10.30.2011

Round Country Style Side Table




Over the weekend I was able to get this little table done.
This picture was taken before some minor distressing on the spindles.
I finished the base in Heirloom White,
sanded and restained the top in some "oops" stain
and whitewashed it and sealed with wax.







It is 28" round x 25.5" high

$65





Here's the BEFORE




Would you actually believe the ONE thing I FORGOT
on my camping trip??? - my new camera.
SERIOUSLY!!!

So...I have yet to read anything on how to use it,
but please give me a little time and
I'll be sharing beautifully edited photos to you! ;-)



In the meantime, I stained and sealed our bench.
I can't wait to share! I've decided to go with
wicker baskets instead, so I'm on the hunt.


I really think it's been an exhausting week too,
because I couldn't quite manage to get my
sweet 2.5 year old down for his nap on time...

this day...



this day...



this day...



or this day!




I hope that gives you a good laugh, because I was
cracking up every day I'd come around the corner, and
SURPRISE....there he was! Lol :-)
He's definitely a non-stop kinda kid!


Have a great day!


~Anneke~

10.26.2011

Well. Now that I'm back and officially done with all of the laundry and cleaning, we ended up doing a little bit of rearranging between our living rooms. Unfortunately with rough times and our other house not selling we needed some extra money for property tax. Boo. Keeping it real on this end. :-( 

Anyway, we decided to go ahead with selling our nice leather sectional since it's been on my mind lately to open up our family room.


We started with this




Oh...that angled wall.... :-/




Sold the couch for what we bought it for two years ago
off of Craigslist. :-)




And now have this




You may remember me talking about selling
our other couch from our reading room here.
So with that in mind, we used our couches for 2 years,
sold them and made $400,
and bought the couch above for $100.
I'm feeling pretty good about that -
even though I have to use the cash for property taxes
and not for funner things.
It brings out the creativity, right???


As for the family room, we kept these Barcaloungers



SO COMFY!!! They just take up A LOT of space!




It's not "done", but what do you think initially?
I love having a rug there, which we didn't before,
and I love how open it feels.



We're planning to put move the tv to the wall,
add a media center, etc.


On another note, I somehow got around to building this today!



It's like CRAZY long!!!  Almost 95" for our entryway wall.
I'm planning to stain it a dark walnut or jacobean
and paint the boxes black or something.
They are from a toy box set!
Be on the look out for the finished picture. :-)


I hope you are having a great week!


~Anneke~




You can now follow me via Pinterest and Twitter!


10.24.2011

We're Back!!!

We're back from our trip (Lord-willing, because this is scheduled)! :-)


Just a few picts. of some fantastic new pieces I'll be getting around to very soon.










Super gorgeous, huh? That entertainment center is just awesome.
Super great sliding doors, a power strip, nice lines...love it.


I'll get back on here as soon as I can now that we're back,
but we're definitely looking at fewer posts (3/week???).
I need some beauty sleep! :-)

I'll definitely post when I finish pieces of furniture, tutorials,
giveaways, design boards, etc.
They're all in the works in good time. :-)

Have a great week!


~Anneke~


You can now follow me via Pinterest and Twitter!

10.21.2011

Phew! What a Week!!!

Wow - it's been a crazy week. But actually for me I'm feeling super crazy from pre-scheduling the past 12 posts & getting ready for camping, PLUS all the normal stuff in about 4 days time.  :-) And no, I didn't get much sleep! Lol. BUT.....the temporary sacrifice was well worth it for you to meet all of these wonderful ladies this past week and a half!!!  Let's recap, shall we? I'm going to make this lickity split!

If you didn't get to meet any of these ladies, please check out the past week's posts!


Melanie from Rustic Ruffles
Steph of Bliss Mayberry


Thanks again ladies!




Seriously...if there were any weird things in my posts this past week and a half that I didn't catch in editing, I sooo apologize. I'm usually an editing Nazi, but craziness has a way of getting at the best of our traits. We're getting home this weekend and I'll be getting back to your comments as soon as I'm able - talk about laundry people.  Oiy!




Just a little snip here of a quick spray paint update
I did before we left for our trip.


BEFORE:
(free from a couch purchase, but in bad shape)









AFTER:
Rustoleum's Painter's Touch in Satin Oregano





Hopefully I've learned some new camera skills over my trip!


Pray for us to have a safe trip home please!!!

~Anneke~



You can now follow me via Pinterest and Twitter!


10.20.2011

Today's Guest - Steph of Bliss Mayberry

Hello friends! And Happy Thursday!!!

Getting right to my last Feature Interview

I'd like to introduce to you

Steph

of



boatscarf1.jpg

(their new website just launched this weekend ~
it's SO cute ~ I Love it!)






1. Can you briefly introduce yourself. Your family, what you do, how long have
you been doing this, etc.?
Why hello there! My name is Steph Sheraton, originally from California &
mostly raised in a suburb of Seattle, Washington. I am 24, a college graduate
with degrees in Pastoral Ministries & Communication, & happily married to my
first real boyfriend, Matt- he’s wonderful. And handsome. My parents live 20
minutes south of us & his live 20 minutes north. We are covered in the childcare
department for when we have babies someday! I am a social butterfly but have
great appreciation for occasional cozy days to stay home in my sweats. I own a
designer label called Bliss Mayberry. I design everything from purses, baby bags,
& messenger bag to dresses, scarves, & all things rustic & lacey.

Heidi Beth Loopdy Scarf in upcycled white vintage lace, blue/white striped jersey, & vintage lace trim
Heidi Beth Loopdy Scarf




2. What is the story behind the name Bliss Mayberry?
Here’s the low-down on my label & why we call it as such:
BLISS MAYBERRY- darling for its reminiscence of rustic couture, positively
cheerful indulgences, & unexpectedly lovely contradictions. One could only
describe our need for simple fanciness as "Bliss." The term "Mayberry" was
embraced for its representation of the "good ole days": when people took time
to vacate front porch swings, shoot the breeze & enjoy the simple pleasures in
life (perhaps with an "ice cold Cherry Coke" in hand, as suggested by country
artist Rascal Flatts). Though the drink in hand may very well now be an iced
coconut latte (the lead designer's drink of choice), the need for such pleasantries
remains. The vision of Bliss Mayberry is simply this: To lavish it's wearers with
sidewalk-stopping pieces & to ensure that when all else fails on a bad hair day,
one can still look & feel daaang good.


Upcycled Vintage Military Messenger Bag with vintage lace & buttons

Upcycled Vintage Military Messenger Bag with vintage lace & buttons
Upcycled Vintage Military Messenger Bag





3. What do you like to do when you are not "working"?
And of course...what's your fav coffee? :-)
Fortunately, a large part of the “work” category gets to be my business! And I
LOVE doing it- so sometimes the line between work & play gets blurred. I adore
shifting through vintage treasures, traveling, writing cards, & being with my
friends & fam. My husband & I are thrilled when we get a free night to simply
be home together & snuggle up on the couch with a movie & snacks. I also love
farmer’s markets & trying out new coffee shops- I always seem to default to
coconut lattes or iced white chocolate Americanos with a splash of cream.
In fact- hold that thought... I’m gonna go grab one…
Just kidding, I’m back.

(he-he-he: silly girl ~A)


Little Lainy Hip Bag Mini for little girls in yellow, mint, & lace
Little Lainy Hip Bag Mini for little girls
(isn't that adorable?!!! ~A)





4. How did you come about doing what you do
 and what do you absolutely LOVE about it?
I have always crafted & created things. For the most part of my life,
these “creations” ended up being gifts for girlfriends or simply projects to
entertain myself because I can’t seem to just sit still without crafting- a quality
my mom & I both share. However, I was given the opportunity to display a few
of my things @ a friend’s booth @ a local farmer’s market. Wouldn’t you know
it, along strolled a senator one afternoon. She purchased one of my Leah Hip
Bag & then returned the next week to invite me to be featured @ an upcoming
Women’s event. I sewed like crazy to prepare, & then went & had a blast. The
networking that took place enabled me to expand into several boutiques as well
as to have my own website & online store. It encouraged me that my design
concepts could eventually become a brand that would one day pay the bills &
be a fulfillment of one of my passions! And I can do a lot of it from home or on
my own schedule- & for a married girl who dreams to one day be a mom?
This is essential.


Sunray Beach Wood Mirror
Sunray Beach Wood Mirror


5. What is one fashion trend that you are absolutely loving right now?
I love all things military surplus, so I’m thrilled that I can currently get away
with it with fewer funny glances from onlookers. I keep defaulting to tribal prints,
skinny jeans, boots, flannel, & all things lace or grey.

Leah Hip Bag- CUSTOMIZED for YOU from your military jacket/garment
Leah Hip Bag



6. Who, what, where do you find inspiration from?
Usually? A material. I often will see a material or even simply a button, have
a picture flash in my head, & then I can’t stop thinking about it until I make
it. Other times, it’s to fill a need or hole in my wardrobe. Recently, I found an
awesome, buttery leather vintage bomber jacket that was way rad, but didn’t fit
my hubby. So… I took it apart & used the awesome leather to create awesome
little wristlets embellished in vintage doilies & buttons.

Ravonne Vintage Tie Wristlet in blue, vintage lace, stripes, & dainty charm
Ravonne Vintage Tie Wristlet




7. Color is a huge part of what you do - what's your fave?
I am drawn to all things turquoise- you’ll never find me without a turquoise
ring on! I also can’t get enough of mint, peach, & grey whether it be in clothing,
accessories, or décor.

Petite Carlee Satchel/Clutch





8. Flats or Heels?
I wish I could say heels, but I am SUCH a comfort fein. My defaults are flip flops,
gladiator sandals, & cowboy boot- yum.

Tony Lama western 13" black Ol' Buck black leather cowboy boot, style 6156
Tony Lama Western Black Leather Cowboy Boot




9. Black, Brunette, Blonde, or Red?
Uhg, this one hits close to home. BLONDE!! However, don’t look @ me now! I
am emotionally recovering from a “hair flop” scenario this past weekend- ladies
we’ve all experienced these moments- where my appointment to add in a smidge
of natural brown resulted in all-over, nearly black hair. I am trying to endure.
Thank goodness for color stripping shampoo!

Ventura Tunic Dress in mint, lace,  grey & white stripe
Ventura Tunic Dress




10. What is your dream travel destination or vacation?
A combo of Disneyland/world & a tropical local. I will have to check out that
new Disney resort in the Bahamas! And someday?? The runways of New York &
Europe for Fashion Week.


Leah Hip Bag in upcycled coffee bag, minty-seafoam, & vintage lace handmade flower
Leah Hip Bag in upcycled coffee bag



11. With the holidays around the corner, what is your fav tradition?
I was raised in a very, let’s politely say…"festive" family. My parents were
adamant about making birthday & holiday a big deal & that is a tradition I carry
on. One of our family’s sweetest Christmas traditions was a nightly sing-a-long.
As soon as we got our Christmas tree every year, our nightly ritual could begin:
we’d put on our cozy jammies, brush our teeth, & be all ready to hop into bed.
But first, the 4 of us would snuggle up on the couches around our beautiful tree &
we’d sing Christmas carols. We’d each get to pick one and if we were lucky?
We’d get to pick 2. I am blessed with a beautiful family & lovely parents!


Heidi Beth Loopdy Scarf in fall red jersey, vintage lace panel, & vintage lace trim
Heidi Beth Loopdy Scarf in fall red jersey




12. What is a dream of yours in the next year for Bliss Mayberry?
As my designs have spread, I have had a difficulty keeping up with demand-
kind of a dream problem! Thus, one of my main outlets for sales has become my
online store because it’s so easy to update & incorporate new designs. As I take
on more seamstresses, I look forward to again embracing the boutique & shop
venues once more, & watch Bliss Mayberry expand!

Heidi Beth Loopdy Scarf in country flower, black jersey, & vintage lace
Heidi Beth Loopdy Scarf in country flower





13. OH! What is a customer fav or #1 Selling item from your shop?
Currently, our scarves are flying off the racks! It must be the blundery weather-
we are all feeling fall-ish & craving our cozy comforts like perhaps a new scarf.
My custom military bags have recently been a hit as of lately as well! These are
listings that people can purchase, & then they ship me their personal (or that
of a loved one’s) military uniforms. I in return create for them a custom hip or
messenger bag- I guess you could say I’m sentimental but I love hearing the
stories that are coming in with these garments. I love supporting our military
families in love!


Leah Hip Bag in upcycled Army jacket, hand-stamped and stitched turquoise key, black lace, & damask print
Leah Hip Bag in upcycled Army jacket





~~~~~


Wow Steph! I'm seriously feeling all happy and cozy just reading that.
Plus, my friends, I've met this girl in person
and she is way rad.
Oh, I just had to get that in there! :-)
And you look GORGEOUS girl ~
no matter your hair color!

What's YOUR fave?


Well guess what?
It's your lucky day!


Steph is offering
10% off any and all purchases
for all readers specific to RustiChic's blog

Enter "RUSTIC10" at checkout

Muah!
{from Steph :-)}

(And can y'all share with your friends via FB, Twitter, or wherever
since I'm gone and away?! Thanks a bunch!)


All of Steph's beauties would make great gifts
for the upcoming Holidays,
not to mention birthdays and, ahem,
your own personal enjoyment. ;-)


My faves:
Yeah ~ I couldn't pick just one!
And my hubby's list is
loooooonnnnnnggg after all of my guests! hehe

Heidi Beth Loopdy Scarf in super soft oatmeal grey jersey, upcycled white vintage lace, & vintage lace trim

&

Heidi Beth Loopdy Scarf in red/navy striped jersey, grey jersey, & white vintage lace

And yes...I didn't add links on purpose. :-p


Thanks again Steph!

{Bliss Mayberry}
www.blissmayberry.com
Steph Sheraton




Here's to a great day! If it seems a bit blustery,
head on over to Bliss Mayberry. :-D


Please pray for safe travels -
I'm comin' home!


~Anneke~
You can now follow me via Pinterest and Twitter!

10.19.2011

Today's Guest - Julia of 551 East Furniture Design

We're onto our 5th Feature Interview today, which I, again, am SO excited about! Do you think I love my guests or something??? Of course! Just when you didn't think it could get better, I get to introduce you to a pretty amazing gal today.


Today's Guest Interview is with


Julia
of


Welcome!
1. Can you briefly introduce yourself.
Your family, what you do, how long have you been doing this, etc.?

Hey friends! I'm Julia, and I am the girlie girl behind 551 East.
My little fam bam and I recently moved to Arizona.
My husband works for Edward Jones,
and I am a stay at home momma to our little man Rhett.
As a family we enjoy wrestle time, sharing a bowl of dry cereal,
wandering around the mall and going out to dinner.
We started 551 East in May of this year and it's been a family affair.
Even Rhett likes to carry a paint brush (sans paint) around.






(Anneke here saying, SO cute!)




2. How did you come about doing what you do, and what do you absolutely LOVE about it?


When we got married we were so poor. OK we haven't come that far,
but at the beginning we really needed some extra income.
We also had a lot of friends getting married,
and we couldn't afford amazing wedding presents for all of them.
So we decided to restore some furniture as presents.
Because lets face it, it's kind of hard to start married life with no kitchen table. :)

We loved doing it so much that when our son was born we made the choice for me to stay home,
and we decided to start restoring pieces and reselling them.
We honestly didn't expect to be as blessed as we have been
or for it to become a semi "career" for me.
I LOVE all aspects of restoring furniture
(except when I get little boogers of saw dust in my nose).
Probably my most favorite part is when I'm painting or staining.
I prefer to paint/stain by hand because I love the time it gives me to get to know the piece.
Maybe that sounds silly, but really I love getting to know
the history the piece had before it came to me.
For example, in the interior of one of the drawers of this piece




I found a little pencil message that said "I love Coco and Gus."
I don't know who Coco and Gus were,
but I love finding little treasures that give the piece it's personality and history.
As a side note, I chose to leave the little comment in the drawer.
It wasn't conspicuous and it was to sweet to erase. 





3. What is your absolutely fave piece you've refinished and why?

Oooo....I would have to say this one.
I love how it truly was a diamond in the rough. I love the grain of the wood
and how amazing the drawers smelled. (I love the way good wood smells :))









4. What are your top three tools or products that you just can't live without?
Does diet Coke count? No, just kidding. :)
I love my 5 inch random orbital Royobi sander. I think it might be on it's last legs actually. Sniff.
I also love Howards Citrus Shield Wax....it smells like oranges!
And I love Behr paint and Tung Oil.
I love all the color options Behr has and Tung Oil can really bring out the natural beauty in wood. 





5. Who, what, where do you find inspiration from?

It might sound a little nerdy, but I get a lot of inspiration from watching movies and TV shows.
I mean let's face it, very little expenses is spared in creating a fantastic set
so often times there are some killer pieces. But I warn you,
looking for inspiration in movies usually means I miss some of the plot.
And it drives my husband crazy.
I'm like "Ooo! Ooo! Look at the hutch! It's amazing! What do you think? Huh?"
Also of course Pinterest is AMAZING and I blog stalk lots of amazing women. 





6. What is the story behind the name 551 East Furniture Design?

That was our address in Utah where this all got started. Not super creative huh?
But it was the first house we lived in as a married couple,
our son came home from the hospital to that house
and I got to paint the red front door, which I've always wanted, so it means a lot to us.



7. Flats or Heels?
I love heels. My husband says they bring out my sassy-ness
which I'm not sure if that's a good thing, but I'll take it.
Also, I'm quite short and my husband is quite tall so I kind of need them.
Plus lets face it, they make your backside look a lot better. :) 





8. Black, Brunette, Blonde, or Red?

I'm naturally a brunette. When I was little I thought that meant I could only wear brown
so I wanted to be a red head. And to this day if I could pull it off
I would LOVE to be a red head.
Something about auburn hair is so gorgeous to me. 





9. What is your dream travel destination or vacation?

Right now I'd take the Hampton Inn down the street
just so I could sleep in tomorrow morning.
(Our little guy wakes up at the crack of dawn some mornings.)
But one day I want so desperately to spend 2 weeks on the coast of Greece
wearing white linen and going for scooter rides. 




10. With the holidays around the corner, what is your fave tradition?

Every Christmas my husband and I choose a family or person
who we know is struggling and we try to provide some kind of help
be it financial, emotional or even just offering to watch their kids
so they can go on a date. Most years we are able to do it anonymously and we love it.   



11. What is a dream of yours in the next year for 551 East Furniture Design?

I hope that 551 East continues to be something that my husband and I love doing together.
I hope that in the next year we find a place to have a shop or a booth.
I hope we continue to make friends and that we create pieces
that help people create the home that they always wanted.

Along with that, not to sound totally lame,
but I just watched the Justin Bieber movie
and I really liked his saying "Never say never."
This might sound crazy but I hope that we establish our niche in the blogging world
and that one day I maybe could have my own show on HGTV
showing people how to transform what they already have. It's a big dream, but why not? :)   




12. OH! What is your advice for someone just getting started in the blogging world?

I did a post on this recently! You can check it out here.
But the biggest thing I would say is don't get discouraged.
Some days I look at other peoples work and think "man, how can I even compete with their talents?"
But the thing is we are all so different so we all have something to contribute. :)



Wow - such great advice Julia! Your work is beautiful and I say go for it!
Oh! And as for products,
I'm definitely not as productive without my triple mocha, for real. :-)


You can catch Julia

Hop on over to say hello and follow her amazing work!



~~~~~~~


And last, but certainly not least -
tomorrow I get to share my Feature Interview with


Steph of Bliss Mayberry

Here's a sneak peak:

Heidi Beth Loopdy Scarf in charcoal striped jersey, hand dyed grey eyelet lace, & yellow vintage lace



Have a GREAT day and see ya tomorrow!


~Anneke~

 
You can now follow me via Pinterest and Twitter!