Home Again...

After a whirlwind week with very limited internet access on Cape Cod and at Brimfields, I am back...

For those who have never been to Brimfields, it is a must-see for every vintage hunter. The town of Brimfields swells from 3000 people in the off-season to nearly 30,000 people during the three times a year show. I was initially overwhelmed by the acres of vintage and antique treasures. It's impossible to see a fraction of the show in one day, or even two.

The show is divided up among several fields, with different markets opening on alternating days. Each market offers a slightly different feel with some focusing more on antique furniture and architectural salvage, while others offer industrial tables and lamps and mid-century finds. A few feel like a never-ending flea market of small treasures. My favorites of this show included Heart-O-the-Mart, The Meadows and Mays. 

A very cold, soggy start to the show, did not deter any of the buyers, flying in from up and down the East Coast. Stylists, interior designers, antique dealers and part-time vintage hunters all come for the great finds at the show...

Wearing my oldest high school sweatshirt and sneakers (to keep warm), I scoured rows and rows of glassware, picking up several sets of vintage champagne and wine glasses along the way. I also found several cool signs, industrial bins, old wire lockers and mirrors... 

Here are a few things I would have liked to have taken with me, if only I had more room...

More thoughts and pictures from the show coming this afternoon...

Chatham for a Day...

I'm back after a long travel day from Pennsylvania to Massachusetts yesterday. Currently, my mother and I are staying in the quaint town of Chatham, MA about 1 1/2 hours from Brimfield, MA on the "elbow" of Cape Cod.

Filled with adorable shingled houses and white picket fences, this coastal beach town is gearing up for the summer season.

Despite the small size, Chatham plays host to a number of great restaurants. My favorite is the Wild Goose Tavern. During the summer, a lively institution not to miss is the Chatham Squire.

Tomorrow we are off to Brimfields (I can't wait) and I will be sending updates throughout the day...

Friday Obsession- Perpetual Calendars

I know that May is sort of a weird time to be talking about calendars, but I have be obsessing over finding just the right perpetual calendar for my desk. I'm torn between the classic vintage style and a more retro, mod look. Either way, I never have to throw them out at the end of the year! Here are some of my favorites...

Timor Desk Calendar by Enzo Mari

 (photo: Design*Sponge)

(Photo: H is for Home on Flickr)

(photo: Plenty.r on Flickr)

 

(photo: Present & Correct)

  Max 365 Perpetual Wall Calendar

(Vintage on eBay)

Loving Life with Ben...

I am in love with Ben.  "Ben" is the color capture iphone app from Benjamin Moore. Often when I'm out, I'll snap pics of things that inspire me, or colors that I love. It's awesome to have an app that will match the closest paint color. If I shake the phone, it brings up coordinating colors as well. Very cool. Guess who is going to be repainting her living room (again)...

Next Stop Brimfields...

(photo: Apartment Therapy)

Next week I am heading to Brimfield's Antique Show. Its held 3 times a year (May, July, September) in the Western Massachusetts town of Brimfield, about 1 1/2 hours from Boston and 3 hours from New York City. Its the largest outdoor antiques show in the country, and you can find just about anything. I will be blogging about the show starting Tuesday, May 11 (and sharing lots of pics), so be sure to check in...

(Photo: Brockney52 on Flickr)

Dreaming of Black Tie...

This weekend I am attending Ball on the Mall in DC with some friends. I admit, one of my favorite things is getting dressed up for a black tie event.

 (photo: Domino Magazine)

In thinking about what to wear this weekend, I always drift back to an image I've had in my design inspiration files for awhile. While, I don't have a pack of full-size Great Danes, or a beautiful country estate, I love the romantic feel and the over-the-top glamour and luxury of this photo.

Maybe some day...

Countdown to Mother's Day- Part Two

For part two of the countdown to Mother's Day, I wanted to focus on moms-to-be. With a baby on the way, these ladies definitely need a little pampering before the big day. Here are a few gift ideas...

A cool baby sling made from Missoni fabric...

(Photo: Bronwen Hand Crafted on Etsy)

 Cute nautical inspired tote...

(Photo: Bayan Hippo on Etsy)

For getting out of dodge after the baby arrives, the essential babysitter checklist...

(photo: Knock Knock)

Personalized hangers with the baby's name (this would also make a perfect shower gift)...

(photo: Lila Frances on Etsy)

A funny card...

(photo: Dessert for Breakfast on Etsy)