Out to Lunch

TODAY'S MENU {Peanut Butter Cookie S'More}

2011-06-06T16:24:00.003-04:00

{I want S'MORE!}

The only thing more enchanting than an outdoor dinner party with good friends would have to be an outdoor dinner party with good friends while making smores!

GET RECIPE

TODAY'S MENU {Banana Cream Cheesecake}

2011-05-23T10:20:00.000-04:00

{Age before Beauty}

Sometimes it takes something old to make something brand spanking new! No matter what ingredients you start with you're guaranteed a beautiful finished product.

GET THE RECIPE

TODAY'S MENU {Fresh-Squeezed Lemonade}

2011-05-19T14:17:00.000-04:00

{When life gives you lemons...}

Summer is fast approaching which means endless BBQs, trips to the beach, and let's not forget that old lemonade stand. Put a fun twist on the classic counter with these adorable displays!

TODAY'S MENU {Sweet Farm Fresh Strawberries}

2011-04-11T16:44:00.001-04:00

{Paper Bag Princess}

Call it strange but I have a hard time throwing out paper bags. In addition to siding with my 'reduce, reuse, recycle' principles, their beautiful simplicity allows for boundless potential (the kind that goes way beyond carrying my sandwich).

lantern

shopping bag

vase

recipe book

handbag

giveaways

snack holder

tag

TODAY'S MENU {Lattice-Topped Blackberry Cobbler}

2011-04-06T13:53:00.002-04:00

{No Pane, No Gain}

If I HAD to choose my favorite architectural element in our home it would be the black window panes. These rather grande portals have a way of making everything on the other side seem ten times more inviting.

GET RECIPE

TODAY'S MENU {Chopped Fruit Salad}

2011-04-04T14:34:00.000-04:00

{On the Butcher's Block}

Chop in style and make a bold statement by building your kitchen around a slab of salvaged wood!

{GET RECIPE}

TODAY'S MENU {Hot Chocolate Soufflé}

2011-04-01T10:26:00.000-04:00

{Up to the Sky and Twice as High}

Ladies, dress your legs with the finest flair, the fabulously chic knee-high sock.

TODAY'S MENU {Dark Chocolate Waffles}

2011-03-30T10:40:00.001-04:00

{Sitting Pretty}

Seeing as how brunch is my favorite meal, it makes perfect sense that I've always dreamt of having a breakfast nook in my kitchen, fully equipped with an upholstered banquette and a charming view of course (ok, and maybe a dog).

{GET RECIPE}

TODAY'S MENU {Chocolate Crépe Cake}

2011-03-28T11:36:00.000-04:00

{Map Quest}

While traveling, I have never found myself more than a hop skip and a jump away from a mouthwatering crepe. To satisfy the stomach AND the sweet tooth (while costing less than $5), is to satisfy the traveler. Hanging a vintage map in your space is a simple reminder of your special treat and all the beauty it has to share.

GET THE RECIPE!

TODAY'S MENU {Rice Pudding with Poached Prunes}

2011-03-10T12:46:00.000-05:00

{Turban Charge}

Fashionistas everywhere are 'keeping cool' and taking it to a whole new level...

GET THE RECIPE!

TODAY'S MENU {Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Truffles}

2011-03-07T10:53:00.001-05:00

{Wrap It Up!}

The time has come...no more endless rolls of wasteful paper!

Having recently discovered fabric wrap I am a forever changed gift-giver; why not present your parcel in a way that is equally as meaningful as the gift itself?

Chewing the Cud makes a rather artistic assortment for every occasion.

Leave it to Martha Stewart to find a unique place for children's artwork, aside from the refrigerator!

Got any old shirts lying around? Try pairing one with a festive brooch, it might just be the perfect fit!

GET THE RECIPE HERE!

TODAY'S MENU {Banana Pudding Pie}

2011-03-04T11:49:00.000-05:00

{Retro Swimwear}

Nothing makes me happier than the return of the one-piece..classic, feminine and oh so sophisticated, hanging by the beach this summer promises to be anything but drab!

TODAY'S MENU {Cinnamon Raisin Buns}

2011-03-02T14:18:00.011-05:00

{UN•CAN•NY}

The ultimate DIY for any vintage-loving pack-rat....the tin can.

An empty old can with the right facelift just might become the most practical objet in your possession!

TODAY'S MENU {Petite Bride & Groom Candy Apples}

2010-11-01T14:52:00.000-04:00

{Goody Two Shoes}

After partaking in several bridal parties and searching countless photography websites I've realized my love for the 'shoe shot'...gives you a whole new appreciation for the sock (or lack thereof)

TODAY'S MENU {Pumpkin Pie with Seed Crust}

2010-10-29T16:21:00.000-04:00

{Happily Haunted}

If you're anything like me than you probably dread coming up with a Halloween costume every year. I've never been one for scary movies or haunted houses, but seeing as how this spooky day combines two of my favourite things (candy and decorating), I don't mind getting into the holiday spirit.

Here are some great entertaining ideas...they may not be bone-chilling but they sure are festive, happy Halloween!

TODAY'S MENU {Black & White Cookie}

2010-10-22T10:17:00.001-04:00

{Shake it like a Salt Shaker}

In the market for a housewarming gift? Something fun to adorn your tabletop? These quirky salt and pepper shakers are sure to make anyone smile!

Naoto Fukasawa maracas

Woody Hsieh pebbles

Jonathan Adler cats

Jonathan Adler birds

Colin O'Dowd fins

James Burgess keyboard

Alberto Mantilla hugs

TODAY'S MENU {Sugar Crystal Swivel Sticks}

2010-10-20T11:12:00.000-04:00

{Oh So Opulent!}

Introducing my new favourite jewelry designer, the wonderfully talented Katie Diamond. The New Jersey native mixes gleaming golds with coloured stones and beautifully cut diamonds...but her jewels aren't the only things that are clear cut, you'll find a strong Moroccan presence in every handmade ring, necklace and earring.

TODAY'S MENU {Root Beer Float}

2010-10-13T11:17:00.000-04:00

{Retro Refined}

As mentioned in my previous posts I am genetically drawn to collections, I get about as much pleasure from a new bowl, vase or perfume as I do from a tropical vacation. Perhaps it's the thrill of the hunt, or that finishing touch, or the fact that no matter what the find it always feels like it was made just for me.

While the possibilities may be endless, these vintage treasures are a classic tribute to collections everywhere.

Growing up I had a friend whose mom collected vintage tea pots. She displayed them on a shelf that ran along their entire kitchen, I thought it was so pretty and still remember it to this day.

I saw these vintage coffee grinders at a café in Toronto, sipping espresso suddenly felt very nostalgic

Colour blocking glass bottles makes for a charming arrangement

Vintage seltzer bottles can add much colour and character

{A Bright Idea}

Get the bottom halves cut off and throw in a light bulb to hang over your kitchen counter

Retro milk carafes make great holding places for just about anything you've got lying around!

TODAY'S MENU {Chocolate Meringue Cake}

2010-10-11T10:20:00.000-04:00

{Match Made in Heaven}

While visiting yet another charming cupcake shop last week, I spent a fair amount of time gushing over the shelves filled with beautiful artisan birthday candles and darling matchboxes. Visions of pairing the two together ran through my mind set amid milestone birthdays and family-filled celebrations.

I can't think of a more special way to make a wish!

TODAY'S MENU {Cherry Clafoutis}

2010-10-06T13:10:00.000-04:00

{The Ladder Theory}

What started as a love for sliding ladders in every kitchen, living room and study became my most practical decorating tool...

TODAY'S MENU {Retro Rock Candy Floss}

2010-10-04T11:52:00.002-04:00

{Vintage Art in a Modern World}

There are two things I have always been envious of:

1. People who can draw (a gene I was born without)

2. People who have travelled the world.

So, naturally when I stumbled upon these vintage airline posters they were the ultimate incentive!

TODAY'S MENU {Profiteroles with Chocolate Sauce}

2010-10-01T09:54:00.002-04:00

{A Provençal Affair}

I just returned from a week-long trip to San Francisco, which felt more like a European vacation thanks to all the beautiful regions I was able to visit. Between the striking stores and breathtaking backdrops I felt a spark of inventiveness, the most heartening being Provence!

*GIFT* Arrive for afternoon tea with a lovely bar of Pré de Provence scented soap, a sweet box of matches or a pair of printed rooster hand towels

*GREEN* Wow your host by wrapping fresh lavender in recycled sheet music

TODAY'S MENU {Strawberry Shortcake}

2010-09-29T10:06:00.002-04:00

{Food for Thought}

A while back I received these promos from the lovely and talented photographer Andrea Bricco. Instead of tossing the cards in the trash I thought it be best to hold on to them in case an inspiration drought should strike.

Coming from a magazine background I've seen my fair share of creative tips and tricks, but food stylist Maelle De Schutter managed to wow me with her adorable (not to mention eco-friendly) presentation. The perfect pairings for one fabulous picnic!

TODAY'S MENU {Frozen Yogurt Cones}

2010-09-27T16:08:00.019-04:00

{Coast to Coastal}

I've recently made the big move from the East to the West coast. Not discounting my love for the bustling city vibe, the decision had nothing to do with a geographical itch and everything to do with a great romance.

So, needless to say, I am a dark-haired, scarf-sporting, blackberry-obsessed city gal trying to find her way in a new and might I add very laid back metropolis...and what better way to honour my new digs than to embrace its utmost solid foundation? The beach!

*GREEN* Create your very own collection by recycling old bottles and filling them with beautiful pastels

Accents such as coral and shells collected at the beach are a great way to achieve that coastal cottage vibe

*GIFT* Silk-printing paragon Thomas Paul covers every square foot of the home with his colourful designs. Melamine dessert plates to bath towels, perhaps a quirky throw pillow or a nautical-inspired wristlet for that fashionista friend of yours?

TODAY'S MENU {Margherita Pizza}

2010-08-19T09:40:00.003-04:00

{Eat, Pray, Love, Eat Again?}
Call me predictable, but in light of my undying love for Julia Roberts, obsessive passion for travelling and, well, stuffing my face with delicious chow, going to see the movie Eat Pray Love was a no-brainer!
While reading the book last year I pictured miles of breathtaking scenery and bottomless spaghetti bowls, but seeing it on the big screen far surpassed my imagination. The clothes, the views, let's not forget the food, surely anything that shines upon such fine genres deserves two thumbs up!

TODAY'S SPECIAL {White Chocolate Champagne Truffles}

2010-08-18T09:09:00.002-04:00

{LET THEM EAT CAKE!}

Marie Antoinette sure said it right! After all, today is a celebration and what better way to indulge than to relish in melt-in-your-mouth, heavenly, finger-licking, fare. Here are just some of my mouthwatering favourites that have been featured on Out to Lunch over the last 12 months.

HAPPY 1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY OTL!
{Cake, August 18, 2009}

{Black & White Striped Cookies, September 10, 2009}

{Espresso Brownies, September 25, 2009}

{Baked Alaska, October 14, 2009}

{Boston Cream Cupcake, October 18, 2009}

{Blood Oranges, October 22, 2009}

{Pink Ruffle Layer Cake, March 09, 2010}

{Alphabet Soup, March 25, 2010}

{Apple Muffins with Sunflower Seeds, May 11, 2010}

{Macarons, July 07, 2010}

{Frosted Circus Animals, July 14, 2010}

{Birthday Cupcake, July 29, 2010}

TODAY'S MENU {Sugary Snow Cones}

2010-08-11T11:43:00.003-04:00

{A Glass Act}
Lately I find myself drooling over all things glass.
It began with a search for the perfect housewarming gift for a friend of mine, as I browsed every home, kitchen and bath store I was drawn to anything and everything transparent. I soon realized I've been accruing this material for quite some time now in my very own home.
Inspired by simple things like recycled bottles makes my glass more than half-full!

Recycled Glass Balloon Vases

Retro-inspired Goblets, HomeSense

Jeannette Jadeite Measuring Cups, Jeannette Glass Company

Metal & Glass Domed Cake Stand

Rippled Glass Cake Plate

Paper-wrapped Votives

Rustic Glass Pitchers, Branch Home

Glass Canister, H&M Home

TODAY'S MENU {Homemade Strawberry Jam}

2010-08-06T15:58:00.006-04:00

{And on that farm he had a...}

There is something so beautiful about a barn. Let me start over...

Last night I was shooting a faux wedding at Wychwood Barns Gallery and although we were lacking an actual bride the location couldn't be beat. Taking full advantage of all the amazing textures right in the heart of the city got me thinking about what an actual wedding on a farm would be like. They seem to be popping up everywhere these days, not to mention replacing the ever traditional (yawn) banquet hall.

The photos speak for themselves, this city gal is all for the country!

TODAY'S SPECIAL {Birthday Cupcake}

2010-07-29T16:41:00.002-04:00

{Happy Birthday To Me...}

I just celebrated a milestone birthday and in doing so discovered that a day at the spa with your closest girlfriends plus endless amounts of delicious baked goods equals the perfect formula for one fabulous day!

In addition to my relaxing Swedish massage from a tiny lady named Sai (thank you Sai), I decided to treat myself to a manicure - after all there’s nothing quite like a manicure to make a woman feel like a lady, but little did I realize that a task as simple as choosing a nail polish colour could make me so hungry…

{Particuliere #505 - Berry Cobbler}

{Orange Fizz #307 - Caramel-soaked Clementines}

{Black Velvet #430 - Fromage}

{Gold Lamé #440 - Chocolate Ganache}

{Nouvelle Vague #527 - Chocolate Cupcake}

TODAY'S MENU {Caramel Candy Apple}

2010-07-22T17:18:00.000-04:00

Most of us at one point in our lives have experienced the dreadful fare we call airplane food, hence why I opt for those cute bags of apple slices accompanied by mouthwatering caramel dip. Ok ok, I know what you're thinking, but the last few months I've been doing my fair share of jet-setting and sweet gooey caramel is the least of my worries. Waiting in line at the airport is about as dangerous to this gal as perusing a chocolate factory - one can't help but notice all the fabulous luggage and let her mind wander (a girl can dream can't she?)

{Prada Pergamena}

{Quilted Chanel}

{Louis Vuitton Hat Box}

{My personal favourite - Longchamp}

{The epitomy of 'well-groomed'}

{Who says beautiful luggage should be stored in a closet?}

TODAY'S MENU {Frosted Circus Animals}

2010-07-14T12:09:00.000-04:00

One of my oldest friends is a soon to be married woman. It was at her bridal shower last night where 25 lovely ladies gathered to watch her open presents and reluctantly read her cards aloud. Among your classic cake server, lingerie and massage oils there was in fact one fabulous gift that caught my attention instantly, "An Illustrated Life" by Todd Oldham. This beautiful coffee table book captures the essence of illustrator Charley Harper (not to mention my love for animals).

Harper was known for his minimal realism and would describe his style as, "I don't try to put everything in, I try to leave everything out. I never count the feathers in the wings; I just count the wings."

TODAY'S MENU {Flourless Chocolate Cake}

2010-07-12T12:39:00.001-04:00

Given my love for books and the fact that chocolate is a permanent fixture in my kitchen, I was inspired by the idea of turning my very own home library into an art installation. Collecting books may seem like a waste to some people, but I couldn't imagine a nicer way to display where I've been, be it Western Europe or cooking classes!

TODAY'S MENU {Macarons}

2010-07-07T12:13:00.001-04:00

{Somewhere over the...}
What do you get when you mix an obsessive compulsive organizer with all the colours of the rainbow?

TODAY'S MENU {Cranberry Almond Granola Squares}

2010-07-01T11:46:00.002-04:00

{The Knapsack Comeback!}
Remember the days of hanging out at the mall with your groovy backpack draped over one shoulder? Holding everything from your granola bar to your Bonne Bell Lip Smackers, the bag on your back housed your most prized possessions and represented all that you stood for. Well, I'm happy to say that I'm no longer an awkward teenager wandering aimlessly around the mall, but the new and improved designer backpack promises to make all us adults feel young again!

{Mulholland's Deerskin Rucksack}

{Marc Jacobs, Spring 2010}

{Tory Burch}

{Longchamp}

{Louis Vuitton}

{Vintage Chanel}

{photos by: designer bag catalog, pretty designer handbags, kaskus, bagborroworsteal, polyvore, styleite, kissmyspatula}

TODAY'S MENU {Magnolia Lace Trumpets}

2010-06-20T22:42:00.003-04:00

{All Laced Up}

Lace is the answer to all things elegant this season, from fashion to furniture, this hot trend is looping its way into everything.

Looking for that perfect housewarming gift? Rubber doily coasters dress up any room in an instant!

Give your wrist the frosting it deserves with this Kate Spade gold lace cuff.

Custom embroidered fence? Dutch designer Demarkersvan uses industrial production as inspiration for these original surfaces.

{photos by: droog, real simple, omiru, fofff, slice of style, udessi, flynnish, style carrot, daily kos, chic opic, fahsion soul}

TODAY'S MENU {Cupcake Tree}

2010-06-14T12:17:00.001-04:00

{Wouldn't it be Grand}
I always wanted a tree house, you know, the kind with the tire swing, tin can telephones and enough Archie comic books to last all summer. Well, my Archie days may have come and gone, but the future is bright for green living...

The award-winning Yellow Treehouse Restaurant in Auckland gave 'dining out' a whole new meaning.

{photos by sustainy, mtidry, stefanescu, trip advisor, ben barren, trendir, tree hugger}

TODAY'S MENU {Mai Tai}

2010-05-28T18:43:00.005-04:00

{Tiki Town}

A dinner at the Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar in San Francisco's Fairmont hotel this past weekend was like taking a trip to a far off paradise. Enough to refresh, rejuvenate and relish in my festive surroundings, I fell in love with the beat of this bar.

Warm up in style with Italian designer Carlo Martin's sleek Tiki radiator

Punch up those walls with some vintage artwork

These stackable bamboo rings make it easy to tie in Tiki wherever you go

You don't have to dine in the Tonga Room to embrace this style, add a hit of colour to your table with these fun bamboo bowls

Tiki torches are a great way to crate paradise in your very own backyard!

{photos by: sagegamine, backyard city, victorias pottery, retro roadmap, safari hatch, inhabitat, moms best bets, sloane jewellery, sunset}

TODAY'S MENU {Chooclate Rugelach}

2010-05-13T12:47:00.001-04:00

{Awesome Baked Goods}
In honour of #909 (Bakery Air) on the Top 1000 Awesome Things, I give you my favourite, time-tested baked good. After 25 years my nose still manages to find its way to the delicious, warm, chocolate rugelach sitting behind the bakery window.

CLICK HERE to find your favourite awesome thing!

{photo by: baking for the cure}

TODAY'S MENU {Apple Muffins with Sunflower Seeds}

2010-05-11T12:37:00.001-04:00

{Sunflower Showers}
Bring your indoors outside this summer by creating a private sanctuary in your very own backyard!

{photos by: trendir, calfinder, the kid collective, charles and hudson, small place style, coastal living, baller house, vacation rincon, villa 4 vacation, bijou kaleidoscope, fotobank}

TODAY'S MENU {Picnic Watermelon}

2010-04-28T12:26:00.002-04:00

{Life's a Picnic}

Lately I've been noticing a trend in restaurants that I hope to adopt as soon as I have, well, a house and enough friends to come visit me. The communal table is the culinary world's answer to the modern-day picnic table. Pair it with a bench, stool, even a tree stump and you've got yourself a hip family-style dining experience!

{photos by: flickr, john maria ni , box interior design, serious eats, at home, tasted by two, in design live, sofa a rome, mappplr}

TODAY'S MENU {Teacup Banana Pudding}

2010-04-21T12:37:00.003-04:00

{Jackie in Wonderland}

Last night I inherited a beautiful green Aynsley teacup and saucer with gold trim. Since it is, well, the only piece in the 'set', I put it to good use and dropped my favourite coral studs in for safe keeping. After watching Tim Burton's dark depiction of Alice in Wonderland last weekend, I suppose a mad tea party isn't too far stretched, what could be more mad than beautiful vintage teacups full of, well, anything!

{photos by: martha stewart, tomkat studio, sugar blossom weddings, real simple, the unlikely housewife, technicolor kitchen}

TODAY'S MENU {Mustard Seeds}

2010-04-16T16:00:00.002-04:00

{Mustard Must-haves}

Last summer in Portugal I met a man from Australia. Amongst exchanging travel tales, I asked him "what are Canadians known for?" The man took about 30 seconds before answering "condiments!" I suppose I never realized we possess this reputation, but after giving it some thought I couldn't really argue with him.

If you set any hamburger, hot dog or french fry in front of me with the ageless choice of ketchup vs. mustard I would choose mustard in a heartbeat! Having always been partial to this fine seed, I'm laying more than a bottle on the table.

{photos by: country living, apartment therapy, apartment therapy, blog cdn, flickr, blaubushka, annes age, the price guide, laura bucci, etsy, design sponge, cooking light}

TODAY'S MENU {Pink Candy Chicken Bones}

2010-04-01T10:23:00.001-04:00

{Anything but a Dead Man}

I know I should be blogging about April showers and whatever obvious lore that come to mind, but in honour of April Fool's Day I decided to go a different route...Dead Man's Bones, the goth-folk-cabaret band that's got me in deep (dare I say 6 ft?). A little morbid-sounding I'll admit, but you can't help but let the rhythm take over your body and Lose Your Soul. A collaboration with the Silverlake Conservatory Children's Choir, Ryan Gosling and Zach Shields (music neophytes) truly prove themselves as talented, innovative musicians, and they're Canadian, woohoo!

{Click HERE to watch Dead Man's Bones LIVE!}

{photos by: twenty two pleasant, silent violence, interview magazine, bear seat people, you tube, you tube}

TODAY'S MENU {Alphabet Soup}

2010-03-25T19:05:00.000-04:00

{A Graphic PUNCH between the Eyes}

I attended a typography exhibit a few days ago, it was there I realized my love and appreciation for graphic posters. Really, anyone who can turn an ordinary letter/word/idea into a 24X36 piece of art must possess the true talents of a creative mind.

{photos by: the best typography posters, web designer depot, redbubble, simplestupid, panopticist, ourfs, design flvr, frugal design girl, coulson mccleoud, print dolls, delve into design, tiny parachute, i really should, kaboose}

TODAY'S MENU {Hanger Steak}

2010-03-15T13:31:00.000-04:00

{Hangtime}

I was flipping through a magazine the other day and came across the image below. This one small photograph was enough to inspire me to redecorate my entire room (yet again). It later occurred to me that the inspiration didn't have to stop at the modern day jewelry box....hangers, who knew?!

{photos by: real simple, fresh home, write click scrapbook, your home based mom, craft zine, touched creatively, the slightly obsessive bride, snazzy jazzy, apartment therapy, country living, food network}

TODAY'S SPECIAL {Gumballs}

2010-03-13T18:27:00.003-05:00

{Pick a Colour, Any Colour!}

Etsy's Shop by Colour has quickly become my go-to website for rainy days, gift ideas, or let's be honest, just killing time at work.

Click HERE to get started!

{photos by: okmfg, etsy}

TODAY'S MENU {Chocolate Chestnut Mousse with Edible Gold Flakes}

2010-03-12T12:45:00.001-05:00

{The Gold Standard}

When it comes to jewelry, I have always been partial to yellow gold - classic, bold, beautiful. Starting with the bat-mitzvah ring my dad gave me when I was 13 years old, followed by the hand-me-downs I've been so lucky to receive from my Grams over the years, I suppose it's fitting that I grew up with this transition metal. A powerful representation of wealth and value, yet pure as the sun. Plus, it's edible, what more could a gal ask for?

{Kenneth Jay Lane Gold Flower Ring}

{Birks Luna Collection, Hammered Bead Earrings, in 18kt Yellow Gold}

{Tiffany Paloma Sugar Stack Ring}

{Van Cleef & Arpel Alhambra Gold Bracelet in 18k}

{photos by: birks, tiffany, ringoblog, stylehive, soc exchange, one boutique, feuillesdor, inside lux, house and home}

TODAY'S MENU {Pink Ruffle Layer Cake}

2010-03-09T11:43:00.005-05:00

{Red Carpet Ruffle}

Though you couldn't take one step without being fanned by wild ruffles, the theme of this year's red carpet was certainly delicacy. Everyone do the Ruffle Shuffle!

{Vera in fan-pleated red Marchesa gown}

{Demi in Versace}

{Elizabeth in sweeping gray Versace}

{Diane in Chanel Haute Couture}

{Anna in draped Elie Saab Haute Couture}

{Zoe in Givenchy Haute Couture by Riccardo Tisci}

{photos by: people, cake decorating instruction, culture map, sun sentinel}

TODAY'S MENU {Gourmet Marshmallows}

2010-03-05T12:33:00.001-05:00

{Pillow Talk}

Ever since I snagged 2 oversized floor pillows from our Christmas party rummage sale, I can't get enough of them. These giant, stackable, comfy cushions are every small space owner's dream!

{photos by: technicolor kitchen, ohdeedoh, arbogast design, house to home, google, bobby berk home, design sponge, luxury housing trends, caroline typepad}

TODAY'S MENU {Orange Cream Parfait}

2010-02-25T12:32:00.000-05:00

Lately I have been going through an Orange phase. Having always loved the colour Coral, I am slowly making the transition to bigger and brighter. As a child I remember hating all orange-flavoured things, I guess it's my time to give back, hence, my latest craze.

{my new Hermés canvas tote, a girl can dream can't she?}

{my new fabulous wallpaper, definitely good for WOW-factor!}

{vintage silk crepe dress anyone?}

{Jack & Lulu inspired this Jack to turn a plain old business card into a trendy keepsake}

{Orange tulips - my fav!}

...Orange ya glad I posted these pics? (Sorry, couldn't help myself)

{photos by: womans day, interior arcade, kabmurungraya, furniture for life, concord, home depot, adriana sassoon, flickr, purse page, style hive, digital blue, tiffany, parisian nail polish, jack and lulu}

TODAY'S MENU {Bumbleberry Pie}

2010-02-16T12:42:00.001-05:00

{photos by: little miss wedding, watoday, frillr, the vine, visualize, philip james, stumble upon}

TODAY'S MENU {French Lace Cookies}

2010-02-08T14:15:00.002-05:00

{J'adore Ophelie}

Being a bridesmaid this Valentine's Day is not only the perfect excuse to forgo the annual Hallmark festivities, but it gives me a reason to get (as my Grams would say) all dolled up! Lucky for me, the bride-to-be hails from London, England, which could only mean one thing: free fashion reign - hence, our hair fascinators.

As a personal fan of Montreal-based Ophelie Hats and the proud owner of one very special vintage headband from Paris, I am of course more than thrilled to sport these charming adornments in my updo next Sunday.

{photo by: recipe finder}

{photos by: ophelie hats}

TODAY'S MENU {Chocolate Kisses}

2010-02-05T12:57:00.001-05:00

{Defying Gravity}
From the moment I watched Ellen Page and Landon Pigg canoodle under water in Whip It, I became fascinated with the very idea. Aside from the obvious coordination, photography, and yes I suppose oxygen plays a small part, what could be cooler than the wettest of wet kisses (in the deep end of all places?) Kudos to these fine swimmers!
{photo by: usa cookie bouqet}

{photos by: moleskine dreams, mushin, behance, art photography, incognito}

TODAY'S MENU {Tea & Crumpets}

2010-02-03T13:01:00.001-05:00

A trip to San Francisco last Christmas led me to whimsical Victorian tea salon, Crown & Crumpet. Located in the heart of Ghirardelli Square (how fitting), this adorable little restotique is every girl's dream. From cupcakes to scones, tea to art, it's hard to resist everything on the menu!

{photos by: Crown & Crumpet}

TODAY'S MENU {Coffee Beans}

2010-01-26T15:15:00.007-05:00

{Coffee Talk}

I was out exploring my new neighborhood last week and discovered Ezra's Pound, a charming little espresso bar located at Spadina/Dupont. As a born coffee addict I was pleased to learn that every cup is custom-brewed, allowing each bean to rise to its fullest potential. Fair-trade freshness, delicious baked goods (made daily) and vintage appliances were enough to turn my 5-minute visit into an inspired memory.

{photo by: kosmic life}

Bring a little bit of Ezra's pound home and perk up your space with these coffee commodities

{Vintage Coffee Grinder}

{French Bistro Chairs & Table}

{Burlap Décor}

{Stacked Coffee Cup}

{Pantone Espresso Cups}

TODAY'S MENU {Bloody Mary}

2010-01-17T16:54:00.012-05:00

As promised....the new INCREDIBLE album by Vampire Weekend!

{photo by: serious eats, vampire weekend}

TODAY'S MENU {Sidewalk Chalk Bubble Gum}

2010-01-07T11:25:00.002-05:00

{Chalk it up to Love}

I discovered chalkboard paint when I was about 12 years old - it was the coolest thing I had ever seen. Once I finally settled on the perfect DIY project (a chalkboard shelf with key hooks) and bought a can of paint, it took everything I had not to roll it on every cupboard, wall and door in my mother's house.

It's been 12 years since I built that key hook and I know just which wall to hang it on in my new apartment. As for painting every other wall, let's just chalk it up to love!

{photos by: kandkkandies, boxwish, decorpad, jeanier hoades, sweets sweetlife, apartment therapy, mary ruffle, style-files, nytimes}

TODAY'S SPECIAL {Milk and Cookies}

2009-12-25T17:30:00.002-05:00

{MERRY CHRISTMAS, EVERYONE!}

{photo by: farm1}

{Tiffany, NYC}

{Bloomingdales, NYC}

{Bergdorf Goodman, NYC}

{photos by: 1st dibs, vanity fair}

{Holt Renfrew, Toronto}

{photos by: i want i got}

{The Bay, Toronto}

{photo by: style north}

{Harrods, London}

{Saks, NYC}

{photos by: vanity fair}

TODAY'S MENU {Porridge}

2009-12-20T16:24:00.000-05:00

{Crazy for Ceramics}

There's nothing quite like running your hand over a creamy smooth, shiny ceramic dish. As you probably could have guessed, I have a weakness for all things handcrafted - it's easy to build a collection when something as simple as an egg holder presents itself as the most beautiful porcelain egg holder you've ever seen (gives you a whole new perspective on owning a refrigerator!)

Like tiny flakes of oatmeal that transform into a piping hot delicious breakfast, each unique milk bottle, cake stand and butter dish was once a lump of clay, and to me that is worth being crazy for.

{photo by: iowa avenue}

{photo by: etsy}

{photo by: house to home}

{photo by: country living}

{photo by: kilnworks}

{photo by: kosoy and bouchard}

{photo by: central chef}

{photo by: rockett st george}

TODAY'S MENU {Smoked Meat Sandwich}

2009-12-16T10:15:00.001-05:00

{Made to Order}

Imagine if everything was customized, even your clothes? Founded in 2003 by the wonderful people of Chicago, T-shirt Deli is the most delicious gift idea since, well, sliced bread with some smoked meat on top! Who wouldn't love getting their very own personal T-shirt, complete with a bag of chips?

And it's as easy as....

If that doesn't satisfy your craving, try Mappetie, the fabulous folding city guide for the ultimate foodie/traveller!

{photos by: tshirtdeli, mappetite, chow}

TODAY'S MENU {Sundae Parlour}

2009-12-14T11:24:00.007-05:00

With a new apartment on the horizon I might be getting a tad bit ahead of myself. You see, having the decorator gene poses a problem: it's in my nature to scout every fabric, appliance, dish, antique, and anything else that will complete my 'look du jour' (needless to say my credit card has seen better days!)

After many store visits, craft shows and sleepless nights, this renting rookie has finally found some funky fabrics to adorn her new sofa (not to mention the kitchen, bedroom and every other room in the apartment)
{photo by: eatdrinkchic}