially when they wind up on his clothes, but he likes to see me smile so he lets me put sparkly glittery stuff everywhere. Thanks Babe. I mentioned that I jazzed up some foliage and I thought I'd show you the pictures I snapped while making them!
We have this gorgeous tree in the front yard that has leaves that turn the color of sunshine in the late fall. And then they fall off and totally cover the yard.

so I picked up some of the good looking leaves and took them around back to get my glitter on. I also had some pinecones and plastic pears to make fabulous, too.

a few helpful tips-

gloves are awesome, so worth it not to have to scrub spray paint from underneath your fingernails

glitter in a wide mouthed container is best, so it is easy to recycle the glitter

paper plates are the perfect tool for catching glitter and funneling back into the glitter container

I had some gold and silver spray paint as well as spray adhesive to play with. I picked some branches from a bush to experiment with too. Some things I just glittered and some I sprayed gold or silver first and then glittered. I like to mix it up like that.

And now with out further ado...

FREE sparkly decor that will make our home oh so very festive this Christmas!

I love them all! So easy and pretty. I will show y'all how I use them all over the house to make everything lovely for Christmas.

xoxo Lea Hart

designed: a little entry decor

2011-11-26T10:24:00.001-05:00

Here are a few little things I put out in the entry just before Thanksgiving. "Recycled" glitter pumpkins along with some thrift store finds, wedding presents, M's art and Trader Joe's tulips.

The ball jar was brought back from our wedding in Carrizozo, NM and the hurricane was a wedding gift from our Crate & Barrel registry. Love it! The small brass lilly pad tray was from a cute little thrift store in Arlington. The art is one of my favorites of M's work, and it also had the Autum-ish colors I was looking for. I grabbed cream and orange books to add height and color.

Here are some more pictures... yeah, you can probably tell... I'm not a professional photographer...
Next time Carrie Anderson comes to visit, I will get her to shoot as many projects and I can ;)

tiny glitter pinecones!
and now, a few attempts at some ambient photography...

oh yeah! I grabbed a few of the leaves from the front yard and sprayed and glittered them. And as I alway say, "One can NEVER have enough glitter!" Below is an angle from the kitchen, like that P?!? I do.

and... I might have made that dang bread... again...

This is Chip. He was my helper.

Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. Being thankful is a great way to realize how truly blessed most of us Americans are. Hopefully y'all will inspired to spread the LOVE around this Holiday season.
xoxo Lea Hart

designed: Pintrest, a MAJOR addiction

2011-11-12T11:09:00.000-05:00

I told y'all I found these on Pintrest and then this...
And then I thought, do y'all actually know about... Pintrest?!? and all of its awesomeness?!?

What it is, is this really cool online "pinboard" and it is beyond addictive. Its pretty funny, there are lots of other bloggers warning about the perils of a "Pinning" addiction, like here, here, here, and here. Seriously, folks its an epidemic!
But if you are a visual person, like me, you've probably had a hard time corralling all those beautiful images you see online, right? And even if you managed to locate the image somewhere in your bookmarks or reader, good luck trying to find out where it originally came from (can be a major pain for a blogger- as you must always source images) So now Pintrest does all that for you! And no they're not, in case you are wondering if they are paying me to say something. Its all honest true adoration straight from little ole me. Its a total life changer for interior design, with all of the shopping pulls and inspiration pictures that come with each project. I can pick as many as 20 lamp options just for one side table... anyway, I'm sure you see where I'm going with this. You can make as many boards as you want about whatever you want. I've made boards for recipes and holiday decor or organizing... I've got ideas for the new house and gardening tips. And that is just me there are thousands of boards to be inspired by.

and now without any further ado... some pintrest-y eye candy
favorites from my Interiors board

Source: greigedesign.blogspot.com via Lea on Pinterest

Source: decorology.blogspot.com via Lea on Pinterest

Source: cocokelley.blogspot.com via Lea on Pinterest

Source: tocrave.blogspot.com via Lea on Pinterest

Source: greigedesign.blogspot.com via Lea on Pinterest

Source: decorology.blogspot.com via Lea on Pinterest

Source: houseofturquoise.com via Lea on Pinterest

Source: peppermintbliss.com via Lea on Pinterest

Source: desiretoinspire.net via Lea on Pinterest

Source: lauracaseyinteriors.com via Lea on Pinterest

Source: room-galleries.myhomeideas.com via Lea on Pinterest

Source: southernaccents.com via Lea on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Lea on Pinterest

Source: decorare.tumblr.com via Lea on Pinterest

so those are just a few of my favorites from one board! I mean, actually, the whole board is full of my favorites. I wouldn't have "pinned" them otherwise ;) next time lets do New House Ideas, and I'll tell y'all how I'm planning on putting my spin on them.

xoxo Lea

entertained: Holiday Baking part 1

2011-11-12T08:00:00.000-05:00

found this little slice of heaven on Pintrest

Source: sundaybaker.net via Lea on Pinterest

I made it yesterday. There is none left. It is GROOD (thats great+good) You can get all of the necessary ingredients at good ole Trader Joe's, or any other grocery store. We are a TJ's family. I got everything organic too. So I knew it would be even better for me.
I totally plan on making this again. I'm so not a baker, and I thought this was E A S Y. The only thing I will tweak next time is doing all pumpkin batter on the bottom and all cream cheese filling on the top. It was delicious and moist and crispy all at the same time. Oh yeah, did I mention its freaking healthy! Mmmmmm, enjoy!
xo Lea

designed: Lucketts

2011-11-11T13:13:00.001-05:00

guess where I went the other day! The old Lucketts Store just outside of Leesburg.

It. Was. Awesome. Like, kind of how I would imagine...heaven. Yep, definitely heaven. It is just outside of Leesburg, VA (about 40 minutes from Arlington) and the drive out there during the fall is absolutely beautiful. I snapped a picture just after we turned onto Lucketts Rd.

So this store is stuffed to the gills with totally awesome stuff!

I love the topiaries. And the formal yet somehow very comfy looking couch :)

Tons of painted frames and mirrors. And, this ceramic canister set for $18. They have lots of old vintage-y metal outdoor furniture out in the yard. I also really liked this rusty pendant light. Possibly for the new house?

There are these cute little sheds out in the yard, too. Also full of awesome stuff!

This sofa frame was a whole set, seven pieces for $98!!! What?!? Also on the property is a store called the Beekeeper's Cottage with all things sparkly and girlie. I got the cutest pair of earrings. I LOVE anything that sparkles... I'm a ferret. I can't help it. And rooms with piles of linen-y, ruffle-y, snuggly pillows and throws. I was happier than a pig in... well, you know what.

So, I had the best time there. I got some great stuff to decorate with. I'm going to take a few pictures of my finds and the decorating I've already started at the house with them. And I got this diamond in the rough...

I know, it looks quite "rustic" but I loved the shape of this patio set. It looks sort of Gio Ponti-esque. I just hadn't ever really seen outdoor furniture with those sort of lines. I told M, I haaaaaad to get them and if I talked them down, could I please, pretty please. He said sure, and I talked them down to $65 for the whole thing! 2 of the chairs need to have the spacers refastened and I need some glass cut for the top. But after a little elbow grease, a new coat of paint, and some Mexican Oilcloth on the seat and I think it will be the piece de resistance in the new backyard! More updates as I work on them! I'm super excited, can't wait to show y'all. After shopping at Lucketts, M and I took a stroll around historic Leeaburg. My photography skills do not do this foliage or this adorable town justice. You should go check it out, and see it with your own eyes.

This house was my favorite. I loved the exposed brick and the trim colors. And the classic architecture.

I love living in Virginia! There is so much fun stuff to see and do!
xoxo Lea

designed: for the kiddos (but mostly for their Moms)

2011-11-07T12:49:00.002-05:00

We have had a bunch of new additions to our family in the past few years. I couldn't be happier. I love my big crazy family and all the new little ones I have to play with! Two of my sisters are Moms now, and they have three kiddos between them. I saw some really creative pieces like these on Etsy and I was inspired to make something for nieces and nephew that I'm so lucky to have.

So super cute, right?!? I'm giving them to my sisters for Christmas. If you've got little one in your family and you'd like one of these, just send me an email at paperandspace@gmail.com I'm going to put them on Etsy, too :)

xoxo Lea

designed: 12 by 2012

2011-10-21T19:34:00.001-04:00

I somehow found Danni's blog oh, hello friend a few years ago, and have read it almost daily. She is a talented designer with a beautiful outlook on life. Its a really great place to stop by for a daily dose of pretty. Check out her beautiful wedding posts, she just got married too! I promise it will make you smile. Anyway, Danni came up with this great idea to cross 12 things off the always growing TO DO list before 2012. Um, awesome! Just the push a master procrastinator like me needs. So I've decided to write everything down and actually get stuff done. (and yes... that means y'all get to hold me accountable) Yikes!

and so here is my list of 12 (progress in italics)

1) organize my Etsy shop - nothing yet...gaaaaaa! I'm on it for reals now y'all

2) host housewarming party! - this is the only way I will get all those boxes from the move dealt with and I love a party downstairs DONE, office 80% (just need some organizing stuff to finish off), living room DONE, and we picked a date, and decided it will be a Birthday/Christmas/Housewarming partaaaaay!

3) meet my adorable new niece - tickets booked! I can't wait to kiss her little cheeks just like her Mama is doing right here soo excited we have got lots of fun stuff planned for the weekend!

4) be a regular blogger, at LEAST once a week - check and check! I've got quite a few posts cooking

5) go all out decorating for the holidays this year, because I haven't had a front door or a porch to decorate in years! I've gotten a few ideas like this one thanks to Pintrest - pinecones, pears, leaves are sprayed and glittered! got some great ribbon at Chartreuse & Co and some other cool stuff at Old Lucketts Store and Goodwill. Posts with all the details are on their way!

Source: None via Lea on Pinterest

6) sponsor a child through Bright Point for Children if you want to read about my sister's trip to Cambodia this summer it might inspire you to sponsor a child in need too - M and I are both on board and I'm thinking of hosting a "NIGHT IN" to raise money to help support and organization that is helping to feed these kids!

7) start the LOVE IS A BIG DEAL project God planted the seed for this amazing idea and I can't wait to spread the LOVE y'all. ok I think I'm a little scared to start this and I need a little push here...

8) go to the gym seriously, I'm already paying for the membership... :/ I swear I'm going...today

9) find a new church, we just moved and I need a spiritual home in my new city did online research and found a few to try out first one - Grace Community Church We have been to Grace 3 times now- I really, really like it and so does M! Yesterday we had the author of The Shack come and speak. It. was. awesome. I'm reading the book now

10) learn how to make my Mom's date nut bread for Christmas - gotta call Mom for the recipe, maybe we will practice when I come down for Christmagiving.

11) explore our Nation's Capital, my new hometown! I've been to a few fun places, but there is lots more to see!

12) plan honeymoon + update M and my passports we are ready to go! Nothing yet.... grrr.

OK! so all the hard stuff is to be done by me... but I sure could use some words of encouragement. Please send some my way and hold me accountable! I need it!
xoxo Lea

ps- have you seen all our wedding photos?!?! I just love them! Thanks so very very much Carrie! We love you

designed: glitter pumpkins

2011-10-21T11:31:00.001-04:00

Well, I saw the little cuties over on pintrest and I knew I had to make those for my first Fall with a porch in years!

wildinkpress.com via Lea on Pinterest

And we live in the cutest neighborhood in North Arlington, its about 5 minutes from Georgetown. So we are super close to the city, with all of the fun stuff DC has to offer, but we get to live in an old historic house in a cute little neighborhood. I took a little stroll around and snapped some pictures of some of my favorites.

Its a pretty big change from Brooklyn. I'm still a little home sick for the Big Apple. NYC is awesome, and I will always love it. But for me, and for now, I'm happy to have a little patch of green grass and a porch to put some glittery pumpkins on.

I'm excited to explore my new town! I've got some road trip pictures to share with y'all. And I'm going to be posting about some of the cool places I've recently discovered in Our Nation's Capital (which is jokingly/lovingly how I like to refer to DC!)

xoxo Lea

designed: a new life in a new city

2011-08-19T11:48:00.005-04:00

Goodbye NYC, Hello DC!

We are moving! We are leaving New York City and heading a little further south to the Washington DC area (Arlington, VA to be precise). Hello green grass and more space! M grew up in the DC area and I've been visiting with him ever since we started dating. I instantly liked the area and thought it would be nice to move there, someday...

Well, after 4 years of dating (and almost 2 months of marriage!) and 5 years of living in the Big Apple, it looks like "someday" has come. M will be transferring to a DC Trader Joe's with a promotion into management, while continuing to create digital art and media. We will send out new address information soon! And everyone is invited to come spend some time with the Pinos! We'll fire up the grill for y'all...

xoxo Lea

loved: me

2011-07-30T16:53:00.005-04:00

this is the only one I have so far... I cannot wait to see the rest of them!

The BEST cookies EVER!

2011-04-30T23:38:00.008-04:00

Oh my! I've been M.I.A.

(missing in [blogging] action that is) since BEfore CHRISTMAS!?!?! Yeah... um... I've been... busy?

I have been working on stuffs for the wedding, which is what is currently eating up all my time.

Speaking of eating, I've been obsessing about cookies lately. I'm not sure why exactly, perhaps the semi successful wedding diet I'm on? Or Easter? Or the just simple fact that I love cookies.

I dunno. But I thought I would round up a few of my ultimate all time favorites. Here they are in no particular order.

Earl Grey Tea Cookies

The very simple recipe for these little darlings are here on Martha Stewart Weddings . They are sooo delicious! You must go and make them NOW!

Next up we have...

Tate's Bake Shop Whole Wheat Dark Chocolate Cookies

They sound practically healthy, but don't let the whole wheat put you off. They are so buttery and crisp and crunchy. Tate's Bake Shop is in Southhampton, but luckily for me they are sold in my neighborhood organic grocery store. And luckily for you they ship EVERYWHERE! Woohoo! All of the treats I've tried from them are delish, but these are my favorite flavor. Go get you some.

And lastly, the Mother of all Cookies.... drum roll please...

Macaroons! From Laduree! They are the most heavenly creations on Earth! Cue the harps and cherubs. Seriously, I'm not exaggerating one little bit. They are the perfect combination of crunchy, chewy, and creamy in every bite. And, I'm not the only one who thinks so...

French Macaroons used to be super hard to find in the States, but recently they have become really popular. They are everywhere and there are now lots of places to buy them. If you are in the NYC area, I recommend La Maison du Macaron in Chelsea or Bouchon Bakery in the Time Warner Center.

Hope you enjoy something sweet!

xo Lea

designed: a Christmas-y Thanksgiving

2010-12-04T16:41:00.012-05:00

We had Thanksgiving at our apartment again this year. I also used folks coming over as an excuse to get a head start on the Christmas decorating! Here are some pictures of the table all set and the tree a' glowing. I love to use my Grandmother's china, the pattern is Wedgwood Florentine, the linens were bought during a trip to Brussels and the glassware is Ikea ;) Also on the drop leaf claw foot table from my other Grandmother are citron votives from Anthropologie, a pewter leaf platter from Southern Homes & Gardens and extra greenery from our giant Douglas Fir Christmas tree. My next post will be all about the decorations in more detail!

Oh and I made breakfast casserole to watch during the Thanksgiving Day Parade and to tide us over until dinner. It is dee-lish! And oh so very simple. I make it every time I'm having folks over for a big holiday. Its great because you can make it the night before and then when you get up just pop it into the oven while you're making the coffee. I got the original recipe from my Mom but I've tweaked it to be a little bit healthier... So you will need

1 loaf of nutty whole rain bread

1 block cheese - use the good stuff, I like aged Cheddar or Gruyere

1 to 2 packages of apple chicken sausage

8-12 eggs - enough to cover the bread and sausage

1 cup of milk (skim!)

2 good sized tablespoonfuls of spicy Dijon mustard

and salt + pepper

First, spray the casserole dish with cooking spray. Tear the bread into small pieces and cover the bottom of the pan. Cut up the sausage into small pieces and brown in a frying pan with a little olive oil. Add to the bread. In a bowl mix the eggs, milk, mustard and salt + pepper. pour over bread and sausage. Lastly top it all with lots of cheese. Cover and refrigerate. Cook at 350 for approximately 45 minutes, or until the eggs set.

You will be the most popular and adored cooking goddess when you serve this casserole for your loved ones on holiday mornings!

PS- this goes great with mimosas!

xoxo Lea

entertained: fashion + food

2010-09-23T12:36:00.013-04:00

Yesterday was a glorious fall day in NYC (even if it was a bit warm, hello upper 80's?) and I was M's assistant for a fashion shoot at the Javits Center for Fashion Coterie. While he was shooting away I got to stroll the huge space checking out all the latest styles for Spring 2011! How cool! There were lots of buyers and all of the top names showcasing their collections.

So yeah, basically just another Wednesday morning ;)

After M was done with his shoot we decided to just walk around, absorbing the city, to be flâneurs. Charles Baudelaire developed a derived meaning of "a person who walks the city in order to experience it". And so we did, aimlessly walking through the garment district and then down to Madison Square Park. We decided that some coffee would be nice and noticed what seemed to be a small little coffee shop, Eataly. Well, it turns out it is a little bit more than just a coffee shop... it is a foodie paradise! It is a HUGE gourmet food marketplace. It is something of a new concept, there are about 7 different restaurants housed in one space where you can order fresh specialized foods at each counter. After a delicious Iced Cappuccino we explored the cavernous space. Oh and, while we were there I literally ran in to Mario Batali, oops!

We will totally be back! I'm going to find an authentic Italian dish to make and then go food shopping away!
xo y'all,
Lea

the Pino Ranch in black + white

2010-07-14T14:13:00.004-04:00

itchin' for a good look at where we are going to get married? here is a beautiful black and white series

back to more planning!

xo Lea

simple suppers: spicy eggs + mixed greens salad

2010-07-11T18:10:00.007-04:00

we've been cooking a lot around here these days. for a number of reasons. its healthy, you have control over all of the ingredients, and its cheap! now, i'm no chef but i like to experiment and I have a willing taste tester which means I've been able to come up with some pretty interesting and suuuper tasty combinations.

on the menu tonight... SPICY EGGS. c'mon who doesn't like breakfast for supper? it is my favorite and this dish is sooooooooooo friggin easy. one pan and like almost no clean up and done in FIVE minutes.

seriously.

here is what you will need:

-2 eggs per person ( one egg will do for a light dinner or a quick breakfast but for a proper supper go with 2)
-2 pieces of multigrain bread (the nutty-er and grainy-er the better)
-mayonnaise

-hot sauce; either a good salsa verde (aka Crack Sauce) like this one from the Santa Ana Deli

or vietnamese chili garlic sauce

-olive oil
-mixed greens
-your favorite vinaigrette

1.put the bread in the toaster, toast it medium to dark 2. put a tablespoon of olive oil in a non stick frying pan, let it heat up for a minute

3. crack eggs right into the heated up pan and fry. once the eggs begin to set, add a little salt and pepper 4. after a minute flip the eggs over (careful not to break the yolks) and salt and pepper - also be careful not to over cook, the eggs must be runny!!! it will be faster than you think :) 5. spread a little bit of mayo on each piece of toast, i only do a little because i want to be as healthy as possible but i think we all know the mo' mayo the better... 6. place eggs on toast and add a dollop of either hot sauce.

I like a simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette with this to round out the meal. and ENJOY!!!

xo Lea

entertained: summer road trips!

2010-06-21T23:33:00.000-04:00

I've always ALWAYS wanted to explore more New England like: New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine. I love the architecture, scenery, the SEAFOOD! So when M and I realized that we both have 2 days off in a row (!) and a car to take us wherever we want, we went looking for a cool spot to visit.
And the winner is....................

Kennebunkport, Maine! Its famous for lobsters, cute cottages, and home to President Bush Sr. It is a charming town and it was everything I imagined New England to look like, lots of boats, a little fog, gray skies.

We got a little lost and wound up in Cape Porpoise and we stopped at the Cape Porpoise Kitchen where they were nice enough to direct us back and I picked up some wine too! We easily found our hotel, the Village Cove Inn.

It was a cute little inn just outside of town and right near the beach, and every room came with a little porch. Now that is total luxury for a New Yorker! We settled in right away and headed out to explore...

First stop, THE CLAM SHACK mmmmm...

It was AHHHHsome! We had a lobster roll (traditional Maine style with mayo) and a clam strip basket, crinkle fries (my fav-o-rite) and lemonade. We devoured it! Here are the remains of the meal

and me with a goober grin? I dunno... and M totally helped me! I so didn't eat it all by myself...
Next we decided we need some BEER! Yeah! So Federal Jack's, here we come! Here is the view from the balcony, from which we sampled many fine brews. It looked out into the harbor and across to downtown Kennebunkport.

We headed back into town for a little shopping. Usually I don't like to buy touristy crap..., but we decided to get a Christmas ornament from all the places we go to, starting with the first place we went as an engaged couple. I know, sooo cheesy, but when were are putting up our Christmas tree twenty years from now it will bring up great memories and funny stories. Hey, who knows, this might be a tradition y'all want to start, do you have any traditions? I would love to hear about them!

So after an ornament, a coffee, and some FUDGE we headed back to the Inn to rest up and have a glass on vino on the porch. It was so nice and simple and relaxing, I even contemplated relocating to Maine and growing something, and then I remembered I've killed everything I've tried to grow. Everything. Even an aloe plant once!!! OK perhaps I won't move just yet, but I'm already planning my next trip up! So we decided to check out Cape Porpoise for dinner because it is the area's working harbor and there are a bunch of seafood joints there. We went to Pier77 It was great! Super romantic, with live piano music and great seafood. Duh.

Kennebunkport isn't really a nightlife kind of town, so we happily and tiredly headed back to the Village Cove for an early night of peaceful sleep :)

Morning was misty and a little chilly, we enjoyed our breakfast (even more so because it was included with our room, gotta love free bagels) and took some coffee to go for a stroll through the neighborhood and down along the beach. I'm new to this morning person kinda lifestyle, hence the hair don't...

I absolutely love gray days, especially at the beach. I'm weird. I know ;) After our walk on the beach went walked around some more on Ocean Avenue and I spied a cool looking interiors store, called Spaces, what a GREAT name ;) they had some really cool stuff, I love everything shiny and sparkly, 'cause I'm a ferret... I'm gonna post about Spaces later!

After a little window shopping we walked across the street to Mabel's Lobster Claw, it was recommended by locals and we were told the Pres likes to dine there, so I figured if its good enough for the President of the United States, it would probably do just fine for me too. And all I have to say is, I loves me some chowder! It was perfect after a chilly stroll along the beach.

We had to pack up and head home after lunch. It was way to short of a trip but it was absolutely perfect and I loved every minute! I can't wait to come back.

And I just wanted to say a few things, about having fun everyday and creating memories and dealing with budgets and somehow making it all work. We are totally money crunched, like most of America right now, and we are starting to save for a wedding. So we don't have tons of cash laying around. But M and I are committed to living life to the fullest and if we want to do something or go somewhere, we do. Maybe we don't stay as long as we would like, or we bring healthy snacks from home so we don't get gross junk food, or we adjust plans as needed. I actually really wanted to go to Vermont first, but it was a big weekend in VT and all the hotels were extra pricey so we switch our plans and picked another great state.

So even if our little vacation was just an overnight thing, M and I will cherish that trip forever :)

So just go if ya wanna!!!

Y'all planned any fun trips big or small this summer???

xo Lea

designed: Wedding Planning, the beginning...

2010-06-15T22:13:00.014-04:00

So M and I have finally started to wrap our brains around the fact that we are engaged. And I picked out my ring! TA DAAA! When M took that picture, he was all, "Hey Babe, do you love your ring?" and then I was all...

I can't quite seem to stop calling him my boyfriend, but I'm working on that...

Anyway, we are in the very beginning stages of this whole wedding extravaganza and right now, all we are doing is talking about what each of us envisions for our wedding. I think M just has some general ideas about the big day, but he is a boy... and that was pretty much as far as he got.
I, on the other hand, am a total girl and a designer who does this kind of stuff for a living, so I've been thinking of my wonderful magical day for years... yeah, I know...
So, well, I had basically already planned out my perfect Southern shindig, I figured it would be at Oakton a beautiful antebellum home that has been my family for generations.

Actually, most of my family has been married there, my mom, my aunts, my cousins, and most recently my sister Margaret

(psst- like the pictures? Carrie took 'em, she is my sister too! check her out here). So that was pretty much a given, or so I thought.
Little did I know that the love of my life would have a family home, in this tiny town in New Mexico, too and that is so much a part of him. Here is a little bit about what he thinks of this beautiful place. His family has been there for SEVEN generations, they actually homesteaded the ranch! How cool is that?!? His family is as big as mine and they all get together each year for family reunions in July. I have been out there twice, it is breathtakingly beautiful. See?

The landscape is so austere and natural, the exact opposite to the concrete jungle of New York City. It has this amazingly calming affect on the soul. So when M quietly suggested a wedding out there, I knew immediately it was the place I never knew that I always wanted (and really, that was the only thing wedding-wise that he had ever wanted)
So Carrizozo, New Mexico it is!

We have decided that while we want a beautiful wedding, we don't want to break the bank. We also don't want to start out our life together in debt. It's just not worth it to us. So our Budget for the whole wedding is...
$5,000!
It's not a lot but I know I can create an amazing atmosphere that will totally be US. Oh did I mention that is for the whole weekend? Yep, welcome party, rehearsal dinner, ceremony, reception and heck why not a morning after brunch too!
Oh Man, I think I'm in for the ride of my life!

Wedding Blog World, here I come...

designed: my wedding plans!

2010-06-02T19:30:00.004-04:00

Hey Y'all,

I got some exciting news... I'm getting hitched, and I couldn't be happier! We had an engagement photo shoot this past weekend in Brooklyn, Manhattan, and accidentally, Staten Island. We worked with a great emerging photographer, Carrie Anderson (she is my super talented sister!) This is just a sneak peek, but if you want to see more of our engagement shoot, her other work, OR if you want to book her for a session or wedding with her you can check out her website and blog. We had sooo much fun!

I have already started planning all the fun wedding details. We are getting married on my fiance's family's ranch in Carrizozo, New Mexico

We love the natural setting and it is a really special place for us... but I'm not usually a wild west type of girl. I'm from the South and I live on NYC, so what is a designer /bride to do? Lets find out!

I will take y'all along with me as I try to plan this crazy New Mexico meets New York wedding.

design: textiles

2010-02-25T20:53:00.007-05:00

maybe it's because it is snowing, again. or maybe because I'm whipping up a presentation for a serene spa like bedroom... but I can't get blankets, pillows, and snuggly throws off my mind. I came across these today and INSTANTLY fell in love with this Mexican Beadspread

and these Turkish Hamman Towels

from l'aviva home and, I also really like their philosophy - "the collections reflect the belief that the things we surround ourselves with should possess a soul, a history, and a purpose beyond mere decoration: they should help us connect to the world beautiful, right?" RIGHT!

I'm also really crushin' on the textiles from Les Indiennes they have amazing pillows at pretty great prices and I really like their style

don't you want a great book and a free afternoon?
Or perhaps now you are in the mood for a nap, I want to sleep on the delicious bedding from d.u.e by matteo and it come in a ton of AHHHmazing colors...

well, I'm gonna make some tea now and daydream of luxe linens...
xo Lea

designed: my new job

2010-02-18T18:30:00.010-05:00

Mama's got a brand new JOB! It is the most awesome and amazing gig I've ever had. I'm working as a designer in NEW YORK CITY (the most heavenly place to design in the world) woot! woot! I'm floating in cloud 27, as in waaaay more than a measly could 9. I'm also busier than I've ever been. Hence no posts lately. I've decided that until my life settles down I will change my program up a bit. I am still making stationary goodness, and if you are interested in anything custom- send me an email, or give me a call. Right now though my main focus is interior design goodness. I've been on the hunt for the PERFECT pillow, a fabulous lamp, or a beautiful object d'art... y'all know, designer-y stuff. So as I come across cool sh*t, I will share with all who read my lil' ole blog. I'm certainly not reinventing the wheel, but I know I have a unique perspective. I mean really, who else do you know that loves monograms as much as graffiti? Yeah, thought so. And in honor of my aforementioned loves...

here is some fun stuff that can be personalized
- check out Col. Littleton these freaking bracelets are AHHHsome, right?

and really, who doesn't love a tote? I'd like a large brown tote, with style #17 in brown thread, from Ballard Designs, please! Oh yeah, look at that I just got all designer-y again with some tone on tone action...

and here is some funky graffiti
like this fine china from The Future Perfect (check out all their stuff, it's one of my favorite all time places to shop)

and on a side note, if you have an animal and even a hint of a sense of style, you probably realized quite quickly that is NOTHING even remotely chic about food bowls. The only thing I've managed to tolerate is just plain stainless steel bowls.
And then I saw this... oh, hello lovely.
Everything from Doca Pet is gorge, seriously, gorgeous. If super modern isn't your thing, then I often suggest buying a few bowls in a pattern that coordinates with room that the animal's food is in.

Like for a rustic kitchen get some blue and white bowls or wooden ones.
But, please anything is better than the molded plastic bowls from the pet supply store.

xo Lea

designed: Valentine's Day sassiness

2010-01-27T13:29:00.006-05:00

hey y'all,
I got some fun, saucy, lil V Day cards. I'm working on more, this is just a sneak peak...

ok, well, what do you think? Sassy enough for ya? And don't worry, I've got some more cards coming with a little sugar too, for those of us head over heels in love ;)
xoxo, Lea

married: cory + margaret

2010-01-11T10:08:00.003-05:00

hey y'all, this is a very special post for me!!! my little sister, margaret, was married this december at Oakton, a family home in marietta, georgia. making it doubly special, was that she asked me to make the invitations, decorate the site, and coordinate the day with music, etc. more posts to come soon on the details, but below are some of the photographs from the day (taken by my uber talented photographer sister carrie). enjoy!!!

margaret & cory
december 19, 2009
at oakton
marietta, ga

on flickr

slideshow

xo,
Lea

designed: Holiday Fairs in NYC

2009-12-08T21:21:00.003-05:00

oh man, y'all where have I been?!?! I've been stamping, of course, and I've been using my visual merchandising skillz (tee hee) at the Holiday Fair in Grand Central Station. Yeah, that's right. Grand Central. What a cool freaking place to work. You can check out a cool article about it in Time Out New York (psst- there is a picture of the shop I decorated in the actual magazine article!) I've been decorating up a storm, pictures of the Christmas extravaganza are on the way, soon.
And until next week when I have time to start eating and sleeping again, the blog will be a little, oh how should I say... neglected. :( All I am doing is getting ready for the 3rd Ward Holiday Craft Fair which is on Saturday. Here is a little info about the Fair for all my NYC peeps that are interested from the folks at 3rd Ward.

Make an event out of holiday shopping this year at:

The Handmade Holiday Craft Fair!!! Where giving really is better than receiving

December 12, noon to 6 p195 Morgan Avenue
- Presented by 3rd Ward & Brooklyn Based,
this year's craft fair will be our biggest yet! We’ll have two floors
full of goods & treats from over 120... local artisans, craft mavens
& culinary masters. PLUS live music from Raya Brass Band, a continuous holiday mix of cult classics in video & audio from VJ Clay Franklin, FREE COFFEE from Gimme!, delicious drinks, tasty treats and free workshops & demos. The first 300 guests to arrive will receive free tote bags specially designed by acclaimed illustrator Fernanda Cohen full
of special gifts from our vendors. (THERE WILL BE COOKIES FROM SHANNA AND ME!) Plus for no extra charge, you can
get your old t-shirts screened with our awesome prints and get your
picture taken & make your holiday wishes at our holiday photobooth.

The Handmade Holiday Craft Fair has something for everyone:

Custom cut clothes
& jewelry, clocks and electronics, bathing suits and lingerie, baby
clothes and toys, furniture & houseware, cookies, chocolates &
cheese, wrapping paper & cards, pillows & soaps, hats, scarves,
gloves and more!

Free Demos & workshops from 3rd Ward's education program will include:

Handmade
Skincare, Wire Wrapping: Making Old Jewelery New, DIY Printing Methods,
Heat Printing on Fabrics, How to Make your own Textiles with Textile
Arts Center and more!

RSVP events@3rdward.com

For more information visit www.3rdward.com/events

sounds fun, huh? Heck yes it does! I am so excited I can hardly wait. OK, so back to the sparkly glittery grind.
xo Lea

accepted: ME!

2009-11-19T21:32:00.003-05:00

Shanna of Daughter Sharp Cookies and your's truely got ACCEPTED to the Handmade Holiday Craft Fair on December 12th from 12-6 at 3rd Ward!!! It's an awesome art space in Bushwick. Must get busy, holy crap! Hope to see all you New Yorkers there! WOO HOO!!!
xo Lea

shopped: an afternoon in Brooklyn

2009-11-17T19:54:00.017-05:00

I decided to do a little window/Christmas shopping the other day. I live in Brooklyn and I love the stores we have in North BK. Williamsburg is a great place to shop for unique gifts. The first place I went to is A&G Merch

here are some of the things that caught my eye...

temporary wall paper! Awesome for renters, like moi, and it doesn't require any glue, so super easy to install. I'm 99.9% sure that the gray and cream graphic print one in the middle is going here

Yup, that's right in MY entryway. It will be the perfect accent in there.

I also spotted a pretty neat pillow with a Brooklyn Bridge graphic, and even if this isn't a new idea, I think on a black, gray or white couch, it would look tres chic. It would be awesome as a neutral accent on a brightly colored piece too. And plus its cool to represent, yo.

oh, and I loved this idea, a traditional table painted glossy black with graffiti accents on it. I really love the contrast of traditional and modern or urban design. If my living room was wide enough for a coffee table, I would strongly consider this one.

one last pic from A&G Merch, this is some 3D wall art and an awesome clock that M and I both really liked, perfect for an office or fun in a kitchen, I think.

After A&G, we walked over to Whisk

which it is a cute gourmet kitchen store with some really great stuff, I dabble a bit in the kitchen and I love cookbooks, so Whisk is right up my alley.

such a great store, lots of cool gadgets. And as a random little aside, they have mini muffin paper baking cups! Do you know how hard those are to find??!? I was looking for them twice just recently... If only I had known.
But the best find of the entire day were these!

alphabet cookie cutters! Just think of all the fun things to do with that! I'm thinking 4-letter word cookies for all my bitches (that's how me and my BFFs refer to each other) and my Mom is a cookie baking extraordinaire and I think her initials and these cute little measuring spoons

will be a darling gift for her birthday!
Well, time to get back to work making tons o Christmas cards...
xo Lea

entertained: a fabulous fall drinkfest

2009-11-17T00:42:00.022-05:00

I collaborated with Jen this weekend to help her throw a killer cocktail party. She is another gal, formerly from the South, who loves to entertain and is an amazing artist, check out her website! She wanted to do something with a fall theme and decided this shindig was to be a fun fall Drinkfest! Oh yeah, we love to party. I started off gathering a little inspiration

to get our brains a' stormin' and we also had to do a little space planning because this is New York City and most of us live in freakishly small apartments. Here is what Casa Clown Car looks like...

Yeah, um, its TINY! So we decided to keep the hors d'oeuvres in the kitchen, 1. because that was easy and 2. because it had the most horizontal surfaces... I know that food in the kitchen isn't really, ummm, that innovative but what is cool is how we kept the guests from bottle necking in the kitchen. We put the bar in the bedroom!

Which is on the other side of the apartment. We also moved the furniture to create a big open space for gathering and a few groupings of seating for conversations when your feet start hurting from your fab heels. That afternoon we went to pick up some flowers for me to make a few simple arrangements

(don't you just love the tiara in the background? It makes an appearance for all the parties)

As for the menu, we made these delicious apple spiced muffins with walnuts and cream cheese frosting (like the ones I mentioned here) and some seriously delicious butternut squash soup "shots"

and salmon topped with caviar on baguette with sea salt and honey, sour cream rolls (aka: crack rolls, aka: fatten you right up rolls), an awesome cheese plate (we got the cheese at Murray's which is a stinky lil slice o' heaven right in the West Village) and last but not least we had some delicious fig and ricotta treats from none other than Shanna of Daughter Sharp Cookies!
oh, and did I mention that we just HAD to taste test all the cocktails a few days before we could officially commit!?!? (we take this stuff seriously, folks) We decided to go with Bourbon & Cider punch, Champagne Pomegranate Cocktails and Blood Orange Screwdrivers.

And so folks, it looks like we had done a pretty good job of fixing ourselves up a swanky affair. And it was a blast! Thanks Jen (and Joe, her other half) for the fun times!!!! You guys rock!
xo Lea

applied: 3rd Ward Handmade Holiday Craft Fair

2009-11-09T21:11:00.005-05:00

so I applied to the 3rd Ward Handmade Holiday Craft Fair this weekend! I'm sooooo hope I get picked! I will be sharing a booth with Daughter Sharp Cookies, yay! cookies! We will hear back from them by the 17th. Here are a few of the pictures I sent in... Wish us LUCK! xo Lea

designed: a new name

2009-11-06T10:50:00.005-05:00

hey! so y'all probably noticed that I changed my name. My company is now called PAPER+SPACE! It's a better representation of what I'm really all about.

PAPER is all about the stationary, fun cards and beautiful invitations.
SPACE is for design, interiors and organization AND party planning!

I really worked hard on coming up with an idea that was fun and totally me. What do you think?

Today besides all the awesome name change business, I'm photographing the cards to enter a crafts fair right here in BUSHWICK at the 3rd Ward! It was so cool last year, I really hope we get picked.

And who is the other person making up the WE, you might be wondering? Why its Shanna from Daughter Sharp Cookies and she is sharing a table with me! So delicious cookies and cards!

Oh yeah, watch out! TWO crafty ladies, formerly from the South, are gonna make Christmas rockin' this year!

And just for a bit of fun... I snapped a pic of my helpers

they are working so hard...

ok Loves, back to making my dreams happen!
xo Lea

entertained: a winter wedding

2009-11-05T12:12:00.010-05:00

I have the pleasure of working on a lovely winter wedding that is just a month away. It is going to be a fabulous wedding and there will be pictures and posts galore, but I thought I would share a few of the special touches that are making this wedding such a personal and elegant affair.

The ceremony will be held outdoors (this is only possible way down South where generally December is still quite temperate) in front of a giant freestanding stone fireplace. An article about the this awesome fireplace is in last months issue of Southern Living.

The fireplace will be surrounded by a forest of lighted Christmas trees cut from the bride's family lodge in North Georgia, so they will be married surrounded in a lighted forest of trees!

After the ceremony, that space will be turned into a fireside wiskey lounge, so awesome right??? They are going to have cigars and good scotch and burbons and spiced wine warming over the fire. Doesn't that just sound super warm and cozy? I really love this idea! I will be sure to get lots of great pictures of the fireside festivities.

Do y'all have any good wedding tips to share? Like how to turn a potential negative (outside wedding in December) in to a positive (perfect time for roaring fires and a winter wonderland)?

entertained: a easy spicy soup

2009-11-04T11:51:00.008-05:00

so last night I had to whip up dinner in a pinch. it was cold and I was kinda tired so I wanted something quick, easy, and satisfying. I came up with dumpling soup!

Now let me start off by saying, I am so NOT a chef, I barely know how to boil water! But just like everyone else has been tightening their belts and M and I are no exception, and so to the kitchen I go to whip up my own CHEAP and healthy meal.

OK, I started with a bag of frozen chicken dumplings from Trader Joe's and a bag of frozen Asian stir fry vegetables, also from TJ's. I'm thinking I need something fresh, and then I spy a half bag of spinach, double points for using up something before it goes bad!

Alrighty, I've got stuff to work with but, now how to put it all together?
I put some chicken stock, I usually have that in the pantry, into a big soup pot and throw in the frozen veg. I brought that to a boil and added the spinach and dumplings and brought them up to temperature. The directions on the bag of dumplings said, "Don't over cook!" so I made sure to put them in last. And Voila! a soup was made (in like 7 minutes!)

I let my concoction simmer till M got home from work and then gave it a another taste... and it was good but... it needed something. So into the fridge for the ever present and often used chili garlic sauce (btw- this is the only thing not purchased at TJ's, did I mention that I love that freaking place?) and a heaping tablespoon of it went into the pot. Be CAREFUL, that stuff is H-O-T, but so so very tasty. It really made the soup. And best of all M loved it. He had 2 giant bowls.

Another successful dinner... I'm getting pretty good at this! I will keep ya posted on new culinary dscoveries

xo Lea

entertained: music for the holidays

2009-11-03T14:26:00.007-05:00

so I'm printing, stamping, printing, and stamping lots and lots of Christmas cards. and I will have them ready to share with y'all soon, but I wanted to let you all know what is helping me get into the spirit of the season right now.

Spiced apple muffins from TraderJoe's (go check out their website they have lots of helpful things like pre-made lists and recipes, it's pretty rad).

and music on Pandora! it is so great; you can make lots of stations that will play what ever you like and they have a ton of Christmas music.

ok well... back to work!!

designed: fall store displays

2009-10-23T11:49:00.007-04:00

I just thought I would share a few pictures from the stores that I worked for as a Visual Merchandiser in Montgomery, AL. These are a few of the fall displays. I'm actually currently on a bus - mobile blogging (the bus has WiFi- how cool is that!?!) on our way down to Washington DC. M has an opening for his graphic art in Arlington, VA and then we are planning our 2nd visit to the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to check out the awesome foliage. If you are in the area, I highly recommend it! It is beautiful! So in honor of the season...

Merchandising is all about the eye catching impact, you probably wouldn't do this much decorating for your home. It's meant to be fun and inspirational, ya know?

check back soon for some cool pictures of leaves 'n stuff. And also I've got a TON of awesome new projects that I'm working on. They will be up for your enjoyment as soon as possible!!!

xo Lea

entertained: the holidays

2009-10-08T18:14:00.007-04:00

MORE CHRISTMAS ALERT!!! I know it seems like it's a little too early to be talking about Christmas, but I've had the holidays on the brain for a while now, at least I haven't started singing Christmas carols just yet... Anyway, I have a really lovely new card for you to send to your loved ones! It reminds me of a winter wonderland...

It is also available in green, which I love with a craft paper envelope. And there is just a simple Merry Christmas in the inside. Lovely.

Oh, wouldn't YOU like some? Just let me know!
xo Lea

loved: everyone!

2009-10-02T14:34:00.003-04:00

got a new card y'all, it's so super cute. I don't think that you can say "I love you" too much. and this little card is short and sweet. spread the love people, buy a card from me! ;)

ps- my cards will hopefully be in store in the Southeast as well as in Manhattan and the good ole BK, SOON!!!!!
xo Lea

entertained: the holidays are coming!

2009-09-21T17:28:00.008-04:00

i was taking a break and watching some TV the other day while m was in the office working, when suddenly i shrieked! "OMG, OMG, what is today's date" to m?!?!?! "it's the first" he said, "what are you freaking out about?" i replied, "i just saw a Christmas commercial!!!" so yes folks, on the first of SEPTEMBER i was reminded that the holidays are right around the corner. now for anyone not in retail this is outrageously premature, but for those of us making and creating the wonderful things that mean so much to us during this holiday season, we are in full swing! when i was an merchandiser for Southern Homes & Gardens, my fabulous boss and i would already be covered in head to toe glitter, unpacking ornaments and fluffing trees and planning our amazing Christmas displays for all three stores. here is our work in progress at the Vaughn Rd store, notice the giant scary ladder in the back? that tree was a monster, but the end result was stunning.

so now i express myself creatively with my stationary and i am almost done with my contribution to the 2009 holiday season. here is a sneak peak!!!!

more to come, soon!!!!!
xo lea

designed: an Atlanta Condo

2009-08-25T13:42:00.006-04:00

This is a cute little one bedroom Condo in Midtown Atlanta. This home is on the basement level, which means that light is only coming from one side. We wanted to make this a playful and colorful first home. This was a tight budget, and I needed to work with some things the client already had. I think this turned out great.
The unit only has one closet so I needed to maximize it. We installed custom Elfa closets, And something just as simple as using all the same hangers and hiding the everyday clutter really goes a long way.

This is a view into the kitchen and dining/office room.

Here is the living room, I think this a cute and cozy place. Great for a Single Girl in the City!

xo Lea

designed: SH&G Vaugn Road

2009-08-21T12:19:00.007-04:00

I used to work, with a wonderful company called Southern Homes & Gardens, as a Visual Merchandiser. I loved the new store which was so fun to decorate! Here are a few pics from the Vaughn Road store's Vietri Pottery displays. I loved the simplicity and contrast of the big chunky furniture and the delicate Italian pottery.
xo Lea

designed: Lake Jordan House

2009-08-12T02:23:00.022-04:00

Lake Jordan is a popular place for vacation homes about 30 minutes from Montgomery, AL.

This house is a 2 bedroom, 2 bath house vacation home that I designed. The owner wanted a comfortable home for his family. He had a conservative budget and major time constraints.

I worked with the architect during the design process, choosing fixtures, paint and kitchen and bath design. So the whole house was decorated with an $8,000 budget and done in one weekend! Talk about a challenge! But I think it turned out great!

xo Lea

entertained: in Washington DC

2009-08-09T18:29:00.003-04:00

i was in washington dc this past week, and m and i had a blast! we cooked out at his mom's house. which was especially great because, until you live somewhere with out a yard or porch or...any sort of outdoor space what so ever, you don't realize what a treat it is to just sit with a glass of wine and listen to the sounds of the summer. we also went to great falls park in virginia which was really pretty. thanks so much christy!

i'm also v. excited about all the new paper i got! i'm a huge dork, but seriously folks, its so cool. i got NEON pink! expect lots of cool stationary in the near future.

xo lea

born: gabrielle lea

2009-08-04T23:33:00.000-04:00

This is the birth announcement of my darling little niece Gabi Lea. We are all so excited! My sisters (there are 4 of us!) and I have been waiting for a little girl to play dress up with. The photo was taken by my very talented sister Carrie.

xo Lea

married: bill + cynthia

2009-08-01T16:47:00.003-04:00

Bill & Cynthia are married!

These invitations were all hand-stamped. Cynthia and I worked together on the design and I made the wedding and reception invites, RSVP cards, programs and place cards.

Cynthia was awesome! We had so much fun.

I love my clients!

xo Lea

the NEW website!

2009-07-24T14:27:00.005-04:00

The NEW website is almost ready! It will be full of beautiful photographs of my past and current projects, as well as all the contact information y'all will need to reach me. I'm so excited about SPACE and I can't wait to start creating your space. If you need help with your home or party, whatever space you have right now just send me an email at space.bk@gmail.com

xo Lea

thanked: anyone

2009-07-02T16:55:00.003-04:00

thanks! gracias! merci!
These are fun cards to make and to send. I made this one for a lovely lady who is a real estate agent and wanted some personalized thank you cards to send to her clients. They are blank on the inside and have contact information on the back. SO fun!

xo Lea

entertained: you + your best friend

2009-06-14T00:49:00.002-04:00

i know my besties love this one. this is just one of my greeting cards. they are all sweet and southern on the outside and potty mouths on the inside. just like ME!
lemme know what y'all think... there are lots more to come

xo Lea

invited: roof top party

2009-06-04T16:58:00.002-04:00

i looooove entertaining. i looooove inviting people over. i, pretty much, love any excuse to make awesome invitations! this is an invite i created for a party hosted by my boyfriend, m, and me. it was a blast! btw, brooklyn is a great place for a roof top party because we have sweetest views of the most awesome city in the world. nyc, y'all!

xo Lea

married: brad + laura

2009-06-01T16:51:00.003-04:00

this invitation was for Brad and Laura's wedding. they are a fun laid back couple and they both consider their style to be more simple than frilly. no problem, simple and elegant it is!

xo Lea

thanked: Pears

2009-06-01T15:52:00.000-04:00

I just love these pears, I think its the Southern girl in me. I also cannot resist anything sparkly ;) I think they make cutest "thank you" cards, don't y'all? Off to make more stationary goodness!
xo Lea

welcomed: YOU!

2009-05-31T17:04:00.002-04:00

welcome to SPACE!

My name is Lea Hart and I am a Brooklyn, NY based artist and designer who specializes in spaces. All different kinds. The idea behind the name, SPACE, is that all of your spaces should be considered. Whether it is designing the SPACE where you live, inviting people to your SPACE, or entertaining in your SPACE.

These spaces should be reflective of you. I believe that everyone deserves to live in a happy, healthy, thoughtful, loved SPACE.

I would love to work with you, feel free to contact me at spacebk@gmail.com

xo Lea