THREE B's

Just finishing up some work before heading out for the 4th of July weekend. While I won't be seeing this spectacular view on Monday night, I'll be sure to be soaking in some sun while enjoying three of my favorite things: BBQs, beer and beachtime.

Have a wonderful weekend and I'll see you back here on Monday.

COCKTAILS, ANYONE?

I just finished my final project for the semester yesterday (yay!), so now I can get back to doing the things I love during the holidays like spending time with friends, baking (and eating!) cookies and drinking festive cocktails!

On Wednesday night, I invited some friends over for  a holiday cocktail party at my apartment.  I skipped the plastic plates and cups and served drinks in vintage glasses and food on vintage trays. To save on time, I picked up some fantastic cheeses, fresh bread, almonds, cookies and truffles. Here are a few items I'd use for a classic cocktail party.

 This vintage art deco chrome tray would be perfect for serving grapes or truffles.

These vintage punch cups would be great for a signature cocktail.

 This vintage chrome and glass cocktail set is perfect for guests to help themseleves. 

 I'd add some winterberry branches in these black glass vases for a pop of color.

This vintage chrome and bakelite tray would be perfect for a trio of olives, almonds and spicy walnuts.

These vintage gold rimmed glasses are just perfect for champagne. Enough said.

These vintage gold rimmed glasses are classic for a signature cocktail.

A DENMARK INSPIRED HOLIDAY...

Over dinner the other night my friend, Henriette and I were talking about decorating for the holidays. She graciously agreed to do a guest post with some design and gift giving ideas inspired by her home country of Denmark. There are a few traditions like hanging paper hearts around Christmas that I was fascinated by (hope you are too!), so without further adieu, Henriette...

Modern Christmas Tree

First of all, thank you Octavia & Brown for letting me visit your blog today! I’m heading back to my home country of Denmark next week to spend the holidays with my family. But before I go, I’ve culled together this list of scandi-inspired decorations and gift ideas that are sure to add a little Nordic flair to your home. “God Jul” as we say in Denmark!

Traditional Holiday “cone” to hang on tree 

Wooden Christmas decoration 

The heart paper cuttings at Christmas are a longstanding tradition, unique to Denmark originally inspired by fairytale author, Hans Christian Andersen. Growing up we used to make them every year to hang on our tree. They evoke memories of being a child and the love and excitement one would feel this time of year. 

Heart Clipping Mobile
 

Have a Scandinavian design loving person on your list to shop for this year? Getting your hands on many of these items doesn’t require jetting across the Atlantic, although any of the Scandinavian countries are well worth a visit, especially when it gets a little warmer. Here are a few gift ideas. Enjoy!

pasta bowls

 Brazil coffee press

Pitcher by Henning Koppel

 

Eames hang it all

 Love birds print by Lisa Congdon

  Organic Imperial Duvet Cover West Elm